2 Timothy 1 5

2 Timothy 1:5 kjv

When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also.

2 Timothy 1:5 nkjv

when I call to remembrance the genuine faith that is in you, which dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am persuaded is in you also.

2 Timothy 1:5 niv

I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.

2 Timothy 1:5 esv

I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well.

2 Timothy 1:5 nlt

I remember your genuine faith, for you share the faith that first filled your grandmother Lois and your mother, Eunice. And I know that same faith continues strong in you.

2 Timothy 1 verses

2 Timothy 1 5 Meaning

This verse expresses the apostle Paul's deep confidence in Timothy's genuine faith. He identifies its origin not merely in Timothy but in his spiritual heritage, specifically highlighting his grandmother Lois and mother Eunice as foundational figures who possessed and instilled this unfeigned belief. It emphasizes that Timothy's faith is not superficial or a mere tradition but a sincere and living reality within him, tracing its lineage through his devout female ancestors.

2 Timothy 1 5 Context

2 Timothy is Paul's last letter, penned while imprisoned and facing imminent execution in Rome. It serves as a final testament, urging his spiritual son Timothy to remain steadfast in the faith, to persevere in ministry despite hardships, and to guard the true Gospel against error. This verse specifically introduces Paul's primary encouragement: recognizing the solid, genuine foundation of Timothy's faith. This personal commendation acts as a significant encouragement for Timothy, reminding him of his strong spiritual heritage and reinforcing his capability to stand firm amidst challenges and to boldly preach the Word in a time of growing apostasy and persecution, setting the stage for Paul's further exhortations concerning ministry.

2 Timothy 1 5 Word analysis

• I am reminded: (Ἀνάμνησιν λαμβάνω - anamnēsin lambanō - literally, "I receive a remembrance" or "I am recollecting"). Paul's language signifies not a casual thought but a deliberate, comforting recollection that brings encouragement and assurance to him, reinforcing his trust in Timothy. It shows deep personal affection and a reflective understanding of Timothy's character.
• of your: Points to the personal, intimate relationship between Paul and Timothy. The faith is genuinely Timothy's own, not merely inherited name.
• sincere: (ἀνυποκρίτου - anupokritou). This crucial Greek word means "without hypocrisy," "unfeigned," "genuine," "pure." It implies a faith that is true, heartfelt, and not merely outward show or pretense. In contrast to those who might profess faith for gain or appearance, Timothy's faith is authentic, validated by his life and commitment. This word also appears in 1 Peter 1:22 for "sincere love" and Romans 12:9 for "love without hypocrisy."
• faith: (πίστεως - pisteōs). Refers to a confident trust and conviction in God and Christ Jesus, a firm reliance on divine truth. It's not just intellectual assent but a profound commitment of one's whole being to the Gospel message and the Lord. This is the cornerstone of the Christian life.
• which first lived/dwelt: (ἐῴκησεν - eoikēsen). A powerful verb, from "oikeō," meaning "to inhabit," "to dwell in," "to make one's home in." The use of "first" (πρώτον - prōton) indicates precedence in time. It suggests the faith took root and made its dwelling place, becoming an intrinsic part of Lois's and Eunice's being before being passed on. This verb choice emphasizes the deep, established, and internal nature of this faith, not something superficial or fleeting.
• in your grandmother Lois: Highlights the generational aspect of faith transmission. Lois was likely the first convert in the family and the primary influence in Eunice's spiritual life. Her role demonstrates the profound impact a matriarch can have in establishing a spiritual legacy within a family unit.
• and in your mother Eunice: Confirmed by Acts 16:1, Eunice was a Jewish woman who believed. This highlights the vital role of the mother in a child's early spiritual training and the transmission of faith within the home, even in a mixed-faith household (Timothy's father was Greek and apparently not a believer, Acts 16:3).
• and now lives in you also: Reinforces that Timothy himself genuinely possesses this same sincere, living faith. It affirms his personal appropriation and active experience of the faith passed down through his family line. This "also" links his faith directly and genuinely to theirs, not as mere inherited tradition but as a shared, living spiritual reality.

• "your sincere faith": Emphasizes the authentic and unadulterated nature of Timothy's belief. This genuineness is vital for a minister confronting spiritual challenges and false teachings. It contrasts with any form of superficial or feigned religiosity.
• "first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice": This phrase beautifully paints a picture of spiritual lineage and heritage. It shows how faith can be passed down through generations, making a home in successive hearts. It underlines the crucial role of women as spiritual nurturers and teachers within the family structure, influencing subsequent generations with godly examples and instruction.
• "and now lives in you also": This signifies both continuity and personal possession. While acknowledging the heritage, Paul underscores that Timothy has personally embraced this faith. It's not just "their" faith that "touched" him, but "their" faith that "dwells" in him personally, establishing his own, living spiritual reality and qualifying him for his demanding ministry.

2 Timothy 1 5 Bonus section

The mention of Lois and Eunice subtly combats certain cultural norms of the time where women might have been considered lesser in religious instruction or public roles. Here, two women are explicitly credited by an apostle as being the conduit of genuine faith that rooted itself in a key leader like Timothy. This provides a strong affirmation of the spiritual influence of godly women in the home and their essential role in shaping the faith of the next generation. This verse also implicitly reminds us that while the call to ministry is personal, God often prepares individuals through the steadfast faithfulness and prayers of their family members.

2 Timothy 1 5 Commentary

Paul's affirmation of Timothy's "sincere faith" serves as a foundational commendation and encouragement, establishing the deep spiritual root from which Timothy's ministry flows. This faith, characterized as "unhypocritical" or "genuine," contrasts sharply with any superficial adherence or performative religiosity. Its "dwelling" (lived in) Lois and Eunice suggests it was deeply rooted, an internal conviction shaping their lives before passing to Timothy. This highlights the profound impact of intergenerational faith transmission, especially through godly women within the household, shaping the early spiritual environment of future leaders. Timothy's personal appropriation of this faith, as evidenced by its "living in him also," underscores that while faith can be nurtured through heritage, it must ultimately become a personal possession, genuine and vibrant. This personal and sincere faith is the bedrock for perseverance in ministry, particularly amidst suffering and doctrinal error, which are major themes of this letter.