2 Timothy 2:10

2 Timothy 2:10

Here Paul explains his mentorship posture: “Therefore I endure all things for the elect’s sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.” He bears hardship not for personal gain but for others’ salvation. The “elect” refers to those God intends to save, a concept echoed in Romans and Ephesians, highlighting God’s sovereign choosing. Paul’s endurance becomes a model of costly discipleship: perseverance in preaching, hardship, imprisonment, and even loneliness—all for the sake of those who will come to faith. The phrase “eternal glory” points beyond present suffering to the future consummation of all things when salvation is fully realized in the age to come.

This verse highlights the synergistic divine-human action in salvation: God’s sovereign choosing and human perseverance. It reminds us that missions and sufferings have a purpose: the completion of God’s saving plan for the elect. It also foregrounds eschatology—the ultimate goal is glory with Christ for eternity. The motivation is love and fidelity to the gospel, grounded in the certainty of God’s promises.

Practically, this calls believers to intentional endurance in witness, even when the results seem slow. If you’re involved in outreach or discipleship, persevere in prayer, preaching, and patient relationship-building, trusting that God can use decades of faithful effort to bring about transformation in others. It also invites personal endurance: when you endure hardship for the sake of others, you mirror Christ’s own self-giving love. In church life, this might mean supporting long-term missions, staying the course in tough seasons, and maintaining hope that God’s saving work continues beyond your moment.

Cross-References: Romans 8:28-30; 2 Corinthians 4:7-12; 1 Thessalonians 2:3-4; Philippians 1:6; 2 Timothy 1:12