But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.

2 Timothy 3:15

Timothy was like a son to Paul and the older man spoke of how the younger man was family “with the sacred writings” from childhood in the verse above. Earlier, Paul mentioned how Timothy’s mother and grandmother had raised his in the faith as well (2 Timothy 1:5).

Since Timothy’s father isn’t mentioned, it is likely that Paul was a father figure for the younger man. Now, Paul would no longer be around Timothy on a day-to-day basis, and so I think Paul’s words to Timothy are directed as a father to a son. Paul’s desire was that Timothy fulfilled his potential as a complete follower of Christ, having all the tools necessary for what life brings.

For Timothy, Paul continues to stress the importance of relying on Scripture in his role as a pastor by stressing that God’s word is reliable concerning spiritual beliefs and moral behavior.

We may not serve as a pastor of a local church, but the idea of being spiritually complete is intended for each one of us. Think about your spiritual growth today. Are you a “Paul” or “Timothy?”