Connected in The Word 10-7-25
Σὺ οὖν, τέκνον μου, ἐνδυναμοῦ ἐν τῇ χάριτι τῇ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 2 Timothy 2:1
This is obviously the Greek version of 2 Timothy 2:1 which is pretty much identical across the many different Greek texts available to us today. There are essentially zero concerns about the words Paul used in this text. The most common English translation you see is, “YOU THEREFORE MY SON, BE STRONG IN THE GRACE THAT IS IN CHRIST JESUS”. However, there some that vary just a little including my regular go to English translation the ESV which reads, “YOU THEREFORE MY CHILD, BE STRENGTHENED BY THE GRACE THAT IS IN CHRIST JESUS”. Both translations are completely acceptable and honestly mean the exact same thing. However, if we are looking only at English translations things might get a little confusing especially concerning the verb ἐνδυναμοῦ.
This verb is a form of ἐνδυναμόω which means “I strengthen”. When we see it written as ἐνδυναμοῦ it tells us it is a present passive imperative (2nd person singular) form of the verb. This form of the verb tells us that the “strengthening” that Paul commands (imperative) of Timothy (2nd person singular) is something that happens to Timothy (passive voice) by way of grace in Christ Jesus. Ok, so that’s a lot of Greek grammar – What’s the point?
The point is this, Paul is not telling Timothy to muster up his own strength, and Paul is not telling you to muster up your own strength. Our strength is found in the grace that is ours in Christ Jesus. Or you could say, we are strengthened by the grace that is in Christ Jesus. So, here’s the devotional thought for the day. As Christians we don’t look inward to find our strength to confess, believe, and live. We look to Jesus and are strengthened by His grace!
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