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    Fear

    2 Timothy 1:7

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    “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”

    — 2 Timothy 1:7 (KJV)

    Original-language word studies

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    What Does 2 Timothy 1:7 Mean?

    Paul encourages Timothy, who may have been timid about his ministry. Fear doesn't come from God; instead, He gives us power to serve, love to connect, and a sound mind for wisdom.

    How to Apply This Verse

    When anxiety or fear paralyzes you, remember its source isn't from God. He equips you with power for challenges, love for relationships, and wisdom for decisions.

    Historical Context

    Paul wrote this final letter around AD 66-67 from a cold Roman dungeon, likely the Mamertine Prison, shortly before his execution under Nero. Timothy was Paul's young protégé pastoring the difficult church in Ephesus. Some scholars believe Timothy was naturally timid, and the hostile cultural environment of Ephesus—home to the temple of Artemis—added to the pressure.

    Original Language

    σωφρονισμός(sōphronismos — Greek)

    'Sōphronismos' means self-discipline, sound judgment, or a well-ordered mind. It appears only here in the New Testament. It combines 'sōs' (safe, sound) and 'phrēn' (mind), describing a mind under God's control—calm, balanced, and clear-thinking rather than panicked.

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    What does 2 Timothy 1:7 mean?

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    Deliverance & Judgment
    Old Testament

    Elisha Blinds the Syrian Army

    Elisha prays and the Syrian army is struck blind, then led into Samaria and shown mercy.

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    Related Scriptures

    Isaiah 41:10
    Romans 8:15
    1 John 4:18

    More Verses About Fear

    Isaiah 41:10

    Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.

    Psalm 27:1

    The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?

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