2 Timothy 4:21 – “Do your best to get here before winter. Eubulus greets you, and so do Pudens, Linus, Claudia and all the brothers and sisters.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In this verse, Paul gives a heartfelt request to Timothy: “Do your best to get here before winter.” This was not just about the season-it was about time running out. Paul knew he didn’t have much longer to live. He had already told Timothy earlier to come quickly (verse 9), but here the tone is even more urgent.
Winter travel in the ancient world was dangerous and difficult. Roads became muddy and blocked, and sea travel often shut down altogether. If Timothy didn’t leave soon, he might not make it before Paul’s death.
Then Paul passes along greetings from Eubulus, Pudens, Linus, Claudia, and others. These names likely represent believers who were still in Rome and had not abandoned Paul. Even though Paul had felt deserted earlier (verse 16), he was still surrounded by a few faithful brothers and sisters in Christ. Their greetings show that Christian love and fellowship continued-even in dark times.
Historical Context
This verse was written during Paul’s final imprisonment in Rome. He had already stood trial and was expecting execution. Winter was approaching, and Paul was in a cold, harsh prison (he had earlier asked Timothy to bring his cloak-verse 13).
Timothy was pastoring in Ephesus, which was hundreds of miles away. For him to reach Paul before winter, he would have to leave quickly and travel a great distance, possibly by land and sea.
The people mentioned-Eubulus, Pudens, Linus, Claudia-are only known from this verse. Linus may be the same Linus who, according to early church tradition, became a leader in the church at Rome. These were likely local believers who were part of the small, faithful group encouraging Paul in his final days.
Theological Implications
This verse speaks to the urgency of Christian fellowship and encouragement. Paul longed for Timothy’s presence-not just because he was about to die, but because faithful friendship is a gift from God, especially in hard times.
It also reminds us that the church is not built on superstars, but on ordinary believers-some of whose names are barely mentioned in Scripture-who remained faithful and supportive. Even though most had deserted Paul, a few stood by him.
There’s also a quiet reminder that our time is limited. Paul sensed that winter was not just a season-it symbolized the end of his life. He wanted to make the most of his remaining days with the people who mattered most.
Literary Analysis
This verse is both personal and emotional. “Do your best to get here before winter” carries the weight of longing and finality. It’s Paul’s way of saying, “I may not be here much longer.”
The list of names adds warmth to the ending of the letter. Paul began with a charge to preach the Word, and now he ends with the community of believers, showing that ministry and relationship go hand in hand.
The structure is simple, but the meaning runs deep. The tone is affectionate, sobering, and sincere.
Biblical Cross-References
- 2 Timothy 4:9 – “Do your best to come to me quickly.”
- 2 Timothy 4:13 – Paul asks Timothy to bring his cloak, showing winter was near.
- Ecclesiastes 3:1 – “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.”
- Hebrews 10:24–25 – “Let us consider how we may spur one another on… not giving up meeting together.”
- Romans 1:11–12 – Paul expresses a desire to visit believers to be encouraged and to encourage.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse encourages us to make time for what matters most, especially relationships rooted in Christ. Life is short, and sometimes we don’t get a second chance to encourage someone, visit them, or say goodbye.
It’s also a reminder that faithful presence matters. Timothy had served from a distance, but Paul longed to see him face to face. In a world that often settles for surface-level connection, this verse urges us to go the extra mile to be there for one another.
And finally, it calls us to be like those early believers in Rome–ordinary people doing extraordinary things simply by staying faithful and showing love in a time of need.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is shown in His care for human connection. He made us to need one another. Paul’s longing for Timothy and the greetings from the Roman believers reflect the kind of community God desires-one filled with grace, presence, and shared burdens.
This verse also shows that God’s love continues even in our final moments. Paul was facing death, but he wasn’t abandoned. God’s love came through in warm greetings, loyal friends, and the hope of one final visit from Timothy.
God cares about the small details: the season, the timing, the friendships, the encouragement we bring to each other.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus Himself modeled the importance of relationships and presence. He spent time with His disciples, ate with them, encouraged them, and prepared them for His departure. On the night before His death, He wanted them close (Luke 22:14–15).
Paul, in many ways, mirrors Jesus in this verse. He knows death is near. He longs for the presence of someone dear. And like Jesus, he continues to love and shepherd others until the very end.
Christ is also the one who holds all these relationships together. The love between Paul, Timothy, and the believers in Rome exists because of their shared faith in Christ, who binds His people together in lasting fellowship.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Who in your life may need your presence, encouragement, or support right now?
- Are you making space in your schedule for the relationships God has given you?
- How can you be more like the faithful believers in Rome who stayed near Paul when he needed them most?
- What does “getting there before winter” look like in your life-where is God calling you to act before it’s too late?
- How does Jesus’ example of loving presence inspire you to be more intentional with others?