NOTES for Ti2 1:1-8
Paul writes this letter at a time when his circumstances were far from enviable. His apostleship brought him not only joy and the ability to work miracles, but also much suffering. That is why these words about fear are so important here: “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.” To preach, one must be truly fearless and unashamed to bear witness to what Jesus commanded and what runs counter to the principles on which the pagan world was founded. Paul encourages Timothy by telling him that God gives him this fearlessness, that it is a special gift received by the faithful.
Each of us is called to be an apostle, to carry the light of the Gospel into the world through our own life. At times this requires true courage, which the Savior alone can give. Even if you face no mortal danger, it takes almost knightly courage to live in our world according to the Beatitudes.