What does 2 Timothy 1:13 mean?

In previous verses, Paul has focused on his own life. Here, he transitions to instructions for Timothy. In particular, Timothy should be using Paul as a reference for teaching, preaching, and leadership. Paul used a similar reference in 1 Timothy 6:3. This broader idea of "sound doctrine" was also important to Paul. He mentions it in 1 Timothy 1:10 as well as Titus 1:9 and 2:1. This concept of "soundness" comes through the Greek root word hugiaino, which refers to "health, safety, or wholesomeness." The term is used here as a metaphor for accuracy, truth, and benefit. In other words, "sound doctrine" is God's revealed truth, not the flawed opinions of mankind.

Timothy learned this teaching directly from Paul rather than through Scripture as believers do now. While Scripture is the source of sound doctrine, much emphasis is given in this letter regarding the importance of personally training others. Sound doctrine cannot survive unless it is understood, and then passed along to others (2 Timothy 2:2).

The second half of the verse reminds us that doctrine is not merely meant to change our knowledge, it is meant to affect our behavior. A person who cares about accurate, faithful understanding of the gospel will seek to live by the same faith and love offered by Jesus. Rather than only studying God's truth and ignoring its implications (James 1:22), Timothy was to care about both his life and his teaching (1 Timothy 4:15–16).