Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary 2 Timothy 1:3

"I thank God, whom I serve from my forefathers in a pure conscience, how unceasing is my remembrance of thee in my supplications, night and day" — 2 Timothy 1:3 (ASV)

In contrast to his first letter, where Paul began by informing Timothy about his urgent task at Ephesus, even before his thanksgiving to God, Paul here follows his regular custom of having a thanksgiving right after the greeting. Paul was serving God “as my forefathers did.” He greatly appreciated his religious heritage (cf. Acts 22:3; 24:14), and so today should all those who have been brought up in a Christian environment. The apostle served God with a clean or pure conscience (see the note on 1 Timothy 1:5.); Paul had maintained a clear conscience even in his earlier years (Acts 23:1).

“Night and day” Paul was “constantly” remembering Timothy in his prayers (cf. Romans 1:10; 1 Thessalonians 1:2; 1 Thessalonians 3:6). He must have had a large heart to carry such a loving concern for so many people.