Matthew Henry Commentary 2 Timothy 1:1-5

"Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus through the will of God, according to the promise of the life which is in Christ Jesus, to Timothy, my beloved child: Grace, mercy, peace, from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord. 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 longing to see thee, remembering thy tears, that I may be filled with joy; having been reminded of the unfeigned faith that is in thee; which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and, I am persuaded, in thee also." — 2 Timothy 1:1-5 (ASV)

The promise of eternal life to believers in Christ Jesus is the leading subject of ministers who serve according to the will of God. The blessings mentioned here are the best we can ask for our beloved friends: that they may have peace with God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.

Whatever good we do, God must have the glory. True believers in every age have the same religion in substance. Their faith is unfeigned; it will stand the trial, and it dwells in them as a living principle.

Thus, pious women may take encouragement from the success of Lois and Eunice with Timothy, who proved to be such an excellent and useful minister. Some of the most worthy and valuable ministers with whom the church of Christ has been blessed have had to thank God for early religious impressions made on their minds by the teaching of their mothers or other female relatives.