2 Timothy 1:7 (KJV)

What does 2 Timothy 1:7 mean?

God has given his people a spirit characterized by power, love, and self-control, rather than cowardice. Paul says this to Timothy as he urges him to exercise his gift and share in suffering for the gospel.

The key word is “fear”: Greek δειλία (deilia) means cowardice or timidity—a shrinking back in the face of difficulty or danger. Paul is writing as a prisoner, and the next verse tells Timothy not to be ashamed of the Lord’s testimony or of Paul. The concern is the fearfulness that would hold Timothy back from that work.

The Greek behind 2 Timothy 1:7

• “spirit” — πνεῦμα (pneuma): This word can describe a person’s inward disposition or refer to God’s Spirit. Here, “God hath … given us” identifies God as the source, and the following words describe the character of his gift: power, love, and self-control. The Greek word alone does not settle whether Paul means the Holy Spirit directly or the disposition God produces.

• “power” — δύναμις (dynamis): This means strength, ability, or capacity to act. Here, God’s gift supplies the strength needed for Timothy’s work. The next verse connects God’s power specifically with sharing in suffering for the gospel.

• “love” — ἀγάπη (agapē): This means love or concern for others. Paul places love alongside power, so the strength described here belongs together with concern for people.

• “a sound mind” — σωφρονισμός (sōphronismos): This means self-control or self-discipline, including sensible judgment. The KJV phrase describes a mind that governs conduct wisely, rather than merely intellectual ability.

Why 2 Timothy 1:7 matters

• The verse explains the instruction immediately before it. “For” connects Paul’s statement to his call for Timothy to “stir up the gift of God” in verse 6. God’s gift is the reason Timothy should exercise that gift rather than withdraw.

• The three qualities belong together. “Power,” “love,” and “a sound mind” all describe the one “spirit” God has given. Paul presents strength, concern for others, and disciplined judgment as a united character.

• “Us” makes the statement broader than Timothy alone. Paul includes himself with Timothy among those who have received God’s gift, even while Paul himself is imprisoned.