What does 2 Timothy 2:2 mean?

This famous verse on discipleship offers Paul's strategy for passing on the faith. He begins by reminding Timothy about the specific lessons Paul gave to him. Paul shared Christ with Timothy and did so "in the presence of many witnesses." The importance of other witnesses to Timothy's faith was also evident in 1 Timothy 6:12 when Paul shared, "Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called and about which you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses."

Timothy was to teach this same message to others who were capable of passing along that same knowledge. This is not a reference to evangelism, since these were to be "faithful men," or people who already believed in Christ. If done correctly, these trained believers would "be able to teach others also." This is the primary means by which the gospel is spread: through relationship and discipleship.

All told, Paul's comments here put four generations of discipleship into view: from Paul, to Timothy, to teachers, to others. Passing on the faith is not a single step, but a multi-generational process. Christian discipleship has the long view in mind: reaching others who will reach still others.