2 Timothy, ESV Expository Commentary

Mid-levelBusy pastors, Pastors-in-trainingStrong recommendation
Author: Denny Burk
Bible Book: 2 Timothy
Publisher: Crossway
Theological Perspective: Broadly Evangelical
Resource Type: Commentary
Last updated: February 17, 2026
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Evaluation

Overall Score: 8.3/10

A strengthening guide for preaching 2 Timothy with realism, hope, and resolve.

Publication Date(s): 2018
Pages: 576
ISBN: 978-1433546686
Faithfulness to the Text: 8.1/10
We find Denny Burk attentive to Paul’s pastoral intent and careful not to flatten the letter into mere motivational themes.
Christ Centredness: 8.3/10
We are helped to preach Christ as the faithful Saviour who sustains his servants through suffering and opposition.
Depth of Insight: 8/10
We gain solid insight into structure and key themes, with clear guidance on difficult pastoral turns.
Clarity of Writing: 8.3/10
The writing is clear and well signposted, which supports both quick reference and deeper preparation.
Pastoral Usefulness: 8.6/10
We are given strong help for applying the letter to ministry life, especially perseverance, courage, and guarding the gospel.
Readability: 8.2/10
It reads smoothly and stays focused, which makes it easy to use in busy weeks.

Summary

At a Glance

Length
576 pages
Type
Expository (Mid-Level)
Theo. Perspective
Broadly Evangelical
Overall score
8.3 / 10
Strength
Strong pastoral application for perseverance and Word centred ministry.
Limitation
Those seeking extended technical engagement will still want a more specialised companion.

In 2 Timothy, ESV Expository Commentary, Denny Burk helps us preach endurance in ministry, with a steady focus on the Word of God, the pattern of sound teaching, and the costly joy of faithfulness. Volume 11.

We are helped to feel the letter’s urgency without resorting to slogans, and to keep our people fixed on Christ’s promise.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

We should own this volume when we need help preaching a letter that is both personal and programmatic for ministry. It keeps the pastoral charge connected to the gospel and to the realities of suffering.

We are also helped to apply the letter to ordinary church life. The aim is not hero stories, but steady perseverance in prayer, teaching, and discipleship.

It is useful for ordinand training, elders’ devotionals, and sermon series aimed at strengthening weary workers.

Closing Recommendation

We recommend 2 Timothy, ESV Expository Commentary for pastors and teachers who want a mid level guide that keeps the text clear and the application honest. It is at its best when we want to preach courage that is rooted in the Lord, not in ourselves.

As pastoral next steps, we can visit the Bible Book Overview, browse Top Recommendations, and use the Reformed Commentary Index to build a wiser working library.


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Classification

  • Level: Mid-level
  • Best For: Busy pastors, Pastors-in-training
  • Priority: Strong recommendation

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