Journal: Journal of Dispensational Theology
Volume: JODT 15:45 (Aug 2011)
Article: The Soteriology Of 2 Timothy 2:11-13 – Part III
Author: David S. Ermold

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JODT 15:45 (August 2011) p. 71

The Soteriology Of 2 Timothy 2:11-13 – Part III

Davey S. Ermold

Davey S. Ermold, Th.M. student, Capital Bible Seminary, Lanham, Maryland.

In this final article, 2 Timothy 2:11-13 will be considered with regard to its doctrinal implications, specifically answering how this passage corresponds into the systematic studies of soteriology and eschatology. As a consequence of the compact, creedal nature of the statement, it is likely that it is succinctly stating biblical doctrine. For that reason, and on the basis of the prior exegesis and critique of other historical views, discussion on the doctrines present in these couplets seems warranted.1

Substitutionary Atonement

The first doctrine, found in συναπεθάνομεν, deals with Christ’s satisfactory death on the cross, appropriated by belief. Theologically, this is referred to as the substitutionary atonement. In his introduction to the topic, Erickson commented and posed a question: “We observed that Christ died for our sake or on our behalf. But is it proper to speak of his death as substitutionary, that is, did he actually die in our place?”2 It seems as though Scripture answers this positively.3

Therefore, substitutionary atonement can be defined as the work of Christ whereby through His death a believing sinner also dies to sin and spiritual death,4 which is the foundation from which the believer grows in the faith. If salvation is considered a process in as much as it is bound and measured by time, believing in Christ’s work constitutes the first step,

JODT 15:45 (August 2011) p. 72

namely, justification, whereby a believing sinner is declared righteous.5 It is at this point, as 2 Timothy 2 makes clear, that a believer has eternal life.

Eternal Life

Eternal life, which is seen in 2 Timothy 2 through συζήσομεν, is the present possession of believers whereby they will enjoy never ending physical and spiritual life on the new heavens and new earth.6 The term ζωή αἰώνιος occurs forty times in the New Testament,7 most notably in the Gospel of...

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