Paul wanted to see Timothy again. He thinks of him as his own son. Paul is lonely and imprisoned. The prison is cold. 

In the court the first time, he had been successful. But all his friends except Luke had left him. Although he had succeeded this time, the Romans would not set him free. He expects that they will soon kill him.

Paul writes to encourage Timothy in his Christian life. He urges him to be strong in what he believes. Timothy must use the gifts that God has given to him. He must preach the gospel and teach the truth.