I. An Exhortation to constancy, chapters 1-3. In which is:
1. His giving of thanks for them: chapters 1:1-3:10: in which:
a. After the inscription he gives thanks to God for their faith, charity, patience, and imitation of him: chapter 1.
b. He relates his sincerity, gentleness, and industry as a preacher, and commends their piety and constancy: chapter 2.
c. He sets forth Timothy, sent by himself, and his joy over the relation given by Timothy upon his return: chapter 3:1-10.
2. His prayer for the increase of their charity: chapter 3:11-13.
II. His Exhortation to the duties of piety, chapters 4; 5.
1. To holiness, brotherly love, and moderate grief over the dead: chapter 4.
2. To vigilance on account of the uncertain time of the coming of Christ, and a number of other duties: chapter 5.