2 Timothy 1:6-7
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Paul isn't just telling Timothy to use his God-given gifts; he's urging him to rekindle them, like embers that have begun to fade. This implies that spiritual gifts, though divinely given, require active tending and intentional effort to keep them burning brightly, not just passive possession.
For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands, for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.
English Standard Version (ESV)
Paul is writing to his young protégé Timothy, who seems to be facing discouragement and perhaps fear in his ministry. Before this verse, Paul reminds Timothy of his spiritual heritage and encourages him not to be ashamed of the gospel or of Paul himself. This verse then serves as a direct exhortation to Timothy to actively stir up and use the spiritual gift God gave him, a gift entrusted to him when Paul laid hands on him.
Ever feel like a vital part of your faith has gone dormant? Paul’s words to Timothy are a powerful call to action.
Paul uses the image of 'fanning into flame' (Greek: 'anazopurein'). This isn't about creating something new, but about actively rekindling something that already exists. Think of a fire that's smoldering – it needs a breath of air, a gentle stirring, to burst back into vibrant life.
This gift isn't just a passive possession; it's a living reality entrusted to us by God. It might be a spiritual gifting, a call to ministry, or simply the vibrant power of the Holy Spirit within you. Neglect can cause it to dim, but intentional action can bring it back to full brilliance.
Where do these powerful gifts come from, and how are they passed on?
Paul clearly states the gift is 'the gift of God.' This is crucial – the power, the ability, the calling originates solely from Him. It's not earned or manufactured by human effort.
He then links this to 'the laying on of my hands.' This signifies a formal commissioning and impartation. It’s a powerful visual of spiritual authority and the intentional passing down of ministry and gifting within the apostolic lineage. This wasn't magic, but a divinely appointed way for God’s empowerment to be recognized and transferred through trusted leaders.
Understand the original words
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charisma · Greek Noun
In the New Testament, this refers to a spiritual endowment or special capacity bestowed by the Holy Spirit upon believers for the purpose of serving the Church and advancing the Kingdom of God. It is a manifestation of God's grace, emphasizing that the ability to serve comes from Him rather than human talent.
pneuma · Greek Noun
In biblical theology, 'spirit' refers to the immaterial part of humanity or, more frequently in this context, the Holy Spirit who indwells believers. It represents the inner disposition, power, or new nature imparted by God that transforms a believer's mind and character.
deilia · Greek Noun
A pervasive, trembling, or cowardly state of mind that opposes faith and confidence in God. Biblically, it is the opposite of the 'spirit of power' that the believer receives, acting as a hindrance to bold witness and trust.
This verse comes from Paul's final letter, written from prison. He's reminding young Timothy, whom he personally discipled and commissioned, to step up and boldly use the spiritual gifts God gave him, especially during a time of intense persecution.
c. AD 47-49
Paul's First Missionary Journey
Paul, accompanied by Barnabas, travels through Asia Minor, establishing churches and appointing elders. Timothy likely encounters Paul during this period.
c. AD 50-52— this verse
Second Missionary Journey Begins
Paul revisits churches, and Timothy joins him. Paul circumcises Timothy so he can minister more effectively to Jewish communities. Paul lays hands on Timothy, imparting spiritual gifts for ministry.
c. AD 53-57
Paul's Ministry in Ephesus
Paul spends a significant amount of time in Ephesus, a major city in Asia Minor. Timothy is with him and likely serves as a key leader in this region.
c. AD 64-67
Paul's Imprisonment and Second Letter to Timothy
Paul is imprisoned in Rome, likely awaiting execution. He writes 2 Timothy as his final letter, urging Timothy to remain faithful and continue the ministry.
This passage speaks about spiritual gifts being given by the Spirit for the common good, highlighting that Timothy's gift is from God, not just a human impartation.
1 Timothy 4:14This verse directly parallels the idea of 'fanning into flame' by mentioning the gift given to Timothy through prophecy and the laying on of hands by the elders, reinforcing the source and activation of his spiritual abilities.
Hebrews 12:15It warns against 'falling short of the grace of God' and 'a root of bitterness springing up,' which serves as a powerful reminder of the need to actively steward and protect the spiritual gifts entrusted to us, just as Paul urges Timothy.
2 Timothy 4:5This later instruction to Timothy to 'do the work of an evangelist, fully carry out your ministry' shows the ongoing responsibility to actively use and develop the gift, echoing the urgency in 2 Timothy 1:6.
Paul isn't just telling Timothy to use his God-given gifts; he's urging him to rekindle them, like embers that have begun to fade. This implies that spiritual gifts, though divinely given, require active tending and intentional effort to keep them burning brightly, not just passive possession.
Paul is writing to his young protégé Timothy, who seems to be facing discouragement and perhaps fear in his ministry. Before this verse, Paul reminds Timothy of his spiritual heritage and encourages him not to be ashamed of the gospel or of Paul himself. This verse then serves as a direct exhortation to Timothy to actively stir up and use the spiritual gift God gave him, a gift entrusted to him when Paul laid hands on him.
Paul is writing to his young protégé Timothy, who seems to be facing discouragement and perhaps fear in his ministry. Before this verse, Paul reminds Timothy of his spiritual heritage and encourages him not to be ashamed of the gospel or of Paul himself. This verse then serves as a direct exhortation to Timothy to actively stir up and use the spiritual gift God gave him, a gift entrusted to him when Paul laid hands on him.
"For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands, for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control." — Paul isn't just telling Timothy to use his God-given gifts; he's urging him to rekindle them, like embers that have begun to fade. This implies that spiritual gifts, though divinely given, requir…
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Last reviewed October 2026
