Gr. adikia, “unrighteousness.”

 Gr. aphistēmi, “ to stand off from.” Compare Matt. 7:23 (see on Isa. 52:11; 1 Cor. 6:17, 18; 1 Peter 1:15, 16). The apostle asserts the inevitable consequence of full surrender to God’s way of life; such a church member will abhor evil as Christ did. God’s seal can never rest upon an impure man or woman; God will never approve of anything less than complete dedication to the principles of His government. Those who bear His seal of approval will stand out from the world as exhibits of a superior way of life, revealing a character that reflects God’s moral integrity.

 Probably a reference to the LXX of Num. 16:5. All those who loyally subscribe to the principles of God’s government can be assured of His promise that no man or devil is able to pluck them out of His hand (John 10:28). God is trustworthy; His conditions for life eternal are unchanging; therefore, no man ever has cause to lose faith in His word. Those who are willing to witness faithfully for God on earth can be confident that God will remember them in heaven (cf. 2 Tim. 2:12).

 Gr. sphragis, a “seal” by which anything is confirmed, authenticated, or certificated. Compare Eze. 9:4; Rom. 4:11. Ever since the creation of man God has genuine loyalty to His way of life. To be sealed with the approval of God constitutes man’s highest achievement. God has promised to sealed men and women the protection of legions of angels and the comfort and encouragement of His presence. Furthermore, men today can be assured that the standards upon which God bases His approval are the same now as in Biblical times (see on 2 Tim. 2:13). The sealing work will continue as long as men and women have the opportunity to accept salvation. See on Rev. 7:1, 4.

Gr. stereos, “firm,” “solid,” “immovable.” The first clause of this verse reads literally, “the firm foundation of God stands.”

 That is, the unchangeableness of God’s nature and character as revealed in the Scriptures. The church, which is the product of God’s grace and the object of His greatest concern, will ultimately triumph because God will not revoke His promises and withdraw His leadership. It rests upon a sure foundation (cf. Eph. 2:19, 20; see on Matt. 16:18).

 Here is manifested the radiant, indomitable courage of Paul. It compares with the noble reply of the three Hebrew worthies when they faced immediate death because of their convictions. They would be loyal to God, who was able to deliver them if He saw fit, “but if not,” they would still serve Him (Dan. 3:18).

 In this last letter to Timothy, Paul sought to encourage him to endure all the trials yet to come. Love for Timothy prompted Paul to describe the road ahead with stark reality (see chs. 1:8; 2:3, 9, 16, 17; 3:1, 12).

 Paul could not even promise Timothy that his own ministerial colleagues, or the members of his own church, would altogether prove faithful (see on chs. 1:15; 2:17, 18; 4:10, 14). The apostle had learned through tears that disappointment and disillusionment may strike at any time.

Paul already expected to die an undeserved death by the executioner’s sword. Was this all Timothy had to look forward to? No, Paul not yet finished. He goes on to say, as it were: “The world will persecute you, Timothy, some of your own friends will fail you, some of your fondest hopes will be dashed to the ground—nevertheless’ there is one thing you can still count on, ‘the foundation of God standeth sure.’”

 That is, those who choose to be called “Christians” (see on Acts 11:26). In Paul’s day, claiming the “name of ... Christ” was an open invitation to persecution and derision (see on Acts 15:26). The Christian would be announcing his commitment to Christ’s way of life, valuing His approval above that of man.