Facing execution, Paul from prison cares for infant churches to the end, sending out pastors. An enemy has given devastating false evidence against him, and now he expects deliverance not from death but by death into the Eternal Kingdom. Martyrdom will seal his genuineness for Christ.

Soon to be executed, Paul uses exalted language to describe the privilege and blessings of the Christian life, and the experience of death. Here is what he means by the good (noble) fight, finishing his course, keeping (guarding) the faith, and receiving the crown of righteousness.