2:11 {8} [It is] a faithful saying: For if we be {c} dead with [him], we shall also live with [him]:
(8) The fourth admonition: we ought not to contend upon words and questions, which are not only unprofitable, but also for the most part hurtful: but rather upon this, how we may compose ourselves to every manner of patience, and to die also with Christ (that is to say, for Christ's name) because that is the plain way to the most glorious life. And contrary to this, the falling away of men can diminish no part of the truth of God, even though by such means they procure most certain destruction to themselves.
(c) If we are afflicted with Christ, and for Christ's sake.
2:11 It is a faithful saying. A true saying. Some think that these two verses, 2Ti 2:11,12, were part of an early hymn.
If we be dead with [him]. Rather, as in the Revised Version, Died with him. Compare Ro 6:4,5,8 Col 2:12. The reference is to death to the old life, and burial into the death of Christ at baptism.
2:11 Dead with him - Dead to sin, and ready to die for him.
2:8-13 Let suffering saints remember, and look to Jesus, the Author and Finisher of their faith, who for the joy that was set before him, endured the cross, despised the shame, and is now set down at the right hand of the throne of God. We must not think it strange if the best men meet with the worst treatment; but this is cheering, that the word of God is not bound. Here we see the real and true cause of the apostle's suffering trouble in, or for, the sake of the gospel. If we are dead to this world, its pleasures, profits, and honours, we shall be for ever with Christ in a better world. He is faithful to his threatenings, and faithful to his promises. This truth makes sure the unbeliever's condemnation, and the believer's salvation.
