I charge you before God, who gives life to all things, and before Christ Jesus, who before Pontius Pilate testified the good confession,
and before Christ Jesus, who before Pontius Pilate witnessed a good confession: Paul reminds Timothy how the Lord Jesus Christ left us a great example when he testified in the presence of Pilate and confessed the truth regarding His kingship and kingdom, even though suffering and death were present (Matthew 27:11; John 18:36-37). A charge given in light of such a great truth and moving example should urge one to do his best and withstand the worst.