Dr. Ray Van Neste is dean of the School of Theology & Missions and Professor of Biblical Studies at Union University. He has written Cohesion and Structure in the Pastoral Epistles (T&T Clark, 2005) along with many other essays and edited volumes. He recalls what first excited him about learning Greek and then reflects on what Paul’s language in 2 Tim. 1:6-7 indicates that he has in mind by the “gift of God” and the “spirit of cowardice” in this letter.