The pronoun is in the singular in the Greek. However, textual evidence (cf. p. 10) favors a plural reading. Timothy was fortunate to have been taught by his godly grandmother, Lois, and his mother, Eunice (see ch. 1:5), as well as by Paul and the other apostles. Some believe “of whom” refers to “the holy scriptures” (ch. 3:15), meaning that any authority Paul or Timothy’s mother and grandmother possessed rested finally in the Scriptures, not in themselves. The Scriptures alone give the life an unchangeable foundation for conviction and assurance.

 Timothy’s only defense against deceptive teachings would consist in his firm dependence upon the instructions of Paul and the other apostles (see on chs. 1:13; 2:2). These truths of the gospel not only convict the mind but also warm the heart. Personal experience substantiates the validity of gospel principles and thus builds increased assurance for the future.

Or, “remain.”