2 Timothy, Day 2
Paul’s Instruction on Relationships, Part 1
PAUL CHALLENGES TIMOTHY TO STAY COMMITTED
2 Timothy Chapter 2
Paul begins Chapter 2 by requesting Timothy to be strong in the grace of Jesus Christ. He goes on to tell Timothy that he should pass on to others the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the New Covenant doctrines that have been put into place by the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. Paul has shown and taught Timothy — Now it is Timothy’s turn to pass this knowledge and experience on to others. He goes on to tell Timothy that he should join in Paul’s suffering while remaining a good soldier (focused), committed to the work of spreading the Good News of Jesus Christ. Paul uses other examples of an athlete and a farmer to simplify his point about staying truthful and following the rules, and that a hardworking, committed servant, will be the first to receive rewards.
Paul reminds Timothy that Jesus shed his blood, died, and rose again, to satisfy the sin issue with God the Father. Because Paul was faithful in preaching this message, he is chained as a criminal. The Gospel, though, is not chained. Suffering is acceptable for Paul so that the Gospel of salvation that is in Christ Jesus can be carried on for the purpose of eternal glory (Chapter 2:1 – 10).
Trustworthy sayings (Verses 11 – 13)
- If we died with Him, we will also live with Him.
- If we endure, we will also reign with Him.
- If we disown Him, He will also disown us.
- If we are faithless, He remains faithful, for He cannot disown Himself.
Paul tells Timothy to keep reminding God’s people (Verses 14 – 26)
- Stop quarreling about words.
- Present yourself to God as one approved.
- Avoid godless chatter.
- Flee the evil desires of your youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, with a pure heart.
- Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments.
- BE GENTLE!
Something to think about
Paul was given the responsibility of taking the Good News of Jesus Christ to the gentiles. Paul mentored Timothy, Titus, and others. Paul knows that he is at the end of his life and needs to challenge his mentorees to carry on the torch of sharing and teaching the Gospel message. It is now 2000 years later, and that Gospel torch is still being carried. It is imperative that we continue to share the Gospel with the lost world, and let the Holy Spirit show them the truth of His written Word. Matthew 28:19 – 20 commands us to make disciples. Acts 1:8 commands us to be witnesses. Paul challenges us in 2 Timothy to stay committed to this task and DO IT WELL!
Application
Not all Christians have been given the spiritual gift of teaching or evangelism. But all Christians have been commanded to witness and teach the Good News of Jesus Christ. IT IS A COMMAND FROM GOD THAT WE ALL HAVE TO TAKE SERIOUSLY.
Blessings from Carlton Ringer