Tag: 2nd Timothy 2
Pass it on!
Scripture reading for October 4th: 2nd Timothy 2
Key Scriptures for over-comers: 2nd Timothy 2:1-3 “You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others. Endure hardship with us like a good soldier of Christ Jesus.”
Paul urged Timothy, in this last letter before his being martyred, to stand strong in the grace that is in Jesus. It is not our works, serving, or gifts that will take us through to the ultimate victory. Grace is found in resting in the finished work of Jesus Christ on the cross of Calvary. As for Timothy’s pastoral ministry, Paul encouraged Timothy to find other reliable men (and women) who would be qualified and entrusted with the gospel message of grace to in turn teach others. Successful ministry is all about multiplication of disciples who will in turn take the gospel to others and find others to take it to their circle of influence! The Church of Christ Jesus is propelled forward by multiplication!
Observations for over-comers: Mature disciples of Jesus Christ are working to raise up others who will reliably and with determination multiply and make other disciples. “Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy. He who goes out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with him.” (Psalm 126:5-6)
Do your best!
Scripture reading for October 5th: 2nd Timothy 2
“You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others.” (2nd Timothy 2:1-2)
Paul encouraged Timothy to continue to stand strong in the grace that came through Christ Jesus. It was only by grace that we are saved and it is grace that enables us to fulfill our calling. Through grace, Paul instructed Timothy to pass the truths of the Gospel and of God’s grace in Christ to others who would be reliable. These, in turn, would instruct others and their faith would grow through God’s grace in action.
“Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, descended from David. This is my gospel, for which I am suffering even to the point of being chained like a criminal. But God’s word is not chained. Therefore I endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they too may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus, with eternal glory.” (2nd Timothy 2:8-10) Paul’s life was centered on Jesus Christ and the gospel of God’s grace. He encouraged Timothy and us not to forget this simple center. Suffering would result from preaching this message and living centered on Christ, but for the sake of the elect–those called to salvation by the Holy Spirit–endurance was possible!
“Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.” (2nd Timothy 2:15) Christian ministry requires God’s grace and our effort to apply the truths of God’s word. We must put forth effort to do our best and to correctly handle God’s word and live a holy life. There will be no shame for those who do so.