2 Timothy 4
-The first eight verse of this last chapter in 2 Timothy
finish up the instruction before some final personal greetings and pertinent
personal instructions are given to the young disciple/evangelist. Timothy is
charged by his mentor to preach the Word ready at all times (when it is
convenient or not, in season/out of season) with reprove, rebuke, exhortation,
and great patience and teaching. This is to be done in the presence of God and
of Jesus Christ, who is the judge of the living and the dead (2 Timothy 4:1-2).
*Application* If you are commissioned by God for a work, there could be no
better advice than what is laid out here at the beginning of this chapter. We
are to always be in the presence of God enjoying the fellowship with the Holy
Spirit as He illuminates and inspires us to truth. We are to preach the Word
unadulterated with clarity and precision. We are to bring conviction and
exposure with urgency (this is the word meaning of reprove, elegcho). We are to censure and warn
those to whom we preach (this is the word meaning of rebuke, epitimao). We are to invite, urge, and
encourage in our words to those we minister to (this is the word meaning of
exhort, parakaleo). We are to do
these things with all endurance and instruction. Abide by these principles and
you will do phenomenal in your ministry.
-Paul again gives us the typical things to look for in the
last days as he points out that there will come a time when people will not
endure sound teaching (or doctrine). They will have ears that gravitate towards
what they want to hear and turn away from the truth of the Lord to their own
passions and mythological beliefs (2 Timothy 4:3-4). Paul’s warning for his
student, and us, is to sober-minded (well-balanced, self-controlled, clear
headed) as we endure the inevitable suffering from unbelievers and liars.
*Application* We are to fulfill our ministry no matter what (2 Timothy 4:5).
The enemy and people will try to take you off your game that God has called you
to. Don’t let that happen. A big part of this is people pleasing. If the enemy
knows you are seeking popularity over coming before the Lord in humility, he
will attack over and over again in this area of ear tickling. Be very strong
and very courageous. Say the things and show the love that will make a
difference for eternity; don’t appease sin and just say what people want to
hear. A hard word will turn people back towards righteousness, which is what
the Lord desires. It’s not an easy journey, but the rewards are fantastic!
-Paul acknowledges his time on earth is growing short as he
is being poured out as a drink offering of sacrifice for the cause of the
gospel. He has fought the good fight, he has finished his race, he has kept the
faith (2 Timothy 4:6-7). In the future he knows that he will receive the crown
of righteousness along with all those who believe and love the appearing of the
Lord Jesus Christ, who is the righteous Judge, on that Day (Judgment Day) (2
Timothy 4:8). *Application* Are you looking forward to meeting Jesus face to
face when the faith becomes sight? If you have His righteousness, you have
nothing to fear. Receive Him and all His benefits while you have breath. Eternity
is a mighty long time. You definitely want to abide in His Kingdom.
-The personal matters reveal some close friends and their strength
to Paul as well as some heartaches caused by desertion and worldly thinking.
Some did Paul great harm and have been given to the Lord for correction, while
others are commended as useful to the work of Christ. Paul ends with the fact
that the Lord is with him in all his circumstances and will rescue him from
every evil deed to bring him into His eternal Heavenly Kingdom. May the Lord be
with all of our spirits in His outstanding grace (2 Timothy 4:9-22)!
*Application* Our final glimpse into what ministry is all about in this letter
reveals the ups and downs of the faith fight. Realize that the Lord is always
with you even when all desert you and you feel like you have no one standing
beside you. There will be times like that if you are doing what is right. This
is just like Christ when He was convicted before the religious leaders and Pilate
as He was taken to the cross. Expect this at times in your ministry and realize
that while it may seem like at certain moments even the Lord has forsaken you,
He is right there, building your faith to a higher degree and developing your
spiritual walk with Him. Fight, finish, and keep (2 Timothy 4:7)! These are the
words for us to remember.
Verses to Memorize- 2
Timothy 4:2, 7
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