The Faithful Servant

2 Timothy 4:7 ESV

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

2 Timothy 4

Introduction:

As we are gathered today to pay our respects to and celebrate the life of Pastor William Sturdivant, we must focus on the fact that he made his mind up to serve the Lord. I am grateful to have known him and inspired by his love for his Church, Family and God.

This text today though it is written by Paul as he appears to come to the end of his life is one which should encourage us each to live as faithful servants. It epitomizes what a servant faithful to God looks like.

Look closely at this verse. Three particular characteristics jump out at us and should be convicting to those of us who not made the choice or those who have quit somewhere on this journey. Paul admonishes that:

A Faithful Servant, Is Determined to Live Righteously (I have fought a good fight)

What is the good fight ? It is the fight to live righteously in a world that claims sin is ok. I resisted satan's attempts to control me. I remained humble in spite of my accomplishments I treated people respectfully. I helped people who needed it.

Application: Have you determined to live right?

A Faithful Servant, Is Dedicated to their Assignment (I have finished my course)

Paul insists that all that God has given him to do is now completed. He didn't just up and quit. He kept going even when it was tough. Even in the face of trouble he kept working. When life became complex he worked. He did what he was supposed to do. Would not quit,

Application: Are you committed to the assignment God has given you or are you looking for a way out. Have you excused yourself because of your busy life-style?

A Faithful Servant, Defends their Faith (I have kept the faith)

Kept - in the original language means to guard undetered by the world was not influenced by misguided ideas he may not understand everything about God but he believes and trust God!

Application: Do you trust God enough to proclaim He is Lord?

Conclusion: Paul is not saddened by this realization he is elated and joyous because he understands the privileged it is to be a servant of God. He understands that serving the Lord will pay off . . .

If when you give the best of your service,

Telling the world that the Savior is come;

Be not dismayed when men don't believe you;

He understands; and say, "Well done."

Refrain:

Oh when I come to the end of my journey,

Weary of life and the battle is won;

Carrying the staff and the cross of redemption,

He'll understand and say, "Well done."

2 Misunderstood, the Savior of sinners,

Hung on the cross; He was God's only Son;

Oh! hear Him call His Father in Heav'n,

"Not my will, but Thine be done." [Refrain]

3 If when this life of labor is ended,

And the reward of the race you have run;

Oh! the sweet rest prepared for faithful

Will be His blest and final, "Well done." [Refrain]

4 But if you try and fail in your trying,

Hands sore and scarred from the work you've begun;

Take up your cross, run quickly to meet Him;

He'll understand; and say, "Well done." [Refrain]

Source: African American Heritage Hymnal #413