2 Timothy 2:1–13

Introduction

We can overcome threats to our faith by cultivating holy habits.

In verses 1-7, Paul gives Timothy four commands to obey. The commands make perfect sense when we consider the carnage happening all around him—the mass desertion of Christ followers in Ephesus and the violent persecution of disciples in Rome. Duped by false teaching and intimidated by the threat of persecution, many were yielding to the threat of either changing or abandoning the gospel. Although he knew Timothy’s sincere faith in Christ, Paul could not ignore the risk that even Timothy might fall prey to the same temptations. The four commands represent things Timothy ought to do to safeguard both his own faith and the witness of the gospel.

Retiring is scary because you have to trust those who come after you, and history teaches you that they may err.

I need to outline the fact that we too face similar threats to our faith in the gospel and to the continuing credibility of our ministries. Although we do not face the direct threat of violent persecution by the state, we do live in a society that is decidedly post-Christian and which is in many respects hostile to Christ and his followers. (Elaborate in terms of academia, LGBTQIA, science, etc.) In Pakistan or Egypt, if you are ‘Christian’ on your passport, you are excluded from the best education and career opportunities; we do not have this on our passport, but we do face the temptation to conceal our Christian identity to succeed in a world system that finds the gospel both foolish and offensive.

We must stand firm in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.

2 Timothy 2:1 NIV

You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.

We must establish networks of mentoring.

2 Timothy 2:2 NIV

And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.

I could draw on the recommendations about a LAGER COMMUNITY from A Better Story. We do need this. We need fellowship groups that are serious, not frivolous.

We must be single-minded in our devotion to Christ.

2 Timothy 2:3–6 NIV

Join with me in suffering, like a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No one serving as a soldier gets entangled in civilian affairs, but rather tries to please his commanding officer. Similarly, anyone who competes as an athlete does not receive the victor’s crown except by competing according to the rules. The hardworking farmer should be the first to receive a share of the crops.

This is the heart of Paul’s counsel to Timothy.

Perhaps the greatest deficiency in Western Christianity is that we no concept of suffering for the gospel. We have moulded Yahweh in the patron deity of the American dream, a God whose highest concern is our comfort and happiness.

We must study the Scriptures daily and prayerfully.

2 Timothy 2:7 NIV

Reflect on what I am saying, for the Lord will give you insight into all this.

We can overcome threats to our faith by remembering inspiring examples.

We should remember the example of Jesus Christ.

2 Timothy 2:8 NIV

Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, descended from David. This is my gospel,

We should remember the example of Paul the apostle.

2 Timothy 2:9–10 NIV

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.

We should remember the example of every believer.

2 Timothy 2:11–13 NIV

Here is a trustworthy saying: 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.

Conclusion