Special Focus Mentoring

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Introduction

The second letter Paul wrote to Timothy could be called Paul's "last will and testament" -- his final challenge to Timothy to be faithful in preaching the Word. He called Timothy "my son," showing that he saw himself as Timothy's father in the faith. He loved Timothy like a son, and their hearts were knit together in the work of proclaiming the Gospel, making disciples and planting churches. Paul could prepare for his own death knowing Timothy would carry on his work.
Start with
2 Timothy 2:1–2 ESV
1 You then, my child, be strengthened by the grace that is in Christ Jesus, 2 and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also.
What's something interesting you learned because someone else showed you how?
Our look this week at Paul and Timothy's relationship helps us prepare to be mentors ourselves. Mentoring is about relationships, but those relationships don't happen by accident. They happen because we intentionally watch for God-given intersections and build God-centered friendships.
Our look this week at Paul and Timothy's relationship helps us prepare to be mentors ourselves. Mentoring is about relationships, but those relationships don't happen by accident. They happen because we intentionally watch for God-given intersections and build God-centered friendships.
By using the pronoun you, Paul exhorts Timothy in particular to be like Onesiphorus’ household and not like Phygelus and Hermogenes. He calls Timothy again my child to remind him of their special spiritual parent-child relationship. Timothy’s power comes from Jesus to guard the message entrusted to him (1:12). Somehow, Timothy himself should make an effort, but yet that effort is done in Christ Jesus’ grace (2:1). Christ’s grace has already accomplished many marvelous actions. Yet, Timothy himself needs to participate in an ongoing process to allow Christ Jesus’ strength to come into his life.
Look at and . What is Paul doing here to prepare Timothy?
-- Be strong in grace. Paul knew from his own journey that God could give Timothy all the strength he would need.
-- Teach others all he had learned from Paul. Many had learned at Paul's feet, and they could attest to the truth of his teaching. Paul expected Timothy to find other faithful leaders and teach them all he had learned.
2 Timothy 1:8 ESV
8 Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in suffering for the gospel by the power of God,
-- Challenge them to teach another generation of followers. Paul taught Timothy. Timothy taught others. His students then would teach another generation of followers. That's exactly the way mentoring is supposed to work!
2 Timothy 1:9–13 ESV
9 who saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of his own purpose and grace, which he gave us in Christ Jesus before the ages began, 10 and which now has been manifested through the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel, 11 for which I was appointed a preacher and apostle and teacher, 12 which is why I suffer as I do. But I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed, and I am convinced that he is able to guard until that day what has been entrusted to me. 13 Follow the pattern of the sound words that you have heard from me, in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.
Think about those who invested in you. Even if no one served as an official mentor to you, others have modeled the Christian life for you. It's also possible God has already placed someone in your life for you to mentor, so keep looking and praying.
2 Timothy 2:12 ESV
12 if we endure, we will also reign with him; if we deny him, he also will deny us;
2 Corinthians 4:
2 Corinthians 4:7 ESV
7 But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us.
He learned from Paul the ramifications of the gospel, that it will entail suffering. Timothy is reminded that their difficulties as believers demonstrate that their “extraordinary power” must come from God.
Timothy directly heard from Paul about Jesus being the Christ and the Savior, having abolished death and having brought eternal life (1:9–10, 13). He also learned from Paul the ramifications of the gospel, that it will entail suffering (1:8).
Paul, having mentioned his attitude to his imprisonment, the power of Jesus (1:12), the soundness and importance of Paul’s own words (1:12–13), the receptiveness of Timothy (1:13), the presence of the Holy Spirit (1:14), the negative example of some believers (1:15), and the positive example of others (1:16–18), returns again to exhort Timothy: Therefore, you, my child, keep on being empowered in the grace, the one in Christ Jesus, and what you heard from me through many witnesses, entrust these things to trustworthy humans, who are able also to teach others (2:1–2). Paul has given many reasons how and why Timothy can continue to be empowered. By using the pronoun you, Paul exhorts Timothy in particular to be like Onesiphorus’ household and not like Phygelus and Hermogenes. He calls Timothy again my child to remind him of their special spiritual parent-child relationship. Timothy’s power comes from Jesus to guard the message entrusted to him (1:12). Somehow, Timothy himself should make an effort, but yet that effort is done in Christ Jesus’ grace (2:1). Christ’s grace has already accomplished many marvelous actions. Yet, Timothy himself needs to participate in an ongoing process to allow Christ Jesus’ strength to come into his life.
1 Timothy 3:2 ESV
2 Therefore an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach,
1 Timothy 3:2
Timothy is reminded that their difficulties as believers demonstrate that their “extraordinary power” must come from God ().
Timothy has to guard his own walk with Jesus and develop an army with which to fight. As Paul realizes his own death is imminent, he wants to strengthen Timothy and strengthen the church, thus Paul begins 2:2 describing what it is that Timothy needs to entrust to others: what you heard from me through many witnesses. The content of the education is of paramount importance. This content is validated by two sources: (1) me (i.e., Paul) and (2) many witnesses.
What 2 qualifications does Paul outline in verse 2?
Timothy directly heard from Paul about Jesus being the Christ and the Savior, having abolished death and having brought eternal life (1:9–10, 13). He also learned from Paul the ramifications of the gospel, that it will entail suffering (1:8). Timothy models Paul’s “way of life in Christ” (1 Cor 4:17), that their difficulties as believers demonstrate that their “extraordinary power” must come from God (2 Cor 4:7).
Individuals who are trustworthy, and able to teach others.
In 1 Timothy, Paul has entrusted the order of “love from a pure heart and a good conscience and genuine faith” to Timothy (1:5, 18). Now he wants him to entrust the order to others. In 2:2, a message is “placed before” people, entrusted to them as a deposit, a deposit not to hide but to reveal to others. The recipients of this message are described in three ways: (1) humans, who are (2) trustworthy, and (3) able to teach others.
Paul entrusted the gospel to Timothy; now Timothy must entrust it to others. The apostles intended for teaching and traditions to be passed on to others (; ).
Acts 2:42 ESV
42 And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.
2:1 Timothy’s loyalty contrasts with those who deserted Paul in Asia (1:15). Paul sometimes refers to those he brought to Christ as his spiritual children (see note on 1 Tim 1:2).
Timothy must rely on God’s empowerment (i.e., grace), not his own. This command echoes Paul’s command to the Ephesians about spiritual warfare (see Eph 6:10 and note).
2 Thessalonians 2:15 ESV
15 So then, brothers, stand firm and hold to the traditions that you were taught by us, either by our spoken word or by our letter.
While the Greek word used here, charis, often refers to God’s unmerited favor (Eph 2:8), in this context it denotes God’s empowerment of believers to live the Christian life (see 2 Cor 9:8; Titus 2:11–14).
Why was Paul so concerned about the need to remain faithful? Look at ;
2:1. Having just shared his disappointment over the growing apostasy spreading through Asia, Paul turned to Timothy and wrote, You then, my son, be strong. Difficult circumstances, our own weaknesses and fears, and the negative attitudes or unfaithfulness of others should not determine our course in life. Just as Paul wrote of the power which comes from the Holy Spirit (2 Tim. 1:7), so now he wrote of the strength which comes from Jesus Christ.
No doubt Timothy knew, as Paul did, that he could not find adequate strength within himself to fulfill the responsibilities thrust upon him on to endure the hardships ahead. Our confidence and ability to live successfully as followers of Christ comes when we are strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. Paul knew that God’s grace not only saves us; it enables us to carry out the life of faithful obedience.
2:2 Timothy learned from Paul as he assisted him on his missionary efforts (Acts 19:22; 1 Cor 4:17; 1 Thess 3:2), learning firsthand about the hardship that Paul endured for the gospel (2 Tim 3:10–11). Paul instructs Timothy to entrust these lessons to others.
Paul entrusted the gospel to Timothy; now Timothy must entrust it to others. The apostles intended for teaching and traditions to be passed on to others (Acts 2:42; 2 Thess 2:15).
This qualification for an elder (see ; ) was especially needed because of the threat of false teachers.
1 Timothy 6:5 ESV
5 and constant friction among people who are depraved in mind and deprived of the truth, imagining that godliness is a means of gain.
2 Timothy 4:3–4 ESV
3 For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, 4 and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths.
1 Timothy 3:2 ESV
2 Therefore an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach,
2 T
Titus 1:9 ESV
9 He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.
Timothy must not only guard the gospel; he must take the gospel and the apostolic instructions (things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses) and entrust [them] to reliable men.
Unlike the false teachers who claimed special revelation or secret knowledge, Paul’s message stood in accord with all Scripture and in agreement with the apostles.
In his assignment to entrust the gospel to other people, Timothy needed to observe in these believers the quality of adherence to God’s truth. Reliability and trustworthiness in remaining true to the gospel were prerequisites.
Timothy must also seek those who evidenced a knowledge and ability to teach others. Paul warned to establish people of godly character who possessed the aptitude for relating divine truth to everyday life, for clarifying ideas, and for maintaining purity in their instruction.
Move to
2 Timothy 3:10–13 ESV
10 You, however, have followed my teaching, my conduct, my aim in life, my faith, my patience, my love, my steadfastness, 11 my persecutions and sufferings that happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium, and at Lystra—which persecutions I endured; yet from them all the Lord rescued me. 12 Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, 13 while evil people and impostors will go on from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived.
Compare to verse 10. What do you conclude?
Timothy, instead, needs to follow Paul’s model because the godly in Christ will be persecuted while evil people are being deceived (3:10–13): But, you, follow after my teaching, way of life, way of thinking, faith, compassion, love, perseverance, persecutions, sufferings: what happened to me in Antioch, in Iconium, in Lystra, what persecutions I endured and from all the Lord rescued me (3:10–11). Throughout this letter, Paul has interspersed negative (what not to do) and positive (what to do) comments. With the explicit pronoun you (3:10), Paul personally addresses Timothy. He had warned him to keep turning away from the people who love themselves, money, and pleasure more than they love God (3:2–5). Instead, Timothy is to follow after nine aspects of Paul’s life. The first three attributes are close in meaning: his teachings and leading or conduct (way of life, and way of thinking or goals). The next attribute, of course, is the central one: faith. In Titus 2:2, the male elder was to be “faithful, loving, persevering,” the same exact words and sequence Paul has used in 2 Timothy 3:10 (but in 2 Tim compassion is inserted after faith). Paul uses these same three attributes to refer to Timothy. The battle at Ephesus is over faith and love.
The next attribute, of course, is the central one: faith. In , the male elder was to be “faithful, loving, persevering,” the same exact words and sequence Paul has used in . Paul uses these same three attributes to refer to Timothy.
Galatians 5:22–23 ESV
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.
Paul highlights three specific reflections of faith, which are fruits of the Spirit and also attributes of God: compassion, love, perseverance.
However, no trouble or hardship or persecution could ever separate a believer from Christ’s love ().
Romans 8:35 ESV
35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword?
Paul reminds Timothy of this very message: what persecutions I endured. And yet the Lord rescued him from them all. Even in Lystra, he got up and traveled by foot the next day ().
At first at the synagogue in Antioch of Pisidia, the message of Paul and Barnabas was enthusiastically received. But some Jews, filled with jealousy at the large crowds, slandered them and contradicted their words, eventually stirring up so much persecution against them they had to leave the region. At Iconium, also at first in the synagogue, many believed. But again the unbelieving Jews stirred up persecution against them and tried to stone them (Acts 14:1–5). Thus, Paul and Barnabas arrived in Lystra just having been persecuted extensively for their faith. At Lystra, Paul and Barnabas were again well received after they healed a crippled man. However, Jews from the earlier cities followed Paul and Barnabas to Lystra (Acts 14:8–19). They persuaded the crowds to stone Paul and dragged him out of the city, thinking he was dead. When Paul returned to Lystra, what did he emphasize in his teaching? “It is through many persecutions that we must enter the kingdom of God” (Acts 14:22). Paul reminds Timothy of this very message: what persecutions I endured (3:11). And yet the Lord rescued him from them all. Even in Lystra, he got up and traveled by foot the next day (Acts 14:20).
Acts 14:20 ESV
20 But when the disciples gathered about him, he rose up and entered the city, and on the next day he went on with Barnabas to Derbe.
Relate to what Paul is saying here
John 15:20 ESV
20 Remember the word that I said to you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you. If they kept my word, they will also keep yours.
In a world that is not genuinely godly, not dedicating itself to please God in its words and actions, godly living can become an indirect judgment, and those being judged, because of jealousy or misunderstanding or falsehood, may occasion reprisal.
In a world that is not genuinely godly, not dedicating itself to please God in its words and actions, godly living can become an indirect judgment, and those being judged, because of jealousy or misunderstanding or falsehood, may occasion reprisal.
Lest Timothy be enticed, Paul reminds him again that evil people do not advance or progress to the better: But evil people and imposters will advance to the worse, leading astray and being led astray (3:13).
Move to
SUPPORTING IDEA: In turbulent and stressful times, it becomes easy to lose heart, to feel weary and hopeless. Paul, wanting Timothy to refocus, offered Timothy a reflection on his own life of godliness in the midst of persecution. Paul referred to Timothy’s heritage and reminded him of the unshakable source of truth for life and holiness—the Scriptures.
3:10–11. Our lives exhibit the reality of our inner character. The manner in which we live, the decisions we make, the circumstances with which we must contend—all these reveal the beliefs we hold and the priorities we maintain. Paul concluded the last paragraph by assuring Timothy that the false teachers and their ideas would come to ruin. Their folly would be revealed through the disparity of their lives against the truth. Now Paul boldly offered himself as a counter argument to these false teachers.
The evidence against the false teachers resided in their theology and behavior. Paul asked Timothy to evaluate him on these issues: You … know all about my teaching, my way of life, my purpose. He was certain that upon examination he would be found blameless—his teaching founded in truth, his life expressed in purity, and his purpose driven by God’s glory.
In addition, he wanted Timothy to reminisce a little and recount Paul’s faith, patience, love, endurance, persecutions, sufferings. These stand as hallmarks of the Christian life. Faith defines our trust, patience acknowledges God’s sovereignty, love expresses to others the sacrificial grace which we receive, endurance keeps our focus on God’s kingdom, while persecutions and sufferings represent our fellowship with Christ. Timothy had shared some of Paul’s difficulties as they traveled together through Antioch, Iconium and Lystra. He had witnessed the way Paul lived and the constancy with which he taught. He had also witnessed how the Lord rescued Paul.
3:12. But persecutions are not reserved for super saints and apostles. In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted. Timothy had experienced it before, was suffering under it now, and would undoubtedly continue in the sufferings of Christ after Paul’s execution. Distress belongs to the believer who commits himself to loyal obedience and growth in godliness. But it remains in the hands of each believer whether he will choose the life of godly obedience or shy away into the shadow; of compromise.
3:13. Paul typically discussed issues by placing arguments in opposition, creating a clarifying tension. The fate of godly men and women is persecution the fate of evil men and impostors was ongoing corruption as they go from bad to worse. But the deceptions to which these people were prey, and the deceiving teachings which they promoted, explain why followers of Christ face continual persecution. Godliness elicits a strong reaction from unbelievers. The reaction becomes all the more intense and violent when Christians live out their godliness because it convicts others of their sin.
Those who neglect the truth of God become enmeshed in a confusing web of deception. Their consciences and reasoning capabilities suffer damage through sin, and they become incapable of extricating themselves from Satan’s delusions. Only God’s truth possesses the power to free such persons.
3:10 Refers to the instruction Paul passed down to Timothy (2:2). Paul connects his instruction and his lifestyle, listing the virtues that define true godliness, not just a form of it (see vv. 5; 1 Tim 4:12). In doing so, he contrasts himself with the false teachers just described (2 Tim 3:5).
Encompasses Paul’s entire ministry, which he considers worthy of imitation (1 Cor 4:16).
3:11 Paul visited these cities during his first missionary journey (Acts 14:1–28). In Pisidian Antioch, opponents drove Paul out of the city (Acts 13:50). In Iconium, they tried to stone him (Acts 14:5–6); in Lystra, they finally succeeded (Acts 14:19–20).
3:12 Those who are godly (i.e., true Christians, as opposed to false teachers) should expect persecution (Acts 14:2; 1 Thess 3:4; Phil 1:29). Jesus instructed His disciples similarly (Matt 10:22–23; Luke 21:12).
Move to
2 Timothy 3:14–17 ESV
14 But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it 15 and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 16 All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.

Learning then commitment

Paul repeats again the personal pronoun you (3:14), directly exhorting Timothy, that in contrast to these evil people and imposters who have been led astray and now lead others astray, Timothy needs to remain in the Scriptures, which prepare him for every good work (3:14–17): But, you, remain in what you learned and are firmly persuaded, knowing from whom you learned and that from infancy you know the holy writings, the ones being able to make you wise into salvation through faith, the one in Christ Jesus (3:14–15). While you occurs once in 1 Timothy, near the end (6:11), and once in Titus (2:1), it occurs six times in 2 Timothy, showing how much Paul has focused this letter toward Timothy. Of these six references, four of them call Timothy to contrast himself with those who lead astray (3:9–10), evil people (3:13–14), those who follow myths (4:4–5), and Alexander, a harmful person (4:14–15). Thus, the repetition of you intensifies the difficult context of people who could harm Timothy’s faith.
In verse 14, “firmly believed, or Pistoō, is a significant concept in the Old Testament. It can refer to God establishing or confirming a truth or a promise or to humans confirming a truth. Faithfulness is included.
Thus, Paul has observed that Timothy has moved from learning to commitment, confirming the truth of what he was taught by word and action.
What is worldly wisdom compared to Godly wisdom?
A wise person could be someone learned, an expert, skilled in letters.
James 3:13 ESV
13 Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom.
Ephesians 5:15–17 ESV
15 Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.
2 Timothy 3:13 ESV
13 while evil people and impostors will go on from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived.
2 Timothy
The wise person understands the Lord’s will and will not be led astray.
James defines genuinely wise teachers as people who prove their actions by their good conduct characterized by gentle wisdom (Jas 3:13). Therefore, in a practical sense, a wise person is one who in action is governed by piety and integrity. The wise person understands the Lord’s will (Eph 5:15–17) and will not be led astray (3:13). The law of the Lord makes even infants wise (Ps 18:7; LXX). By study of the law, righteous people become wiser than even their teachers or enemies (Ps 119:97–99). Since God is wise (Rom 16:27), God’s writings make people wise.
Since God is wise (), God’s writings make people wise.
Romans 16:27 ESV
27 to the only wise God be glory forevermore through Jesus Christ! Amen.
Relate to verse 16
But not all wisdom leads to knowledge of truth. Therefore, Paul clarifies to what kind of wisdom he refers with two prepositional phrases: into salvation through faith (3:15). The phrases explain the goal and means through which wisdom is obtained. To be saved is to be forgiven one’s sins and, thus, be purified, made acceptable to a holy God. God, the Savior, does the purifying, but humans must cooperate in this process. Study of the Scriptures gives guidance toward the end goal of salvation. Moreover, the Scriptures must be studied through the lens of faith in Christ Jesus, which helps the Scriptures be handled rightly (2:15).
Genesis 2:7 ESV
7 then the Lord God formed the man of dust from the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living creature.
Genesis 2:7 ESV
7 then the Lord God formed the man of dust from the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living creature.
Isaiah 40:8 ESV
8 The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever.
The Spirit creates and keeps humans and animals alive. Similar to breathing the breath of life into a mass of dirt and making Adam alive, God has blown life into the Scriptures. They are created by God and, therefore, are inspired by God.
By acknowledging Scripture is God-breathed, what does this say about it’s importance in our lives?
The foundational truth is that it is God-breathed. In 3:15, he uses the plural “writings,” while in 3:16 the singular “writing.” Every single one of the “holy writings” is God-breathed (3:16). God-breathed is a composite of two words: “God” and to “breathe forth” (pneō). Pneō is often used literally of winds that blow, such as winds that blow down a house or a ship. The Holy Spirit is analogous to the wind that “blows wherever it pleases” (John 3:8). The Spirit creates and keeps humans and animals alive. Similar to breathing the breath of life into a mass of dirt and making Adam alive (Gen 2:7), God has blown life into the Scriptures. They are created by God and, therefore, are inspired by God. Human beings who received God’s revelation mainly through prophets, now have heard God-incarnate’s message recorded in God-breathed writings, true to his original message, and, as God-breathed, standing forever (Isa 40:8).
Admitting to God’s authorship is an acceptance of his authority over every aspect of life. By stating that Scriptures are God breathed, Paul established the Bible’s claim as God’s authoritative Word over all people.
What are the differences in the four goals: teaching, reproof, restoration, guidance?
Teaching (didaskalia) and learning are crucial concerns in Ephesus. Scriptures cause the reader to learn.
Therefore, they are useful for four goals: teaching, reproof, restoration, guidance (3:16). Teaching (didaskalia) and learning are crucial concerns in Ephesus. Scriptures cause the reader to learn. They also reprove, bringing deeds and thoughts out in the open for clarity and truth. Readers may learn that some actions done are sinful, and, thereby, reproved. But the process does not end with reproof, it continues on to restoration. “Health” is a frequent metaphor Paul uses in the Pastorals. “Straight” is a synonym. The word of truth should be handled “rightly,” cut in a straight line (orthotomeō). The Scriptures also help people to become “straight,” restoring people to an “upright or a right state.” Epictetus exhorts his students: “What sort of a teacher, then, do you still wait for, that you should put off reforming yourself until he arrives?” (Ench. 51.1). In comparison, the Scriptures teach and restore or reform and are always available. Finally, Paul ends with guidance (paideia; 3:16), the day-by-day instruction activity Timothy was to do with his opponents (2:24–25). This guidance is not a worldly one; rather, it is the one in righteousness (3:16).
Teaching (didaskalia) and learning are crucial concerns in Ephesus. Scriptures cause the reader to learn.
Since Timothy was feeling the attacks of false teachers, Paul encouraged the young pastor to continue in teaching correct doctrine and correct living. The Scriptures must be known so people will grasp their need of salvation and so the confessing community will adhere to its instructions on proper Christian conduct.
They also reprove, bringing deeds and thoughts out in the open for clarity and truth. Readers may learn that some actions done are sinful, and, thereby, reproved.
Rebuking and correcting are the disciplinary authority of Scripture. Because the Bible is God’s Word and because it reveals truth, it exercises authority over those who deviate from its standard. “Rebuking” points out sin and confronts disobedience. “Correcting” recognizes that a person has strayed from the truth. Graciously, lovingly, yet firmly, we should try to guide the errant individual back into obedience.
Many times the Old Testament relates Israel’s disobedience to God, how the people suffered God’s chastisement for their rebellion, and how God corrected their sinful habits. The New Testament continues with stories and instructions, warnings regarding disobedience, disciplinary actions for those who fail to heed God’s revelation, and teachings on proper conduct.
Training in righteousness is the counterpoint to correction. The Scriptures give us positive guidance for maturing in faith and acceptable conduct.
But the process does not end with reproof, it continues on to restoration. The Scriptures also help people to become “straight,” restoring people to an “upright or a right state.”
Finally, Paul ends with guidance, the day-by-day instruction activity Timothy was to do with his opponents. This guidance is not a worldly one; rather, it is the one in righteousness.
How does verse 17 relate to our process of sanctification?
Scripture’s final goal is: that God’s person may be complete, being completed fully for every good work.
We study the Bible, we rely upon God’s Spirit, his revelation, and the community of the faithful to keep us on track—obedient and maturing in faith. Continuing in this commitment will enable us to do whatever God calls us to do.
3:14–15. Each of us is susceptible to this dangerous trap of deception unless we obey Scripture vigilantly. Following Christ is more than a one-time decision or an occasional church service or kind act. True Christianity involves continual dependence and obedience to Christ the king. Paul told Timothy to continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of. Our faith is proved by its endurance.
Paul also wanted Timothy to consider those from whom you learned [truth], and how from infancy you have known the holy Scriptures. Once again he had Timothy’s mother and grandmother in mind (see 2 Tim. 1:5). Timothy was schooled in the Old Testament writings and had learned the need for forgiveness, the provision of God, and the necessity of faith. He had also been discipled by Paul, learning Christ and the church. In each case, Timothy had not only been given knowledge; he had been witness to godly lives.
These people served as examples to Timothy about the truth of God, the need for endurance, and the reward of faithfulness. Each person had staked his or her life on the revelation of the Scriptures which, according to Paul, are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.
God never calls us to do something without first enabling us through his Spirit and the power of his truth to accomplish the task.
The Scriptures were written by men “as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit” (2 Pet. 1:21). The picture is that of a sailboat being moved along by the wind. Indeed, men wrote the Bible, but the words and substance of what they wrote came from God. This makes the Bible useful. Paul listed four main uses of Scripture, all of which intertwine with one another.
We study the Bible, we rely upon God’s Spirit, his revelation, and the community of the faithful to keep us on track—obedient and maturing in faith. Continuing in this commitment will enable us to do whatever God calls us to do. Timothy could withstand the attacks of false teachers, the abandonment of professing believers, and the persecution that surrounded him because God had equipped him for the task. God never calls us to do something without first enabling us through his Spirit and the power of his truth to accomplish the task.
Training in righteousness is the counterpoint to correction. The Scriptures give us positive guidance for maturing in faith and acceptable conduct.
3:17. The goal of all this instruction, discipline, and training is not to keep us busy. God intends that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. We study the Bible, we rely upon God’s Spirit, his revelation, and the community of the faithful to keep us on track—obedient and maturing in faith. Continuing in this commitment will enable us to do whatever God calls us to do. Timothy could withstand the attacks of false teachers, the abandonment of professing believers, and the persecution that surrounded him because God had equipped him for the task. God never calls us to do something without first enabling us through his Spirit and the power of his truth to accomplish the task.
We neglect the Scriptures at our own peril. Through them we gain the ability to serve God and others. The Scriptures not only point the way; through the mysterious union of God’s Word and faith, they give us the ability to serve.

Application

3:15 In Jewish tradition, boys received instruction in Torah beginning at age five.
An expression meaning “to instruct you.” In this context, salvation is the subject of instruction. Scripture makes a person wise, but the instruction of false teachers leads to folly (2 Tim 3:9; 1 Tim 1:6–7; compare Prov 16:22).
Throughout the Pastoral Letters, Paul relates knowledge of the truth with salvation (see 1 Tim 2:4 and note). In this verse, Paul returns to “faith in Christ Jesus” as the means of salvation.
3:16 The Greek phrase used here, pasa graphē, may refer to the totality of Scripture or to every passage of Scripture.
Paul uses the Greek term theopneustos here (meaning “God-breathed”) to assure Timothy that Scripture is, in fact, from God. Although God used people to produce the Scriptures (2 Pet 1:20–21), their ultimate origin is God. By contrast, the false teaching that Timothy opposed comes from evil forces who spread their doctrine through errant teachers (1 Tim 1:3–7; 4:1).
Scripture is valuable because it corrects false teaching while building up believers to live godly lives.
Timothy’s primary task in Ephesus (1 Tim 4:6, 13).
To rebuke false teachers and admonish those who believe their teaching (e.g., 1 Tim 6:3–10).
To help believers grow in godly behavior.
Describes training in doing what is right or what is in accordance with godliness.
3:17 Scripture is profitable because of this purpose (2 Tim 3:16). Paul reminds Timothy that Scripture helps believers fulfill the work of the ministry (4:1–5). It is therefore a gift to His people. God has not left Timothy or the believers in Ephesus to do good works on their own; He has provided them with Scripture and each other, all for doing good works in Christ Jesus (Eph 2:10; 2 Tim 2:21; Titus 3:1).
Purifying Fire
Stories about Christians suffering persecution often produce more guilt than inspiration among Christians in the West. We may admire those imprisoned, beaten, or martyred for their faith, but compared to our experiences and circumstances, they seem a bit otherworldly.
Jesus said, “In this world you will have trouble” (John 16:33); Peter wrote. “Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering. as though something strange were happening to you” (1 Pet. 4:12); and Paul reminded Timothy, “everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (2 Tim. 3:12). These statements assure us that Christians will experience hardships and difficulties as a direct result of their lifestyle and faith—it is guaranteed.
We need to understand, however, that suffering takes many forms. The root word which Paul used for persecution, dioko, carries the meaning of “pursuit,” or “chasing after.” In other words, those who commit themselves to godly living will be hounded by those who are intent on evil, ungodliness, and deception; the righteous will not be left alone. Though inwardly they rest in the peace of God, outwardly they encounter the relentless antagonism of Satan through those who are opposed to God.
This pressure may evidence itself through torture, beatings, imprisonment, or death. But the godly may also experience persecution in the form of betrayal, hatred, scorn, slander, and contempt. These express the hostility of those who are opposed to Christ and his followers.

Application

Paul challenged Timothy to:
Be strong in grace. Paul knew from his own journey that God could give Timothy all the strength he would need.
Teach others all he had learned from Paul. Many had learned at Paul's feet, and they could attest to the truth of his teaching. Paul expected Timothy to find other faithful leaders and teach them all he had learned.
Challenge them to teach another generation of followers. Paul taught Timothy. Timothy taught others. His students then would teach another generation of followers. That's exactly the way mentoring is supposed to work!
Think about those who invested in you. Even if no one served as an official mentor to you, others have modeled the Christian life for you. It's also possible God has already placed someone in your life for you to mentor, so keep looking and praying.
"My mentor told me I should be open to getting remarried," Tom remarked. That wasn't surprising, as I knew Tom was lonely after his wife of 49 years passed away. What did surprise me was hearing he still had a mentor; after all he was more than 70 years old. And his mentor was over 90 years old himself!
Tom is one of my heroes in the faith. I count him not only a friend, but also a mentor and a model of faith. His prayer life is powerful, and his commitment to godliness is deep. He walks so faithfully with God that I invite him to my seminary classes every semester because I want my students to know him.
Tom's mentor invests in him. In turn, Tom walks beside me as my mentor. I then pour into the students I'm mentoring. Through these relationships, I teach them what Tom has taught me, and I'm trusting they will teach others too. Mentoring: one person investing in another.
The second letter Paul wrote to Timothy could be called Paul's "last will and testament" -- his final challenge to Timothy to be faithful in preaching the Word. He called Timothy "my son," showing that he saw himself as Timothy's father in the faith. He loved Timothy like a son, and their hearts were knit together in the work of proclaiming the Gospel, making disciples and planting churches. Paul could prepare for his own death knowing Timothy would carry on his work. Paul challenged Timothy to:
-- Be strong in grace. Paul knew from his own journey that God could give Timothy all the strength he would need.
-- Teach others all he had learned from Paul. Many had learned at Paul's feet, and they could attest to the truth of his teaching. Paul expected Timothy to find other faithful leaders and teach them all he had learned.
-- Challenge them to teach another generation of followers. Paul taught Timothy. Timothy taught others. His students then would teach another generation of followers. That's exactly the way mentoring is supposed to work!
Think about those who invested in you. Even if no one served as an official mentor to you, others have modeled the Christian life for you. It's also possible God has already placed someone in your life for you to mentor, so keep looking and praying.
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