Finish the Course

II Timothy 4:1-8

Introduction

In this passage, Paul offers advice to Timothy on his walk with Christ and his ministry. He also encourages him to stand strong in his doctrine because there is a greater reward in store for him.

I. Preach the Word (vs. 1& 2)

A. Christ is coming back soon to judge his people.

1. You will receive what is yours, according to your works here on Earth.

2. Parable of the talents

a. Matthew 25:14-30

b. Each servant received his due reward.

c. Have you used the abilities and luxuries God has given you to glorify him, or yourself?

d. If you can’t shoot, you can at least carry bullets!

3. Will you be caught sleeping when he comes?

B. Be ever ready to preach his word when the opportunity presents itself (Instant in season, out of season).

1. This doesn’t just apply to preachers.

a. This applies to everyone whom God has called into his service.

b. You never know when the opportunity to witness to someone may come, or what the effect of you taking the time to care may have on someone.

2. To know when and what God is calling you, you must be in tune with him.

a. This requires daily sacrifice and a constant effort to accomplish God’s will in your life through simple obedience.

b. Serving God is an everyday commitment; it is not simply a Sunday morning job.

c. Preach the word with patience, but authoritatively.

C. Always preach the truth.

1. We live in a generation of TV Evangelists who will say anything to get you to send money.

2. There is a church or doctrine for whatever you would like to believe about the Bible.

3. We must stay true to God’s word, no matter what. God’s word is enough to convict the sinner.

II. Make your ministry “fool proof.” (vs. 5)

A. Others should be able to look at your life and say, “He/she is a Christian.”

1. There’s a problem when people ask you IF you go to church rather than WHERE you go to church.

2. You were created in God’s image; is your life in the image of Christ?

3. To some, you are the only Bible they will ever read…what is the gospel according to you?

“Preacher” poem.

B. Lie #1—Since I’m doing what God wants me to do, life should be easy.

1. If you don’t meet Satan on the road, then you’re going the same way he is.

2. There is a price to pay in this world for serving God; but there is a far greater price to pay in the next world for not serving God.

3. You will receive many blessings for serving God. You will also endure some very trying times.

C. What does Paul mean by “Fool proof?”

1. Phl 2:15 That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;

2. It does not mean perfect.

a. Rom. 3:23—All have sinned and come short of the glory of God.

b. Even after we are saved, we still sin.

c. Christians aren’t perfect, just forgiven.

d. But, others should see a difference in our lives.

III. Why should we strive to be good Christians?

A. Our time is almost up.

1. There is one thing that you can take with you to heaven—a bus.

2. How full will your bus be?

3. How many people will have you to thank for leading them to Christ? Or at least planting the seed?

B. There is a reward for those who follow Christ in this life.

1. Will you hear, “Well done thou good and faithful servant?”

2. Or will God ask you, “What have you done with the talents that I’ve given you?”

Conclusion

Time is running out. People are dying everyday and many are going to hell. How many lives can you change? How many souls can you lead to Christ?