Readings for today: 2 Timothy 1-4
One of things I love about the Apostle Paul is his ability to apply the gospel to real life. For example, his second letter to Timothy is full of practical advice. Godly wisdom that will guide Timothy in the years to come. Long after Paul has passed from the scene to go to be with Christ. Timothy is a young leader. Inexperienced. He is serving a church in a very challenging environment. Ephesus was one of the major cities of the Roman Empire. The center of banking for the region. It even had an ancient wonder of the world - the Temple of Artemis - that drew pagan worshippers from all over the world. And Timothy was charged to lead a gospel movement in this particular city. The leaders of the early church had laid hands on him and assigned him this task. It would not be easy so Paul does all he can to help him out.
“You, therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus…Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus…Remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead and descended from David, according to my gospel, for which I suffer to the point of being bound like a criminal. But the word of God is not bound…Remind them of these things, and charge them before God not to fight about words. This is useless and leads to the ruin of those who listen. Be diligent to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who doesn’t need to be ashamed, correctly teaching the word of truth…Flee from youthful passions, and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart.” (2 Timothy 2:1, 3, 8-9, 14-15, 22 CSB)
First and foremost, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. Timothy won’t be able to accomplish this task in his own strength and wisdom. The success or failure of this endeavor doesn’t rest on Timothy’s effort and hard work. Timothy must lean on Christ, trust in Christ, and rest in Christ if he is to advance Christ’s Kingdom.
Second, Timothy should expect to suffer. Suffering is part and parcel of the Christian experience. Much like a soldier entering battle, Timothy should expect to get hit and get hurt. Paul himself is writing these words from prison so he knows what he’s talking about. This is a call to endurance more than anything not a call to fight back. It is a call to engage violence with non-violence much like Jesus Christ.
Third, if we are going to suffer, make sure it is for the gospel. Don’t trip over yourself trying to play the political and social games of this world. Don’t get wrapped up in intrigue and gossip and slander. Don’t take sides with the different parties and factions in the city. Remember Jesus Christ. Hold fast to the Word of God which cannot be chained.
Fourth, make sure to encourage the other believers to follow your example. Fighting over useless words is not the answer. Fighting for scraps from the world’s table is not going to satisfy. Instead, cling to the Word of truth. The words of eternal life given to us by Jesus.
Finally, flee from all temptation and sinful desire. Say “no” to anything that might compromise the witness of the gospel in the world. But, of course, staying faithful to Jesus is not just about what we say “no” to but what we say “yes” to as well. So pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace. Fill yourself with these things and there will be no room for gratifying the sinful nature.
Such great advice! Not just for life as a Christian in the first century but life as a Christian in the 21st century as well!
Readings for tomorrow: 2 Peter 1-3, Jude 1