2 Timothy: Endure, Encourage, EquipMfano

The charge to preach the Word It never seems like we are ready, whether it is taking our first steps, driving alone for the first time, graduating from high school, living on our own, getting married, or becoming a parent. And yet we venture into the unknown both wobbly and tentative. Sharing the truth of Jesus Christ is no different. Paul—knowing that the end of his life is near and seeing the increased hostility against the Gospel and the moral degradation of society—is pressed to launch Timothy to ministry and opens chapter four with the most passionate call to action in Scripture (2 Timothy 4:1–2). As Paul passes the baton to Timothy, the stakes have never been higher. There is nothing left for Paul to do but trust God to continue spreading the love of Christ through other servants. In Paul’s transfer of mission to Timothy, we see the completed work of Christ in Paul. Saul, the educated, self-inflated, arrogant Pharisee, has given way to the humbled, persecuted, imprisoned, trusting Paul—so accepting of Christ that he says he is “being poured out” (2 Timothy 4:6), giving his very life as a sacrifice for the Gospel. He knows his time is completed. He is ready to receive his reward in heaven ... the same reward that awaits all who persevere. We each will come to a point when we look back on our lives and hope we are not found lacking. Paul’s confidence does not lie in his own abilities or accomplishments but rather in the faith he has held on to through them. Paul’s life is an example of an “even if” faith. This level of faith only comes from a complete dying to self and giving your life to Jesus Christ. It is refined through courageously standing strong in God, even in the face of persecution. It is such a priceless gift that Paul wanted it for Timothy, even unto Timothy’s own martyrdom. And Paul would want it for you too. 1. What does it mean to “be prepared in season and out of season” (2 Timothy 4:2)? Do you feel ready to share the Gospel? 2. What is a small step you can take today to be prepared to share the Gospel? 3. What does it mean to “keep your head in all situations” (2 Timothy 4:5)? How can you prepare yourself to endure hardship?