2 Timothy 2:14-26

¹⁴ Remind them of these things, charging them before the Lord not to strive about words to no profit, to the ruin of the hearers. ¹⁵ Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. ¹⁶ But shun profane and idle babblings, for they will increase to more ungodliness. ¹⁷ And their message will spread like cancer. Hymenaeus and Philetus are of this sort, ¹⁸ who have strayed concerning the truth, saying that the resurrection is already past; and they overthrow the faith of some. ¹⁹ Nevertheless the solid foundation of God stands, having this seal: “The Lord knows those who are His,” and, “Let everyone who names the name of Christ depart from iniquity.” ²⁰ But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay, some for honor and some for dishonor. ²¹ Therefore if anyone cleanses himself from the latter, he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work. ²² Flee also youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. ²³ But avoid foolish and ignorant disputes, knowing that they generate strife. ²⁴ And a servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient, ²⁵ in humility correcting those who are in opposition, if God perhaps will grant them repentance, so that they may know the truth, ²⁶ and that they may come to their senses and escape the snare of the devil, having been taken captive by him to do his will.

Vs. 14 The Apostle Paul having given a doctrinal decree through a hymn in 2 Tim 2:11-13 now exhorts Timothy on a Pastoral level, commanding him to: “Remind them of these things, charging them before the Lord not to strive about words to no profit, to the ruin of the hearers.” 
That is to remind them of all that he previously exhorted, ..."that Jesus Christ was raised from the dead according to my gospel". 2 Tim. 2:8 For again here it seems as in 1 Tim. 6:3-5 there were those amongst the believers there with Timothy who were given over to strife and debates, and thus who were striving over words to the profit of no one, to the ruin of the hearers as the Apostle Paul states it. For then as now there are always those who do so, who reject wholesome words, even Christ’s Words, and thus the sound doctrine which always accords with Godliness. For these types love and live for worthless doctrinal debates and controversies through which they only introduce all kinds of misleading ideas and even heresies amongst those who believe. And thus they are people who only sow seeds of discord and doubt into the hearts of the hearers. Yet believers are never called to strive about words to the ruin of hearers among themselves (2 Tim. 3:9-11). Rather in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ we should all “… speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.” ^{Col. 1:10}

Vs. 15 Therefore rather than following their faithless example the Apostle Paul commands Timothy and us all who believe: “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”

To be diligent here is to be eager, to be zealous, to be willing and ready to present yourself approved to God, as a worker who does not need to be ashamed, one who rightly divides the truth. For if one is diligent in sanctifying their life and getting themselves ready for Christ's service, through the diligent study of the Scriptures, they need not be ashamed. In fact boldness of faith comes by first believing then justly living for and serving the Lord Jesus with a clear conscience (consider 1 Tim 3:13; 2 Peter 1:1-9). Therefore diligence in both personal lifestyle and personal study are linked to first being qualified for Christ's service. In fact both are Scripturally linked to rightly dividing the Word of God.

 Vs. 16 “But shun profane and idle babblings, for they will increase to more ungodliness.”

Diligence in sound living and sound doctrine are valiant pursuits; noble to anyone with good sense; while profane and idle talk only increases to more ungodliness. The connection between a sinful and destructive lifestyle and what one gives one's mouth over to is Scripturally verifiable (James 3:1-12). Therefore we are to “shun profane and idle babblings, for they will increase to more ungodliness.”

Vs. 17-18 “And their message will spread like cancer. Hymenaeus and Philetus are of this sort, 18 who have strayed concerning the truth, saying that the resurrection is already past; and they overthrow the faith of some.”

In the Apostle Paul’s first epistle to Timothy. Hymenaeus is mentioned along with another man named Alexander, there both are charged as having rejected faith and a good conscience and are said to have suffered shipwreck in their own faiths (1 Tim. 1:19-20). Here Hymenaeus is mentioned again but now with another man named Philetus. Now both of these dissenters were saying that the resurrection had already past. The implications of which the Apostle Paul addresses and corrects in 1 Cor. 15. Yet the damage these kinds of individuals do is never self-contained, for invariably they overthrow the faith of others as well (vs. 18). And that is why these types of individuals who distort, or try to refute Scriptural truths are never to be taken lightly. For invariably they will have a degenerating effect on the faith and conduct of those who heed them (consider Rev 2:18-29). 

Vs. 19 “Nevertheless the solid foundation of God stands, having this seal: “The Lord knows those who are His,” and, “Let everyone who names the name of Christ depart from iniquity.”

Now there are two immutable things which the Apostle Paul attests to in verse nineteen. First is that the Lord knows those who are His. Thus there is no ambiguity with God as to those who are Christ's and those who are not. For He knows us all who believe in Jesus even more intimately than we or anyone else knows us. And so we can have great confidence in not only knowing the Lord Jesus Christ ourselves, but also in His knowing us, for His Spirit indwells us. And so only those who believe in (and obey) the Lord Jesus Christ are known by Him (Rom. 8:16-17; 1 John 2:3-4).
For just as there is no ambiguity with God knowing us who are known by His Son. Neither should there be any ambiguity as to how we are to live. Therefore in contrast to the unrighteous and faithless lives that those dissenters live, the Apostle Paul now commands that everyone who names the Name of Christ depart from iniquity. Therefore as believers in and followers of the Lord Jesus Christ we are all to depart from iniquity. And instead be led by the Spirit of God rather than the old nature's sinful passions and desires (Gal. 5:16-23). For as the Scripture says: “…those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.” Gal. 4:24-25 Therefore everyone who calls Jesus Christ Lord must depart from iniquity. Not justify it under the guise of living by "grace", rather we are all to depart from it.

Vs. 20-21 “But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay, some for honor and some for dishonor. 21 Therefore if anyone cleanses himself from the latter, he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work.”

The Apostle’s analogy here of a great house with vessels of gold and silver, wood and clay indicates the variety of believers and people and their lifestyles that are in the church. Yet if anyone cleanses themselves from the latter (that is their sins) they will be a vessel for honor, sanctified and useful for the Master prepared for every good work. For it’s not what you once were that qualifies or disqualifies you for Christ's service. It’s what you now are, and cleanse or don't cleanse yourself from as a follower of Jesus Christ that qualifies or disqualifies you. For we all will determine for ourselves how much we experience the fullness of the life of Christ that God wants us all to have. Now that’s hopeful, knowing that whatever we once were in past does not dictate what and who we will be in the future. For God is writing a story of redemption in which He is inviting us all to enter into it with Him. By first receiving what He has done for our redemption from sin and death through His Son Jesus Christ's crucifixion death and resurrection from the dead by which atonement for our sins and transgressions was made, so that He can now bring us to life and equip and empower us all who believe in the Lord Jesus Christ to be His disciples. Therefore the Apostle Paul is encouraging us all to live up to the potential God has placed in us all who believe in Jesus. So that by His Spirit's enabling we all actively cleanse ourselves from all things sinful and dishonourable so that we all might be “a vessel for honor, sanctified and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work.”

Vs. 22 “Flee also youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.”

The Apostle Paul now gives an exhortation to Timothy (and every youth) to flee youthful lusts as being in accord with the general command for us all to depart from our iniquities (vs. 19). For there are many pitfalls and dangers that surround all youth in every generation and culture, and sadly catch so many unaware. Yet youth can be a time of great expectancy and positive experience, of preparing oneself for one's lives future. However if left without positive and healthy direction it can break down into all kinds of experimentation with sex, alcohol, illicit drugs and every other kind of high risk behavior that always has negative consequences. Unfortunately our culture so inundates youth with inducements to these sorts of things, one is hard pressed at times to find any positive messages (and messengers) for them to rise higher and achieve greater. Therefore the Apostle Paul warns the young Timothy to flee them and not be swept up in the growing tsunami of dissipation that sadly is our culture. But rather pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. For ultimately you either walk the narrow road of life that is true Christian discipleship, or you take the broad path of the world that only leads to eternal destruction (Matt 7:13-14 also consider 1 John 2:15-17; 1 Peter 4:1-6). Having then commanded to flee from youthful lusts that only lead to ones ruin, the Apostle Paul gives four excellent pursuits that will lead to a peaceful, fruitful and joy filled life “…righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.” Notice these are not just individual activities, these are things which like minded believers support and encourage each other in. For that is what church youth groups, and all church gatherings and groups are to do, encourage, strengthen and support each other in their faith and lives, which are essentially the same. Now looking at these four individually they are: 

1) Righteousness This is given first since it is foundational to living well as a follower of Jesus Christ. Now if you have any doubts as to what living righteously looks like just look to the Scriptures, especially the Book of Proverbs to see God's unchanging moral and ethical decrees laid forth in such a way as to give real insights into real life living, and thus with real life consequences. Now God's righteousness is to be sought by first trusting the Lord Jesus Christ for a righteousness standing before Him, then by seeking to obey Him through His and His Biblical Apostles commandments. For every situation that one may encounter in this life and how we are to behave righteously in it can be understood by conscientiously applying these to them. For whatever else one may need in this life, can be found by first pursuing Kingdom Righteousness as Jesus said: "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you." Matt. 6:33
Above all else then we are to seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness (not our cultures fleeting ideas of what this is) and everything else that we need in this life will be provided for us.

2) Faith like righteousness is also something that is to be pursued, for it is the catalyst by which everything from God flows. "But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him." Heb. 11:6 
Therefore beginning with salvation and everything else we will need in this life in being Jesus Christ's disciple we must both seek Him and believe Him (Matt. 7:7-11; Mark 11:22-24; James 1:5-8). For pursuing faith means believing God and His Word and seeking to set one's life in accordance with it, with His Will and with His purposes for you. (Please read Hebrews 11 for inspiration and insights on how Godly people in faith moved purposefully towards and forward with God).

3) Love is what it is to be a Christian and is inseparably linked to faith. For God is love and so just as God is love so we are to be (John 13:35; 1 John 4:19; 5:1-5). Maybe that is why love is the the first fruit of the Spirit of God (Gal. 5:22-23) because every other virtue is meaningless without love. For without love all you'll end up with is "dead religion" and thus a loveless, callous, and cold heart (something the Pharisees clearly exemplified in the N.T.). Therefore love is not only commanded of us all who believe in Jesus Christ. Love is the true test of someone who is Christ's, and who is not (1 John 4:20-21). Therefore in pursuing the Kingdom of God and His righteousness we must always remember love, for without it we accomplish nothing of eternal significance or value (1 Cor 13).

4) Peace comes to us all who believe in Jesus Christ through the Holy Spirit (John 14:26-27; Gal 5:22-23). Yet peace is also the fruit of righteousness, faith, and love being lived out in our lives (Isaiah 32:17-18; Eph. 5:9). Now peace with God comes to us first as a result of God's Righteous work through the crucifixion death and resurrection from the dead of His Son the Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore when anyone believes in Jesus Christ, trusting His crucifixion death to save them from their sins and transgressions they will have peace with God (Eph 1:13-14). And so when one receives peace with God through the blood of Christ's cross (Col. 1:20) we are to become His ambassadors of peace with God through the same. Therefore being at peace with God means as much as depends on us living peaceably with others (Heb. 12:14-15), especially in light of the coming day of the Lord (2 Peter 3:14). For that is why Jesus came to first bring God's peace, as the Prince of Peace, to all those who are troubled in heart and mind, and thus to bring rest to our souls (Matt. 11:28-30). And so having received peace with God through Jesus Christ we are to live out that inner peace, by ourselves becoming peacemakers for God (Matt 5:9). For truly the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace (James 3:18). Therefore peace is what all believers are called to, which stands juxtaposed to conflict and strife. For pursuing peace is essential in being an ambassador for and disciple of the Lord Jesus Christ's, offering peace to all, again through the blood of Jesus Christ's cross. And even more so in the church community where the pursuit of peace with one and all must take center stage. Since we are all commanded to endeavor to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (Eph. 4:3). Thus you have the ministry of reconciliation or peace that looks outward to proclaim God's peace to all, and on all, who believe in Him through the crucifixion death and resurrection from the dead of His Son the Lord Jesus Christ. Equally though you also have the pursuit of peace that must take place within the household of faith. For without peace there, on the home front it, is not likely it will be manifest through us anywhere else (consider Matt 5:21-26; 18:15-35). Believers then must strive to be at peace with each other, (and all) for God's promise of peace is on all those who live by it (2 Cor. 13:11).

Vs. 23 The Apostle Paul having commanded that we flee youthful lusts and instead pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. So that we may reap the many positive ripple effects of peace in our own lives, relationships, Christian churches and beyond if we faithfully heed him and follow them. And so to forward that end of Christian unity and peace with one and all the Apostle Paul will begin here by again admonishing Timothy by saying, "But avoid foolish and ignorant disputes, knowing that they generate strife.”  And so what Paul is warning against here is getting entangled in disputes (with those are given to disputes) over doubtful and many uncertain matters, and so anything that is not clearly revealed to us in the Scriptures (consider Heb 13:8-9). For all such things do not edify anyone, nor do they build people's faith. Instead they only fuel doubts in the hearers and or generate strife. A believer then does himself or herself, nor anyone else, any good by entering into these. For as the Apostle says they only generate strife, and thus serve Satan’s purposes not God’s. Similarly there is no point in being contentious over non-essential matters, where liberty of conscience is "the law" we are to obey, for all those who do so are not walking in love (consider Rom 14). For each and every believer is given by the Lord a liberty of conscience to decide for themselves, and thus hold their own views and opinions on every non-essential matter. For that is apart of the glorious liberty of the children of God, not just deliverance from sin (Rom 8:21) but also liberty of conscience (2 Cor. 3:17). Therefore we are to allow our brethren to have and hold their own convictions on everything from art, music, politics, Bible translations, just war or not just war ideologies, and anything else that does not call either the Author of salvation, or the means of our salvation into question, nor His commands that we are all commanded to obey. As the Scripture says: "Who are you to judge another’s servant? To his own master he stands or falls. Indeed, he will be made to stand, for God is able to make him stand." Rom 14:4

Vs. 24-26 The Apostle Paul having admonished the pursuit of faith, love, and peace within the Christian community now looks outwards towards those who are currently outside of the house of faith and how we are to live at peace with them. And so he begins by saying: “And a servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient, 25 in humility correcting those who are in opposition, if God perhaps will grant them repentance, so that they may know the truth, 26 and that they may come to their senses and escape the snare of the devil, having been taken captive by him to do his will.” 2 Tim 2:24-26 

Three things are stated in verse twenty four which will make a disciple and effective worker for the Lord Jesus Christ. Let us consider them individually:

“A servant of the Lord must not quarrel.” Since we as believers are called to pursue peace with all people and holiness (Heb. 12:14). Therefore "contending earnestly for the faith” (Jude 3) or “casting down arguments and every high things that exalts itself against the knowledge of God” (2 Cor. 10:5) when called for, must be done without quarreling. For quarreling has never changed the mind of anyone, and only undermines one's own witness, especially with those we hope to win for Christ. And so that's our responsibility as servants of the Lord, not to quarrel with anyone, especially with those who have no heart for, or desire to hear, the truth (Matt. 7:6). As God’s Word say’s, “It is honorable to for a man to stop striving since any fool can start a quarrel.” Prov 20:3 Therefore a little discernment and self restraint goes a long way in silencing those who openly and vehemently oppose the faith. And so instead of fanning the flames of their fury by quarreling with them, simply turn away from them. For you'll never find someone who is searching for the truth arguing about the validity of Jesus Christ's Person, or His commandments, or God's Word etc. While the rebellious and unbelieving will always find cause with Him or them. That is why the Apostle Paul commands us in his epistle to Titus to: “Reject a divisive man after the first and second admonition, 11 knowing that such a person is warped and sinning, being self-condemned. Titus 3:10-11

“Gentle to all.” Gentleness is not only a fruit of the Spirit in every believer's life (Gal. 5:22-23), Gentleness is the essential Nature of Jesus Christ Himself, and is how He treats everyone who seeks Him and believes in Him (Matt. 11:28-30). And so this is how He wants us to to treat others as well, in a spirit of gentleness. Gentleness then is the manner of the Spiritually mature (2 Cor. 10:1; 1 Thess. 2:7) and is the disposition that we are to manifest towards all (Eph. 4:2; Phil. 4:5). For truly gentleness is a Godly pursuit for all believers to embrace (1 Tim. 6:11). And is to be the means by which we restore each and all who fall into sin (Gal. 6:1). For nothing reveals Christ’s Presence more than when believers are meek in their dispositions and gentle in their dealings with others (1 Peter 3:4). That said, the word the Apostle uses here, appears only here and in 1 Thess. 2:7 where he says of himself and his co-workers in the gospel: “But we were gentle among you, just as a nursing mother cherishes her own children.” And so what a marvelous testimony that would be if individual believers and church assemblies in general made that their mandate, to be gentle in the dealings with all.  

“Able to teach.” Though the Holy Spirit distributes the gift of teaching to whom He desires (1 Cor. 12:11). And the Apostle Paul was writing to Timothy on a Pastoral level. And the Scripture cautions against presumptuously assuming the role of a teacher (James 3:1). A servant of the Lord (whether male or female) should know how to teach the essentials of our faith (Heb. 5:12-14). That is one reason why Jesus Christ through the Holy Spirit gave gifts to men and equips certain believers to be apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers, “For the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ.” Eph 4:12  The saints then being each and every believer and so as we grow in our faith we should all develop a reasonable level of competency not only in sharing our faith, but also teaching the essentials of it as well. Since parents are required to instruct their own children in the faith, just as husbands are to instruct their wives. Now a good place for one to start if they don't know where is in Sunday school under the tutelage of a mature teacher. Now Godly teachers are not only reverent towards God, but also considerate towards those they hope to instruct. 

“Patient.” If one is going to serve the Lord then one is going to have to be patient in waiting on the Lord as well as with their dealings with all. Now Patience is not only a fruit of the Spirit given to all believers (Gal. 5:22-23). But patience is representative of God’s longsuffering desire that no one perish but that all come to repentance (Rom. 2:4; 2 Peter 3:9, consider the Father in Jesus' prodigal son parable as a model of this). That said patience is a character attribute that we must at a certain level acquire by our enduring various trials (James 1:2-4) and or various persecutions for the gospel of God (2 Thess. 1:4). For patience is a prerequisite for both our spiritual fruitfulness and survival (Luke 8:15; 21:19; James 5:10-11). And so waiting on God, and learning to be patient with others is part and parcel of Christian discipleship. Now patience must not be confused with idleness. For we are exhorted not to become sluggish, but rather to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit God's promises (Heb. 6:12). Patience then is the manner of spirit every believer must embrace if they hope to be a successful and fruitful servant of the Lord Jesus Christ. Consider the patience of Jesus when He faced provocation (Matt. 22:15-33), ridicule (Matt. 9:24), even painful disappointment from His closest disciples (Mark 14:32-42). In this remember the disciples dispute amongst themselves about who would be greatest (Luke 9:46-48). John and James extremism (Luke 9:51-56) and overt ambition (Mark 10:35-45). Peters frequent rashness (Matt. 17:1-9; 26:32-35). Or Thomas’ willingness to die with Jesus on one hand (John 11:16) then having seen Jesus raise Lazarus from the dead needing proof of Jesus’ own resurrection (John 20:24-29). Yet in each and every instance Jesus was patient with every one of His followers just as He is towards us all who believe in Him and yet we too stumble. Therefore during Jesus’ three and half years with His disciples in preparing them for the mission ahead, He allowed them to be themselves, to make mistakes. Then He used all of their experiences together (both good and bad) to impart great truths into their hearts and minds that would change them, then countless of others forever. Patience then is a clear mark of Spiritual maturity and understanding. 

Verse twenty-five and six presents to us the perfect crowning jewel for all the previous attributes, and that is humility. "In humility correcting those who are in opposition, if God perhaps will grant them repentance, so that they may know the truth, 26 and that they may come to their senses and escape the snare of the devil, having been taken captive by him to do his will." vs. 25-26

The point here is that when we as believers engage others through witnessing, or through open discussion, inquiry, or welcomed debate this is to be done in a spirit of gentleness/meekness/humility etc. So as not to harden people's hearts against the faith by coming across as smug, arrogant, or down right rude and disrespectful of their persons or beliefs. Consider if you will that the Apostle Paul encountered many different types of people, from all walks of life, as he traversed the Roman Empire preaching the gospel. Yet you'll not find him deprecating them or their beliefs in the N.T. in his evangelistic endeavours for Christ. Acts chapter seventeen (vs. 16-34) is a perfect example of the Apostle Paul's incredible skill and tact at being able to look at a tragic situation that was then Ancient Athen's with all of it's idols, to all of it's various "gods" etc. Yet even amidst that, Paul could tactfully introduce them to the One True God in the hope of God saving some of them. Therefore the Apostle Paul does not restrict believers from ever engaging non-believers through debate and discussions and such. In fact Christians who do not engage the culture they find themselves in do the gospel, and themselves a great disservice. Instead Paul wisely sets boundaries for us so that we know what Christ like evangelism is, and what it is not. Now the word-translated humility here is different than the word generally used in the N.T. to describe the inward attitude that each believer should have about themselves, i.e. "humility of mind" or "lowliness of mind" etc. (see Eph. 4:2; Phil. 2:3). Here the emphasis is on one's conduct towards others, which is to be a reflection of the grace of God. Now the the noun the Apostle Paul uses here means: gentleness, humility, considerateness, meekness. Its adjective is translated meek in Matt. 11:29 where Jesus describes Himself as meek and lowly in heart inviting all to take His yoke upon themselves. The point of such humility than is for the softening of the heart of those we engage, or engage us (1 Peter 3:15). The fruit of such engagement then is ultimately for their repentance and restoration to God, and thus their wholeness or well being. Engagement than that does not have that, at its heart, does not have the heart of God. Even when Jesus’ Person was repeatedly threatened He responded with a heart of compassion for His persecutors, asking for God's mercy and ultimately salvation upon them, not judgment (John 10:22-39). Not an easy attitude to hold and maintain when faced with provocation, but one that is fully worthy of our attention and pursuit.

Scripture Quotations

The New King James Version. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1982

Additional stuff: In the NIV they translate "in humility correcting those in opposition" roughly as: "Opponents must be gently instructed" Now the word being translated humility in the NKJ and gently in the NIV carries both connotations and is also translated as meekness in the NKJ as well. The NIV standardizing their rendering throughout the N.T. as gentleness/gently etc.

2 Timothy 2:8-13

Vs. 8 There is only one gospel and as the Apostle Paul reminds Timothy it begins with the Jesus Christ coming into the world according to the seed or lineage of David. Anyone who tries to divorce the Lord Jesus Christ from the nation of Israel and the kingly lineage begun through them for Him is preaching another Jesus (See 1 Cor. 11:3-4 NKJ). Similarly anyone who does not preach the resurrected Living Jesus Christ is not preaching the Jesus Christ of the gospel (1 Cor. 15). Jesus Christ crucified and risen from dead and by faith in and confession of Him there is remission not just for the Jewish person’s sins, but for any sinner’s sins, that is the gospel! (Rom. 10:9-10). “For whoever calls upon the Name of the Lord shall be saved.” Rom. 10:13

Vs. 9 Therefore it is for the gospel that brings everlasting life freely to all who believe in Jesus Christ the Lord that the Apostle Paul suffered trouble as an evildoer, even to the point of chains, but the Word of God is not chained. Just as it hasn’t been chained down through the centuries by whatever hostilities rise against it. The gospel always accomplishes God’s purposes for which He sends it out. It transcends all human and demonic activity and can even direct it into the will of God to accomplish His purposes (Acts 2:23). True believers then always dispense a fragrance of Christ wherever we go (2 Cor. 2:14-17). Even in death, since Jesus Christ rose from the dead. Consider the churches first martyr Stephen when dying cried out for his persecutors mercy, and it was a young Jewish zealot man then named Saul who was holding their garments who is now the Apostle writing to a young Timothy. (See Acts chapters 6:8-8:3 for the Biblical account and Acts 9:1-31 of the Apostle Paul’s salvation).

Vs. 10 “Therefore I endure all things for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.”

The Apostle Paul knew that in all his afflictions, trials and imprisonments God was working out a far greater good for the betterment of the elect. That is the ones whom God calls and who receive Him by faith in Jesus Christ His Son and thus receive the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory. That is they receive remission of all their sins and everlasting life and thus share in Christ's eternal glory. Therefore we too as we endure whatever things appointed to us in this life will become a part of that process of God both saving and building up the church, which is Christ’s Body.

Vs. 11-13 Now the Apostle Paul recites a brief hymn to encourage and remind Timothy; and us all who believe in Jesus Christ of our place with Him and our responsibilities towards Him.

11 This is a faithful saying:

For if we died with Him,

We shall also live with Him.

12 If we endure,

We shall also reign with Him.

If we deny Him,

He also will deny us.

13 If we are faithless,

He remains faithful;

He cannot deny Himself.

Verse eleven:

“If we died with Christ…” the Apostle Paul is not talking about our literal death. We don’t get to live eternally with Christ because we are martyred. As if that is the price of salvation, our dying for Christ. Rather he is talking about Jesus Christ’s Substituionary death for us and what happens to us the moment we believe in Jesus Christ. That is our co-crucifixion death with Him (Rom. 6:6), which assures us of the promise of resurrection life with Christ. For only Jesus Christ’s death on the cross is the purchase price of our salvation (John 3:16). Therefore since we died with Christ when we believed in Him, we shall also live with Him. For Jesus Christ’s death is the basis for everything else.

Verse twelve:

Having died with Jesus Christ we must then endure with Him, so that we might also reign with Him. Salvation comes in an instant but discipleship is a lifetime pilgrimage and endurance is the prerequisite to bearing fruit in it (Luke 8:15), as well as achieving the character transformation that God works in us by His Spirit as we continue on with Christ (Rom. 5:3-5; James 1:3-4). All then who truly believe in Jesus Christ endure with Him (Heb. 12:7) and will be rewarded accordingly (Rom. 2:7; James 1:12; Rev. 1:5-6; 3:10-13). That is why the Scriptures promises are given us, to assure us and strengthen us and build hope in us as we wait patiently for the redemption of our bodies (Rom. 8:23; 15:4-5). Now endurance or patient endurance is required not only of individual believers who seek to obey God (Heb. 3:5-6) but also when we are chastened by Him (Heb. 12:4-11). For as those who ran the race before us endured, so must we run our race with endurance, laying aside every weight and sin that so easily ensnares us (Heb. 12:1). “Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls. Heb. 12:2-3 Therefore patient endurance is something believers not only pursue (1 Tim. 6:11) but is a trait of their genuine love (1 Cor. 13:4). For just as the Lord Jesus’ endured hostility from sinners so must we (Heb. 10:32-39; James 5:10-11). Learning to follow our Lord Jesus Christ’s example of enduring wrongs patiently. Those in leadership then must endure all things for the sake of the elect (2 Tim. 2:10) and encourage and pray for the same for those they oversee (1 Peter 1:3-9; Col. 1:9-23).

Verse thirteen:

“If we are faithless,

He remains faithful;

He cannot deny Himself.”

The Apostle began the chapter by telling us to be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. Here then Paul reaffirms Jesus Christ’s faithfulness towards us who believe in Him in spite of our weaknesses and and all to often failings. For God does not abandon us who have put our trust in the Lord Jesus Christ; He chastens us; or He corrects and redirects our lives and efforts (Heb. 12:3-11). But He never abandons us (Heb. 13:5). Since Jesus Christ lives in us all who believe in Him (2 Cor. 6:16). Therefore He cannot deny Himself (Gal. 2:21). "Being confident of this that He who began a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ." Php 1:6

Scripture Quotations
The New King James Version. Nashville : Thomas Nelson, 1982

2 Timothy 2:1-7

Vs. 1 “You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.”

The Apostle Paul’s emphasis on grace here is harkening back to what he said in verses nine and ten about God saving and calling us with a holy calling, not according to our works (as if we deserve it, or are somehow disqualified from His salvation and service based on our past sins or lifestyle) rather God saved us and called us with a holy calling according to His own purpose and grace which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began. Therefore rather looking at ourselves we should steadfastly be looking at Christ and what He has done to both save and qualified and Spirit equipped us for His purposes. Being strong in grace allows one to do that to always see themselves and others in the light of the cross and what Jesus has done to justify us through it. For there will be distracters both outside and within who will seek to discourage you. Not to mention the Accuser of the brethren who so delights in finding fault and stirring up others to do likewise so as to undermine not only ones own sense of peace and security, but also the unity of Spirit in the bond of peace. Therefore be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus and you will overcome him by the shed blood of the Lamb (Rev. 12:11).

Now regarding grace it is foundational to both the individual believers redemption as well as the churches well being. For there are two fundamental errors that every generation faces: dedication to the Law as if our righteousness comes through ourselves (Gal. 2:19-21). While the other extreme is the propagation or permitting of sin under the guise of living by grace (Rom. 6:1-14). Nonetheless God’s grace that is in Christ Jesus only saves us by Jesus' atoning work on the cross, and having saved us from our sins and the judgment to come we should walk in newness of life with Him (Rom. 6:4). A newness of life, which entails our putting to death by the Holy Spirit the sinful deeds of our flesh (Gal. 5:16-21). For nothing comes to us through Christ’s salvation because we deserve it (vs. 9) or have earned it (Rom. 4:4-5). All that we have and are comes to us only by the righteousness and grace of God our Father and our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (Rom. 3:21-26). Now as we grow in our understanding of God’s grace dealings with us, we will become more graceful in our dealings with others as well. Since it is only God’s grace that is given to us in Christ Jesus that makes us to stand and withstand all that we will have to overcome in this life. Therefore unless your foundation is justification by faith in Jesus Christ alone (Rom. 5:1); then obeying His commandments as an essential part of being His disciple, you'll be building on sand (Matt. 7:21-29).

Vs. 2 "And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also."

The Apostle Paul having commended Timothy to be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus now commands him to commit the things that he has heard from him among many witnesses to faithful men who will be able to teach others. For just as the Apostle Paul was not ashamed of the Lord Jesus Christ’s testimony declaring the Lord’s life; death, resurrection and ascension in the presence of many others; so must Timothy unashamedly declare and commit Christ’s Testimony and Words to faithful men who can teach others as well. For there is an ever present danger in every generation of believers of drifting from the churches most important mission given us, which is to go and make disciples of all nations. The Lord Jesus Christ said: “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen. Matt. 28:18-20

Therefore though there are many just and worthy social causes in this world, the most pressing need of humanity is always to hear, believe and obey the gospel. For if that is addressed first, all other problems in the human sphere of sins, problems and conflicts can be peaceably and justly resolved.

Vs. 3 "You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ."


The Apostle Paul now commands Timothy that he must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. Just as all of us who believe in and seek to faithfully follow Jesus Christ in discipleship will have to endure hardships. Not just life’s afflictions and hardships, but also hardships and sometimes evils and injustices specifically for Jesus Christ and gospel’s sake; for union with Christ assures us all as much (Phil. 3:10). Yet it is by these that our faith is being perfected (Col. 1:24). For every believer must share in Jesus Christ’s sufferings if they expect to share in His consolation and glories (John 16:33; Acts 14:22; Rom. 8:17-18; 2 Cor. 1:3-7; Col. 1:24; 1 Peter 4:12-13). Therefore “…if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in this matter. 17 For the time has come for judgment to begin at the house of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the end of those who do not obey the gospel of God?

18 Now “If the righteous one is scarcely saved,

Where will the ungodly and the sinner appear?”

19 Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of God

commit their souls to Him in doing good, as to a faithful Creator. 1 Peter 4:16-19

Now it is because of believers universally suffering troubles from the world, Satan (John 15:18-25; 1 Peter 5:8-9) and even from the children of Hagar i.e. "religious people" of works (Gal. 4:21-31) that the Body of Christ must take note of such and be the heart of God towards them and comfort them

when they do (Isaiah 40:1; 1 Cor. 12:18-26; Rom. 12:15; 1 Thess. 5:11).

Vs. 4 "No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier."

The Apostle Paul then having exhorted Timothy (and us) to endure hardships as a good solider of Jesus Christ now warns us that: “No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier.” The Apostle Paul’s exhortation here should not be misunderstood as disengagement or isolation from this life, it's problems and or our responsibilities in it (Consider 1 Cor. 5:9-10; 1 Tim. 5:8; 2 Thess. 3:10 etc.). Conversely the word the Apostle Paul uses that is translated entangled means to "fill up". That is to have ones time filled up with the affairs of this life. Being busy with this life's affairs is not necessarily being fruitful for the Kingdom’s sake. The Lord Jesus’ parable of the Sower is a warning to us all about this (See Matt. 13:1-9, 18-23; Mark 4:1-9, 13-19). Therefore as believers we need to strike a balance in our lives and not become Christian "isolationists" as past generations of various denominational stripes have mistakenly done utterly removing themselves from greater society; neither than should we become so engaged and focused on this world's affairs as to forsake our true calling and purpose. Therefore engagement in all areas of life yes; entanglement in this life's affairs, no.

Vs. 5-7 "And also if anyone competes in athletics, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. 6 The hardworking farmer must be first to partake of the crops.  7 Consider what I say, and may the Lord give you understanding in all things."

To make his point about this the Apostle Paul gives a series of metaphors drawing an analogy of the believer following Jesus Christ in discipleship with that of a preserving solider who endures hardships to please the one who enlisted him (vs. 4); an athlete who competes according to the rules in order to be crowned (vs. 5); and a hard working farmer who is rewarded at the harvest by being first to partake of the crops (vs. 6). These three characteristics: Perseverance under trial (John 16:33); obedience and personal discipline in life (1 Cor. 9:27); and diligence in serving Jesus Christ (Rom. 12:11; Titus 2:14) are foundational to the Christian who desires to be fruitful in his endeavors for the Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore like a solider duty bound to serve in his post so must we remain faithful in whatever calling Jesus Christ has called and equipped each of us to do if we hope to please our Commander and Chief. The Apostle Paul concludes by saying to Timothy to consider what he has said asking that the Lord give him understanding in all things. Just as He gives understanding to all who truly seek to know Him and obey Him. The Lord Jesus said: “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. 8 “For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened.” Matt. 7:7-8


Scripture Quotations
The New King James Version. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1982

2 Timothy 1:13-18

Devotional

The Apostle Paul's exhortation to hold fast the pattern of sound words given through him is not not just an exhortation to blindly adhere to sound doctrine as if one grows spiritually mature by merely publicly reciting it, or assenting to it. But rather Paul's exhortation is personal, and is commending us all to adhere to sound doctrine in faith and love. For without faith, the Word of God will not profit you (Heb. 4:2). And without love; doctrine (even sound doctrine) can quickly become a catalyst for making lifeless and loveless legalistic Pharisees (consider Luke 11:42). Therefore though sound doctrine is crucial, how it is presented, received, and applied is also crucial.

Now in regards to the Apostle's doctrine please consider that the Apostle Paul universally taught the same gospel and doctrine everywhere (1 Cor. 4:17). Sound words given him through the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:3). Which we, like Timothy must hold fast to in faith and love which are in Christ Jesus if we hope to grow and mature, not only Spiritually, but also in every aspect of our person's and lives (1 Peter 2:2). For it is through sound doctrine and soundly adhering to it, that not only the church and believer individually grows, but we also avoid spiritual peril as well (2 Cor. 11:3-4; Gal. 1:6-9; 2 John 10; Rev. 18:3-4). That good thing committed to Timothy then is a reference to not only to the gospel (i.e. the Biblical Apostle's gospel; Rom. 2:16; 16:25; 2 Tim 2:8 etc.). But also all of Jesus Christ’s commandments given for us in the gospel, as well as His commandments through the Apostles writings in the N.T. all which are given for that expressed purpose (i.e. our sanctification). Therefore we must all strive to keep our doctrine and ourselves pure by the Holy Spirit who dwells within us all who believe. For grace and the pursuit of holiness are not mutually exclusive ideas.

Vs. 15-18 The Apostle Paul now reminds Timothy that all those in Asia (that is Ephesus) have turned away from him. In this two individuals are mentioned: Phygellus and Hermogenes. Were not told why they did, only that they did. And that is the real issue. For the Apostle Paul also mentions the household of Onesiphorus, and requests that they all be granted the Lord’s mercy since Onesiphorus often refreshed Paul and was not ashamed of his chain. That is of Paul being imprisoned for his faith In Jesus Christ. For when Onesiphorus arrived in Rome he was very zealous in seeking Paul until he found him. That is why the Apostle Paul requests that Onesiphorus be granted the Lord’s mercies in that Day. A reference to when Jesus will personally return to both gather all who believe to Himself with the rest of the saints (i.e. those who believe, but have already died and now gone on to be with the Lord, see 1 Thess. 4:13-18). But also Jesus will personally reward each person according to their own faithfulness to Himself, which is often demonstrated by our faithfulness to each other (consider Matt. 25:31-46). Therefore though this section (vs. 15-18) is brief, and thus may be overlooked by some. It is an important one, since it reminds us all of our responsibilities towards each other, not to abandon each other in our hour of need. The Apostle then closes by reminding Timothy that Onesiphorus even ministered to him at Ephesus as well. And so what will be the legacy that each of us leave here on earth towards our Christian brethren, when we go home to be forever with Jesus Christ? May God guide and direct our steps into His heart and love, so that it may be known to all.

Scripture Quotations
The New King James Version. Nashville : Thomas Nelson, 1982

2 Timothy 1:8-12

Vs. 8 Therefore since God has given us all who believe in Jesus a spirit of power, love and sound mind (vs. 7) Timothy need not be ashamed of his faith in Jesus Christ. The same things apply also to us who likewise believe in Christ. For think about what you once were and what Jesus has done for you, setting you free from your sins and the judgment to come and giving you eternal life. Therefore do not ashamed of Him or the glorious gospel but always be thankful. As the Apostle Paul here encourages Timothy not to be ashamed of the testimony of the Lord Jesus Christ, nor the Apostle Paul His prisoner, but rather to “…share with him in the sufferings for the gospel according to the power of God.” vs. 8 For ultimately this is each and every believers destiny to suffer for Jesus Christ and the gospel's sake. For some it may mean rejection and ridicule by their friends and peers for their confession and obedience to the gospel of Jesus Christ. For others it may mean that the closest of family members will turn against them for their faith in Christ (Matt. 10:34-39). Whatever the scenario each and every believer will suffer rejection, ridicule and persecution of whatever sorts from this lawless and evil world just as our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ did (John 15:18; 1 John 3:13-15). And just as Jesus had to endure temptations and trials from Satan, the god of this world, so must we (1 Peter 5:8-9; Rev. 12:17). Now don't be overwhelmed by all of this. For truly this is what each and every believer has gone though down through the centuries, and will continue to go through until the Lord's return and His Kingdom's establishment on earth. Nonetheless as Jesus has said He has not left us as orphans in this world until that Day. But has given us His Spirit until His return, and thus it is by the Power of God that we can likewise overcome. For it is God’s Spirit's Power working through us who not only preserves our souls (Eph. 4:30) but also makes us bold and fruitful in our witness for the Lord Jesus Christ (Consider Matt. 10:16-20; Luke 12:11-12; Acts 1:8). That is why the Apostle Paul can be so positive about this; even inviting Timothy (and us all) to share in the sufferings for the gospel according to the Power of God. For being In Christ means we are not only eternally secure (2 Cor. 1:21, 22; 5:5; Eph. 1:13-14), already having all our sins forgiven (Col. 2:13) but it means we are guaranteed the victory over this world and it's god, by our faith in Jesus (1 John 5:4). Therefore believers are never to be ashamed of the testimony; nor the Word of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (Mark 8:38; Rev. 21:8).



Vs. 9-10 Therefore since it is God who has both saved us and called us with a holy calling into Christ's Kingdom and service; not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began we should not be tacit about our faith in Jesus. 

Timothy then must not doubt the Apostle’s or his own calling, nor should he be shaken by Paul’s or his own sufferings for the gospel; since all believers are not only called to believe in Jesus Christ the Lord but again we are going to suffer for Him (John 15:19). Now when we are hated by the world we should not be discouraged but rather rejoice for being counted worthy to suffer for Christ’s sake. For Jesus has already said: “Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. 12 “Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” Matt. 5:11-12

Therefore these things should not dampen our resolve to witness and serve Jesus Christ but rather affirm to us that our calling and purposes are unmistakably intertwined with His (See 1 Peter 3:13-18). The other point, which is equally important, is this did not come to us because of us. Being both called and saved by the grace of God begins with God (Rom. 9:11; 1 Peter 1:2). Therefore the individual who feels utterly unqualified then is amazingly qualified because of what God has done through Jesus to qualify us all (Rom. 3:19-28). For only those sinners who see their need for Jesus Christ will enter His Kingdom (Luke 18:9-14). Consider then the Apostle Paul’s self-renunciation of his own pedigree and personal achievements in regards to having any efficacy, both in regards to salvation and his standing as a believer (Phil 3:4-10). Therefore everyone who hopes to attain to everlasting life must first make a personal decision for Jesus Christ, resting their hope fully upon Him. For nobody comes into God’s family and Christ's Kingdom any other way (John 1:12; 3:3-5; 14:6; Rev. 3:20). Those then who grew up in the faith are no more deserving or qualified then those came to faith In Jesus Christ later in life, Jesus’ parable about the hired workers makes that abundantly clear (Matt. 20:1-16). Therefore the Apostle’s mentioning Timothy’s mothers and grandmother’s faith was not making faith in Jesus Christ a generational issue. It was to encourage Timothy that the true faith he saw in them, he also saw in Timothy as well. And since we all stumble, we will all need to be reaffirmed at various times in our lives with Christ (2 Cor. 2:5-11; Gal. 6:1-2). Now God does not call us all at the same time, or through the same types of life circumstances. But God does call us from, and often out of, a diversity of life’s experiences. So that our faith is not in ourselves, but in God who has abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through Jesus Christ’s gospel. For it wasn’t until Jesus Christ appeared resurrected from the dead that God’s abolishment of death for those who believe was fully revealed and ennacted (vs. 10). Therefore as each person in each generation comes to believe in the crucified and resurrected Lord Jesus Christ so God’s designs for them begin to unfold according to His own predetermined plans and purposes.

Vs. 11. Therefore the Apostle says after having been saved by the grace of God, he was also appointed by that same grace to be “…a preacher, an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles.”

Three essential things that God has appointed and equiped the Apostle Paul to do: to preach; to lead; and to teach. And that is why you are Holy Spirit equipped the way you are; all which has nothing to do with your having done something to deserve salvation or whatever Spirit gifts you have. For as in salvation it has everything to do with God’s own purposes for us, given to us, in Christ Jesus before time began. For it is God out of His immeasurable love for us who has both saved us and called us “…with a holy calling, not according to our works but according to His own purpose and grace which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began.” vs. 10

Vs. 12 Therefore it is for this reason that the Apostle Paul is suffering these things, that is persecution and imprisonment because he is being obedient to his calling as a preacher, an Apostle and a teacher of the gospel, and thus Paul's sufferings are not for sinful or evil acts, but for Christ's and the gospel’s sake. Just as the Apostle Peter commands us all “But let none of you suffer as a murderer, a thief, an evildoer, or as a busybody in other people’s matters.” 1 Peter 4:15 Therefore the Apostle Paul though being imprisoned for the gospel knowing his own calling and purposes are In Christ declares: “nevertheless I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day.” The Apostle Paul then was not discouraged by his trying circumstances, just as we should not to be by ours if we are obeying the Lord in whatever calling He has placed on our lives, though things may not be all that we think they should be. Since our standing with God does not change when these do.

Scripture Quotations
The New King James Version. Nashville : Thomas Nelson, 1982,

2 Timothy 1:3-7

The Apostle Paul having bestowed God's three-fold blessings on Timothy (and us all) now to encourage Timothy to live a life worthy of his calling, recalls his own faith heritage, a faith that is rooted in serving God with a pure conscience as his forefathers did (vs. 3). For those who have genuine faith in God always seek to purify their lives (1 John 3:2-3). God’s grace, mercy and peace does not annul that when He brings us into a relationship with Himself through faith in His Son (John 5:24). But grows our hunger for it. Yet this is not accomplished by works of the law (Rom. 9:30-33), which only leads to Phariseeism (Matt. 16:5-12; Luke 12:1-3) and or self righteousness (Luke 18:9-14), but by grace and truth which is exclusively found in Christ Jesus and His gospel and is exemplified by our living out the fruits of the Holy Spirit in our lives, rather then the old selfish and sinful nature (Gal. 5:16-23). Therefore the Apostle’s Paul’s exhortations here are not given as a cold and disconnected law removed from the realities of life, but are born out of a love and concern for Timothy. Just as a loving father admonishes his son so that his life might be all that it can be, so it is here. This is self evident for Paul says: “I thank God…” (for you) and “…without ceasing I remember you in my prayers night and day, 4 greatly desiring to see you, being mindful of your tears, that I may be filled with joy, 5 when I call to remembrance the genuine faith that is in you, which dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am persuaded is in you also.” vs. 3-5
Even while writing bound in chains from a Roman prison, the Apostle Paul's heart and faith was not chained. Which is very important for us all to take note of because our faith and effectiveness for the Lord Jesus is never bound to our own life's circumstances, unless we let it be so. Therefore Paul's focus and concern was not on himself and his circumstances, rather Timothy's and the churches. Just as they are in all of the Apostle’s epistles (i.e. letters) being filled with a heart of love and concern for both (2 Cor. 11:28-29). For that is the true mark of Christ’s disciples, our love for each other (John 13:35). Therefore to emphasize one above the other is only to be out of balance. For both the Body and the individual believer are deeply loved by the Lord Jesus and thus should be by us all as well (Consider Matt. 18:12-14; Luke 15:1-7; 1 Peter 5:1-4). For the Apostle Paul’s own Holy Spirit guided and inspired teachings tell us that each and every member of Christ's Body is a loved, valued and needed member of the Body and thus nessecary for the Body to grow and function well as a whole (1 Cor. 12:12-27). There is then within Christ’s profound love for His bride the church, His profound love and concern for the individual believer (Matt. 25:31-46). That is the heart of God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, that none of His children be forgotten (Isaiah 48:15), abandoned (Heb. 13:5), or made to stumble (Mark 9:42). And so Paul becasue of Christ's love within him remembers Timothy in his prayers. As well as Timothy's own tears drawing comfort from them (though they are separate for a time), knowing that his affections and concern for him are mutual. 

Now Timothy grew up with two Godly influences; a mother named Eunice and a grandmother named Lois who like the Apostle Paul were Jewish and thus worshipped the one true God according to what was prescribed for the nation of Israel at that time. They then taught Timothy the basic moral precepts that are universal to Jew and Christian alike having their origins in the Ten Commandments. And thus though faith is not generational i.e. you don't pass onto your children saving faith; you can most certainly model it, teach it, and thus lay a solid ground work for it to take root in their own lives as well. And that is what Timothy's mother and grandmother did for him. Yet they like the Apostle Paul having come to faith In Jesus Christ they didn't have their hope in their own obedience to law, as if they could save themselves through that or anything else. Rather on Jesus Christ who fulfills the law for us all and imputes His righteousness to us, whether Jew or Gentile, when we believe in Him (See 2 Cor. 5:21; 2 Peter 1:1). That is why the Apostle Paul can say of them and of Timothy. That the genuine faith he saw in them he also saw in Timothy as well, for they were a Godly family no doubt, but they were not living their lives independent of God's Righteousness (consider Rom. 3:19-28). Rather they were trusting in Him through His Son Jesus Christ for their salvation. Therefore their lives were reflecting the choice they had made to follow and trust in Jesus Christ as Lord.
The Apostle Paul then having reminded Timothy of his own faith legacy to strengthen his faith now exhorts Timothy to stir up the gift of God within him that came through the Apostle Paul by his laying his hands on Timothy (vs. 6). A gift, it appears, to assist Timothy in overcoming his timidity in his preaching for Jesus Christ and the gospel. As the Apostle Paul says “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” vs. 7  Paul’s encouraging Timothy then was to help him see that through Christ we can do all things through Him who strengthens us (Phil. 4:13). For Timothy was not just a Pastor, rather he was called to do the specific work of evangelism (2 Tim. 4:5). Not because he was a gifted speaker; or well educated man; but because God called him to do so; that is why the Apostle Paul and other church elders laid their hands on him (1 Tim. 4:14). Therefore God had a plan and a purpose for Timothy and Timothy needed to be leaning on God for His Holy Spirit wisdom and power to be His witness. Just as we are when God calls us to overcome by His power and serve Him in whatever capacities He calls us to serve and witness for Christ in as well (Rev. 3:21). Which again so often has little or nothing to do with natural abilities, but rather Spirit giftedness. Now it is our privilege to not only believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and thus be saved by the grace of God; but also to suffer for Him (Phil. 1:29). For suffering the reproach of Jesus Christ is every believer’s privilege and destiny (John 15:18-25).

Scripture Quotations
The New King James Version. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1982

2 Timothy 1:1-2

Vs. 1 “Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, according to the promise of life which is in Christ Jesus” 

The Apostle Paul begins his epistle by introducing himself as an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, according to the promise of life, which is in Christ Jesus. Now God’s promise of life is not just for Christ’s Apostle’s; nor is it stated just for Timothy to whom Paul is writing; God’s promise of life is for everyone who believes in Jesus Christ God's only begotten Son, (John 3:16). Now Paul’s declaration of his being an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God indicates God’s prerogatives in all such matters. For it is God by His Sovereign Will who not only elects us to salvation (John 1:13; Rom. 9:11), but also to His service (John 15:16). Therefore at salvation, at the moment we believe in Jesus Christ the Lord (Eph. 1:13-14), God sends the Holy Spirit into us who first effects our regeneration (Titus 3:4-7), or our being born again (John 3:3-5). But He also endows each believing individual with whatever Spirit gifts they are to have in the Body of Christ, (1 Cor. 12:4-11). Now this is in accord with God the Father having first established a priority for His Spirit given gifts and their execution in the Body of Christ (1 Cor. 12:28-31). For it is God who has set each member in the Body of Christ just as He pleased (1 Cor. 12:18). And so just as God the Father and Jesus Christ the Son appoints us to salvation (Acts 13:48). So it is that the Holy Spirit according to His will equips each one of us with whatever Spirit gifts we are to have (1 Cor. 12:11). And that is why each member of Christ's Body is a vital member and is nessecary to make the whole function well (1 Cor. 12:12-18). For no believer (and thus no gift) in the Body of Christ is either unnessecary or an independent entity of any other member. All members are necessary for the Christ's Body’s functioning well as a whole (1 Cor. 12:19-25).

Now if someone professes faith in Jesus Christ yet they cannot discern having any Spirit given gifts then they are disqualified from serving Jesus Christ and the church in any Spirit gifted roles. That is why the Apostle’s Paul’s initial declaration is being looked at here so deeply. For Paul was called by Jesus Christ and equipped by the Holy Spirit to be an Apostle. Paul didn’t just decide to be an Apostle after his conversion on the Damascus road. It was something God called him to be even before he was born, but was not revealed to him until then (Gal. 1:15-17). Therefore as the Scripture declares it is God, not man who decides whom God has chosen, and whom God has equipped, and how we are to serve Him. For man always looks at the outward appearance, i.e. degrees, diplomas, similar personal histories, or likes and dislikes etc. but it is God who always looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7). And thus He chooses whom He chooses to bring glory to Himself (1 Cor. 1:26-31).

Now Paul’s Apostleship by the will of God is not an independent entity but is “…according to the promise of life which is in Christ Jesus.” Therefore before Paul became an Apostle of Jesus Christ He had to first enter into Christ's life by receiving His promise of life that is given to all who believe in Him. And thus far above and exceedingly more important than Paul’s Apostle status is the promise of life which is in Christ Jesus. For this promise of life is offered to all and given to all who believe in the crucified and Risen Lord Jesus Christ. That is God’s promise of everlasting life that the Lord Jesus Christ Himself declares in John 3:16. And thus is brought to us by Jesus Christ’s crucifixion death, resurrection from grave and ascension back to heaven, by which the Holy Spirit’s outpouring came into the world and thus it is He who then indwells everyone who believes (John 7:38-39). And so it is the Holy Spirit of God who brings this promise of life to all who believe in Jesus Christ the Lord (Eph. 1:13-14). Therefore God’s promise of life, which is in Christ Jesus, is universal, excluding no one. But it is in no way universally applied. It demands a response from each of us to either repent and receive God’s gift of life through faith in Jesus Christ and be saved from our sins and the judgment to come (Acts 2:38-40). Or to remain spiritually dead in ones trespasses and sins separated from God and all the life that is in Christ Jesus the Lord (Eph. 2:1-10). That is the reality of us all apart from the promise of life that is in Christ Jesus. Yet as we read further into Apostle Paul’s epistle we soon discover that this is not the will of God for anyone to be dead in their sins and transgressions, separated from Him, but rather that all should come to know Christ and thus experience His life within us.


Vs. 2 “To Timothy, a beloved son: Grace, mercy,and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Three blessings from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord the Apostle Paul now bestows on Timothy whom he calls his beloved son: Grace, mercy, and peace. These salutations also appear in 1 Tim. 1:2; Titus 1:4; and 2 John 3 and encompass what happens to us in our standing with God when we come to a personal faith in Jesus Christ the Lord. That is we become children of God no longer alienated from God, but become recipients of His grace, mercy and peace (John 14:26-27). That Paul calls Timothy a beloved son is not literal, rather Timothy was a young man whom Paul had discipled but who had no father in his life; though he had a Godly mother and grandmother (vs. 5). Now these blessings, grace, mercy and peace are again gifts of God’s ongoing love for us when we believe in Jesus Christ His Son. That is the sole condition for being eternally forgiven and entering the Kingdom of Heaven, and thus having them, ones trust in Jesus Christ the Son of God which then brings us into God's family and thus makes us receipients of His grace, mercy and peace. And so as God's children we should strive to be and live like people of grace, mercy and peace. So lets look at them.

First grace: Grace theologically as defined by Webster’s Dictionary is “the freely given, unmerited favor and love of God.” Now God's grace is freely offered to everyone because of Jesus Christ’s having come into the world as a Man and suffered death on the cross for all our sins. That is why God's grace is now availible to us all. "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. 17 For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be
saved." John 3:17-18
God’s grace then does not come to us because we deserve it, or have earned it (vs. 9). On the contrary God’s grace comes to us because of His love for us and His seeing that there was no other way for us to be saved from our sins and eternal damnation, but by Him. Therefore God’s grace must be received as a gift of His love for us by our personally believing in, then confessing the crucified and Risen Lord Jesus Christ (Rom. 10:9-10; 13). For it is God’s Son Jesus Christ who took all our sins upon Himself and suffered sins penalty on the cross for us all, so that if anyone looks to His suffering death on the cross, trusting that as payment for all their sins, they will have forgiveness of them and everlasting life (John 3:15-21). Grace then is what distinguishes the New Covenant from the Old. “For the Law was given through Moses but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.” John 1:17

The second blessing the Apostle Paul bestows on us is mercy. Mercy is why Jesus came into the world to be, and to bring, God’s mercy to everyone broken by their sins (Matt. 5:3; 9:9-13). Mercy then is foundational to the Lord Jesus’ Mission of Redemption, which is to redeem believing humanity from sin and death. Which involves not only His sinless obedience to the will of God so that His righteousness can be imputed to everyone who puts their trust in Him (2 Cor. 5:21). But it also required His death on the cross to pay for the sins that we all have committed (Rom. 3:23). For the Scripture says,“…without the shedding of blood there can be no remission.” Heb. 9:22
Therefore God's grace and mercy is inseparably linked to what He has first done in order to save us through the death and resurection of His Son Jesus Christ. Now God’s mercy requires our repentance towards God and our faith in Jesus Christ (Acts 20:21). That is how we receive it (Pr. 28:13; Jer. 36:3; Luke 18:9-14; Rom. 5:1). In this repentance is essentially a change of mind about oneself, ones sins, and quite possibly even God Himself God (Luke 15:11-32). Therefore God’s grace initiates salvation for us; “For in that while we were still sinners Christ died for us.” Rom. 5:8 But His everlasting mercy is given only to those who repent and believe the gospel (Mark 1:15).


The third blessing the Apostle Paul bestows on us is peace. Peace is what the angels heralded across the heavens at Jesus birth. “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” Luke 2:14 For with Jesus’ birth the fullness of God came to humanity to restore the Peace of God that was severed from creation when sin entered the world through Adam and Eve. And thus Jesus Christ came to end the horrible enmity that exists in creation, and that creation itself has towards God our Creator. Now in this there is a progression of restoration. First there is the restoring of sinful humanity to the life; love and peace of God, that is paramount. And that is why Jesus Christ is called the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). For apart from the life, love and peace of God, both individuals and creation itself is like waves on the unsettled seas. And thus people strive with others, and within themselves, because their is no lasting peace apart from God. Even creation itself so clearly manifests the brutal cruelty and enmity that exists in this world because of its alienation from God. Therefore the first step in God's plan of Redemption is to restore as many as will believe in His Son Jesus Christ to Himself and thus too a state of peace. Jesus Christ then serves as the only Mediator between a Holy God and sinful humanity (Heb. 4:14-16). Then when that is fulfilled God Himself will remake all of creation with a new heavens and new earth in which righteousness dwells and thus a world and people and creation devoid of all enmity and sin and all of the effects thereof (Isaiah 65:17-25; 2 Peter 2:13; Rev. 21:1-8). Now that's something to sing praises to God about!

Experiencing peace with God then begins not by trying harder to please God (Rom. 4:4-5; Heb. 4:9-10). Rather by admitting that one is morally and spiritually bankrupt before God and thus incapable of making oneself acceptable in His sight. Then receiving the only solution for our sins which separate us from Him and His peace by believing in Jesus Christ crucified and Risen from the dead which then brings us into a personal relationship with God the Father and restores His peace in us (Titus 3:4-7). Therefore as a child of God, born again by the Spirit of God, fully under the grace of God we experience the peace of God in our lives, as Jesus’ promises for all who believe in Him (John 14:26). Not only by Divine impartation but also as we keep Christ’s commandments which His Spirit guides us to do, to resist the sinful desires of the flesh and rather live by the fruits of the Spirit (Gal. 5:22-23). That is what it means to be a disciple or follower of Jesus Christ. You first receive Him unconditionally then you seek to follow Him in discipleship. For you’ll never experience peace with God as long as you shut Jesus Christ out of your heart and try to go it on your own. God’s peace is inseparably linked with ones relationship to Him through His Son (John 14:6). Again the first step of obedience towards God is to confess oneself a sinner and receive the only solution for our sins, which is to believe in Jesus Christ crucified and Risen from the grave which brings the Holy Spirit into ones life, who then brings us to life (Eph. 1:13-14). For this is the Scriptures testimony: “…God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. 12 He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life. 1 John 5:11-12

Scripture Quotations
The New King James Version. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1982