PREACH THE WORD!

"I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingdom: 2 preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching. 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. 5 As for you, always be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, and fulfill your ministry." 

2 Timothy 4:1-5

The closing of this 2nd letter to Timothy is a farewell. Paul’s final words to his beloved Timothy bring tears to my eyes because I don’t like goodbyes.  Paul concludes this letter by stressing to Timothy the need to be steadfast in the faith during difficult times. He urges Timothy and us to endure and finish the race well. 

 

In the final chapter of Paul’s letter to Timothy, he charges him to continue steadfast in his work as an evangelist (1 Timothy 5:21).  Perhaps Paul is encouraging Timothy to continue doing what God called him to do because he had stopped preaching and teaching the Gospel.  Paul warned Timothy that difficult times would come shortly because of false teachers, wicked doctrines, and ungodliness  (2 Tim. 3:1-7, 9, 13). These erring men would reach the point that they would not tolerate sound doctrine or healthy teaching.  Paul used the term “sound doctrine” in his two letters to Timothy to point out how men would not bear what is healthy because it exposes their error and ungodliness (1 Tim. 1:10; 6:3; 2 Tim. 1:13;  4:3). They wanted to continue living in sin.  Such brethren prefer to feel good about their sinful ways instead of the shame and guilt they should rightly feel.  They seek out those preachers and teachers who make them feel good about their sins (2 Timothy 3:6).  

Isaiah, the prophet, warned the people of his time, saying,

“For they are a rebellious people,  lying children, children unwilling to hear  the instruction of the Lord; 10 who say to the seers, ‘Do not see,’ and to the prophets, ‘Do not prophesy to us what is right; speak to us smooth things,  prophesy illusions, eave the way, turn aside from the path,  let us hear no more about the Holy One of Israel.’ 12 Therefore thus says the Holy One of Israel, “Because you despise this word  and trust in oppression and perverseness  and rely on them, 13 therefore this iniquity shall be to you  like a breach in a high wall, bulging out and about to collapse,  whose breaking comes suddenly, in an instant; 14 and its breaking is like that of a potter’s vessel  that is smashed so ruthlessly that among its fragments not a shard is found  with which to take fire from the hearth,  or to dip up water out of the cistern.”’ (Isa. 30:9-14). 

These people had “itching ears” to hear something other than the Truth, so they could never come to a knowledge of the Truth. Though they were always learning, they did not love the Truth because it was not what they wanted. They “turn away their ears from the truth.”  Today is no different, for we have the same heart and mindset among brethren. 

1. They reject the Truth because it condemns their lifestyle. 
2. They are hard-hearted and want to continue living in sin and error. 

Men’s philosophies and manufactured doctrines do not condemn and bring shame.  They do not compel us to change or repent.  They can only comfort us for a while.  

In chapter 3 of this letter, Paul contrasts false teachers and those who oppose the Truth with Timothy.  

1. He urges Timothy to preach the Word of God in all its purity, even though it would bring hardship to his life.  
2. That same urgent message applies to us today.  
3. Paul reminded Timothy about the value and power of the Scriptures.  All Scriptures are God’s breath and are profitable for reproof, correction, and training in righteousness.  
4. Paul charged Timothy to preach the Word because Jesus will judge the living and the dead (2 Tim. 4:1-2).  

Can you understand why preaching and teaching the Word of God is so important?   

He charged Timothy to preach the Word despite opposition and challenging times. Paul took that charge very seriously because he loved the souls of men and feared for their eternal destiny.  Thus, he compelled Timothy and us to be ready to preach God’s message all the time, in season and out of season, with longsuffering! Are we doing that?  

I.   PAUL’S CHARGE TO TIMOTHY:

“I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingdom: 2 preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching. 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. 5 As for you, always be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.” (2 Timothy 4:1-5)

• Jesus Will Judge The Living And The Dead:  

“I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingdom.”  (2 Timothy 4:1)

The word “charge” (diamarturomai) is the same word found in 1 Timothy 5:21.   It is defined as “to make a solemn (of a serious nature) affirmation; to make a solemn and earnest charge (to entrust with a duty, responsibility, or obligation).” 

1. Paul’s first charge to Timothy is to do the work of a sound and faithful evangelist without fail because Christ will judge the living and the dead just as sure as when Jesus came in the flesh and established His kingdom (John 5:28-29; Acts 17:30-31).  
2. That judgment will take place when Christ appears again for the final time (2 Thessalonians 2:8;  1 Timothy 6:14; 2 Timothy 1:10;  Titus 2:13).  
3. Paul lived in the hope of Christ’s imminent return.  
4. Paul knew that when Christ returned, all humanity would see the majesty and glory of Christ’s kingdom.  
5. Every knee shall bow to Him, and every tongue shall confess Him (Romans 14:11). 

Paul charged Timothy to “preach the word” despite opposition.  

1. We cannot teach or preach only when convenient, safe, or favorable.   
2. We must correct, rebuke, and encourage with longsuffering when we teach.  
3. We must be willing to preach or teach the Gospel even when it is difficult.  
4. We must not yield to the pressures of our culture or government that might prevent us from sharing the Gospel Message or the good news of Jesus. 
5. We must not shrink back during difficult times.  
6. Many souls need to hear the Gospel to be saved because God will judge them on the last day (John 12:48; 1 Corinthians 15:1-4).

• Preach The Word:

“Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching.” (2 Timothy 4:2)

Paul’s second charge to Timothy is to preach the Word and be ready in and out of season. Timothy’s preaching was to be “urgent in season.” 

1. He must be ready to preach anytime and everywhere (Romans 12:12).  
2. He must be willing to preach when it is not convenient for him.  

When we love our Lord, His Word, and the souls of men, we fix our minds on preaching and teaching the Gospel. Nothing will prevent us from preaching the Truth to people, even when some do not want to hear it. There is no need to apologize for teaching the Truth, for that would be an attempt to bind God’s Word (2 Tim. 2:9, 13, 19). God’s Truth must be preached no matter the circumstances.  We must not change the standards of God’s Word because we are afraid we might hurt someone’s feelings, shame them, or expose their religious practices as errors.

1. Timothy must “reprove” people. To “reprove” (elegzon) is “to put to proof, to test; to convict... to detect, lay bare, expose.” “To find fault with, correct; to reprehend severely, chide, admonish, reprove; show one his fault, demand an explanation” (Thayer 203). He must reprove to make sinners feel the prick of their hearts.  Timothy must convince people of the Truth of the Scriptures and let them see their need for it (John 20:30-31;  2 Timothy 3:16; Titus 2:15).
2. Timothy must “rebuke” (epitimeson) - “to tax with fault, rate, chide, rebuke, reprove, censure severely” (Thayer 245).  Paul charged him to reprove sharply, to reprimand with authority.  He must rebuke those Christians living in sin (Matthew 8:26; 1 Timothy 5:20; Titus 1:13; Titus 2:15;  Jude 1:9).  Preachers and teachers must never forget they preach and teach God’s Word to others.  They must revere God’s Word.
3. Timothy must have no fear or the favor of men to perform this charge.  
4. Timothy must “exhort” (parakaleson) - “a calling upon... beseech, entreat, implore... incitement, persuasion...”  Paul charged Timothy to encourage those struggling in their Christian walk (Romans 12:8).  Struggling Christians can be uplifted when encouraged by the Word of God (1 Timothy 4:13).  Timothy must persuade people to live godly in Christ Jesus.
5. Timothy must preach with “all longsuffering” (makrothumia) - “patient enduring of evil, fortitude... slowness of avenging injuries, forbearance, clemency.” He must do all things with great patience and careful instruction.  Every preacher and teacher must be patient and careful when teaching if they want to change people’s behavior and beliefs, especially our opponents (Romans 2:4;  Romans 9:22;  2 Corinthians 6:6; Galatians 5:22; Ephesians 4:2; Ephesians 6:18; Colossians 1:11;  Colossians 3:12; 1 Timothy 1:16; 2 Timothy 2:25).
6. Timothy must be patient and endure the evil and sufferings of the wicked. Some might come to repentance or change their sinful ways and wrong teachings.
7. Timothy must be given to “teaching” (didaxe) - “instruction, the giving of instruction, teaching.” Those who teach the Gospel must instruct or teach all, confronting error.  
8. We must remember that the power is in God’s Word, not the preacher or the teacher (Hebrews 4:12).

• Sound Teaching Is Not What Itching Ears Want to Hear:

“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.” (2 Timothy 4:3)

In chapter 3, Paul warned Timothy that difficult times would happen shortly because of false teachers and evildoers (2 Tim. 3:1-7, 9, 13).  This is most likely when Paul spoke in 2 Timothy 3:1 as “the last days.” This would be a time when many would not be content listening to God’s Word (1 Timothy 1:10; 2 Timothy 1:13).  There would come a time when they “will not endure the sound doctrine.” Why?  Because they would have “itching ears” (knethomenoi).  

1. They would instead feel good about their ungodliness than feel the shame and the guilt of sin. 
2. They would not tolerate sound teaching. 
3. Instead, they would accumulate teachers who agree with them and teach what they want to hear to accomplish their desires or passions.   

However, Paul commanded Timothy and us to teach the Truth from the Scriptures because people will want to hear what satisfies their desires. Sadly, this is one of the prevalent reasons we have so many different kinds of churches today.  Often, people do not leave the church because of doctrinal error or false teaching but because they want to hear what suits their sinful lifestyle.  They want teachers who give them what they want!  Paul urged Timothy to preach the Word and not surrender to these passions or desires.  The solution is more of God’s Word and not less. People with itching ears seek teachers who will provide entertainment, coffee, donuts, meals, and emotional experiences. Their primary focus is carnal, not spiritual.  

In the Gospel of John, Jesus showed us this very problem.  After Jesus fed the 5,000, the crowds sought Him and found Him on the other side of the Sea of Galilee. But listen carefully to what Jesus told the crowd when they found Him. 

“Truly I tell you, you are looking for me, not because you saw the signs, but because you ate the loaves and were filled. Don’t work for the food that perishes but for the food that lasts for eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you, because God the Father has set his seal of approval on him.” (John 6:26–27) 

Jesus knows the intentions of our hearts.  He knew why they had come to Him.  

1. They came to Him for the wrong reasons.  
2. They did not seek Jesus because they wanted to accept the signs they saw.  
3. They were seeking Jesus to feed them again!  

Often, people claim to believe in Jesus, but what they really want is to find someone who will satisfy their physical desires.  They seek teachers who will give them what they want.  They are not hungry and thirsty for God’s Truth.

• They Will Turn Away From The Truth:

“And will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths.” (2 Timothy 4:4)

1. These brethren will turn away from God’s Word because they want to listen to preachers and teachers who say things they want to hear.  
2. They teach and preach only those things that suit the desires of their hearers (Isaiah 30:10; Mark 4:24; Luke 8:18; 2 Timothy 3:7-8; Hebrews 5:11).  
3. These brethren will turn away from the Truth to myths or fables (1 Timothy 1:4-6; Titus 1:14).   Why?  Because they have given up the Truth to satisfy their futile minds with senseless arguments about anything that is not from God’s Word.  Paul was not talking about the myths of the Greeks or anything like that, but rather about anything that is not the Truth of God’s Word.  In a few words, Paul was talking about false teaching or fabrication.  

As Paul said, these men are always learning but cannot come to the knowledge of the Truth because they don’t want to hear it, which is not what they want in their lives.  They “turn away their ears from the truth.” 

1. They reject the Truth and refuse to hear it because it condemns their sinful ways and actions.  
2. These brethren are hard-hearted, fixed, and determined to have it their way.  
3. Of course, their ways of error and wrongdoing:  the path of unrighteousness, the broad path that leads to destruction.   
4. Instead of looking to the Truth of God, they are comfortable listening to fables, stories, tales, and the like.  
5. Paul associated these myths or fables earlier with endless genealogies and profane or irreverent wives’ fables promoting empty speculation rather than God’s Truth (1 Timothy 1:3-4, 4: 7).  
6. These untruths do not condemn, cause shame, or call for repentance.  They comfort where God does not.  

Sadly, many churches are buying into this carnal mindset.  

1. They are not interested in hearing sound preaching and teaching.  
2. They only care about numbers and people coming back.  
3. Their preaching and teaching have no substance because they focus on making people feel good with their empty words.  
4. Today, it is rare to hear preaching about hell, repentance, and judgment.  They are just too offensive to the audience.  
5. They fear rejection for preaching and teaching the Truth (Mark 7:1-9). 
6. They sell the Truth and compromise it!  Think about it! 
7. So what you get is just crumbs and nothing else.

• Be Sober-Minded And Endure Suffering or Hardship:

“As for you, always be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.” (2 Timothy 4:5)

In verse 5 of our text, Paul urges Timothy to “be sober-minded.” That is, Timothy must be watchful against any false teaching and sin.  He must be faithful as an evangelist or teacher of the Word of God (Matthew 25:13; 1 Corinthians 16:13).  Paul repeatedly contrasted false teachers and those who oppose the Truth to Timothy and us.  Preaching and teaching the Word of God in all its purity will likely bring hardship in our lives. We have been warned. Paul warned and reminded Timothy of three things:

1. Timothy must be “sober” (nepse).  It means "to be calm and collected in spirit; to be temperate, dispassionate, and circumspect" (Thayer 425).  "Circumspect" is "to be self-possessed under all circumstances” (AG 538). “Heedful of circumstances or consequences” (AHD 275).  Timothy must allow people to get under his skin to the point of being discouraged or defeated. It is good and wise to be calm and collected when dealing with the erring, for it is easier to declare the Truth of the Word of God. Preachers and teachers must realize that people's problem is not with the messenger but hearing and obeying the Truth.  Those who hold the Truth have nothing to fear from the erring.  As messengers of God, we must thicken our skin to be effective preachers and teachers!  
2. Timothy must “suffer hardship or suffering” (Acts 9:16; Acts 14:22; 2 Timothy 1:18;  2 Timothy 2:3).  Paul had warned Timothy earlier of hardship and persecutions as part of our walk of faith.  Why?  Because people were not going to put up with it or tolerate sound doctrine anymore.  You see, sound doctrine shames them and makes them feel guilty and in need of the Truth to repent (2 Tim. 3:12).  It is a fact that those who preach and teach the Truth will face plenty of opposition and hardship.  As Paul said, Timothy must suffer rather than seek a way to avoid conflict, hardship, and suffering (Gal. 6:12-13). 
3. Timothy must “do the work of an evangelist.” The word “evangelist” (euaggelistou) means one who announces glad tidings, an evangelist, preacher of the Gospel, or teacher of the Gospel. Paul’s main focus in his two letters to Timothy has been the work of the Gospel preacher or evangelist.  

• A good preacher and teacher diligently studies the Word of God to present it in all its purity (1 Tim. 1:5-7; 4:13; 2 Tim. 2:15). 
• He fights the good fight of faith.  He fights against those who teach error and false doctrines that oppose the Truth of God (1 Tim. 1:18; 6:12). 
• He warns the brethren of the dangers of false doctrines and worldliness (1 Tim. 4:6). 
• He is a sound teacher of the Truth, for he loves the Truth (1 Tim. 4:11). 
• He is not a hypocrite; he lives what he preaches (1 Tim. 6:13-14). 
• He is ready to expose error and sin, for he rebukes, corrects, and encourages with great patience and teaching (2 Tim. 4:2). 
• He promotes godliness through his teachings (2 Tim. 4:2).
• He is longsuffering, slow to anger, and always exercises self-control (2 Tim. 4:2). 

By doing these things, he would fulfill his ministry. The word “ministry” means service. Timothy would fulfill his ministry by teaching the Truth no matter the outcome. All preachers and teachers must accomplish this task for the Truth to remain pure and truthful. 

II.   PAUL’S EXAMPLE OF FINISHING WELL:

“For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come. 7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 8 Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing.” (2 Timothy 4:6-8)

• Paul is Ready For His Departure:

“For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come.” (2 Timothy 4:6)

In verse 6, Paul is ready to depart from this world. The time had come for Paul’s departure from this world.  He is aware that his life is coming to an end and that his time to die is near.  

1. Paul looked toward this moment, for he said to die is gain (Philippians 1:21-22; 2 Corinthians 5:8; 1 Thessalonians 4:14).  
2. Paul was ready to be poured out like a "drink offering"(Philippians 1:23; Philippians 2:17; 2 Peter 1:14). He describes his life as being poured out as a drink offering.  
3. He compared himself to the wine poured out beside the altar in the Jewish sacrifices (Numbers 15:1-10). 

Paul’s farewell words in this verse moved me deeply!  I have seen very dear loved ones breathe their last breath.  It is hard to say goodbye, even when you know they’ll be with the Lord.  Paul is near death not because of old age but because of his work proclaiming the Gospel of our Lord and Savior. Paul’s time of death was probably around A.D. 67.  From tradition, we know that Paul was beheaded in Roman imprisonment during the reign of Nero.

• Paul Fought The Good Fight of Faith Victoriously:

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:7)

Paul was ready and aware of what was waiting for him and us.  He confidently declared that in verse 7.  

1. Paul looked at his life and said with confidence and satisfaction that he had run the race well and kept the faith. Such words move me and encourage me! Paul’s charge to Timothy was to “fight the good fight of faith...” (1 Tim. 6:12; 1 Tim. 1:18). 
2. That fight of faith was against false teachers and evildoers and the persecution against the saints.  Paul waged war against these men, and now it was time to pass the baton to faithful and fearless men who would put pressure on the ungodly (1 Cor. 15:12; 2 Cor. 11:13-15; Gal. 4:16; 1 Tim. 1:19- 20, etc.). 
3. Paul’s days of warfare had come to an end as his death was approaching.  He would no longer suffer at the hands of wicked men (2 Cor. 11:22ff).  He would no longer be looked upon as a “spectacle among men... a fool... weak... suffer hunger, thirst, nakedness, and no place to sleep... defamed and counted as the filth of the world” (1 Cor. 4:9-13). 
4. He had remained faithful to the Lord through all his trials. 
5. Through it all, Paul was never ashamed of the Gospel message (Rom. 1:16). 

Paul’s exemplary life of service and devotion to the Lord is an inspiration to my walk with my Lord!

• A Crown of Righteousness Awaits Paul:

“Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing.” (2 Timothy 4:8)

Paul knew what would lay ahead for him when he departed from this life.  

1. He knew he would receive a crown of righteousness. The crown was a metaphor. In his time, the literal crown was a laurel wreath placed upon the head of a conquering king. This was the physical victory crown that conquering kings wore when they returned from battle.   
2. The spiritual victory crown was reserved for Paul (1 Corinthians 9:25;  James 1:12; 1 Peter 5:4; Revelation 2:10). 
3. Paul remained faithful to the work God had entrusted him to do and to his faith.  
4. Thus, Paul was confident that he would receive his “crown of righteousness” from Jesus when He should return (2 Timothy 1:12).  
5. This is Judgment Day (2 Peter 3:13).  

• The day which all Christians look forward to and hope for.  
• The day they hope to be rewarded with their own “crown of righteousness” if they remain faithful as Paul did (Revelation 1:7;  Revelation 22:20).  
• That must be our most important goal in life!

There was no glorious crown upon Paul’s head, nor will there be upon ours while living in this world.  Paul suffered as a madman, for the world viewed him that way (2 Cor. 5:13), inept (2 Cor. 11:5), and cowardly (2 Cor. 10:10). Despite this terrible treatment from others, the time of his glorification had now come.  

1. Evildoers would never take this glorious crown away (1 Pet. 5:4). 
2. He would now be exalted rather than debased because he had been faithful to our Lord Jesus (1 Pet. 5:6). 
3. This crown of righteousness, exaltation, and glory would be given to Paul and to all faithful followers of the Lord Jesus Christ, those who have suffered because of persecution and evildoers as they presented the Truth and lived it out. 

Don’t we all anticipate the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ anxiously to bring us home with Him and to eternal glory?!

III.   PAUL’S FINAL REQUEST TO TIMOTHY:

“Do your best to come to me soon. 10 For Demas, in love with this present world, has deserted me and gone to Thessalonica. Crescens has gone to Galatia, Titus to Dalmatia. 11 Luke alone is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you, for he is very useful to me for ministry. 12 Tychicus I have sent to Ephesus.” (2 Timothy 4:9-12)

• Alone:

“Do your best to come to me soon. 10 For Demas, in love with this present world, has deserted me and gone to Thessalonica. Crescens has gone to Galatia, Titus to Dalmatia."  (2 Timothy 4:10)

Paul’s final words to Timothy are an urgent request.  Why?  Paul urges Timothy to come to Rome quickly so that he can see him before he dies. 

1. Paul wanted to spend his last hours with his beloved friend and traveling companion. Perhaps he felt lonely and distressed because brethren were falling away from the faith to avoid persecution.  
2. As mentioned in our text, Demas deserted Paul when he needed him and went to Thessalonica, for he loved this world (Matthew 6:19-34; 1 Timothy 6:6-10; 1 Timothy 6:17-19; 1 John 2:15). 
3. Demas was once a faithful brother in Christ (Colossians 4:14;  Philemon 24).  He was with Paul during his first Roman imprisonment (Col. 4:14; Phile. 24).  
4. Demas went back to the pleasures of this world because they were more dear to him than suffering for the cause of Christ.  

Titus was a Gentile (Galatians 2:1-4), who Paul led to faith in Christ (Titus 1:4). He worked side by side with Paul, preaching the Gospel (Acts 15:2;  2 Corinthians 8:6; 2 Corinthians 8:16-17;  2 Corinthians 2:12-13;  2 Corinthians 7:6-7; 2 Corinthians 7:13-14;  2 Corinthians 8:10; 2 Corinthians 8:17;  2 Corinthians 8:24).  Titus was left behind in Crete to continue and strengthen the work when he and Paul went there (Titus 1:5; Titus 3:12).  Paul stated in verse 10 that Titus had gone to Dalmatia, although, just like Crescens, we’re not told why he went there.  

Since all of Paul’s companions had left for various reasons, it is easy to understand why Paul wants Timothy to come quickly to see him. Demas is the only one who deserted Paul in our context.  That implies that Crescens and Titus left Paul to carry on the work of sharing the Gospel.

In verses 11-12, Paul said, 

“Luke alone is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you, for he is very useful to me for ministry. 12 Tychicus I have sent to Ephesus.”  

1. Luke was the only one with Paul.  
2. Luke was a Physician.  
3. He was with Paul during his first arrest in Judea and his first imprisonment when he went to Rome.  
4. Luke was Paul's traveling companion for much of Paul's ministry (Acts 16:10; Acts 27:1).  
5. Luke, “the beloved physician” (Col. 4:14), continued with Paul during his distress.  

Interestingly, Paul asked Timothy to bring Mark with him.  Why?  On his first missionary journey, when both Paul and Barnabas left Antioch, both got into a sharp disagreement over Mark, and both Barnabas and Mark left for Cyprus (Acts 13:13; Acts 15:36-41).  However, it is remarkable that Paul asked Timothy to bring him to Rome because he was useful to him.  This implies that Mark has grown and matured as a Christian, and the two have reconciled their differences and become close companions.  

As mentioned in verse 12, Tychicus was Paul’s beloved brother in Christ and a faithful evangelist in the Lord.  He worked sharing the Gospel in Asia Minor (Acts 20:4;  Ephesians 6:21;  Colossians 4:7;  Titus 3:12). No one knows why he sent him to Ephesus, although some suggest that Paul was "in the process of sending him to Ephesus," where he could deliver this letter to Timothy.

In verse 13, Paul makes one more final request to Timothy.

“When you come, bring the cloak that I left with Carpus at Troas, also the books, and above all the parchments.” (2 Timothy 4:13)

1. Paul had left behind his coat when he went to Troas (Acts 16:8) and needed it to keep him warm in the colder months of winter ( 2 Timothy 4:21).  
2. Paul also asked Timothy to bring the “books” (biblia) or scrolls and the “parchments” (membranas).  

• The scrolls were rolls of paper made from the papyrus plant.  Perhaps Paul was referring to portions of the Old Testament Scriptures (2 Timothy 2:15) or scrolls written by himself.  We are not told.  
• The “parchments” that Paul needed were made of tanned animal skins.  They were used to write on them.  They were also called “vellum.” 
• The “parchments” differed from the scrolls; perhaps they were Paul’s writings from the New Testament.  Some Bible students have suggested that these “parchments” were unfinished letters or letters written from churches.  Again, we are not told much.

• Hurt:

“Alexander the coppersmith did me great harm; the Lord will repay him according to his deeds. 15 Beware of him yourself, for he strongly opposed our message.” (2 Timothy 4:14-15)

Alexander stabbed Paul in the back. Paul mentions that Alexander did great harm to him, but we are not told exactly what Alexander did to harm Paul. The Scriptures mention four Alexanders in connection with Paul’s work. Alexander, the coppersmith, is most likely the same person Paul mentioned in 1 Timothy 1:20 and Acts 19:33.  

1. Alexander, the kindred of the High Priest (Acts 4:6).
2. Alexander, the town clerk of Ephesus (Acts 19:33ff).
3. Alexander who refused to repent, and Paul delivered his soul to Satan (1 Tim. 1:20).
4. Alexander of 2 Tim. 4:14, who did much evil and harm to Paul and his work (2 Tim. 4:14-15). 

This brother in Christ is another example of those Paul mentioned earlier in chapter three of this same letter who claimed to be a follower of Christ but opposed Paul, his teachings, and his work (2 Timothy 2:17-18).  When someone harms us for teaching and proclaiming the Gospel, he harms God’s work.  Because this man had harmed Paul’s work of proclaiming the Gospel, God was going to judge him or repay him for the damage he caused Paul and his work (Deuteronomy 32:35; Acts 19:33; Romans 12:19; 1 Timothy 1:20; Hebrews 10:30).  Paul warned Timothy to be aware or on guard against him because he strongly opposed the Gospel message.  He was an unrepentant brother who had no respect for God’s authority.  Paul firmly said to Timothy, “Beware” of this man.  In a few words, Timothy must keep watch and keep guard.  

• Deserted But Rescued:

“At my first defense no one came to stand by me, but all deserted me. May it not be charged against them! 17 But the Lord stood by me and strengthened me, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. So I was rescued from the lion’s mouth. 18 The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed and bring me safely into his heavenly kingdom. To him be the glory forever and ever. Amen.” (2 Timothy 4:16-18)

• Paul’s First Defense in His Roman Trial: 

“At my first defense no one came to stand by me, but all deserted me. May it not be charged against them!” (2 Timothy 4:16) 

Paul speaks in verse 16 about his initial trial before Nero’s court.  He was no stranger to giving defense in a trial setting (Acts 24:10; 25:8, 16; 26:2, 24). He said no one supported or stood by him at his first defense as a sympathizer, and everyone had deserted him.  It looks like Luke was not even with him during his first defense.  It was a time of high stress and distress for Paul and those few who were with him.  How sad that Paul was abandoned by almost everyone when he needed them the most, just because they were afraid to suffer the same afflictions and persecutions! It reminds me of Job (Job 19:13-17).  That had to be painful!   

Imagine feeling forsaken and forgotten when you’re going through high stress and affliction, and no one is there to encourage and strengthen you! 

Yet, this is precisely what our Lord and Savior experienced during his darkest and final moments. Everyone deserted our Lord and ran away!  

Those who claim to be Jesus’ followers and Paul’s supporters hurt them with their actions.  Despite this, Paul said, 

“May it not be charged (counted) against them!”  

1. Although they hurt Paul and had wronged him, he did not speak ill of them and instead asked the Lord to forgive them for their wrong decisions.  
2. He did not hold that against them!  
3. It reminds me of Stephen and our Lord Jesus (Luke 23:43; Acts 7:59-60).  
4. Paul understood why they deserted him.  
5. He also acknowledged that he was not completely alone and forsaken, for the Lord stood by him, by his side (Deuteronomy 32:6; Psalm 27:10; Job 5:17-19; Isaiah 14:1-2).

In verse 17, Paul said that the Lord strengthened him even though everyone had deserted him.  

“But the Lord stood by me and strengthened me, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. So I was rescued from the lion’s mouth.“

I love this verse!  

It is uplifting and speaks of God’s lovingkindness and faithfulness during our trials and difficulties.

1. Paul acknowledged that the Lord stood by his side and strengthened him, even though all had forsaken him in his hour of intense trial.  
2. He knew he could do all things through Jesus’ strength (Phil. 4:13).  
3. It is remarkable that though Paul was on trial for his life before Nero, he had the right presence of mind to take advantage and preach the Gospel to the Gentile audience that was present. 
4. God’s strength helped him preach the Gospel to the Gentiles (Acts 9:15-16; Romans 1:10; Phil. 1:12).  
5. Paul was well-known for taking advantage of every open door or opportunity to preach the Gospel (Acts chapters 22, 24, 26).   
6. He never gave up because the Lord was beside him and strengthened him.  
7. The Lord strengthened Paul to preach the Gospel and rescued him “from the lion’s mouth.” That is the verdict of death by Roman judgment from Nero.  
8. Paul encouraged Timothy previously to keep pressing forward without fear because the Lord would rescue him from evildoers or wicked men (2 Timothy 3:10-11).  
9. He also reminded Timothy and us that God knows how to protect His children and bring them home to Him even in death.   

IV.   FINAL GREETINGS:

“Greet Prisca and Aquila, and the household of Onesiphorus. 20 Erastus remained at Corinth, and I left Trophimus, who was ill, at Miletus. 21 Do your best to come before winter. Eubulus sends greetings to you, as do Pudens and Linus and Claudia and all the brothers.  22 The Lord be with your spirit. Grace be with you.” (2 timothy 4:19-22)

In verses 19-22, Paul begins with a final doxology as he contemplates the gracious and glorious heavenly Father. 

 “Greet Prisca and Aquila, and the household of Onesiphorus” (2 Timothy 4:19). 

Priscilla and Aquila (husband and wife) worked closely with Paul on his evangelistic journeys.  

1. They helped Paul establish a new church and were instrumental in their edification (Acts 18:2; Acts 18:18-20; Romans 16:3-5; 1 Corinthians 16:19). 
2. Paul greeted Priscilla and Aquila because they dedicated themselves to preaching the Gospel to others (Acts 8:4).   
3. They also shared the same trade as tentmakers with Paul (Acts 18:2).  

Onesiphorus apparently spent time with Paul in prison and moved on (2 Timothy 1:16). We are not told much about Onesiphorus, but Paul describes him well in 2 Timothy 1:16.

1. Onesiphorus means “profit bringer” or “help bringer,” and that’s precisely what he was doing with Paul. 
2. Onesiphorus was a continual blessing to Paul and his work (Philemon 20). 
3. He often refreshed Paul. 
4. He looked after Paul’s needs as he continued preaching the Gospel to the lost. 
5. He wasn’t ashamed of Paul’s chains.  
6. Onesiphorus was not ashamed to have a friend and brother in Christ in prison and be associated with Paul (Acts 28:20; Philippians 1:15-18;  Colossians 4:3; Colossians 4:18; Philemon 1:10; Philemon 1:13-14; Philemon 1:16).
7. He searched for Paul until he found him.  And though Rome was a huge city, Onesiphorus went from place to place to find Paul (Matthew 25:36).

 

“Erastus remained at Corinth, and I left Trophimus, who was ill, at Miletus.” (2 Timothy 4:20)

Erastus was the treasurer of the city of Corinth (Rom. 16:23). 

1. When Paul preached in Ephesus for over two years, every Jew and Greek who lived in Asia heard the Word (Acts 19:10).  
2. When Paul was on his way to Jerusalem, he passed through Macedonia, where he saw an open door to preach the Gospel.  He sent Erastus and Timothy to Macedonia to preach the Gospel in Macedonia (Acts 19:22).  Paul mentions him here in this verse. 
3. It appears that Erastus had returned home sick and was there at the time of this letter. 

Trophimus was a man of Asia who accompanied Paul on his third preaching journey at some point (Acts 20:4; Acts 21:29). 

1. He is the Ephesian Gentile who was with Paul in Jerusalem.  
2. The Jews accused Paul of bringing him unlawfully into the temple (Acts 21:29).   
3. They raised a tumult that resulted in Paul’s imprisonment.  

 

“Do your best to come before winter. Eubulus sends greetings to you, as do Pudens and Linus and Claudia and all the brothers.  22 The Lord be with your spirit. Grace be with you.”  (2 Timothy 4:21-22)

Paul ends this letter by reminding Timothy to do his best to come to him before winter arrives (2 Timothy 4:9).  Paul didn’t have much time left to live. Apparently, he wanted his long-time companion and beloved friend Timothy with him.  And though there is little known about Eubulus, Pudens, Linus, and Claudia, they and all other brethren from Rome sent their greetings to Timothy.  They were not ashamed to be associated with Paul as a preacher of the Gospel of Christ (Philippians 1:12-18).  

Paul’s final words to Timothy are from his heart,

“The Lord be with your spirit. Grace be with you.” (2 Timothy 4:22)

1. More than anyone, Paul understood the need for the Grace of God because he had received it himself. 
2. Paul’s hope is that Timothy and we would always walk in Truth to receive God’s glorious and gracious promises.  
3. Paul had finished his race of faith and had fulfilled his ministry well.  
4. He was ready to die and receive his reward.  
5. He wanted Timothy and all of us to do the same.  

So, how will you finish? Will you finish like Paul? 

CONCLUSION:

The study of this second letter to Timothy from Paul has been uplifting and refreshing to my soul.  I have benefited immensely from Paul’s written words.  They have strengthened my faith and my walk with my Lord.  In this letter, Paul reminds us of the race God has set before us and that we must finish well.  To finish that race well, we must proclaim the Word, for they are the sacred Scriptures that can make us wise unto salvation through faith in Jesus (2 Timothy 3:15).  They can also make us complete, lacking nothing (2 Timothy 3:17).  Our teaching and instruction must come from the Word.  We cannot finish the race victoriously unless we learn and grow in that Word and teach that Word to others.  The Word must be taught because we will face the judgment of God, both the living and the dead.  We all must appear in judgment (2 Cor. 5:9-11).  The Word must be proclaimed in season and out of season.  The Word must be proclaimed whether it is convenient or not.  

Paul warned Timothy about the need for diligence in always preaching the Word of God.  Why?  

1. Because people will not endure sound doctrine.  
2. They were going to gather themselves teachers according to their own desires.  
3. They were going to have tickling or itching ears.  
4. They would turn their ears away from the Truth and be turned aside to fables or myths.  

They will turn away from the Truth to find their own teachers to tell them what they want to hear, like Ahab in 2 Chronicles 18:7.  Nothing has changed today. Why? We have men who desire to do what feels good and right to them without regard to the Truth.  

1. Because they are enslaved to sin (John 8:34).  
2. Sadly, they will miss heaven.  

Throughout this letter, Paul contrasts the evil false teachers and Timothy several times.  Paul has charged Timothy to do the serious work of an evangelist, though Paul knew the heartaches and pain that came with such work.  He exhorted Timothy to be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, and fulfill his ministry.  As Paul looked back on his life, he found satisfaction because he had faithfully served the Lord and accomplished what He had entrusted him to do.  Paul was confident as he looked forward to Judgment Day and the heavenly kingdom.  He could joyfully proclaim, “I am already being offered.” In other translations, it reads, “I am already being poured out as a drink offering.” As a drink offering poured upon the altar of God, Paul suffered for proclaiming the Gospel and doing precisely the same work that he had charged Timothy.  Paul poured out his soul to Timothy to encourage Timothy to take his mantle and continue doing Paul’s work.  

Paul fought the good fight of faith.  He won his spiritual warfare as a good soldier of Christ.  He finished the task the Lord had given to him: to testify to the gospel of the grace of God (Acts 9:15-16; Acts 20:23-24; Acts 21:12-14; 1 Timothy 6:12).  He finished the race, that is, the work of proclaiming the Gospel was complete (Philippians 3:14). The Christian race allows everyone who wants to take part to be winners if they finish the race well (Matthew 20:8; 2 Timothy 4:8).  Paul finished well because he kept the faith, that is, he remained faithful to the teachings of the Scriptures and defended them with all his heart and soul (Jude 3).  

Paul was confident that because of his godly life and faithful service to God, a crown of righteousness would be reserved for him and given to him on that day.  Paul also knew what was waiting for him and us, for he said, “…and not only to me, but to all those who have loved his appearing.” However, that crown of righteousness and glory can only be awarded to us if we fight the good fight, finish the race, and keep the faith.  It demands great endurance.  Paul had accomplished this and was ready for the Lord’s appearing. 

1.  Paul fought the good fight because he did not leave the ring.
2. He did not stop fighting Satan’s work. 
3. Paul finished the race well because he did not sit down during the race and gave up.
4. He endured and continued steadfastly in that race until he finished. 
5. Paul kept the faith. 
6. He did not let go of his faith when life became difficult because he held on to his faith and put his hope in that faith until his last breath.

The crown of life and glory demands great endurance and that we fight the good fight, finish the race, and keep the faith.  Paul ends this letter with some painful words.  Demas had deserted him because he loved this present world more than the world to come.  Demas labored with Paul in the preaching of the Gospel.  The pleasures of this world broke him.  We cannot finish the race if we love this world.  We cannot keep the faith, fight the good fight, and receive the crown at His appearing if we love this world. Listen to the apostle John’s words.

"Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever. "  (1 John 2:15–17)

The love of the Father is not in us when we love this world.  When we love this world, we are going to fail.  Satan will take our love for this world and press us to abandon the Lord.  You can rest assured of that!  Loving the world makes us weak and defenseless against the attacks of our adversary. Paul is writing this down about Demas to remind and warn us! 

In this letter, Paul also mentions Alexander. Alexander claimed to be a follower of Jesus but opposed Paul and his work, preaching the Gospel. Alexander stabbed Paul in the back. Alexander did great harm to him. As Paul stated earlier in chapter 3,  Alexander was one of those Paul described as lovers of self, only having an appearance of godliness.  That is why Paul urged Timothy to watch out for Alexander, just like he said earlier about all those false Christians Timothy must avoid (2 Timothy 3:5).

In Paul’s first defense, no one stood by him. Everyone deserted him. How painful this must have been!  They abandoned Paul when he needed them to strengthen him and be with him.  Jesus experienced the same during his darkest moments on this earth.  Everyone deserted Him and ran away!  Yet Paul’s words in verse 16 were. “May it not be counted against them.” The brethren hurt Paul through their actions.  Although they wronged Paul, he asked the Lord to forgive them and not count it against them.  Paul was alone and hurt. How did he finish the race? Let us read 2 Timothy 4:17.

“But the Lord stood by me and strengthened me, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it.” 

The Lord stood with Paul and gave him strength to preach the Gospel to the Gentiles (Acts 9:15-16;  Romans 1:10;  Philippians 1:12).  Paul praised the Lord for rescuing him from every evil work and bringing him safely into the heavenly kingdom.  Despite all this forsaking and betrayal, it is remarkable that Paul kept his faith in God and trusted Him to help him carry him through.  It is a fact that everyone will let us down at some point!  

Indeed, our walk of faith is difficult, especially when we are persecuted for living a godly life in Christ Jesus.  However, Paul reminded Timothy and us to be faithful and loyal in serving the Lord until our last breath.  He urged Timothy to have self-control and endure hardship.  That same principle applies to us today.  So, we must do the work God wants us to do and endure hardship.  God will not let us down, for He is faithful.  The Lord gave Paul the strength he needed. Paul reminded Timothy of what the Lord had done for him amid hurt and hardships so that he would be strong.  The Lord will strengthen us also to fight the good fight, finish the race, and keep the faith.

Paul wants to remind us that we are not alone even when we feel hurt, betrayed, and alone.  Paul reminds us of God’s steadfast love and protection even in death, for He wants to bring us home to Him.  We need Paul’s confidence in God.   

       

Thus, how will you finish? Will you finish like Paul? Although Paul was abandoned, alone, had no one to encourage him, and had great harm done to him, he did not allow those things to keep him from finishing the race of his faith. We must not stop fighting the fight but finish the race well when others hurt us, abandon us, and let us down.  We must not fail, for we will lose what is waiting for us,  the crown of righteousness. We must keep going and keep them from taking our reward away. We must not turn back and love this world; we will lose what is laid up for us.  We must stand up in the faith, proclaim the Gospel, endure hardship, and finish the race victoriously.  Let us stand up for Christ and His righteousness when it is convenient and inconvenient!

May we finish our race of faith well and proclaim the Word, for they are the sacred Scriptures that can make us wise unto salvation through faith in Jesus.  May we grow in God's Word to teach it to others and finish victoriously.   May we be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, and proclaim the Gospel to others to save them.  May we look back at the end of our lives and find satisfaction as Paul did because we have faithfully served our Lord.  May we keep the faith, remain faithful to the teachings of the Scriptures, and defend them with all our hearts and souls.  May we never love this world but rather fight our good fight of faith and keep our faith to finish well and receive our crown of righteousness reserved for us in heaven.

~Luci

RUN WITH ENDURANCE!

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.  3 Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or faint hearted. 4 In your struggle against sin you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood… 12 Therefore lift your drooping hands and strengthen your weak knees, 13 and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be put out of joint but rather be healed. “  

Hebrews 12:1-13

I was hacked by a clever, vile, and hateful hacker on Facebook.  The hacker overcame all available security and changed my password and email address.  It is unclear how he found unrestricted access to my Facebook account.  Once this evil hacker had access to my account, he changed my profile picture for an offensive, racist, and obnoxious one, intending to imply that Christians are vile racists so that Facebook might be justified in shutting down my account.  That allowed Facebook to shut down my account for almost two days.  I've been treated as a criminal and attacked unjustly because of my faith in Christ. I am stunned that there is so much hate and evil in the hearts of such people.  They hate the Bible and all things sacred but, ultimately, their own God.  They are God-haters whose only purpose is to declare war on all faithful Christians. 

“An unjust man is an abomination to the righteous, but one whose way is straight is an abomination to the wicked.”  (Proverbs 29:27)

One thing that is clear to me is that we Christians are surrounded by God-hating and Bible-hating people whose primary purpose is to tear us apart.  These God-haters are against everything sacred and holy and are determined to declare war on us.  Of course, they are Satan’s ministers.  They look for opportunities to attack the Bible and Christ and to ridicule Christians.  Such men are shameless!  They are determined to drive a stake into the heart of God and Christians.  However, I am not ashamed of my Lord and His Gospel. I am a soldier in the Lord’s Army!  My Lord Jesus will help me be faithful to the fight of my faith until my race is finished.  I will never surrender to the Enemy!  I will not compromise my faith and devotion to my Lord, not for my friends, family, foes, or brethren.  I am a soldier, marching heavenward, claiming victory as I walk the narrow way.  Here I stand for my Lord!  Will you stand with me?

 I.    NOT ASHAMED!

“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, 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. 14 By the Holy Spirit who dwells within us, guard the good deposit entrusted to you.  15 You are aware that all who are in Asia turned away from me, among whom are Phygelus and Hermogenes. 16 May the Lord grant mercy to the household of Onesiphorus, for he often refreshed me and was not ashamed of my chains, 17 but when he arrived in Rome he searched for me earnestly and found me— 18 may the Lord grant him to find mercy from the Lord on that day!—and you well know all the service he rendered at Ephesus.”  (2 Timothy 1:8-18)

The apostle Paul wrote this letter to Timothy to encourage and strengthen his faith because of what he was enduring. Suffering and hardship can indeed shake our faith.  Paul wanted to make sure that Timothy knew he was praying for him and his sincere faith.  Paul encouraged Timothy to use his God-given gifts and not be ashamed of Jesus or of him because he was in prison.  Our Lord wants us to stand faithful even amid nasty opposition.  All who want to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.  And though we will be persecuted for proclaiming the Gospel and our faithfulness, God expects us to teach the Gospel even when it is not convenient or favorable.  

Usually, we serve God and teach others the Gospel when all is well and safe.  

1. We must be willing to preach and teach the Gospel to others, even when it is difficult. 
2. We must not bend to cultural or governmental pressure to keep us from teaching the good news of Jesus. 
3. We must keep going when the times are difficult. I believe this is what has happened to Timothy.  And though Timothy did not give up, he stepped back because the times were difficult.
4. We must never be ashamed of our Lord Jesus and the Gospel, no matter our circumstances!

Consider why we must not be ashamed but rather stand faithfully and unashamed of Jesus.  

• Who Saved Us:   (2 Timothy 1:9-10)

"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."

We must acknowledge until our last breath what our Lord did for us.  We’re ashamed of Jesus when we forget and do not appreciate what He did for us.  Jesus saved us and called us to a holy calling because of His own purpose and Grace before time began. God’s purpose was to save and show us His Grace before the world's creation.  God’s purpose for us is life and immortality.  So, how can we be ashamed of our Lord and what He did for us? How can we be ashamed of our Deliverer? How can we be ashamed of our hope? How can we be ashamed of the abundant life He has brought to us?

• Know Whom You Have Believed:   (2 Timothy 1:11-12)

"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."

 

Paul acknowledges that he suffered because of the Gospel Message, which he was appointed to preach and teach.  However, Paul is not ashamed despite suffering from preaching the Gospel.  How was Paul not ashamed even though he was suffering and in prison? He was not ashamed because he knew whom he had believed in and was persuaded that the Lord would guard what had been entrusted to him until that day. Paul acknowledged whom he believed in, our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Paul was willing to suffer for the Gospel.  He endured the shame because he knew whom he had believed and was convinced of the vindication he would receive on that day. Paul was not afraid of public opinion because he knew whom he believed in.  And so must we!

• Hold On To What You Have:   (2 Timothy 1:13-14)

"Follow the pattern of the sound words that you have heard from me, in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. 14 By the Holy Spirit who dwells within us, guard the good deposit entrusted to you."

We must hold on to what we have. What is it that we must hold on to?  Sound teaching or doctrine in the faith and love in Christ Jesus. Holding on to sound teaching will lead us to a life of faith and love. Thus, we must guard that sound teaching through the inspired Word of God that lives in us.  We are never alone when we hold on to sound faith in Jesus.  We’re given a treasure that we must hold on to and guard.  God will help our efforts and our devoted service to Him.  He will support us, and that is all we need.  So we must not be ashamed and give up!   Verses 13-14 are similar to what Paul told the Christians in Philippi.

“Therefore, my dear friends, just as you have always obeyed, so now, not only in my presence but even more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God who is working in you both to will and to work according to his good purpose.” (Philippians 2:12–13)

God is working in us as we are working for Him.  Thus, I am not ashamed because I know God is with me.  He is upholding and supporting me while I suffer shame for His sake.  So, I am determined to hold on to Him and not give up proclaiming His Gospel Message!  

• Failing To Hold On:   (2 Timothy 1:15)

"You are aware that all who are in Asia turned away from me, among whom are Phygelus and Hermogenes."

In verse 15, Paul warns us. The warning is disheartening and crushing. Listen to Paul’s words: “You are aware that all who are in Asia turned away from me.”  Sadly, many were ashamed of Paul and the testimony of our Lord.  

• Everyone in Asia had deserted him. 
• Everyone bailed out when things got ugly and difficult.  
• Everyone left him.  
• Our faithfulness and devoted service to God will make others turn away from us.  
• Many will be ashamed of us and our faithfulness.  
• They will turn away or desert us.  
• They will turn their backs on us when the shame is cast on us.  

However, we must not allow it to shake us, for we must know who we believe and serve.  The hurt stings even stronger when it comes from brethren of the same precious faith.  This was precisely what Paul experienced.  The brethren deserted Paul and refused to stand firm with him because they were ashamed of him and the Gospel.  Sadly, many will be ashamed and fall back when it gets hard!

• Mercy To Those Who Hold On:   (2 Timothy 1:16-18)

"May the Lord grant mercy to the household of Onesiphorus, for he often refreshed me and was not ashamed of my chains, 17 but when he arrived in Rome he searched for me earnestly and found me— 18 may the Lord grant him to find mercy from the Lord on that day!—and you well know all the service he rendered at Ephesus.”

In verses 16-18, we notice that there was one who did not shrink back and was not ashamed of Paul’s chains. His name was Onesiphorus.  This man refreshed and encouraged Paul while he was in prison.  He went out of his way, searching all over Rome to find Paul so that he could refresh and encourage Paul.  God gives mercy to those who are not ashamed of Him and His sound teaching. Mercy will be given to those holding onto God's treasure, the Gospel.  God is with us!  Listen to Jesus’ words in the book of Revelation.

"Then he said to me, 'It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. I will freely give to the thirsty from the spring of the water of life. 7 The one who conquers will inherit these things, and I will be his God, and he will be my son. 8 But the cowards, faithless, detestable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars—their share will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur, which is the second death.'" (Revelation 21:6-8)

Those who hold on, are not ashamed, and do not shrink back will inherit the spring of the water of life. The Lord will be their God, and they will be His children forever. However, listen to what will happen in verse 8 to those whose share is not with the Lord but with the second death.  Are you surprised? The cowards and faithless will have their share with the second death. 

• Mercy is not given to the cowards and faithless. 
• Mercy is not given to those who bend under pressure. 
• Mercy is not given to those who waver because of public opinion and persecution. 
• Mercy is not given to those ashamed of our Lord and His Gospel. 

Listen to Jesus’ words.

"Then he said to them all, 'If anyone wants to follow after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life because of me will save it. For what does it benefit someone if he gains the whole world, and yet loses or forfeits himself? For whoever is ashamed of me and my words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when he comes in his glory and that of the Father and the holy angels.'"  (Luke 9:23-26)

Why would so many strive to save their lives and be unwilling to lose their lives for Jesus, our Lord and Savior?  Because they are ashamed of Him and His words.  Jesus will be ashamed of them when He comes in glory.  This ought to shake us to our core!

CONCLUSION:

In Matthew 5:10-12, Jesus spoke of how the faithful will be treated.

"Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.  11 Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. 12 Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.'"

Jesus said we would be blessed when hated (Luke 6:22-23).  

"Blessed are you when people hate you and when they exclude you and revile you and spurn your name as evil, on account of the Son of Man! 23 Rejoice in that day, and leap for joy, for behold, your reward is great in heaven; for so their fathers did to the prophets."

Sadly, the faithful of God are looked at as troublemakers (Acts 17:1-6).   As we study the New Testament, the mistreatment of the saints is apparent (Acts 6:8-14; Acts 7:51-60; Romans 3:8; I Thessalonians 3:1-5; I Peter 3:16-17; John 3:13, etc.).  Jesus could not hide his disgust toward the hard-hearted (Mark 3:1-6 and John 2:13-17).  When the godly and righteous of God are filled with the Word of God, they will be hated and persecuted (Jeremiah 6:11 and Jeremiah 15:16-17; cf. Acts 18:5-6). 

When we recognize what God has done for us through His beloved Son, we will not be ashamed because we know who we have believed.  

• We are not ashamed because we know God will do just as He promised.  
• We are not ashamed because we know God will vindicate us for our faith and faithfulness to Him. 
• He will not be ashamed of us at the end of our journey.  

Thus, we must hold on to the treasure we have: God’s sound teaching, which He has given to us. Such sound teaching has the power to transform our lives of sin with faith and love. God will show mercy to those who are not ashamed of Him and His words. However, those who are ashamed of Him, the cowards, will have their part in the lake of fire, the second death. They will not partake of the glorious kingdom of God. Jesus will be ashamed of us.  

• If we deny Jesus, He will deny us.  
• If we disown Him, He will disown us.  
• If we do not stand up for Him, He will not stand up for us. 
• If we renounce Him, He will renounce us.  

Knowing this, let us not give up, quit, and stop pressing forward.  It is sad that many stopped walking faithfully with God when life became difficult!  

Jesus, our Lord and Savior, is our ultimate example. He is our visible proof of future glory, for He endured hardship and suffering.  Jesus was willing to suffer shame, pain, rejection, and death. Because of His work and suffering, He received the reward and was raised from the dead and exalted to God’s right hand.  Paul also walked the narrow path of faith.  Paul suffered for the Gospel, even to the point of being bound in chains like a criminal.  However, he endured everything for the sake of Jesus. Like Jesus, he endured for us.  He endured everything so that others might receive salvation found in Jesus.  

“Therefore I endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.” (2 Timothy 2:10)

Paul wanted Timothy and us to remember Jesus’ sacrifice and suffering so that we might obtain salvation and eternal glory. Like Jesus, Paul sacrificed himself, being in chains and suffering, so that others might obtain salvation and eternal glory. That is what a good soldier, an athlete, and a farmer do. They fight, compete, and work hard. We must also follow the same model. 

When we die with Jesus and give our lives to Him, we will live with Him. Paul knew in whom he believed.  He endured because he was convinced he would reign with Him on that final day (2 Timothy 1:12).  Like Paul if we endure, we will also reign with Him.  Therefore, do not be ashamed and give up.  Do not let go of the treasure that you have. But instead, be willing to suffer even shame. Be willing to give your life to your Lord. We must be willing to lose our lives to reign with our Lord. If we endure until the end, God will put us on His throne.  What an amazing promise!  

Lastly, if we are faithless, He remains faithful, for He cannot deny Himself.  And though we might fall, fail, become weak in our faith, and let God down, God will remain faithful and keep His promises.  Even when we falter, God remains faithful.  Even when we seem to be sinking because we have stepped out of the boat, striving to have the faith to walk on water, God remains faithful.  He will pull us out of that water.  Even when we falter like Peter, God remains faithful and calls us back to Him to feed His sheep.  Our God will be faithful to us when we get back up and follow Him.  

Therefore, since we have these encouraging words, let us get back on track and keep fighting!  God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity. Let us not be ashamed but rather hold on to the treasure, the deposit given to us.  From a sincere heart, let us suffer together because it is not too late to be a good soldier, compete as an athlete, and be a hardworking farmer.  Remember Jesus’ example and follow Him. Be strengthened by the Grace that is in Christ Jesus. God’s plan for us is not for our lives to be comfortable or avoid hardship. God's plan for us is to endure as good and brave soldiers to receive our great reward.

May we die with Jesus and give our lives completely to Him so that we may remain faithful to Him as He is always faithful to us.  May we never be ashamed of Jesus but rather hold on to the treasure, the deposit given to us.  May we follow Jesus' example and be strengthened by the Grace that is in Him.  May we endure as good and brave soldiers for the Lord that we may receive our reward.  May we be willing to suffer shame for His sake and the sake of so many souls

Luci