2 Timothy 3:10-17
As we read last time, Paul starts chapter 3
with a list of fifteen things that will characterize many people in the “last
days”; “They will be lovers of themselves; lovers of money; boastful and proud;
abusive; disobedient to their parents; ungrateful; unholy; without love;
unforgiving; slanderous; without self-control; not lovers of the good;
treacherous, rash, and conceited; lovers of pleasure rather than God; and
finally, having a form of godliness, but denying it’s power!” Wow! When I look
at our world today – and especially our government – I have to say that we are
in the “last days!”
As a young man starting out in the
ministry, I would be thinking; “These are the people you want me to preach to,
and teach, and…love?” In his wisdom Paul seems to perceive this question, and
answers before Timothy could ask it. In verses 3:10-4:5 He gives four reasons
why Timothy would be different; or how Timothy would be able to do that which
he was called to do. It is almost like Paul points his finger at Timothy and
says; “You however…will be able because…#1. “You have me and my ministry as an example. You know all about my teaching; my way of life; my purpose; my faith; all of my persecution and suffering; and how the Lord was with me through it all!” How many mentors do you have in your life? How many people can you look up to as examples of faith and endurance?
#2. “As for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it…” (Reference to Timothy’s mother and grandmother, who were also great mentors and made sure Timothy was “brought up in the way he should go”. I believe we are taught more by example – or those who really live what they believe – than any sermon or Sunday school lesson. People who have not had such a background need to be shown (as well as taught) that life can be much different than they have known or experienced in the world. For many it can be just the opposite of what they have known!
#3. Paul says “You have known the Holy Scriptures”…”so that the man of God can be thoroughly equipped for every good work”. Just having a Bible in your hand without knowledge and understanding does you no good at all! One must constantly read it; study it; seek understanding and wisdom from it; and have the wisdom to apply it, before it can be useful in the ways Paul describes: (teaching; rebuking; correcting; and training in righteousness.)
#4. Finally in chapter 4 verse 5 – Paul says “But you…keep your head in all situations!” In other words “don’t let the devil deceive you!” Always remember, no matter what the situation or circumstance, “Greater is He that is in you, than he that is in the world!”...”God works all things out for the good of those who love Him”…I will “Lean not on my own understanding”…I will “keep my head” and know and trust the Lord whom I serve!”
Four reasons why Timothy and we can
overcome and serve the world.
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