[:en]SCRIPTURE: 2 TIMOTHY 2
“Be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus” (2 Timothy 2:1)
“Endure hardship with us like a good soldier of Christ Jesus” (2 Timothy 2:32)
“Flee the desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels” (2 Timothy 2:22-23)
Paul began with the word “GRACE”. Grace is God’s underserved favor on our behalf. Paul cited many things that grace can do for us.
Grace can enable us:
- To become a qualified teacher (v. 4)
- To be an enduring soldier (v. 5)
- To be a disciplined athlete (v. 5)
- To be a hardworking farmer (v. 6)
- To be a faithful workman (v. 15)
- To become holy vessels for noble purposes ( v. 20)
- To be a kind servant (v. 24)
With God’s grace, we will be able to overcome the temptations and the traps of the devil. Grace also enables us to endure hardships and withstand trials. It helps us to do good works for the glory of God.
Paul reminded Timothy about the gospel message for which he was suffering. He endured everything so that many may obtain the salvation of Christ. He warned against quarreling of words that will provoke anger and hurt feelings. Instead, focus on the central thoughts of His Word. False teachers tell lies, distort the truth, add or dilute God’s word. We should follow the solid foundation of God’s truth.
Paul advised Timothy to flee from the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace. Running away from temptation is not cowardly. On the contrary, it is the most courageous action to take. He encouraged Timothy to be kind and gentle, patient and courteous in explaining the truth to those who opposed him. By treating them respectfully and avoiding foolish debate, he may be able to lead them to the knowledge of the truth.
LESSON:
Let us strive to become a qualified teacher by studying God’s word. Let us be an enduring soldier by fighting the good fight. Let us be a disciplined athlete by learning and obeying God’s command. Let us be a hardworking farmer by planting the gospel seeds with patience. Let us be a faithful workman by standing firm through hardships. Let us be an instrument for God’s use by exercising our gifts. And let us be a Lord’s servant by living for Him and serving others. Avoid quarreling or arguing. Run away from youthful lust and anything that produce evil thoughts. Be kind to your opposers. Pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace.[:]