2 Timothy 1:13-18 Be Loyal to the Faith

Paul, the self-proclaimed preacher to the Gentiles now addresses division within the church. In his pastoral letter to his appointed leader of the Ephesian church, Timothy, the apostle calls on the name of the Lord to bless each one according to their deeds, in tune with each one’s ways.

The year is A.D. 67 and the Christian church continues to be under attack, both by the enemy and from within. Paul warns Timothy of the importance of staying true to the gospel, to be used as a platform by which to witness to those who will listen.

13 Hold fast the pattern of sound words which you have heard from me, in faith and love which are in Christ Jesus. 14 That good thing which was committed to you, keep by the Holy Spirit who dwells in us.” (2 Timothy 1:13-14)

Paul calls on the young leader to stand fast as he awaits the Lord’s return, and is hard at work spreading the only one true gospel based on the life and death of Yeshua, the living Christ.

Timothy should preach the same true gospel which he was himself taught by Paul, which proclaims Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. This truth, entrusted to Timothy was to be spread to the four corners of the earth. But first, the truth would be tested in the Roman province of Asia.

15 This you know, that all those in Asia have turned away from me, among whom are Phygellus and Hermogenes.” (2 Timothy 1:15)

Either in Rome during his second trial, or in the province of Asia itself, Paul writes about Phygellus and Hermogenes and the fact they did nothing to defend him. Further more the apostle describes Phygellus and Hermogenes as having deserted him, fearing persecution from the enemy, disguised as Greek Philosophers, Roman Gnostics and of course, Judaizers.

16 The Lord grant mercy to the household of Onesiphorus, for he often refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chain; 17 but when he arrived in Rome, he sought me out very zealously and found me. 18 The Lord grant to him that he may find mercy from the Lord in that Day—and you know very well how many ways he ministered to me at Ephesus.” (2 Timothy 1:16-18)

On the flip side, Paul gives praises to God for his fellow laborer in Christ, brother Onesiphorus who proved faithful and even zealous for the apostle’s affection. This disciple’s devotion was pleasing to God and should be rewarded accordingly by our heavenly Father, who’s omnipresent and always watching over His children. Let us pray!

Father God;
We thank you for your blessings in our lives and for your servant Paul,
We praise you Lord for his wisdom and for his works through this scripture,
We ask you Lord to inspire us to use these verses in our lives
As we grow in you through the teachings of your faithful apostle.

Lord we ask you to strengthen us each day as we endure through battles,
Allow us to praise and love each other through faith in you Jesus,
Shield us from evil through truth, the gospel, salvation and prayer,
Guide us to abide by your word as we spread your gospel to one and all
Becoming examples of faith through our character as we walk the narrow path.

God we pray that you will continue to bless us, to bless our lives and fill us with hope
We ask you Lord to guide our footsteps and lead us to the way everlasting,
Through faith in you Lord we seek salvation and a place with you in heaven
According to your word, your everlasting wisdom and strength.

May your will be done
In our lives, for your life.

We thank you for your love and all you bless us with each day.

Praise God,
Amen!

This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
Email: DanielStPierre@ThriveThroughChrist.com

Posted in Bible Studies.

Daniel St.Pierre