Among the church, today as in the days of Paul, the enemy lurked on the hunt for those whose ears were open to doubt, and deception. Because the word warns us not to believe in vain, true Christians hold the truth near their hearts and choose to believe in the one true gospel of the risen Christ, that Yeshua came to live a perfect life, then died on the cross for the sins of men. Then the savior was risen on the third day, to earthly life from which he ascended to the heavens, where He has prepared a place for each of His children.
“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.” (2 Timothy 2:14)
Paul calls on Timothy, the overseer of the Ephesian church to stand firm by the word of God, as each one teaches the same true gospel which was preached by the apostle himself, that faith in the one true Christ delivers men from sin, and that salvation comes by Yahweh’s grace and mercy. Let this be the words spread to the four corners of the earth, by which seekers are led to Christ, and believers are strengthened. For God’s glory, let our words be used toward edification, for His glory.
“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.” (2 Timothy 2:15-16)
Here Paul invites leaders to be zealous about their faith in Christ, and to confidently preach the only true gospel, separating it from darkness and deception which lead to sin, and destruction. Believers should not allow any teaching not glorifying to God within His church rather, it should be cast out into the world where blasphemy reigns.
“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.” (2 Timothy 2:17-18)
Paul calls the blasphemous teaching of some as cancerous, the type of false teaching which is not only offensive to God, but it contradicts His promise to His children. Such blasphemy is severely punished by Yahweh, and has no place within the church as the dwelling place for the truth and the means by which believers work out their salvation.
“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.” (2 Timothy 2:19)
Because the one true God is omnipresent, His creation and revelation both will soon come to pass, as Yeshua returns to triumph over evil. The truth shall be known to all men and women, so each one can choose his or her fate, as a result of their faith – or lack thereof. Those in Him who preach the truth will be rewarded accordingly, while those who oppose the truth, out to serve their own agenda will be cast out from the book of life.
“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.” (2 Timothy 2:20-21)
Paul explains how God uses all vessels, men and women within His church to perform various duties for the good of the body, that each member of the family that is the church should work as intricate parts of a well oiled machine, working for Yahweh’s glory. Paul calls on all servants to cleanse themselves of temptation by dwelling in the mighty word of God, where the truth is poured out in love.
“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.” (2 Timothy 2:22-23)
The apostle commands believers to walk in Jesus’ footsteps, pouring out forgiveness and hope to all those who choose to receive the truth about the Son of man, who came to live a perfect life, and die on the cross so that all men could be saved from the wage of their own sin, which is death. Paul calls it ignorant for disciples to take part in disputes, rather each one should focus on edification, for the benefit of each one, and for the glory of God.
“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.” (2 Timothy 2:24-26)
In the word, believers find refuge and courage to overcome life’s challenges, brought on by our creator to sculpt each servant as he and she fulfill our mission on earth, according to God’s perfect plan. By faith those in Christ are blessed to preach the truth, the gospel of Yeshua, the savior of men. 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
