2 Timothy 3

Verse 1-But understand this—when the words listed in verse 2-5 come upon us we have to be surprised or at a loss. Paul urges Timothy and us to be fully conversant, acquainted with last day conditions.

Then will come times of stress. With the content in mind we are being introduced to the Apostasy of the last days. In the true believer days of trial and stress.

Apostates

Are professed Christians who deliberately reject revealed truth specifically with regard to

1. The duty of Christ (they humanize God and deify man.)

2. The redemption through Christ’s atoning and redeeming sacrifice

3. The personality of the Holy Spirit

Yet according to verse 5 though they depart from the faith, they retain the outward profession of Christianity, but deny its power.

Apostasy = rebellion against God

Apostasy differs from error concerning the truth which could be the result of ignorance and the snare of the devil. Error can and does exist with true faith.

There is hope for one in error. See Chapter 2 verses 25 and 26.

But there is no hope for the Apostate. Hebrews 6-4.

“It is impossible” to renew them again unto repentance. An accurate biblical description of the apostate teacher is as follows:

2 Timothy 4:3

They will propagate unsound doctrine

They will discard the truth

They will accept as truth, fables

They will satisfy the intellectual cravings—the itching ears of the intelligent

2 Peter 2

They will bring in damnable or destructive _. They will deny the Lord.

Jude

They have gone in the way of Cain—bloodless religion. They follow gainsaying despise the authority of the scriptures, and the Preaching of the Holy Spirit. This mouth speaketh great swelling words. I.E. They are eloquent and persuasive and influence many.

The Broad Division of the Chapter

Paul in verse 1-9 acquaints Timothy with the prophecy of the coming apostasy. Then in v. 10-17 acquaints him with the power to withstand the apostasy.

Verse 2 to 6a

Gives a vivid picture of the present and coming moral depravity.

Verse 5B-Issues us with the command to turn away from such.

Verses 6 to 9-Graphically depicts the work of the apostates. Every informed believer is painfully aware of the fearful apostasy that is sweeping over Christianity today.

Verses 2 to4.

The sordid list begins with “lovers of their own selves” and ends in characteristic style, “lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God.” Verse 4.

This condition can be summed up. “Lack of love for God.” The word “covetousness” is rendered in the R.S.V. “lovers of money.” To sum up the characteristics of the last days are apostates. The come with within the framework of profaning Christianity.

1. Men are lovers of their own selves-1 Timothy 6

2. Men are lovers of money

3. Men are lovers of pleasure

4. Men have no love for God

Verses 5 to 7-Goives is a description of their religion. These apostates are not self-acknowledged pagans, but rather professed adherents of Christianity. They maintain a form of godliness, but in reality they deny the powers.

The aforementioned list has much in common with that found in Romans 1, but with this tragic difference.

Then Paul draws the picture of dark heathenism here, the picture is that of a society enjoying the light of Christian revelation.

It is a fearful picture of an apostate Christian, a new paganism, masquerading under the name of Christianity. From these wicked men we must turn away (V. 5B). These men have reached a stage of depravity, where instruction is useless and impractical. They must be avoided.

From verse 2 to 7 we have the conditions that will be apparent during the last days. Silly women-verse 6. Evil men-verse 13.

Verse 8-Gives us an O.T. example of apostasy. Compare Exodus 7.

Describe the circumstances.

These magicians did not create nor form these serpents, but through slight of the hand and cunning they produced them. They worked in precisely the same way as magicians do today. Paul says that they opposed Moses. They sought to discredit him. By this miracle Moses was authenticating his plea for the liberation of the Israelites, demonstrating by the miracle that God was behind it all. Those sorcerers, whom Paul names Jannis and Jambres, by these actions opposed not only Moses and truth, but God. They appeared to be doing the same thing, but actually were deceivers. They did not get very far, they were unmasked and exposed as counterfeits, for Aaron’s rod swallowed up the other rods.

The point then and the point now is the opposition to the truth. So Paul says, do not be discouraged—these apostates who resist the truth will be exposed, then fully, will be made manifest to all. Verse 10.

If not in our lifetime, then surely when the Lord comes.

Verses 10 to 17 Gives us the power to meet the coming apostasy. It is divided into two sections.

Verses 10 to 13-Timothy will find strength and encouragement in remembering his past association with Paul.

4. Verses 14 to 17-The final source of power to withstand the pressures and stress of the last days is to be found in the scripture.

Paul lists nine times which graphically describe his life and service. Verses 10 to 11 A.

The teaching—conduct—purpose—faith—long suffering—love—patience—persecutions—and suffering.

Next Paul describes what “kind of sufferings” which befell him at Antioch-Iconium-Lystra Verse 11 B.

These sufferings are fully described in Acts 13 and 14. The first missionary journey.

1. Departing from Antioch (Syria) he came to Antioch (Pisedia). The conflict was probably more spiritual. He turned from the Jews to the Gentiles.

2. Iconium-They had to flee for their lives, the people threatened to stone them.

3. Lystra-the pent up fury of the man of Ant.-Icon.-Lystra was let loose upon him, he was stoned and drawn out of the city as dead, then the disciples stood around the motionless body, he stood up and the next day he departed.

Timothy knew this, for this was him hometown. Paul’s summation of this outburst of devilish activity, “and out of them all the Lord delivered me.” For further account of Paul’s sufferings, read 2 Corinthians 11:24-27.

“The Lord is able.” This was encouraging to Timothy.

The explanation of his sufferings, five reasons.

1. Verse 12-It is the portion of the godly. “They that live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.”

2. A further reason for suffering is the growing degeneracy of the wicked. Verse 13

Verses 2 to 5 Evil men—and imposters—verse 6-9, will go from bad to worse, they will deceive (others) and openly oppose the truth to the hurt of the true believers.

Verses 14 to 17 (2) The second thing, perhaps the main thing that will help him to stand is “The power of the scriptures.” Romans 1:6- The power of God, Hebrews 4:12

The remembrance of Paul’s sufferings and miraculous deliverance will undergird Timothy; but his ultimate source of power to withstand the pressure of evil days and man is to be found in the scripture. Ch. 1:7

Chapter 1 verse 5-He reminds him of the teaching and teachers, v.14. His personal knowledge of his teachers assures him of the absolute reliability of the things that he had learned.

Verse 15-Stress this verse—this is the way to best apostasy. The ultimate source and authority for his ‘FAITH’ was the “Word of God.” Settled in heaven. Shall now pass away.

In salvation (present) as well as past and future Timothy had to continue to believe the veracity of the Scriptures.

Verse 16-The Inspiration of the Scriptures

All scripture is inspired by God. Inspired by God—only time used in the N.T. meaning “God breathed.” It shows us that the scripture owes its origin and character to the living Holy Spirit.

2 Peter 1:2.

For the prophecy came not in old times by the will of man: but holy man of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Spirit. Israel, Jeremiah, Peter, John, Paul.

Inspiration is not mechanical. The Holy Spirit did not destroy the personality of the writers, but rather used these things to express diving truth in to present, perfect, and infallible form. Since every scripture is “God breathed,” it follows that it is profitable for:

1. teaching

2. instruction in doctrinal truth

3. for reproof—detecting and exposing falsehoods

4. for correction—in restoration

5. for instruction in training in righteousness = the character of quality of being right or just—for the Christian it is the text book—compass—staff—power.

“Instruction” literally mean, “child training.” Every believer needs to be educated, trained, and disciplined in righteousness. The contemplated result, “That the man of God may be complete, equipped to withstand evil, for every good work.”

Whenever the scripture is given room to work in a person’s life, it will secure for that person a continuous growing and a capacity and readiness to accomplish the perfect will of God.

To sum it up, the teaching of 2 Timothy 3:

1. Warns us of present and coming moral depravity

2. The godly shall suffer persecution

3. The final source of power to overcome is found in the Holy Scriptures

2 Timothy 4

As Paul comes to the end of his letter he wishes to invigorate and challenge Timothy as to the task before him.

To do this he reminds him of some things about the Lord Jesus.

1. “I charge you before God, etc.” The Lord Jesus is the Judge of the living and the dead. The Lord Jesus will judge the believers at the Judgment Seat of Christ. The Lord Jesus will judge the unbelievers at the Great White Throne. Believers today must perform every task in such a way that they can offer it to Christ. We must strive to attain the commendation, “Well done thou good and faithful servant.”

2. I charge you, says Paul, by His appearing. We should live our lives and perform our Christian duty in the conscious nearness of Christ’s return. “He that hath this hope in him purifieth himself even as He is pure.”

Our work must be such that it will stand the scrutiny of Christ. Our lives must be such that they will welcome the appearance of the King. Our service must be such that it will demonstrate the reality of our citizenship on the kingdom of God.

Nowhere in the New Testament are the duties of the teacher and preacher set forth more clearly than here. Verse 2 gives us the nature of the charge—before God and the Lord Jesus Christ. There are five imperatives set forth with the force of military commands. There is an authoritative ring and a deep sense of urgency.

1. Preach the Word. Teach the Word. Preach the Gospel. The picture here is of a herald making a proclamation on behalf of another. God has committed to us the message of reconciliation. To us, upon whom the end of the age is come. Stress the urgency of this, the whole counsel of God.

2. Instant in season and out of season. One thing that is demanded of a herald is consistency, insistency and urgency. Whether circumstances are opportune or inopportune, we have to sow beside all waters. Redeem the one, or buy up opportunities. Ephesians 5:16

3. The next three commands follow in quick succession.

Reprove—convict of convince those who are erring.

Rebuke—an erring saint or an unregenerate person must be reprimanded using the Word. This must be done in love. The heinousness of sin must never be toned down.

Exhort—the true teacher must encourage the discouraged. He must strengthen the feeble knees, and lift up the hands that fall down. Comfort. He must do these things with all longsuffering, self restraint, patience.

Verses 3 to 4 give us the reason for this charge. The time will come when people will not tolerate sound doctrine. They will seek out teachers to satisfy their itching ears.

They will turn from the truth, and seek after myths, and man-made fiction.

In the light of these ever-present evils, the exhortation of verse 5 is important.

1. Watch those in all things. Be on the alert, constantly for error. Titus 1:9. Be calm and cool and steady. 1 Corinthians 15-“Be ye steadfast, unmovable, always abounding, etc.” Joshua 1

2. Endure Sufferings—difficult days ahead. Suffer unflinchingly every hardship. Chapter 3 to 12. “Endure hardness as a good solider, etc.” Chapter 2 and 3

3. Do the work of an evangelist. The manifold tasks…the harassing difficulties…the hostility and opposition…must not hinder from being an evangelist. See sheet.

4. Fulfill thy ministry. Leave no act of service unfulfilled. “Make full proof of thy ministry.” Deuteronomy 6:6-9. Verse 5 is a ministry fulfilled. Timothy, Paul.

These verses constitute one of the greatest testimonies of all times to Christian fortitude and victory, especially when given in the face of impending death.

Verse 7-Gives us Paul’s life in retrospect.

Verse 8- Gives us Paul’s life in prospect.

Verse 9- Gives us Paul’s life in introspect.

Verse 6-“See I am no ready to be offered.” I am already being offered. Paul sees himself as already being poured out as a drink offering. All hopes of liberation had been shattered at his first trial before Nero. Verses 16 and 17.

Paul doesn’t refer to his maturation in grim terms of death, but rather pictures his death as a drink offering being poured out for the glory of God.

The apostle’s life had been a living sacrifice. His death is comparable to the pouring out of the wine as the last act of the sacrificial ceremony. What was a grave possibility in Phil. 2-17 is now a solemn certainty. “Even if I am to be poured as a liberation upon the sacrifice and offering of your faith.”

“And the time of my departure is at hand.” The word “departure” is a common expression for death. It means a loosening. It was used to depict the loosening of tent cords when breaking camp or the loosening of the ropes that tie the ship to the dock.

Paul thinks of his death as the departure after a brief camp. Or the sailing of a ship after a short stay in port.

Such was Paul’s evaluation of his present grim circumstances. Not a doubt, nor a fear. Philippians 1:20, “That Christ may be magnified in my body, whether by life or by death.”

Verse 21-“To live is Christ…to die is gain.” Such was Paul’s life in retrospect. He summarizes his life in three concise statements:

1. I have fought a good fight

2. I have finished the course

3. I have kept the faith

(1) I have fought a good fight.

The picture here is of a contest in the well-known Goal games. The athlete struggling for supremacy in the wrestling area or boxing ring. Paul literally is saying, “I have fought the grueling, agonizing contest to the bitter end.”

His life had been one continuous conflict against wicked men and Satanic forces. Ephesians 6, “We wrestle.”

The words, “I have fought” denotes completion, the contest is over. Oh the glory and grandeur and wonder of such a statement.

(2) “I have finished the course”

The figure here is specifically that of the fast race. He compares his apostolic career to that of a strenuous race. With his eyes fixed on the goal, he had driven himself relentlessly to win the prize. Philippians 3:13-14. Now the race is over, he rests at the goal and looks back over a completed course.

(3) “I have kept the faith”

He drops the figures now and states the literal face. This is “the faith” which is the whole spectrum of divine revelation and Christian doctrine. Amidst diabolic opposition and despite attacks from foes and false friends, he held tenaciously to the truth revealed to him by God.

Now he is ready to give account of his stewardship to God. He feel sincerely that he had fulfilled every obligation every laid upon him. I have fought a good fight, I have run a good race, I have kept the faith.

With one foot in the grave…but with his hear already in heaven, he raises this cry of victory to encourage young Timothy and us, just as the last dying cry of the mortally wounded general inspires his flagging troops to new courage and daring.

Verse 8-“Henceforth there is laid for me a crown of righteousness,” etc. We have considered Paul’s life in introspect—retrospect. Now we will consider his life in prospect.

Paul contemplates the future with intrepidity, he rejoices at what lies before him. A crown of righteousness.

He will receive this crown from the Lord—the righteous judge. He will receive it “at that day”—the Judgment Seat of Christ.

This crown is for all those that love Christ’s appearing.

Verses 9 to 12-As we draw to the conclusion of this exquisite letter we are confronted with a sad set of circumstances. First of all, we see a lonely warrior of Christ. Quote verse 9.

Verse 13-When you come, bring my cloak with you. Bring the books and the parchments. Shivery in his cold, damp cell, Paul longs for his cloak, his books, and his parchments. He longed for the companionship of Timothy and Mark. Before anyone reached him, he was decapitated.

In verse 10 thru 12, Paul describes some of his companions. Paul was hurt at the departure of Demas. Demas had been his trusted friend and fellow worker during his first imprisonment. Colossians 4:14, Philemon 2:11. Now he “forsook” Paul—abandoned him—in the face of adversity. The reason for leaving Paul gives “as he had fallen in love with the present world.”

Crescens and Titus probably had been sent by Paul on missionary journeys. “Only Luke is with me.”

Faithful Luke was Paul’s constant companion. As the beloved physician (Colossians 4:14) he was Paul’s doctor—friend—confidant—fellow worker.

Apparently he wrote this letter for Paul, faithful to the end.

Verse 11-Mark had redeemed himself. It was overheard that Paul and Barnabus had fell out. Paul now had full confidence in him and urged Timothy to bring him along, as he would be very helpful in the ministry.

Verse 12-Tuchicus had been sent to Ephesus. Delivered the letter to the Colossians. Colossians 4:7.

Verse 14-Alexander the coppersmith probably bore false witness against Paul.

Verses 16 to 18-Describe the scene of Paul standing alone. Just like the Lord, he prayed that those who could have helped, but didn’t, will not be charged with their sin.

Though forsaken by his friends, triumphantly he announces, “The Lord stood by me, and gave me strength to proclaim the Word fully.”

This veteran warrior gave no quarter and expected none, he knew no compromise. Boldly he stood before his foes, principalities, powers, rulers of the darkness and spiritual wickedness in high places. Though literally pleading for his life, he uncompromisingly proclaimed the unsearchable riches of Christ.

The Lord delivered him and honored him on this occasion.

Verse 19-The Lord will deliver me from the vicious activities of my enemies. Please note—not deliverance from death.

Soon Paul will lay his head on the executioner’s block, and pass into the presence of God through gates of splendor.

The knowledge of what God has done and would yet do filled his soul with praise, giving birth to the doxology. “To Him be the glory forever and ever, Amen.”

Verses 19 to 21-Paul sends greetings to a few of his friends. Priscilla and Aquilla-husband and wife, lifelong friends of Paul, mentioned six times in the N.T.

Oneisephorus who had sought out Paul diligently and ministered to him in peril of his life.

Verse 20-Paul explains the absence of two of his companions. Erastus was still in Corinth. Trophineus was sick and had been left in Miletos.

Verse 22-He names several in this verse of whom we knew little about, but Paul knew them and loved them and sent their greetings to Timothy.

All the brethren in Rome sent their greetings to Timothy.

Verse 22-The closing benediction. “The Lord Jesus Christ be with thy Spirit.” “Grace be with you.”

This may have been the last message that Paul gave to Timothy.

Lukewarmness at Laodicea

There was no gross immorality at Laodicea. If thee were adulterers – murderers – thieves etc. the Lord does not mention it. The charges against them were that they were lukewarm verse 16 – proud verse 17 – needy without knowing it verse 17. They had a form of godliness – but possessed no power (2 Timothy 3:5). They possessed a great indifference to their Lord.

The Laodicean Christians were like apostate Israel in many ways. To be more pointed they are like many assemblies of the present day. They hold rigidly to scriptural truths – priding themselves in correctness of form. Mentioning frequently the great teachers and evangelists who went in and out among them during the past century.

But where are their hearts? Where is their power?

We need to issue the call to repentance, individually and corporately. Individuals must repent – assemblies must repent.

Fellowship (Lack of)

The person in love longs to be with the one he loves. A young man will make opportunities to fellowship with his girl friends. True love is strengthened by being together in companionship and fellowship/partnership. How barren and meaningless human love is when lovers are content to be apart. Bringing this thought into the spiritual sphere – remember how strong our desire was while in our first love to be constantly in the Lords presence. There was a longing for God’s presence – an unsatisfied longing an unfulfilled yearning.

Psalm 42:1-2 Longing for God

“As the deer panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee oh God. My soul thirsteth for God, the living God; when shall I come and appear before Him.”

With subdued heart you poured over the Word. We emptied our very soul in prayer, in thanksgiving, and in worship, reveling in the glory of the Lord’s presence. We rejoiced exultant with David when he said in Psalm 63 Oh Lord Thou art my God, my soul thirsteth for Thee, my flesh longeth for Thee as a dry and thirsty land. My soul shall be satisfied with Thee. My soul will follow close behind Thee.

Not only had you a longing for God, but there was also a deep thirsting for Him.

We experienced the happiness of those who hunger and thirst after righteousness (Matthew 18-20). Also, as we drank from Christ, the living fountain, there flowed from our life rivers of living water (John 7-38).

Remember when we realized and appreciated the truth of Matt. 18-20; that where two or three were gathered together in the name of the Lord Jesus, He would be in their midst.

As we sat in His presence, our heart was filled with joy unspeakable and your desire and delight was with the Lord in the midst of His people. (Psalm 22-22)

Like David, your soul fainted for the courts of the Lord, your heart and your flesh cried out for the living God (Psalm 84).

With the psalmist you would say; truthfully and sincerely, “My heart breaketh because for the longing it has at all times for the Lord.” (Psalm 119-20).

Your desire for God was insatiable, your whole being cried out – “One thing have I desired of the Lord and that will I seek after that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord and to inquire in His temple.”

For many believers the pristine joy and the ardent craving for the Lord’s presence is a thing of the past.

Paul says to such what he said to the Galatians: “Where is the blessedness you once spoke of.” (Galatians 4-15). “O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you” (Galatians 3-1). Today, there is a dreadful absence among believers of the burning desire to fellowship with the Lover of their souls.

Burning desire “There was a man sent from God, whose name was John.” John was a burning and a shining light. Emmaus disciples “did not our hearts burn within us” etc. (see sheet no. 3)

May we in repentance return to our first love and say with the godly Israelite. Psalm 137:5-6 “If I forget thee, O Jerusalem, let my right hand forget her cunning. If I do not remember thee – if I prefer not Jerusalem above my chief joy, let my tongue cleave to the roof of my mouth.”

The majority of us must admit to the lack of real fellowship with the Father and Son and with one another. Confession restores fellowship. Verse 9. If we confess our sin.

1. Christ for me…For me to live is Christ. “Oh Christ Thou art enough the heart and mind to fill”

“O fix our honest gaze so wholly Lord on Thee that with Thy beauty occupied we no one else may see”

What is thy beloved more than another beloved? My beloved is white and ruddy, the chiefant among ten thousand. Yea, He is altogether lovely. This is my beloved, this is my friend. Song of Solomon 5:9, 10, 16

Thou art fairer than the children of men. Grace is poured into thy lips; therefore God hath blessed Thee forever. (Psalm 45-2)

2. Like Daniel we opened our windows toward heaven kneeled upon our knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before God.

Or like the Psalmist, we called upon God, evening, morning and noon knowing that He heard our voice. (Daniel 6:10 and Psalm 55:17)

3. “Behold God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid; for the Lord, even the Lord, is my strength and my song; He also is become my salvation. Therefore with joy shall ye draw water out of the well of salvation.” (Isaiah 12:2-3).

“And He walked with me, and He talked with me, and He told me, I was His own. And the joy we shared, as we gathered there, none other has ever known.”

Lack Of Desire To Serve

One of the greatest indications of strong human love is the desire to serve. No task is too great. The greater the effort – the more demanding the sacrifice, the greater the satisfaction.

Written on the pages of time are stories which show the immeasurable sacrifice to which some have gone to serve God, their fellow man, and thereby demonstrated their great love.

Mary’s box of precious – costly perfume. 300 pence – a year’s wages. David’s mighty men (2 Samuel 23:15-17). Lady Grimbold.

Many a young believer has the overwhelming desire to serve the Lord. In the zeal of their first love they would gladly rise from the altar and go directly to the martyrs stake, for Christ’s sake.

These would present their bodies as living sacrifices (Romans 12:1). Alex Moore – The Moravians – The five missionaries in Ecuador (see sheet)

Oh that we all could recapture the burning desire to serve that we once had (Romans 1:15). To say as Paul said: To the fullest extent of my ability, so as much as in me, I am ready to preach the Gospel to you that are at Rome also. (see sheet)

Alas, alas, the fires of service for most of us are almost extinguished. Acts 21:13. How far short of God’s standards we have fallen. Then Paul answered “What mean ye to weep and break my heart? For I am ready not to be bound only but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.”

The torch of Christ which we once held high, has fallen in complacency and lethargy.

The reason for this condition is that we have lost our first love – lost our enthusiasm – lost our desire to serve – lost our fellowship – and in doing so we have forsaken the source of power.

Today, there is a lack of deep conviction as to the principles of scriptural gathering. Consequently, there is a lack of loyalty to the Lord and His service. Many times God challenges us to greater effort – just as He did Peter. The Lord put Peter to the final test of loyalty when He asked him, Simon, son of James, lovest thou Me more than these? (describe this incident in detail)

With this question our Lord, once for all, placed personal love for Himself beyond all else. (see Matthew 10:37-39) “He that loveth father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me; and he that loveth son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me, and he that taketh not his cross and followeth after Me is not worthy of me.”

First love is sometimes called “foremost love”. It is complete devotion to Christ – not merely religious duty. It is heart devotion that has no thought of self. Isaiah – Paul – the Lord.

This is self-denying love that abandons all for Christ. This kind of love defies analysis, but it can be expressed through us because it has been shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Spirit (Romans 5:5).

As the Lord looked at the Ephesians church He saw them occupied with past accomplishments, present works and future plans, more than with Himself.

He commended them for being doctrinally sound – very faithful – extremely patient (Their works – labors – judging of evil – endurance) – but He condemned them for leaving the love for Him that they once had.

Brethren, if we have been more enthusiastic about the Lord than we are now; if we have experienced a greater longing for the Lord’s presence than we now have; if we have had a greater desire to serve the Lord than we now possess; while we may still love the Lord, undoubtedly, we have left our first love, and stand in need of revival.

Unless we repent and return to our first love there is no hope of renewal. On the contrary there is the warning “I will remove the lampstand.”

2 Chronicles 7:14 “If my people who are called by My Name shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.”

The Importance of Tears in Our Ministry

Three vital issues should characterize the servant of God: a broken heart, mourning, sin.

“A broken and contrite heart God will not despise.” God can only use broken things. Jesus took the lad’s bread and broke it and fed the multitude. The alabaster box was broken, only then did its fragrance fill the house and the world. Jesus said, “This is my body which is broken for you.” Only then did salvation come into the world.

Next, there is mourning for sin and the sinner. Jeremiah cried, “Oh, that my head were waters.” The Psalmist says, “Rivers run down my eyes continually.” Dear brethren, our eyes are dry, because our hearts are dry.

William Booth advised two of his officers to “try tears” when everything else had failed. Revival broke out. David Livingstone cried with a breaking heart, “Lord, when will the wounds of this world’s sin be healed?” John Welch soaked his pillow as he travailed for souls. George Whitefield spent days and weeks prostrate on the floor in silent and vocal prayer.

Many of us know only a tearless, passionless, soulless ministry.

2 Timothy 1 from Verse 8

Verse 8- The sufferings for the Gospel. A Gospel worth suffering for. It is inevitable that loyalty to the Gospel will bring persecution in some form. Timothy was urged to be loyal to two things. They that live godly shall suffer 1) to the gospel 2) To Paul a preacher of the gospel. He was not to be ashamed of the Gospel or of Paul. Paul was claimed by the authorities as a criminal, in fact at this time he was in prison in Rome. He was despised by the authorities, and forsaken by many of his brothers (Phygelus and Hermogenes, Verse 15).

He exhorts Timothy no matter the cost, not to be ashamed of the Gospel (Romans 1-16) nor of him as a prisoner of Rome (of Jesus Christ) – The prisoner of the hand, “Onesiphorus.”

In verses 8 thru 11 Paul sets forth the Gospel in, all its glory. By implication and by direct statement he brings out element after element of the Gospel’s unique glory. There are few passages in the NT which present so vividly the sheer grandeur of the Gospel.

1. Verse 8 It is the gospel of power. “The Gospel which is the power of God.” The suffering involved in the preaching of the gospel is to be borne in the power of God. To the first believers the gospel was the power to live, and die. Paul uses the same expression in Rom 1-16. The gospel is “the power of God.” Describe some of its power. Fear of hell – Ferguson.

2. It is the gospel of salvation. (2 Corinthians 1-10 “god through the Gospel hath saved us.”) “Who hath saved us” Verse 9 Salvation is in three spheres: Salvation from the penalty of sin, Salvation from the “power of sin”, Salvation from the presence of sin. The Gospel rescues from sin…not just from the penalty of sin, but also from the power of sin. (Ephesians 2 thru 4 – see note) It not only saves a person eternally, it save presently. Its power can liberate one from habits and sins which were unbreakable.

3. It is the gospel of consecration “Called us with a holy calling” (through the gospel) Verse 9. The gospel not only delivers us from the consequences of sin, and liberates us from the chains of sin, but urges us to live a holy life in deepest consecration. (sequence in Romans). To every born-again believer Paul says “present your body as a holy, living sacrifice.” “Be not conformed to the world”…”be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Believing, receiving and obeying the gospel changes a person’s life, habits, pleasures and character. It sends such a one on the Calvary road, the road of consecration, the road of holiness. “Called with a holy calling” – personal holiness – describe the sanctified man.

4. It is also the gospel of grace. “Not according to our works” (Ephesians 2:8-9). The gospel and its blessings are not something that we achieve by works. Blessings – it is something we accept by faith. “Faith cometh by hearing” etc. God did not call us because we were holy (or deserving)…He called us to make us holy. The blessing of the Gospel is the free gift of God’s grace.

5. It is the gospel of God’s eternal purpose and grace (Verse 9) “given us in Christ before the world began” It was planned before time began. In the dateless part God conceived of such a plan. (1 Peter 18-20). In time He brought it to fruition through the Cross, then revealed the blessings of believing through the Gospel.

6. It is the Gospel of life and immediately Christ hath abolished death “and hath brought life and immortality to light through the Gospel.” Verse 10. The OT saints knowledge of life after death was limited (Job’s question – “Where shall I find Him?…How can a man be justified?…If a man dies shall he live?”) The ancient world feared death and regarded it as extinction. It is Paul’s conviction that Jesus Christ brought to light, through His death and resurrection, the truth of eternal life and the immortality of the soul. This astonishing truth is preached to men through the Gospel.

7. It is a gospel of service (Quote Verse 11). Paul was the herald – apostle – and teacher of “the Gospel.” On him was laid the inescapable task of serving God and his fellow man. The Gospel laid these necessities on Paul.

A. It made him a herald. – Preacher-evangelist to the regions beyond.

1. He brought the message of the Gospel to his fellow man

2. He brought men into peace with God.

3. He called upon his fellow men to accept the rich offer God was making to them.

B. It made him an apostle. He was one who was sent by God. He was God’s ambassador to the church – he was a true pastor. Believers are the ambassadors of Christ – they speak for Him, and represent Him before men.

C. It made him a teacher. Paul was a teacher. Teaching the fundamentals of the faith, and the Biblical concept of the spiritual, holy life of the believer is probably the most important task entrusted to an individual within the Church.

A person may receive Christ under the ministry of the Evangelist, but the long road to maturity lies ahead. The flame of evangelism must be followed by the steady glow of Christian teaching. The reason for so many failures among us is that the new coverts have not been taught the fundamentals of Christian living.

“Neglect not the gift which is in thee.”

“Stir up the gift of God.”

Verse 12 “For which cause I also suffer these things.” Because he was a preacher, apostle and teacher he suffered these things. Survey Paul’s life and his suffering for Christ (2 Corinthians 11). Note the outward sufferings and the inward – “The care of all the churches.” Despite these sufferings he is not ashamed – I do not regret my circumstances. Paul writing to the Philippians said “That I might know Him.” He cannot be know without sacrifice. Here he writes “I know Him” etc. Paul has perfect confidence in God in the present circumstances and so in his future state. “Keep secure by the spirit and teach fearlessly in the spirit the pure unadulterated Word.” (see sheet)

Verse 13 “Hold fast the form of sound words” (Describe Timothy’s adventures – the need for this today. – Jesus Christ is Lord) We must return to the Book – we must know the fundamentals of our faith – we must submit to them, obey them and live by them. “Strengthen the things that remain” The “holding fast” has to be done in “faith” and “love.”

Verse 14 Paul urges Timothy to guard the fine deposit of truth that God had entrusted him with. Timothy was also God’s chosen vessel to build and edify the Church. He was to do this with the help of the Holy Spirit who lived in him.

Verse 15 Is a sad reflection on man in the early church. Paul experienced the same thing that happened to the Lord, his Master. Many of these who lived in the Roman province of the western part of Asia Minor of which Ephesus was the capital, had abandoned him. At his trial no one stood with him. What deep disappointment was tremendous hurt was Paul’s, as his friends failed him in his time of need.

Two men are singled out for special mention – we know nothing of them, they probably could have helped but were ashamed. They could not stand the disdain of their fellow men by being associated with Paul and the Gospel

Verse 16 In contrast to the faithfulness of many there is the faithfulness of Onesiphorus. At great risk to himself he sought Paul out, and them at greater risk, he continued to visit and minister to God’s weary servant.

Verse 17 Paul prays that this brave beloved brother will be abundantly rewarded for the sacrifice he made and the comfort he brought to him.

The Gospel

The Gospel in a nutshell John 3:16. In this verse you have the dearest and fullest exposition of it. In this verse you have Love – God – mankind – Christ – sin – death – atonement – and eternal life held together in one mighty proclamation.

1. The Gospel is a fact – therefore tell it simply

2. It is a joyful fact – therefore tell it cheerfully

3. It is an entrusted fact – therefore tell it faithfully

4. It is a fact of infinite moment – therefore tell it earnestly

5. It is a fact of infinite love – therefore tell it pathetically

6. It is a fact difficult of comprehension to many – therefore tell it with illustration

7. It is a fact about a Person – therefore preach Christ

Isaiah’s vision (Isa 6) It took place “the year Uzziah died”

It was a vision in three dimensions.

Verse 5- Woe – a word of confession

Verse 7- Lo – a word of cleansing

Verse 9- Go – a word of commission

It was an upward vision – he saw the Lord

It was an inward vision – he saw himself

It was an outward vision – he saw the world

It was a vision of height – he saw the Lord high and lifted up

It was a vision of depth – he saw the recesses of his own heart

It was a vision of breadth – he saw the world

“Where there is no vision the people perish.”

“I know whom I have believed” etc. Verse 12

Paul knew Him historically. He knew Him spiritually – He had sacrificed everything to know Him (Philippians 3:8-9). He knew Him deeply and dearly as his Life, Way and End. He knew Him as the perfect and absolutely satisfying Christ of his love and worship. He knew Him as the bearer of his sins and the consequences of his death. He was filled to his utmost capacity with the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus his Lord.

Knowing Him so well, he had, and was trusting Him completely, to be kept, ruled and guided. This One he was confident, was able to keep him in life and in death until “that day.”

Studies in 2 Timothy

After writing his first letter to Timothy, Paul left Corinth and set sail with Titus for Crete. He then left Titus in Crete to set the church in order. (See Titus 1:5) On his return to the mainland, he wrote a letter to Titus, with plans indicating that Paul intended to spend the winter in Nicapolis. (See Titus 3:12) While there, he visited Troas where he was arrested in the house of Carpus and was hurriedly taken to Rome. His arrest was so sudden that he had no time to gather his precious books, parchments, or even his cloak to wrap himself. (See 2 Timothy 4:13) This was the beginning of Paul’s second imprisonment, yet it was different from his first experience of imprisonment. It is clear that in his first imprisonment, he had his own hired help and a full household, yet now he is kept in close confinement. Before, he had been accessible to all of the church and society, yet now he could only be found with difficulty and at great risk, as we see in the case of Onesiphorus in 2 Timothy 1:16-17. The first time he had been also very near the center of a large circle of friends, yet now he is almost alone, kept isolated and in conditions that cause him to suffer. (See 2 Timothy 4:10-12) In his first imprisonment he had hoped for a speedy liberation, yet now he was expecting to die. (See 2 Timothy 4:6-8)

Let us also look at Paul’s object in writing this letter. Paul had appeared before Nero once, but his case had been adjourned, so now he expected to appear before Nero during the winter season. (2 Timothy 4:16-17) He wrote urging Timothy, who had been liberated from prison to come at once with Mark and bring his cloak, books, and parchments, that had been left at Troas in the house of Corpus. Uncertain as to whether Timothy would arrive in time (we think he did not, for the trial and death of Paul most likely took place in June), he wrote this letter giving him a last warning as to the coming heresies and heretics, and sought to encourage him to greater zeal, courage and steadfastness.

Next, we should consider how this epistle is unique in many ways, apart from the fact that it is the last letter written by Paul. It expresses an extremely personal character, in which references are made of twenty-three different individuals. The style is also strongly emotional, calling the past vividly to remembrance and expressing some anxious thoughts for the future. We can almost hear the heartbeat of the apostle who, despite his own extenuating circumstances and impending death, emulated his beloved Lord in thinking of others and forgetting himself. It is also the only epistle that gives us the names of Timothy’s relatives, and the opponents of Moses. (See 2 Timothy 1:5, 3:8)

Now let us look at the text itself. In spirit, let us visualize two men in a dimly lit dungeon of a Roman prison: Paul and Luke, the beloved physician. Paul is dictating while Luke is writing. In his words we detect the out-breathing of a sensitive yet sustained soul, being inspired and supported by the Holy Spirit. We can almost see the tears in the apostle’s tired eyes. In his great physical weakness, he appears strong with the power of Christ undergirding him. In 2 Corinthians 12:9 he claims, “My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Though surrounded by agonizing distress and bitter disappointment, one can sense the indwelling and outshining of the peace of God. Paul had previously said, “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:7) In short, it was evident that the indefinable, yet real sense of the presence of Christ turned Paul’s chamber of death into the palace of Christ.

2 Timothy 1:1-2 contains the usual apostolic salutation of Paul as “an apostle of Christ Jesus.” Then in 2 Timothy 1:3-4, note the intense spiritual ties that bind these two men together. Paul mentions recalling Timothy’s “tears” and expresses longing to see him. This conveys years of homesick yearning for seeing his beloved friend and greatly desiring fellowship with him. Paul also prays for Timothy night and day without ceasing. (See 2 Timothy 1:3) He then expresses his joy at remembering Timothy’s sincere and unqualified faith. It is clear that this sincere and unqualified faith first lived in Timothy’s grandmother and mother and had been passed on to Timothy. (See 2 Timothy 1:5) It is also clear that they must have expressed their faith through their lives, teaching Timothy from the Word, and this godly example and teaching resulted in Timothy believing and exhibiting identical faith. Paul then goes onto exhort his dear friend, “Therefore I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands.” (2 Timothy 1:6) Here Paul is referring to the Holy Spirit who has been bestowed on Timothy. Look at Acts 9:6, where Paul is in Ephesus and lays hands on a group of disciples, the Holy Spirit coming upon them. Paul is reminding a rather timid and sensitive Timothy to stir up that gift that he has received and use the Spirit in all His fullness and power. This should be a valid reminder to us and to all believers in every age. As Paul says, “God has not given us the spirit of timidity,” but of courage and fearlessness. The Spirit is powerful, and grants us the power to cope with every soul-searching sorrow and crippling disappointment. It helps us to pass a breaking point and yet not break. Paul also claims that He gives us the spirit of love, which is the power to love the unlovable. Lastly, Paul encourages Timothy that God has given us the spirit of a sound mind, self-discipline, and control of one’s self in the face of panic or passion. This helps us to have a well-balanced mind. In summary, 2 Timothy as an epistle helps us to see how Paul might have encouraged his fellow ministry worker and beloved friend, but it also gives every believer encouragement to know that when a believer becomes the true servant of Christ and master of himself, the Lord can use him mightily!

Preach the Word

Paul, writing one of his very last letters addressed to his dear friend and partner in ministry, exhorts Timothy:

“I charge you therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who will judge the living and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom: Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables. But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.”

We see from this exhortation that Paul desired Timothy to be an evangelist and preach the word to others. Let us examine who exactly an evangelist is. We know that an evangelist is a man of prayer who realizes that work is all of God, and that methods are of little worth. He is also a man of faith who relies wholly on the living God. He is student of Scripture whose only desire is to present the truth. He is additionally a man of courage, fearing not the darts of evil, nor the bonds of imprisonment. He is a man of energy who is constantly in touch with God and man, both in and out of season. An evangelist is also a man of perseverance who does not get discouraged if he fails to see immediate fruit for his labor. Lastly, he is a man of humility, who admits, “Not I, but the grace of God which was with me.” (1 Corinthians 15:10)

Let us look for a moment at the act of prayer in the life of an evangelist after God’s own heart. In the poem below, source unknown, we find the mystery of the power of prayer in each of us:

Daily communion with God would find us –

Subdued by His Omnipresence,

Staggered by His Omnipotence,

Silenced by His Omniscience,

Solemnized by His Holiness,

Subdued by His glory.

Let us be encouraged by the story of a model evangelist after God’s own heart, John Hyde, who was a missionary to India. His prayer time was sacred and holy. It is said that one could hear sighing and groaning from his room as tears coursed down his cheeks. Sometimes his body would be weakened by foodless days and sleepless nights. He often pleaded with God, “Oh God, give me souls or I die.” John Hyde prayed for one soul each day to come to know the Lord. Eventually, God answered his prayer. Four hundred souls were saved his first year of ministry in India; in subsequent years of his life, as many as 1,680 souls were saved. But was he satisfied? Never. He had an unsatisfied longing and an undying passion for souls to come to understand the love of his Savior, Jesus Christ.

Another well-known missionary to the New Hebrides Islands in the Pacific, John G. Paton, was a humble man of God who knelt at the grave of his young wife only a few months after arriving, yet he still claimed the land for Christ as he served the Lord in proclaiming the gospel. Beloved, we should all ask God to give us the zeal that burns like fire within us and drives us to seek men for Christ! If we examine the disciples, what did they ask the Lord to teach them? It was not how to cast out demons, heal the sick, still the storm, or how to perform miracles, rather it was how to pray! (See Luke 11) When they saw and heard Him pray, they realized that the life of power was the product of His life of prayer. Let us also look at the example of John Knox in his powerful prayers. It was said that the Queen of England would tremble when John Knox went to his knees, because he prayed with such power that Scotland was awakened and diverted from following the traditions of Roman Catholicism. He prayed with such intensity and power, for example, when he said, “Lord give me Scotland or I die.”

In the church today, there seems to be a deplorable lack of intense prayer and very little real waiting upon God. The time has come when we must see prayer as fundamental and foundational or we will continue to drift. To avoid this drift, many assemblies are trying all kinds of programs. Let us remember that God does not bless through programs, but through holy men of prayer seeking to “do the work of an evangelist” for the gospel of our Lord Jesus.