Day 3: On Guard
Read 2 Timothy 1:8-14
Memory verse: 2 Tim 1:12b – I am convinced that he is able to guard until that day what has been entrusted to me.
Context: Why is Paul in chains, and how might that affect Timothy?
Paul is in chains because of his commitment to preaching, teaching and establishing the gospel in places that opposed it. Timothy will be affected by it because the imprisonment might make him nervous or intimidated about something similar happening to him. Timothy could also be anxious about the welfare of his spiritual father in those conditions, which again could affect his capacity to serve.
Content: Identify the gospel truths Paul recites.
God saved us. Those saved are called to a holy calling through what God has done for His own purpose and grace. In Christ, death has been abolished, and He has brought immortality to light. God can guard whatever He’s entrusted until the day of the appearing of Jesus Christ.
Concept: “The good deposit” (v 14) — what is it and why must it be guarded?
The good deposit, in the context of what has been written, can be the work God has called Timothy to complete; the gospel that Timothy is called to share in pursuing; the gifts given to Timothy by God to fulfil the calling and purpose God has given him that Paul is aware of. It could also be the Holy Spirit living in Timothy that helps him identify as a servant of the Lord and child of the King.
The heart of the study indicates that the good deposit is the gospel of Jesus Christ. As it forms the centrality of all that Paul is doing and all that Timothy has been involved in, it makes sense that Paul is keen for Timothy to be diligent and vigilant over it.
Conclusions: Name one practice that will help you guard the gospel this week.
Actively pronounce and recite what the gospel is, and as I do so, appreciate what that means for me and for what I do. This question is a good one, especially in bringing awareness to the responsibility I have likewise to guard the good deposit and what that looks like on an intentional, regular basis.
2 Timothy – Day 4:
Read 2 Timothy 1:15-18
Memory verse: 2 Tim 2:16
Context: Who deserted Paul and who refreshed him?
Content: Note the verbs that describe Onesiphorus’s actions.
Concept: What does loyal friendship look like under pressure?
Conclusions: Who could you encourage today?
Knowing He can keep what He has committed to us should stimulate us to get the Word In so we can get the Word Out!
For His Name’s Sake
C. L. J. Dryden
Shalom
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