Day 10: Paul’s Charge to Timothy
Read 2 Timothy 4:1-22
Memory verse: 2 Tim 4:7-8 – I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that Day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing.
Context: Summarise Paul’s solemn charge and his personal situation.
Paul’s charge to Timothy is to, essentially, fulfil his ministry. That ministry includes preaching the Word, remaining constant whether it’s accepted or not; teaching the truth through rebuking, reproving and encouraging, enduring suffering and doing the work of an evangelist.
This is to be done in the light of Paul’s situation, where he senses that his time is coming to a close. The opposition and the imprisonment are giving him the idea that he’s being poured out as an offering so that he can reflect on the race he’s run, and so he knows he has to sort everything out.
Content: What does Paul request from Timothy and why?
Paul requests several things from Timothy.
The first is what’s covered above in terms of fulfilling the ministry. This is because of the days that Paul warned Timothy about, when people will prefer listening to things that grab their fancy and turn from the truth. In light of that, Paul is keen for Timothy not to be swayed by that but to remain true to his calling.
Paul also has some interesting personal requests for Timothy. One is to come to him as soon as possible with some key resources, such as his cloak, books, and parchments. Whilst he’s popping over, Paul also wants Timothy to get Mark as well. He’s keen on this because quite a lot of the crew he had have left him. Some of the desertions have had an impact on Paul, and he’s careful to warn Timothy of Alexander. This reaffirms the relational nature of the mission and how Paul is not a lone ranger, but values having folks with him who are helpful for the Kingdom service.
Concept: Define the “crown of righteousness.”
The crown of righteousness is the reward God has in store for those who endure until the end. This is the eternal reward fitting for those who have dedicated their lives on earth, looking to be and do everything pleasing to God. The idea of the crown signifies royal importance and great value. That’s something those who endure to the end can expect. The crown looks at the responsibility to rule, and God can trust those who reflect His character to rule in the way that pleases Him. This crown signifies Paul’s goal, as it means he has the right to rule alongside the Prince of Peace. There’s the vivid imagery of realising what the life of suffering was all about in being with Jesus and reigning with Him, as indicated earlier in the letter.
Conclusions: What one action will help you “finish the race” faithfully?
One action????? One action??????????? Oh no. No, no, no, no. Finishing the race faithfully cannot be reduced to a single action. The heart of all the actions I’ll do to finish the race faithfully, though, is the vision of the immeasurable worth of knowing and being with the Lord Jesus Christ now and eternally. That overwhelming and driving desire and passion will inform all the actions required to finish what God started, with the same aim of looking forward to the crown of righteousness that God has laid up for those who love Him.
Next Up – 2 Timothy – Final Day: Looking Back & Pressing On
Read 2 Timothy out loud
Memory verse: ?
Context: How has your understanding of Paul, Timothy, and their era deepened?
Content: List the top three truths or commands that stood out over the 10 days.
Concept: Trace the book’s core argument in one or two sentences.
Conclusions: Write a brief action plan: specific relationships, habits, or ministries you will pursue in the next month.
It is quite the feat to be able to finish the fight of life knowing there’s a crown of righteousness prepared for you. That’s another reason to get the Word In so we can get the Word Out!
For His Name’s Sake
C. L. J. Dryden
Shalom
Life With CD 