THE LORD STOOD WITH ME

2Timothy 4:6-22 THE LORD STOOD WITH ME These last words of a man like the apostle Paul were certainly important to Timothy. And the Holy Spirit has given these same words to us who live today so that we will live and serve God with courage in these last days. Our Lord intends us to understand that He stands by His loyal servants in spite of what others may do. He expects us not to desert our calling and fulfill our responsibilities even though others may walk away from what they have been taught by faithful servants. Paul was faithful to the Lord and was already being poured out [Ex.29; Lev.23:13; Num.15:10; 28:7,14; Phil.2:17]. His own death was a drink offering. He knew he had been faithful to his call, so at the end of his life, he could face death calmly. His expectation was to see the Lord, and he was telling this to Timothy and to all who keep the faith and love the appearing of the Lord Jesus. When the time arrives for final words to be said, they are like the departure of a ship or like pulling up the last pegs of a tent.

The Christian life is lived like that of a soldier who has been on the battlefield for a long time, contending for that which is right against all that is wrong. Paul was a sacrifice himself for that which brings glory and honor to God. That is a good fight. As an athlete, there was a course he started from the moment he said, "Lord, what will Thou have for me to do?" Now that course, was over. A steward has been given a trust to keep. A trustee is a representative of something of value. Paul had been given "the faith," the body of truth to guard and to pass on to Timothy and others. It is now in our hands and is our responsibility. it is expected of us to guard the faith and pass it on to those who are "faithful men who shall be able to teach others also." Paul, the servant, was faithful to his Lord.

PREACH THE WORD To many, it's a buzzword spoken when the Gospel we declare To others, it's a rallying cry when God's voice to us is heard It first came from deep in the heart of one who needed to share A serious charge to a younger man, what he himself had learned - PREACH THE WORD!

This is not a call to religion or some vague and distant voice Of one who is making a casual suggestion to do this if you can Far more than a weak attempt to speak is this charge to make a choice You have this obligation, so go and be faithful to your fellow man -

PREACH THE WORD!

There may be times when it is hard and opposition will arise Most people will not listen because what you say they don't want to hear We who have been called by God are like runners striving to gain a prize Or like soldiers in a battle, or stewards serving well when the Master's not near - PREACH THE WORD!

Most with "itching ears" choose what their conscience does not stir Some are in "the Lord's work" with money as their motivation Others want to be flattered by men; to them, truth does not occur But you - I charge, be prepared, be bold, fear not men's condemnation - PREACH THE WORD!

For faithful service, finishing the course, and guarding that with which we have been entrusted, there are rewards waiting. Not earthly awards such as the crowns or medals as in the Olympic games, but "crowns" like the crown of righteousness Paul knew was waiting for him in heaven. Beyond the suffering, persecution, hardship, and death for faithfulness like Paul experienced was the assurance that when he saw the Lord, there would be the crown he could give to his Lord. As we look into the future, we who are living in these last days will perhaps someday look back and see that everything we endured was worth all the effort. When we see our blessed Lord Jesus Christ reigning in righteousness and there is peace on earth, we will truly realize what is important in our lives. Reserved for Paul was a crown of righteousness. I wonder what is reserved for us. Whatever it is will be worth it.

Not only was Paul faithful to the Lord. He was also faithful to his fellow servants. There are times when, under pressure and set aside for some reason, a laborer feels alone and wonders where everyone is. Paul was probably feeling alone and really wanted to see Timothy. He was a man like all of the rest of us and was desiring the comfort of companionship while he was languishing in prison. It is always good to know there are those in whom we can place our confidence, knowing they are doing all they can for us, even if they are not able to be with us. We may find ourselves sighing a bit because of the circumstances in which we are found, but we should take a lesson from Paul and not be unduly critical of others. He appreciated his fellow laborers and their faithfulness to him. It is not uncommon when the pressure is on, and one is accused of some wrongdoing, for those around him to disassociate with him. They feel a distance should keep them safe from criticism. We are wise to commit our work to the Lord, knowing that He has the intimate knowledge of everything we do.

Demas [Col.4:14; Ph. 24] had been with Paul in the work previously but now abandoned him, deserted him, and let Paul down. He fell in love with the world system. The values of the world and the pleasures it offers in these last days have a great attraction even to Christians. The world as God created it was good and is meant to be enjoyed. The world in the last days is seriously contaminated by sin, and if it is sin that attracts us, we are in danger of unfaithfulness. Crescens was with Paul, and for whatever reason had gone to Galatia. Paul did not criticize him in any way. This is the only mention of this man in the scripture. Titus was spoken of 13 times in the New Testament, and one of the pastoral epistles was written to him. The movement of God’s servants must be a spiritual exercise before God. Luke was a doctor who left his practice to help Paul and traveled with him from Philippi until the end of his journey in Rome. It was a wonderful testimony to all who accompanied Paul that a Jew and a Gentile were continuing to work together in harmony. Mark had been unprofitable in the past when he had left the work. Now Timothy was told to pick up Mark and bring him with him. He is profitable for the service of the Lord again. This recovery and usefulness, twenty-two years after the separation, indicate God is never finished with a servant.

It is important that we appreciate our fellow laborers and their faithfulness to God. In fact, it is appropriate for us to let them know that from time to time. They may not do the same things we do, or if they do, it may be done differently from what we are used to. But that should not mean that if they are committed to doing the work of the Lord scripturally, we should not appreciate them and what they do. Like Paul, who was faithful to his fellow servants, we may not have a lot of close friendships in life because of our work. It seemed to be based on the shared hardships they had endured together. That seems to create lasting relationships today with people who may be older or younger. It is not so much the age of our friends that counts, but the things we share in common as we serve our Lord.

Paul knew he had been faithful to the call of God, and now it was his responsibility to prepare younger people to lead the people of God and take the Gospel to other places. Demas, Carpus, and Titus had left Paul on their own exercise. Paul had sent Tychicus because he had confidence that he would be a help to the Ephesian believers. Carpus was a trustworthy person at home. The books were papyrus rolls for letters and documents. Parchments were dressed skins for a more valuable material that would last longer than papyrus. Perhaps they contained the Old Testament scriptures, which he still wanted to read.

Then there are those we know who will not rest until they bring us down in some way. Alexander not only spoke against Paul but also “did me much harm.” For whatever he did, Paul wanted no personal revenge. However, there are some things and some people we must have enough sense to stay away from. No matter what you might say, they will undermine you and may even put a slant on your words that may not be true. At Paul's first hearing, no one came alongside. He felt let down, but he was confident the Lord poured strength into him so his preaching would be known in Satan’s stronghold – the house of Nero. Paul, the servant and the sacrifice, is now the saint who is exulting, bold, and confident in the Lord.

Paul was faithful to the unsaved people. Failure on his part to proclaim the Gospel would be to Paul an evil work. He knew he would soon be “away from” every evil work and trusted the Lord to bring him safely to the heavenly kingdom. He knew the work of God would be carried on after he was gone. Those he knew and trusted with the Gospel were on his heart even at the end of his life. Prisca and Aquila were fellow laborers in tent-making, but more importantly, in the work of the Gospel, in having the church meet in their home, and in being able to give wise counsel to Apollos. Onisophorus and his household were known for their hospitality, which is an area of great need in the work of the Lord. Erastus, the chamberlain of Corinth, assures us that those in places of authority also become involved in the work of the Lord. Trophimus was from Ephesus and had been a trustworthy man who had worked in the Gospel alongside quite a number of men who had accompanied Paul. Now he was sick and was in the heart of the apostle. Believers in Rome who were faithful to Paul are mentioned by name, so they were obviously well known personally by Timothy as well as the apostle Paul. In these closing circumstances of life, we need to know God’s abiding presence to comfort us and those with whom we have shared the most important things in our lives.

MY TIME I am not sure what I will say when the time comes for me to leave My hope is that my words will help my family best to grieve In dignity and quiet grace, so that others all around will know There are some characteristics of faith passed on, they to others show.

They know already why we lived the way we felt would please Our blessed Lord, and that through us as vessels fit, others, truth would seize And make their own the faith that's needed to put their trust in Him So they, too, saints and sinners both, would know that God loved them.

Last words in life leave an impact for a little time, at least Perhaps if some remember the good words before my life has ceased They will stop and seriously consider, "If that were me, where would I be? At the present time, I am here and well, but what about eternity?"

Not everyone will remember or care, but if only one or two Who will find themselves in difficult places, wondering what else to do - Will take the time to think and make a choice as to who in life they'll serve - When at the final end of life. from God's path they will not swerve.

"Gracious Father, in my mind I see Paul in a deep prison cell waiting for the day when his life ends, and his thoughts are with a fellow-servant who is actively engaged in the work of the Lord. There are young laborers I care for who are facing problems now, and will throughout their service for Thee. Protect them. Help them to keep focused. Give them both the grace and faith to please Thee well. Please bless their labors. Help them preach the word. If there is any way You think I can help them, guide me to it. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen."

2 nd TIMOTHY

Message: Loyalty to the Lord and truth in view of persecution and apostasy.

Key word: “Ashamed.” 1:8, 12, 16; 2:15.

LOYALTY IN SPITE OF SUFFERING. Chapter 1. Greetings (salutation), v.1-2. Courageous enthusiasm. Four encouragements: (1) Paul’s love, v.1-2 (2) Paul’s prayers, v.3-4 (3) Paul’s confidence in Timothy, v.5 (4) God’s gift to Timothy, v.6

CALL TO FAITHFULNESS, 1:3-18 Thanksgiving for Timothy, v.3-7 Call to courage, 8-12: “Be not ashamed” v.8; “Be partaker” v.8; “Hold fast” v.13; “Keep (guard the deposit)” v.14.

Responsible for the Gospel, v.6-7: gift, stir, fear, sound mind.
Challenge to endure afflictions, v.8-12: not ashamed of the testimony of our Lord nor of

Paul; afflictions given us, v.8; manifest, v.10; whereunto, v.11; cause, these things, persuaded, v.12

Challenge to hold fast the form of sound words, v.13-14. Sound words, faith and love, good thing – keep.

Examples of unfaithfulness and faithfulness, v.15-18

Timothy: he knew their situation well; there was a general failure to support the apostle in his time of need.
Phygellus and Hermogenes: These two demonstrate what Paul had been warning about

– cowardice, shame, self-indulgence, and infidelity

Onesiphorus [4:19]: supported him in Ephesus and Rome. He had gone out of his way – courage, love, self-discipline, boldness, faithfulness.

1. Paul’s:

Preaching- v.1.
Prayers- v.3.
Service- v.3.
Desire- v.4.
Thoughts- v.5.

2. Timothy’s:

Early days- v.5.
Beloved- v.2.
Remembered- v.3,5.
Desired- v.4.

3. Timid should not be ashamed- v.6-14.

4. Saddened- v.15-18.

LOYALTY IN DEVOTED SERVICE. Chapter 2.

CHALLENGE TO ENDURANCE, 2:1-13 Six parables on service:

Loved son (child)- v.1. Identification. A term of endearment; the grace (gift) is found only in

Christ. We are saved by grace [Eph.2:8-9]; we should live by grace [Col. 2:6]. This means trusting completely in Christ and His power, not trying to live for Christ in our own power. The condition of the defectors of Asia and the faithfulness of Onesiphorus are used to exhort Timothy.

Faithful steward- v.2. Faithfulness. More than the Gospel, the first epistle and oral ministry heard from others is “the things that thou hast heard of me.” Timothy and many others had heard this. Truth is not private but can and should be passed on. “The same commit thou:” do not alter its content. “Commit” is a command to obey. “To faithful men who are able to teach:” trustworthy, reliable, competent, and have an ability to teach [1Cor.4:1-2, 9, 12]. “Other also:” others of a different kind; not just other teachers, but those who will guide and instruct all the saints. God intends us to teach others and pass on our faith. Our work is not done until new

believers are able to pass on their faith and make disciples of others [Eph.4:12-13].

Hardy soldier- v.3,4. Endurance. “Hardship” (RV. “take thy part in suffering”), (“suffer hardship with me). [2Cor.11:23-29]; under orders given by another. “Man that warreth”: actively engaged; not involved in civilian matters as distinct from military. Entanglement is the problem, not the existence of worldly things. Like soldiers, we have to give up worldly security and endure severe discipline, being willing to sacrifice to achieve the result we want – victory for the King.
Trained athlete- v.5. Perseverance. A crown is in view, so (1) practice self-discipline [1Cor.9:27; Heb. 12:1-2] – “lay aside.” (2) use spiritual weapons [2Cor.10:4] (3) keep pure; keep the regulations; act lawfully (4) must not strive but be patient. Athletes must train hard and follow the rules in order to receive the prize – the vision of winning.
Diligent farmer- v.6. Patience. The husbandman must labor with all diligence, long and hard, in order to bring in a successful harvest. The preparation of the ground is far more labor- intensive than bringing in the harvest. Seeding calls for an outlay of personal cost; cultivation of the crop calls for long, extended times of seemingly useless labor. But when the harvest is brought in, even though it does not take a lot of time, those who have labored patiently in hope of harvest will rejoice in their labor and their trust in God’s mercies.
Careful student/workman- v.7. Skillful. This workman has, through study and practice, acquired such skill at his job that he is able to present himself before his Master as one who has done, and can do, work of which he is not ashamed. We don’t have to be ashamed of the service of Christ, but just of our own efforts. When one has his senses exercised to discern both good and evil, the Holy Spirit will guide and instruct those who have been equipped.

Workers

Remembrance- v.8.
Encouragement- v.9.
Support- v.13.
Study- v.15.

Useful vessel – v.21. Profitable. The imagery of a great house is used simply because it contains so many different kinds of vessels for so many different uses. The Master owns every one of them. The point of the example is that whether a vessel is earthen or gold, it has to be clean for the Master to use.

LOYALTY IN SPITE OF APOSTASY. Chapter 3-4: 5.

1. Last days characteristics. 1-9

2. Holy Scriptures. 10-16.

3. Timothy knew the book of Paul’s life and character [10]; the book of God [15].

4. What a preacher must do in perilous times.

5. Paul’s three “readies.”

Service [Rom.1:15].
Suffering [Acts21:13].
Sacrifice [2nd Tim.4:6]

LORD STANDING BY HIS LOYAL SERVANT IN SPITE OF DESERTION. Chapter 4:6-

1. Christian life: as a soldier; as an athlete; as a trustee.

2. Paul, the man: sighing, desiring comfort, suffering, lamenting.

3. Paul, the saint: exulting, bold, confident.

FAITHFULNESS TO THE LORD: v.6. As for myself: I am already being poured out [Ex.29; Lev.23:13; Num.15:10; 28:7,14; Phil.2:17]. His own death was a drink offering. v. 7. Soldier, athlete, steward, or trustee. v. 8. Laid up – reserved; crown – righteousness. Faithfulness to his fellow-servants.

v. 9. Longing to see Timothy. He had confidence in him. v. 10. Demas [Col.4:14; Ph. 24]: Abandoned him, deserted him, and let Paul down. He fell in love with the system. Crescens was with Paul. This is the only mention. Titus: 13 times mentioned in the New Testament. The movement of God’s servants must be under spiritual exercise before God. v. 11. Luke: a doctor, who left his practice to help Paul. A Jew and a Gentile were working together in harmony. Mark: Pick up Mark. He is profitable. Recovery and usefulness, 22 years after the separation, indicate God is never finished with a servant. v. 12. Tychicus: Demas, Carpus, and Titus had left on their own exercise. Paul had sent Tychicus because he had confidence that he would be a help to the Ephesian believers. v. 13. Carpus: a trustworthy person at home. Books: a papyrus roll for letters and documents. Parchments: dressed skins used as a more valuable material. Perhaps they contained the Old Testament scriptures, which he still wanted to read. v. 14. Alexander: not only spoke against Paul but “did me much harm.” Paul wanted no personal revenge. v. 15. Some things and people we must stay away from. v. 16. First hearing, no one came alongside. He felt let down.

FAITHFULNESS TO THE UNSAVED: v. 17. The Lord poured strength into me so preaching would be known in Satan’s stronghold – the house of Nero. v. 18. Failure to proclaim the Gospel would be to Paul an evil work. “Away from”; “to bring” safely to the heavenly kingdom. v. 19. Prisca and Aquila: fellow laborers; Onisophorus: hospitality. v. 20. Erastus: chamberlain of Corinth. Trophemius: a trustworthy man. v. 21. Believers in Rome who were faithful to Paul. v. 22. Need to know God’s abiding presence.

AN OVERVIEW OF 2 ND TIMOTHY . 1. SALUTATION. 1:1-2. 2. CALL TO FATHFULNESS. 1:3-1

Thanks for Timothy. 1:3-7.
Call to courage. 1:8-12.
Call to guard truth. 1:13-14.
Examples of faithfulness and unfaithfulness. 1:15-18.

3. CHALLENGE TO ENDURANCE. 2:1-13

Enduring hardships. 2:1-7.
Christ’s example. 2:8-10.
A faithful saying. 2:11-13.

4. MARKS OF A GOOD WORKMAN. 2:14-26.

Faithfulness in ministry. 2:14-19.
A clean instrument. 2:20-21.
Faithfulness in conduct. 2:22-26.

5. PREDICTIONS OF FAITHLESSNESS. 3:1-9.

6. CHALLENGE TO FAITHFUL PREACHING. 3:10-4:8.

Faithful in opposition. 3:10-13.
Faithful to God’s work. 3:14-4:5.
Faithfulness of Paul. 4:6-8.

7. REMINDER OF GOD’S FAITHFULNESS. 4:9-18.

Paul’s enemies and friends. 4:9-16.
Paul’s deliverance by the Lord. 4:17-18.

8. FINAL GREETINGS. 4:19-22.

CHARGES TO TIMOTHY BY PAUL.

1. Stir up the gift that is in thee. [1:6]

2. Be not ashamed of (the Lord) (Paul). [1:8].

3. Be a partaker (participant). [1:8].

4. Hold fast the form of sound words. [1:13].

5. That good thing which was committed, …. Keep. [1:14].

6. Be strong in the grace. [2:1].

7. Commit to faithful men. [2:2].

8. Endure hardness. [2:3].

9. Put them in remembrance. [2:14].

10. Study to show thyself approved. [2:15].

11. Shun profane and vain babbling. [2:16].

12. Flee youthful lusts. [2:22].

13. Follow righteousness. [2:22].

14. Avoid foolish questions. [2:23].

15. Do not strive, but be gentle. [2:24].

16. Turn away from those with a form of godliness. [3:5].

17. Continue in what you know is right. [3:14].

18. Preach the word. [4:2].

19. Watch… Endure… Work. [4:5].

20. Come… Bring the books… Salute… come before winter. [4:9].

THINGS OF GOD IN 2 ND TIMOTHY .

1. The will of God. [1:1] The Call to Serve.

2. The gift of God. [1:6] The Ability to Serve.

3. The power of God. [1:8]. The Power to Serve.

4. The Word of God. [2:9]. The Knowledge to Serve.

5. The foundation of God. [2:19]. The Message we Serve.

6. The inspiration of God. [3:16]. The Source of Service.

7. The man of God. [3:17]. The Servant who Serves.

THE WILL OF GOD, the call to serve. [Rom.1:8-15] Biblical guidance in finding God’s will. 1:1-13. It is appropriate to make plans.

He had no specific guidance, as in Acts 16:6-10.
God had not commanded Paul to go or not to go. 1:8-10. Pray about plans.
He prayed that they might be accomplished.
He had planned this before, v.9.
He was hopeful that this would happen soon. 1:10. He submitted his plans and himself to God’s sovereign will.
If he made it to Rome, it would be by God’s will, v.10.
Up to now, he had been prevented, v.13.
He accepted the delay without frustration. 1:11. His plan was based on spiritual goals.
To provide spiritual ministry to the Roman believers, v.11.
To establish and encourage the Roman church, v.11-12.
To receive encouragement from them, v.12.
To win unbelievers to Christ, v.13-15.

Paul had arranged his goals according to PRIORITIES. [Rom.15:20-29.]

No further place, v.23.
Journey into Spain, v.24,28.
I will go to Jerusalem, v.25.
I will come by you, v.28.

Paul’s decision was a result of long-range planning and taking advantage of present opportunities.

Purposes: adapt spiritual goals based on divine revelation.
Prioritize: what should first, second …
Plans: a strategy for accomplishing his objectives.
Prayer: submit himself and his plans to God’s sovereign will
Perseverance: hindrances, delays, etc., are part of God’s will. Don’t be discouraged by them. The timetable only had to be adjusted.
Presentation: he explained his decision based on God’s moral will and his own application of wisdom. (See further notes under “God’s Will.”)

THE GIFT OF GOD: the ability to serve. [1Tim.4:12-16; 2Tim.1:6.] Use of gifts.

Spiritual gifts given to perform a special function.
Given by the Holy Spirit [1Cor.12]; the Father [Rom.12]; the Son [Eph.4] to build up the people of God.
Compliment the gifts of others to fill the whole need.
The Corinthians put the wrong emphasis on gifts.
The assembly isn’t to be selective about gifts.
Teamwork is needed in their use: Paul, Appollos, etc.
They can divide the assembly if used incorrectly.
Two errors to avoid: [1] being proud of abilities, [2] thinking you have nothing to give.
Don’t think yours is more important than others.
Use them where they are most useful.
Use them with love.
Don’t quench (smother) them.
Don’t neglect them. Stir them up.

Purpose of gifts.

Build up believers.
Promote growth and unity in love.
Assist in caring for others.
To glorify God.
To proclaim the Gospel.
To serve others with serving gifts.
To speak the truth of God in speaking gifts.
In the past, to show evidence of God’s mind before the scriptures came by the sign gifts.

(See also notes on “Gifts” under the heading of “Discipleship.”)

LOOKS IN 2 ND TIMOTHY .

1. Look back in appreciation. [1:3].

2. Look up in realization. [2:3].

3. Look in (to the Word) contemplation. [3:13-17].

4. Look ahead in anticipation. [4:7-8].

“LAST DAYS”: 1st Century to Christ’s return. CHARACTERISTICS (19 of them).

1. Self-centered.

2. Lovers of money.

3. Boastful (outward0.

4. Proud (inward).

5. Abusive toward others.

6. Disobedient

7. Ungrateful.

8. Unholy.

9. Heartless.

10. Unforgiving.

The previous 5 begin with the prefix “a”, meaning “without.” Like amoral vs. moral. (without obedience, without gratitude, etc.).

11. Slanderous (devil).

12. No self-control.

13. Brutal; untamed.

14. Not lovers of the good.

15. Treacherous (disposed toward betrayal).

16. Rash (disposed toward recklessness).

17. Conceited.

18. Lovers of pleasures.

19. Form (shape) of godliness.

FALSE TEACHING.

1. False teaching destroys [2:14].

2. False teaching defiles [2:16].

3. False teaching divides [2:23].

BE NOT ASHAMED [2Tim.1:8]. The actions of the soul. Identify with the Lord. Identify with His people. Identify with the cost of Christianity.

BE NOT CONFORMED [Rom.12:1,2]. The actions of the spirit. Mold your inner man by molding your mind. Mold your mind by having the mind of Christ. Mold your life by presenting your body to God willingly.

BE NOT UNEQUALLY YOKED [2Cor.6:14]. The actions of the body. A man of God with a large, warm heart is truly separated. A cold, dry heart leads to sectarianism, enmity, a cut-and-dried way that brings no blessing.

COURAGEOUS ENTHUSIASM [2Tim.1:1-7]. Four encouragements:

1. Paul’s love vs.1-2. “Dearly beloved” – much stronger than 1Tim.1:2.

2. Paul’s prayers vs.3-4.

3. Paul’s confidence in Timothy v.5.

4. God’s gift to Timothy vs.6-7.

SHAMELESS SUFFERING [2Tim.1:8-12].

1. Be not ashamed of the Lord’s testimony vs.8-10.

God gives us power.v.8.
God has called us by His grace.v.9.
Christ has defeated death. V. 10.

2. Be not ashamed of the Lord’s prisoner vs. 11-12.

Paul was called by God.v.11.
Paul was a herald and an apostle (one sent with a commission).v.11.
Paul was a teacher of the Gentiles.v.11.
Paul was confident in Christ.v.12.

SPIRITUAL LOYALTY [2Tim.1:13-18].

1. Be loyal to God’s Word.vs.13-14.

2. Be loyal to God’s servant.v.15-18.

SEVEN PICTURES [2Tim.2].

1. The steward.vs.1-2.

2. The soldier.v.3-4; 8-13.

Endures hardness.vv.3.
Avoids worldly entanglements.v.4.
Magnifies Jesus Christ.vs.8-9.
Thinks of the whole army.v.10.
Trusts his commanding officer.vs.11-13.

3. The athlete.v.5.

4. The farmer.vs.6-7.

Has to work.
Needs patience.
Deserves his share of the harvest.

5. The workman.vs.14-18. Must study and be diligent.

6. The vessel.vs.19-22.

7. The servant.vs.23-26.

QUESTIONS ON 2 ND TIMOTHY 2 .

1. Who is Paul writing this letter to?

2. Mark T (true) or F (false) in front of each one. A steward is:

A rich person
Responsible for taking care of his master's things and passing on things from his leader.
Not able to be trusted.

3. Which of the following statements are true:

A soldier endures hardship.
A soldier does what everyone else does.
A soldier endures hardness.
A soldier is willing to suffer.

4. What would keep an athlete from winning a prize according to verse 5?

5. What does “lawfully” mean in verse 5?

6. Before a farmer can get his share of the harvest, he has to:

Work the ground.
Work hard.
Wait patiently.
Put his heart into his work.
All of the above.

7. The workman has to be a student. True or False?

8. What is the “word of truth?”

9. How is a Christian likened to a vessel? (a container to keep things in)?

10. What is a servant of the Lord? What are they to do?

FAITHFUL MEN, 2Tim.2:2 A Faithful man…

1. He has adopted as his objective in life the same objective God sets forth in the scriptures

[Pro.20:6; 2Chr.16:9; Mat. 6:33]: his objectives are eternal; he has chosen them, he lives for them, he focuses his life on them.

2. He is willing to pay any price to have the will of God fulfilled in his life [2Tim.2:3-4]: he

resists the world’s attractions; he knows who he is and what his life is for; what he holds dear is held with an open hand.

3. He has love for God’s Word [Jer. 15:16]: he needs some mastery of the Word of God. He

has a knowledge of scriptural application as well as interpretation.

4. He has a servant heart [Mat.20:26-28; Jn. 13]: he invests his life in another to help that

person reach his own vision. He serves to lead.

5. He puts no confidence in the flesh [2Cor.1:9; Rom.7:18]: he understands his dependence

on God. How often do I talk about myself and my accomplishments?

6. He does not have an independent spirit [1Cor.6:19-20]: he listens and learns from others.

He is willing to subjugate his own ideas to the team he works with.

7. He has a love for people [1Jn.4:10]: to love is God-like. He is involved in other people's

lives.

8. He does not allow himself to become trapped in bitterness [Heb.12:15]: Never allow

another person to run your life by hating him. Do not allow real or supposed ill-treatment to make you bitter.

9. He has learned discipline in his life [1Cor.9:24-27]: he has learned how to say “No” to

temptation. He has learned the value of self-control.

SEVEN PICTURES [2Tim.2]: How can we be like Christ KEEPING THE HEART RIGHT

1. The steward.vs.1-2.

2. The soldier.v.3-4; 8-13.

Endures hardness.vv.3.
Avoids worldly entanglements.v.4.
Magnifies Jesus Christ.vs.8-9.
Thinks of the whole army.v.10.
Trusts his commanding officer.vs.11-13.

KEEPING THE HEAD RIGHT

3. The athlete.v.5.

4. The farmer.vs.6-7.

Has to work.
Needs patience.
Deserves his share of the harvest.

5. The workman.vs.14-18. Must study and be diligent.

KEEPING THE FEET RIGHT

6. The vessel.vs.19-22.

7. The servant.vs.23-26.

THE FAITHFUL SERVANT 2 Timothy THE OPENING OF THE BOOK. 1:1-5. You are appreciated 1:6-12. Remember who you are and what you are to do 1:13-18. Be loyal to the truth 2:1-2. Involved others 2:3-7. Be disciplined and willing to suffer 2:8-13. Be focused on the Lord Jesus 2:14-19. Be committed to sound doctrine 2:20-26. Be pure yourself 3:1-9. Be aware of opposition 3:10-11. Be prepared - remember your example 3:12-13. The source of opposition 3:14-17. The strength and power in the word 4:1-4. The charge - "Preach the word" 4:5-8. The ministry is not done

THE CLOSE OF THE BOOK 4:9-22. Appreciate me

LOYALTY IN SPITE OF APOSTASY. Chapter 3-4: 5. PREDICTIONS OF FAITHLESSNESS. 3:1-9.

Last days characteristics. 1-9
Holy Scriptures. 10-16.
Timothy knew the book of Paul’s life and character [10]; the book of God [15].
What a preacher must do in perilous times.
Paul’s three “readies.” Service [Rom.1:15]. Suffering [Acts 21:13].

Sacrifice [2nd Tim.4:6] CHALLENGE TO FAITHFUL PREACHING. 3:10-4:8.

Faithful in opposition. 3:10-13.
Faithful to God’s work. 3:14-4:5.
Faithfulness of Paul. 4:6-8.

v. 1-2 CHARGES TO TIMOTHY BY PAUL.

1. Stir up the gift that is in thee. [1:6]

2. Be not ashamed of (the Lord) (Paul). [1:8].

3. Be a partaker (participant). [1:8].

4. Hold fast the form of sound words. [1:13].

5. That good thing which was committed, …. Keep. [1:14].

6. Be strong in the grace. [2:1].

7. Commit to faithful men. [2:2].

8. Endure hardness. [2:3].

9. Put them in remembrance. [2:14].

10. Study to show thyself approved. [2:15].

11. Shun profane and vain babbling. [2:16].

12. Flee youthful lusts. [2:22].

13. Follow righteousness. [2:22].

14. Avoid foolish questions. [2:23].

15. Do not strive, but be gentle. [2:24].

16. Turn away from those with a form of godliness. [3:5].

17. Continue in what you know is right. [3:14].

18. Preach the word. [4:2].

"Preach the word." 4:2. Publicly proclaim it
"Hold fast (the word)." 1:13. Retain it
"Rightly divide (the word)." 2:15. Accurately handle it
"Keep the word." 1:14. guard it

19. Watch… Endure… Work. [4:5].

20. Come… Bring the books… Salute… come before winter. [4:9].

Faithful men like Timothy preached the Gospel in the past, and it has spread through the world to us. Now we are to "preach the word" so that it will spread to the world through us. In preaching, we have to be sensitive and yet bold, courageous and yet kind; prepared and yet extemporaneous; ready even when it is inconvenient. We have to use every opportunity by maintaining fellowship with the Lord and being guided by the Holy Spirit.

v.3-5 "Sound doctrine is not merely communicating the knowledge of the truth, but in humility and grace, we make full proof of [our] ministry by living out what we know is the truth. Teachers with "itching ears" do not want nor tolerate the truth. They have no respect for the standards of the scriptures. They reject the truth for drama and popularity. They make points to satisfy their own agenda. They tell people what they want to hear. We must keep a moderate balance even when under oppression and attack. Do not get jumpy or act too fast when pressure comes on. Keep alert to any moral, temporal, or spiritual situation that will bring you down.

LORD STANDING BY HIS LOYAL SERVANT IN SPITE OF DESERTION. Chapter 4:6- Christian life: as a soldier; as an athlete; as a trustee. Paul, the man: sighing, desiring comfort, suffering, lamenting. Paul, the saint: exulting, bold, confident.

FAITHFULNESS TO THE LORD: v. 6. As for myself: I am already being poured out [Ex.29; Lev.23:13; Num.15:10; 28:7,14; Phil.2:17]. His own death was a drink offering. v. 7. Soldier, athlete, steward, or trustee. v. 8. Laid up – reserved; crown – righteousness. Faithfulness to his fellow-servants. REMINDER OF GOD’S FAITHFULNESS. 4:9-18.

Paul’s enemies and friends. 4:9-16.
Paul’s deliverance by the Lord. 4:17-18. v. 9. Longing to see Timothy. He had confidence in him. v. 10. Demas [Col.4:14; Ph. 24]: Abandoned him, deserted him, and let Paul down. He fell in love with the system. Crescens was with Paul. This is the only mention. Titus: 13 times mentioned in the New Testament. The movement of God’s servants must be under spiritual exercise before God. v.11. Luke: a doctor, who left his practice to help Paul. A Jew and a Gentile were working together in harmony. Mark: pick up Mark. He is profitable. Recovery and usefulness, 22 years after the separation indicate God is never finished with a servant. v.12. Tychicus: Demas, Carpus and Titus had left on their own exercise. Paul had sent Tychicus because he had confidence, he would be a help to the Ephesian believers. v.13. Carpus: a trustworthy person at home. Books: a papyrus roll for letters and documents.

Parchments: dressed skins for more valuable material. Perhaps they contained the Old Testament scriptures which he still wanted to read. v.14. Alexander: not only spoke against Paul but “did me much harm.” Paul wanted no personal revenge. v.15. Some things and people we must stay away from. v. 16. First hearing, no one came alongside. He felt let down.

FAITHFULNESS TO THE UNSAVED: v. 17. The Lord poured strength into me so preaching would be known in Satan’s stronghold – the house of Nero. v. 18. Failure to proclaim the Gospel would be to Paul an evil work. “Away from”; “to bring” safely to the heavenly kingdom. FINAL GREETINGS. 4:19-22. v.19. Prisca and Aquila: fellow laborers; Onisophorus: hospitality. v.20. Erastus: chamberlain of Corinth. Trophemius: a trustworthy man. v. 21. Believers in Rome who were faithful to Paul. v. 22. Need to know God’s abiding presence.