Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favorable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching. 2 Timothy 4:2
"Preach the gospel at all times. When necessary, use words." This well-known quote was written by an unknown author. While I certainly understand the meaning behind the quote, which is that all of our actions should point others to Christ, I also believe that in order to truly preach the gospel to others, we must use words. The apostle Paul knew the importance of preaching the gospel with our words, as well as our actions, which is why He wrote to his mentee, Timothy, in 2 Timothy 4.
"I solemnly urge you in the presence of God and Christ Jesus," Paul wrote, "who will someday judge the living and the dead when he comes to set up his Kingdom: Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favorable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching" (2 Timothy 4:1-2). The importance of preaching the word is expressed by Paul's strong language in these verses. Paul did not just say, "Preach the word," he said, "I solemnly urge you in the presence of God and Christ Jesus… preach the word of God." Preaching the word, or the good news of Jesus Christ, was critical in Paul's opinion. He wanted Timothy to always be prepared to share the good news of Jesus Christ. By doing this, Timothy would continue the work that Paul began after Paul's imminent death. More importantly, people would continue to learn about God and the salvation that He offers.
Jesus put in this way in Matthew 5:16: "Let your light shine before others…" This is a reminder to us that followers of Jesus are lights in a very dark world. We point others to Jesus. We can do this with our actions and our words. Both are important. If you tell others about Jesus, but you do not live like a follower of Him, they will have a hard time believing that your faith is genuine. If your actions point others to Christ, but you do not ever actually tell others about Him, they will never understand why you do what you do. We must point people to Christ with our words and actions.
In the past, I have found myself making excuses when it comes to sharing my faith. "I do not have to actually share my faith with words," I have thought, "I can live out my faith by my actions, and then if anyone has questions, they can ask me about my faith." The problem with this approach is that the circumstances where someone approaches another person about their faith are rare. We have to actually begin those conversations rather than wait for an unbeliever to begin them. Yes, sometimes this can be scary, but that is okay. We can choose bravery instead of fear. Will you be brave and share your faith today?
Take some time today to actually share the gospel with someone who is far from Christ. Share the Bridge Diagram (found in segment 4) with that person. Tell them the good news of God's love that Jesus died so that we would never have to experience life apart from Him.
I solemnly urge you in the presence of God and Christ Jesus, who will someday judge the living and the dead when he comes to set up his Kingdom: Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favorable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching.
For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear. They will reject the truth and chase after myths.
But you should keep a clear mind in every situation. Don’t be afraid of suffering for the Lord. Work at telling others the Good News, and fully carry out the ministry God has given you.
As for me, my life has already been poured out as an offering to God. The time of my death is near. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. And now the prize awaits me—the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing.
Timothy, please come as soon as you can. Demas has deserted me because he loves the things of this life and has gone to Thessalonica. Crescens has gone to Galatia, and Titus has gone to Dalmatia. Only Luke is with me. Bring Mark with you when you come, for he will be helpful to me in my ministry. I sent Tychicus to Ephesus. When you come, be sure to bring the coat I left with Carpus at Troas. Also bring my books, and especially my papers.
Alexander the coppersmith did me much harm, but the Lord will judge him for what he has done. Be careful of him, for he fought against everything we said.
The first time I was brought before the judge, no one came with me. Everyone abandoned me. May it not be counted against them. But the Lord stood with me and gave me strength so that I might preach the Good News in its entirety for all the Gentiles to hear. And he rescued me from certain death. Yes, and the Lord will deliver me from every evil attack and will bring me safely into his heavenly Kingdom. All glory to God forever and ever! Amen.
Give my greetings to Priscilla and Aquila and those living in the household of Onesiphorus. Erastus stayed at Corinth, and I left Trophimus sick at Miletus.
Do your best to get here before winter. Eubulus sends you greetings, and so do Pudens, Linus, Claudia, and all the brothers and sisters.
May the Lord be with your spirit. And may his grace be with all of you.
