More Concerning Alexander the Coppersmith 2 Timothy 2:15

As Paul continued to complete his final words to Timothy his “dearly beloved son”, he shared concerning “Alexander the Coppersmith” who did him “much evil”. Paul desired for “ the Lord reward” to “him according to his works”, and in chapter four and verse fourteen of this final letter, Paul gave a warning to Timothy concerning “Alexander” where we read:

Of whom beware also; for he has greatly withstood our words.

The verse begins, “Of whom beware also;” Paul began with, “Of whom” which refers to “Alexander the Coppersmith” in person, “beware” which is the Greek phrase “phylasso sy phylasso” which means “guarded, watchful and observant” “also” which means “as well and indeed”. Paul knew “Alexander” was so “evil” he would not stop with tormenting Paul, but he would also attack Timothy as well.

The verse goes on to say, “for he has greatly withstood our words.” Paul added, “for he has greatly” which is the Greek phrase “anthistemi lian anthistemi” which means “exceedingly and beyond measure” “withstood” which means “set oneself against, resist and opposed” “our words” or “speech, discourse, doctrine and teaching”. “Alexander” resisted Paul's words which were do doubt the gospel of Jesus Christ which included Jesus dying on the cross, raising from the dead and washing away all the sins of those who will simply believe and trust in Him.

When we think through Paul's words, we recognize there are some people who are not satisfied with tormenting just one person, but also anyone who affects their life. The gospel of Jesus Christ had an impact upon “Alexander” as it does when anyone hears it, and although it was not in a godly way, “Alexander” had to manage its penetration in his life. The “words” of Paul were greatly opposed by “Alexander”, and Timothy was to expect no less from his own. Do we have those who “oppose” our “words” in our lives? Have their conditions been altered by the gospel? Are they resisting the truth we share? Perhaps we should learn from Paul and turn them over to “the Lord” to “reward” them “for their works”, and we will also do well to warn others who know them of their pernicious deeds.

Next time Paul tells Timothy how “all men forsook” him, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at http://www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Alexander the Coppersmith 2 Timothy 4:14

After listing a few men who were once a part of the ministry with Paul, he asked Timothy to bring him a few practical items such his “cloke that” he “left at Troas with Carpus” “and the books, but especially the parchments” which were the word of God. In chapter four and verse fourteen of this final letter from Paul, he named personally “Alexander the Coppersmith” as being one who did him “much evil” where we read:

Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil: the Lord reward him according to his works:

The verse begin, “Alexander the Coppersmith did me much evil:” Paul began with, “Alexander” whose name means “man defender” “the Coppersmith” or “worker in copper or iron” “did” or “showed, demonstrated, proved, displayed and put forth whether by work or act” “me much evil” which means “toward Paul himself - troublesome, injurious, pernicious, destructive and baneful acting”. No doubt “Alexander” was very difficult for Paul because he named him personally as being the perpetrator.

The verse continues, “the Lord reward him according to his works:” Paul continued, “the Lord” who is “he to whom a person or thing belongs, about which he has power of deciding, master and a title of honor expressive of respect and reverence that is given to God and the Messiah” “reward” or “deliver, discharge, requite and recompense” “him” speaking of “Alexander” “according to” or “down from, throughout, toward and along” “his works” which refers to “Alexander's business, employments, occupations, enterprises, undertakings, acts, deeds and industry”. Paul's desire was for “the Lord” to “recompense” “Alexander” with the same measure of “deeds” which he poured out upon Paul.

When we meditate upon Paul's words, we do not want to be as “Alexander” was and do “evil” toward those who present and carry the gospel. It is thought that Paul became a threat to “Alexander's” business as a “coppersmith” because “Alexander” was a maker and fashioner of “idols”. When people received Jesus as their Lord and Savior, their “idols” were no longer necessary, and “Alexander's” business declined. It is amazing what people will do when their “pocketbook” is affected. We also learn how to manage someone who does us “evil”. Paul turned “Alexander” over to “the Lord” for retribution rather than taking action himself. Paul wrote in the book of Romans in chapter twelve and verse nineteen, “Vengeance is mine; I will repay, says the Lord.” When we have others commit “evil” and in Paul's case “much evil”, we do best to give place to “the Lord” to deal with them, and when He takes action, none can stand against Him. May the Lord Jesus help us to know those who consecrate “much evil” against us, and may we be as Paul and turn them over to Him for “reward”.

Next time Paul gives Timothy more warnings about Alexander, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at http://www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Practical Desires from Paul 2 Timothy 4:13

Paul the apostle listed several men who assisted him in his missionary journeys as he began to close his final words to Timothy his “dearly beloved son”. Among them was “Tychicus” whom Paul sent to Ephesus, and in chapter four and verse thirteen of his letter, Paul asked Timothy for some practical desires where we read:

The cloke that I left at Troas with Carpus, when you come,

bring with you, and the books, but especially the parchments.

The verse begins, “The cloke that I left at Troas with Carpus, when you come, bring with you,...” Paul began with, “The cloke” which was “a traveling overcoat used for protection against stormy weather” “that I left” or “left behind, deserted or forsook” “at Troas” which means “a Trojan” “with Carpus” whose name means “fruit” “when you come” or “show yourself, are established and become known” “bring with you” which means “carry or bear up with you”.

The verse goes on to say, “...and the books, but especially the parchments.” Paul went on to add, “and the books” which were “small books, scrolls or written documents” “but” which is a disassociation conjunction meaning “moreover, in addition to and” “especially” or “chiefly, mostly and above all” “the parchments” which were “dressed skins at Pergamos” which were used for writing paper.

When we think about Paul's words, we see the humanity and spiritual desires he had. A “cloke” or “traveling overcoat” was important to him, and he knew exactly with whom he left it. He desired his “coat” more than likely because it was going to be cooler in temperature where he was. Paul also desired to “read” “the books” which no doubt were stimulating to him and “the parchments” were particularly so. This gives us insight into “practical” ministry and the necessity for “spiritual” enhancements. We also should understand the practicality of living while understanding the importance of our spiritual nourishment. Paul set forth the example. Timothy fulfilled his desire, and may the Lord Jesus help us to know how important each of these are in our lives as well.

Next time Paul shares about “Alexander the coppersmith”, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at http://www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Tychicus 2 Timothy 4:12

As Paul the apostle began to close his final letter to Timothy his “dearly beloved son”, he listed several people who were alongside him in the ministry. Most of them had left him, and he was soliciting Timothy to come to him and bring Mark with him when he came. In chapter four and verse twelve, Paul mentions “Tychicus” in his words where we read:

And Tychicus have I sent to Ephesus.

The verse begins, “And Tychicus...” Paul began with, “And” which is a conjunction meaning “a continuance, adding to, and also” “Tychicus” whose name means “fateful” and was “an Asiatic Christian friend and companion of the apostle Paul”. “Tychicus” is mentioned many times in the New Testament and was with Paul whom he called a “beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord” and was used to “make known to” the “Ephesians” “all things” and to the Colossians was called “a beloved brother, and a faithful minister and fellow-servant in the Lord”.

The verse continues, “...have I sent to Ephesus.” Paul continued, “...have I sent” or “ordered, placed, appointed and dismissed” “to Ephesus” which means “permitted” and was “a maritime city of Asia Minor, capital of Ionia and under the Romans, of proconsular Asia, and was situated on the Icarian Sea between Smyrna and Miletus”. “Tychicus” was was to go to “Ephesus” and was thought to have carried Paul's letter there.

When we think about Paul's words, we can admire the faithfulness of “Tychicus” and learn from his obedience in his position in the gospel. Although not much is known about him, what we do know is that he was with Paul, “a beloved brother” and called “a faithful minister in the Lord”. We can also desire the title of “faithful” and “beloved”, and may the Lord Jesus help us to be like this as “ministers in the Lord”.

Next time Paul shares asks for some practical things from Timothy, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at http://www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Luke and Mark 2 Timothy 4:11

After sharing about “Demas” forsaking him because he “loved this present world” and “departed unto Thessalonica”, Paul the apostle mentioned “Crescens” who left for “Galatia” and “Titus” who went to “Dalmatia”. Paul must have felt some degree of abandonment, and in chapter four and verse eleven of this final letter written to Timothy, he mentioned “Luke” and “Mark” where we read:

Only Luke is with me. Take Mark, and bring him with you:
for he is profitable to me for the ministry.

The verse begins, “Only Luke is with me.” Paul began with the word, “Only” which means “alone, without a companion, forsaken, destitute of help and merely” “Luke” whose name means “light-giving” and was “a Gentile Christian and companion of Paul in preaching the gospel and on his many journeys; he was a physician and author of the book of Luke and Acts in the New Testament” “is with me” or “accompanying, occupied with or joined to him”. After all those who travelled, ministered and shared the gospel with Paul, “solely” “Luke” who is known as “the beloved physician” was with him now.

The verse continues, “Take Mark, and bring him with you: for he is profitable to me for the ministry.” Paul continued, “Take” or “raise and receive up” “Mark” whose name means “a defense” and was “an evangelist and the author of the Gospel of Mark. Marcus was his Latin surname, and his Jewish name was John. He was a cousin of Barnabas and a companion of Paul in some of his missionary journeys” “and bring him” or “lead, take by laying hold of and accompanying, conduct and attached to one's self as an attendant” “with you” which referred to Timothy. Paul's desire was for Timothy to bring Mark with him when he came to visit Paul in Rome. Paul added the reason he desired for “Mark” to come, “for he is profitable” or “easy to make use of, useful or meet for use” “to me” which referred to Paul himself, “for the ministry” which means “service, of those who execute the commands of others and the ministration of those who render to others the office of Christian affection such as those who help meet needs by either collecting or distributing of charities”. “Mark” would be of “use and service” in the ministry when Timothy brought him along to help Paul.

As we think about Paul's words, we may be inclined to feel pity for him as he sat mostly alone in the Roman prison. It is interesting to note that had he not been there, we might not be reading his words today. The fact that “Luke” was with him shows deep devotion on “Luke's” part, and though physicians in those days were servants and not as exalted in position as they are today, Paul was certainly delighted to have Luke be with him. When we think about “Mark” or “John Mark”, this becomes quite another story. “Mark” was the cousin of Barnabas and had forsaken Paul and Barnabas on their first missionary journey. (See Acts 15:37-39) Barnabas desired for “Mark” to go with them on their second missionary journey, and the disagreement was so strong between Barnabas and Paul that they separated in ministry. However, some time later, “Mark” is “profitable” to both Paul himself and “the ministry”. Not only does this demonstrate alteration in Paul, but also change within “Mark”. Incidentally, “Luke” wrote the gospel of “Luke” and the “Acts of the Apostles”, and “Mark” wrote the gospel of “Mark”. No one but Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit could add such incredible value to those who would be used to share such a glorious message. May the Lord Jesus shape, mold and make us “profitable” “for the ministry” and comfort of others as He did with “Luke” and “Mark”, and may He alter any place within us that needs to be changed before we can be mightily used by Him.

Next time Paul shares concerning “Tychicus”, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at http://www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Demas has Forsaken Me 2 Timothy 4:10

As Paul began to close his final letter to Timothy, he asked him to “do diligence to come shortly unto” him. In chapter four and verse ten we see three reasons why Paul made this request beginning with “Demas” who forsook him and “Crescens” and “Titus” who also left Paul. We read:

For Demas has forsaken me, having loved this present world,

and is departed unto Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia, Titus unto Dalmatia.

The verse begins, “For Demas has forsaken me, having loved this present world,...” Paul began with the word, “For” which means “because, as, even, indeed, no doubt, seeing then and therefore” “Demas” whose name means “governor of the people” and was “a companion of Paul who deserted the apostle when he was a prisoner at Rome and returned to Thessalonica” “has forsaken me” which means “abandoned, deserted, left helpless and behind”. Paul added the reason “Demas” forsook him, “having loved” or “entertained, been fond of, loved dearly, is well please and contented with” “this present” which refers to “at this time and now” “world” which means “age and perpetuity of time”. “Demas” once ministered with Paul but had forsaken him and left him because he was drawn to the world and it's attractions.

The verse goes on to say, “...and is departed unto Thessalonica;” Paul continued with, “and is departed” or “lead over, carried over and transferred” “unto Thessalonica” which means “towards victory of falsehood” which was “a famous and populous city, situated on the Thermaic Gulf and the capital of the second division of Macedonia and the residence of a Roman governor and quaestor”. Pau visited and began a church in Thessalonica, and evidently “Demas” left Paul to engage in trade or another worldly business.

Finally the verse says, “Crescens to Galatia, Titus unto Dalmatia.” Paul added two additional men who left him. First, “Crescens” whose name means “growing” and was thought to be “one of the original seventy disciples” “to Galatia” which means “land of Galli” and was “the Roman province of Galatia and may be roughly described as the central region of the peninsula of Asia Minor, bounded on the north by Bithynia and Paphlagonia; on the east by Pontus; on the south by Cappadocia and Lycaonia; on the west by Phrygia”. Paul had also began a church in Galatia, and wrote the book of Galatians to them. Paul continued, “Titus” whose name means “nurse” and was “a Gentile Christian and Paul's companion in some of his journeys” “unto Dalmatia” which means “a priestly robe” and was “part of Illyricum on the Adriatic Sea; on the east adjoining Pannonia and upper Moesia, on the north separated from Liburia by the river Titus, and extending southwards as far as the river Drinus and the city Lissus”. Paul was left by each of these men who went to other places while Paul was imprisoned in Rome.

When we meditate upon these words of Paul, we can sense his loneliness as those who were once aligned with and ministering with him were now gone. Paul desired for Timothy to come to him because he was abandoned and imprisoned for the gospel's sake. No doubt there are times when we feel like we are doing the work all by ourselves, however we must never lose heart that God is with us, and when these times of loneliness and abandonment occur, perhaps it is because the Lord Jesus desires to have us all to Himself. May the Lord help us to keep this perspective as the kaleidoscope of life turns and people move away from our paths.

Next time Paul shares concerning “Luke” and “Mark”, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at http://www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Come Shortly unto Me 2 Timothy 4:9

After sharing with Timothy concerning “a crown of righteousness” which was “laid up” for himself, Paul the apostle insured there was one reserved for “all them also that love his appearing”. Paul knew his fight, course and faith were soon to be completed, and he would presently be with the Lord Jesus as he would give his life for the gospel. In chapter four and verse nine of this final letter from Paul, he exhorts to “come shortly unto me” where we read:

Do your diligence to come shortly unto me:

The verse begins, “Do your diligence...” Paul began with the phrase, “Do your diligence” which in Greek is the single word “spoudazō” and means “to hasten, make haste, exert one's self and endeavor”. Paul desired for Timothy to quickly, swiftly and precipitously do what he is about to request.

The verse continues, “...to come shortly unto me:” Paul requested for Timothy, “to come” or “appear, make an appearance, arise, show, find place or influence” “shortly” which means “quickly, soon, hastily and suddenly” “unto” or “to the advantage of, at, near, by, towards and with” “me” which is a reference to Paul himself. As though the idea of hurrying needed repeating, Paul the apostle exhorted and encouraged Timothy to come to him speedily.

As we think through this verse, let us imagine ourselves as Paul the apostle for a moment. More than likely he is sitting in a Roman prison, chained to two guards, and basically without the care and concern of anyone in the world. He is writing this letter to Timothy, his “son in the faith”, and he knows that it will not be long before his life upon the earth will be over. It is any wonder why he would desire the company of this “dearly beloved son” Timothy? It is interesting as we read through the Bible, we see these glimpses of humanity in these people we call “giants” in the faith. Paul desired Timothy to swiftly “come” to see him. Perhaps we could use a visit by someone who is special to us, and if we could write to them, we would desire their appearance quickly as well. May the Lord Jesus help us know He is always ready to be with us, and no matter how alone we may feel or how dire our circumstances may be, the Lord is always at hand and ready and willing to meet our every need.

Next time Paul tells Timothy how “Demas” has “forsaken” him, and where others who surrounded him have gone, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at http://www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

A Crown of Righteousness 2 Timothy 4:8

As Paul the apostle came to a close in his final letter to Timothy his “dearly beloved son”, he told him, “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:”. Paul's journey and mission upon earth was just about at the end, and in chapter four and verse eight of his words to Timothy, he writes concerning “a crown of righteousness” which “the Lord” “shall give” him “at that day” where we read:

Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.

The verse begins, “Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness,...” Paul began with the word, “Henceforth” which in the Greek is “loipon” and means “remaining, the rest, hereafter, for the future, at last, besides and moreover” “there is laid up” or “laid away or laid by, reserved and awaiting” “for me” which is a reference to Paul himself “a crown” which means “a mark of royal or exalted rank such as the wreath or garland which was given as a prize to the victors in public games” “of righteousness” or “state of being as one ought to be, the condition acceptable to God, the way in which man may attain approval of God, integrity, virtue, purity of life, correctness of thinking, feeling and acting”. Paul knew after his fight, course and keeping of the faith was ended, there would be the crowning prize of approval and acceptance with God awaiting him.

The verse continues, “...which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day:” Paul continued, “which the Lord” or “the one to whom a person or thing belongs, master, possessor, disposer, owner, controller, sovereign, prince, chief, and one who is worthy of the title of honor, respect, reverence as well as the title given to the Messiah” “the righteous judge” which refers to “the upright, virtuous, innocent, faultless, guiltless, approved and acceptable one who passes or arrogates to himself judgment of anything and an arbiter and procurator administering justice” “shall give me” or “deliver, discharge, restore, requite and recompense to Paul” “at that day” which refers to “the appointed interval, period or time”. Paul's idea was the Lord who is truly the righteous procurator and administrator of justice would have a reward ready for him when his day of appearing before Him would finally come.

Lastly the verse says, “and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.” As though the “crown of righteousness” was a strong motivation to share, Paul went on to add, “and not to me only” or “this was not solely set apart for Paul himself” “but” which means “moreover, in addition to, and, nevertheless, with exception and rather” “unto all them” which refers to “each, every, any, the whole and everyone” “also” or “even and indeed” “that love” which means “welcome, entertain, are fond of and love dearly” “his” which refers to “Jesus Christ himself” “appearing” or “manifestation, advent and brightness”. This promise of a “crown of righteousness” is not only given to Paul, but also to everyone who will “love the appearance” of Jesus Christ.

When we think about Paul's words, we can almost imagine him thinking about the Olympic games which were a part of the Roman life in which he lived. He envisioned himself as completing his competition and receiving a “crown of righteousness” which was his reward for faithfully serving the Lord Jesus during his lifetime. According to Paul, we too are promised, “the eternal blessedness which will be given as a prize to the genuine servants of God and Christ which is the crown (or wreath) and reward of righteousness”. We can hear Paul's motivation to Timothy as he shares his own thoughts concerning this “prize”, and if we allow ourselves, we too will be moved by his passionate yearning. May the Lord Jesus help us to “love his appearing” and keep our eye on the prize of His crown, and may we live our lives in such a manner that we will surely receive it.

Next time Paul tells Timothy to do “diligence to come shortly” to him, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at http://www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Fought a Good Fight 2 Timothy 4:7

After exhorting Timothy to “preach the word” and warning him of people who will “not endure sound doctrine” “but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;”, Paul the apostle instructed him to “watch in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist” and to “make full proof of” his “ministry”. Paul was “ready to be offered, and the time of” his “departure” was “at hand”, and in chapter four and verse seven of this final letter from him, he declared that “he fought a good fight” among two other accomplishments where we read:

I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:

The verse begins, “I have fought a good fight,...” Paul began with the Greek word “agōnizomai” which translated is “I have fought” which means “to enter a contest, contend in gymnastic games as with adversaries, struggle with difficulties and dangers, endeavor with strenuous zeal, strive to obtain something” “a good” or “beautiful, handsome, excellent, eminent, choice, surpassing, precious, useful, suitable commendable and admirable” “fight” or “assembly, contest, struggle as in the gathering for national games”. Paul likened his struggles and difficulties unto the contests and games which were played out in the stadium or arena before men.

The verse continues, “...I have finished my course,...” Paul added, “I have finished” or “brought to a close, ended, passed, executed, completed, fulfilled and carried out” “my course” which refers to “a race or career”. Once again, like a racer who competes within a race course, Paul saw his life as though he was crossing the finish line.

Finally the verse says, “...I have kept the faith:” Finally Paul said, “I have kept” or “tended to, guarded, taken care of, observed and reserved” “the faith” which means “the conviction that God exists and is the creator and ruler of all things, the provider and bestower of eternal salvation through Christ, and that Jesus is the Messiah, through whom we obtain eternal salvation in the kingdom of God”. Paul exhibited, tended to, guarded and observed “a character of one who can be relied upon” to not only follow Jesus Christ, but also to demonstrate a life that is ruled by Him.

As we think through these words of Paul, let us think about the three words he used to describe the accomplishments of his life: “Fought”, “Finished” and “Kept”. It was not simply that he observed these three ways, but it was what he “fought”, what he “finished” and what he “kept” that should be an inspiration to us. Paul “fought a good fight” because it was necessary to “compete, struggle and strive”. He “finished” his “course” like a racer completing a race which showed endurance and strength no matter what his course looked like; and he “kept the faith” because there was always a notion or competing way which attempted to have him lose it. While we ponder these things, let us allow the Lord Jesus to add these three determinations to our lives, and as we continue in our “fight”, “race” and “belief” may our lives reflect the faith which we have in Almighty God.

Next time Paul tells Timothy how there is laid up for him a “crown of righteousness”, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at http://www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Ready to be Offered 2 Timothy 4:6

Paul the apostle knew his death by the Romans was imminent, and he desired to leave Timothy, his “dearly beloved son”, directions as the pastor of the church in Ephesus and care for his own personal life. Among these directions, Timothy was to “watch in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist” and “make full proof of” his “ministry”. In chapter four and verse six of his final letter, Paul begins to share concerning his departure from the earth as he declared, “I am ready to be offered” where we read:

For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand.

The verse begins, “For I am now ready to be offered,...” Paul began with the word, “For” which means “because, since, indeed, seeing then and on account of” “I” which refers to Paul himself, “am now ready to be offered” which is the Greek phrase “spendō ēdē spendō” and literally means “to pour out as a drink offering or make a libation” and figuratively is “used of one whose blood is poured out in a violent death for the cause of God”. Paul was ready to be spent as an offering for the cause of Jesus Christ.

The verse continues, “... and the time of my departure is at hand.” Paul went on to add, “and the time” or “due measure, fixed, definite, opportune and seasonable period” “of my departure” which means “unloosing, dissolving such as the loosing from moorings preparatory to setting sail” “is at hand” or “present, in place, ready and come upon”. Death was pending and close for Paul the apostle, and he was well aware of the conditions he was going to face. Though his earthly conditions were dim, he continued to be steadfast in his walk with Jesus Christ.

While we meditate upon Paul's words, let us consider how we would be if we knew our “time of departure” was at hand. What would be our thoughts during those last few days or hours? Would we be concerned about the well-being of a young protege such as Timothy? Would we consider our “departure” an “offering” and be willing to be “spent” and “poured out as a drink offering” for “the cause of God”. As we consider these things, let us allow ourselves to imagine being Paul for a moment, and ask the Lord to help us have the “ready to be offered” state of mind at all times, because none of us know whether our “time of departure” is very close or still a few years away. Even so, may we always be ready to depart, and continually pray, “come quickly Lord Jesus”.

Next time Paul tells Timothy to “watch in all things”, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at http://www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Watch, Endure, Work and Make Full 2 Timothy 4:5

Paul the apostle desired for Timothy “his dearly beloved” “son in the faith” to be well equipped as a pastor of the church in Ephesus. Not only was Timothy's personal life to reflect the life and truth of Jesus Christ, but also he was to be an example for the believers as a pastor. Paul warned Timothy of people who “shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables”, and because people with “itching ears” would do so, in chapter four and verse five of this final letter from Paul, he gave Timothy four things to do: “Watch”, “Endure”, “Work” and “Make full” where we read:

But you watch in all things, endure afflictions,

do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of your ministry.

The verse begins, “But you watch in all things, endure afflictions,...” Paul began with the word, “But” which means “moreover, now, nevertheless and also”, and then declared, “you watch” or “be sober, calm, collected in spirit, temperate, dispassionate and circumspect” “in all things” which refers to “each, every, any, the whole, everyone and everything”. Next Paul added, “endure afflictions” or “suffer evils, hardships and troubles”. Rather than be a person who followed false stories and fables, Timothy was to be a “sober and calm” person who “endured” hardships and “afflictions” which came into his life.

The verse goes on to say, “...do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of your ministry.” Paul continued with, “do” or “make, prepare, constitute, appoint and declare” “the work” which means “the business, employment, occupation, undertaking, enterprise and accomplishment” “of an evangelist” or “bringer of good tidings”. Timothy was to be continually busy about the business of sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ. Finally Paul added, “make full proof” or “bear, bring to capacity, cause to be shown thoroughly, accomplish and carry through to the end” “of your ministry” which refers to “Timothy's service and administration of executing the commands of others”. Timothy was a “minister of the gospel of Jesus Christ” as he “pastored” over the church located in Ephesus, and he was to thoroughly accomplish all the Lord Jesus had for him to do within his offices.

While we think upon Paul's four objectives for Timothy, we should examine our own lives by his standard. Are we “watching in all things”? Do we “endure afflictions”? Are we active in “the work of an evangelist”, and do we “thoroughly accomplish” our “ministry” which has been given to us by the Lord Jesus? Perhaps we may think these directives are given to “pastors” and “ministers” alone, however, if we ponder these traits long enough, we will soon discover that all who follow Jesus Christ as their Savior and Lord have the same orders. May the Lord Jesus help us to know and follow these four ways, and may He add any traits to our lives which would be found lacking should we be inspected and observed by others.

Next time Paul tells Timothy he is “ready to be offered”, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at http://www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

From the Truth to Fables 2 Timothy 4:4

As Paul the apostle continued to exhort Timothy, his “dearly beloved son”, he told him, “For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears”. Rather than hearing and obeying all the “holy scriptures”, Paul's warning was that people will only desire pleasantries, good thoughts and things that make them feel good. In chapter four and verse four of this final letter from Paul, he tells Timothy how these will turn away “from the truth”, and will be “turned to fables” where we read:

And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.

The verse begins, “And they shall turn away their ears from the truth,...” Paul began with the word, “And” which shows a continuation of thought, and this is a good reminder that the scriptures of the Bible were not originally divided into chapters and verses but were written like a continuous letter or book. In this case, Paul is continuing his thought concerning those who began to listen with “itching ears”. He went on to write, “they shall turn away” which in the Greek is “men apostrephō” which means “will surely and certainly remove, desert and defect” “their ears” or “sense of hearing instruction which is namely orally given” “from the truth” which means “separated from what is true in things appertaining to God and the duties of man both morally and religiously”. In other words, these apostate people will “turn away” from hearing “the truth” of God's word and His “holy scriptures”.

The verse continues, “...and shall be turned unto fables.” Paul continued with, “and shall be turned” or “twisted out, turned off, turned aside and away” “unto fables” which is a reference to “false speech, sayings, narratives, stories and inventions”. In other words, these who forsake, turn their backs upon, shun and avoid association with the word of God, will listen to and follow false stories, speeches, and inventions of men.

When we use our imaginations to think about people doing as Paul wrote, we can understand his exhortation concerning these things unto Timothy. Sometimes people do not want to hear “the truth” of God and would rather hear a “good story” or something that has a happy ending. The writer of Hebrews wrote in chapter four and verse twelve of his letter,

“For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”

These words declare the “word of God” and “His truth” to be penetrating to the point of discerning both the “thoughts” and the “intents” of the “heart”. This can make us feel uncomfortable, shameful and sometimes guilty, and yet, this is why the gospel of Jesus Christ is so wonderful. Even though the word of God will have this effect upon its readers, Jesus Christ demonstrates His grace by forgiving every charge that may be brought against us. “The truth” should not be avoided by us, and we should never turn to “false speeches and narratives” rather than the word of God. As we meditate upon these things, may the Lord Jesus reveal to us the importance of His “truth”, and may He keep us from following any other stories or words that will lead us away from Him.

Next time Paul tells Timothy to “watch in all things”, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at http://www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.