“You are aware of the fact that all who are in Asia turned away from me…”
2 Timothy 1:15
As Paul reached the end of his mission (Acts 26:16-18), he penned these words above to one of his disciples, Timothy.
It carries a sad tenor. A sense of hopelessness.
However, glory to God, Paul’s ultimate hope was not in the gospel message taking root but in the Source of the gospel, which is why he goes on to write…
“Remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead, descendant of David, according to my gospel, for which I suffer hardship even to imprisonment as a criminal; but the word of God is not imprisoned” 2 Timothy 2:8-9.
Paul’s faith was in the Source of the message and not in…
- His ability to communicate the message, nor the fruit of the message, but rather in…
- The One who called Him to be the messenger.
That is why Paul writes, “For this reason I endure all things for the sake of those who are chosen, so that they also may obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus and with it eternal glory” 2 Timothy 2:10.
His hope was based on the Person of Christ’s work through His Word, not in the product or the fruit of his labor.
Therefore, Paul writes to Timothy over twenty times to retain, guard, entrust, etc., the “things” of the Word and the “treasure” given him while at the same time correcting those who err from its sound doctrine.
How Does This Apply To Us Today?
- Is it possible to preach, teach, disciple, mentor, etc., folks who ultimately show little fruit? Further, is it possible to pour into someone and then watch them walk away from the truth?
- Moreover, when this occurs, is it possible to lose heart?
- Therefore, the Christian is to press on despite not seeing fruit…despite seeing disciples fall away…despite facing ridicule, etc. Why?
- Because “in the future 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” 2 Timothy 4:8.
And so, we press on!
— March 23, 2023