Paul now mentions a few things about himself. Why does he do this? It is in order to encourage Timothy. He has just commanded Timothy to take firm action against false teachers and false teachings. This is good, but when we do this we are engaging in spiritual warfare. There will be opposition, and we will feel vulnerable. So Paul encourages Timothy.
First, it is Christ who gave Paul strength. This means there is no reason why Timothy cannot accomplish the same things that Paul did. We tend to look at the man or woman and think "I could never be like them". This is missing the point, it is Jesus who is the key.
Secondly, Paul delights in the fact that Jesus considered him trustworthy and appointed him to service. Our reaction can often be "why me?". Why do I have to be lumbered with this task? This is the wrong way to look at things. Instead we should rejoice in the fact that the king of kings has called us into His service.
Next we might think only certain people are good enough to receive blessings and strength from God. Again, this is wrong thinking. Paul was "blasphemer and a violent man", yet God chose him. God showed him mercy, and poured out His grace, faith and love on him with abundance. We should look to God expecting to receive grace, faith and love. Then we will be equipped for the service to which He has called us.
No comments:
Post a Comment