2 Timothy 2:1-26 Guard The Gospel (Be steadfast Minister ) by Ho King Swee dated 23.10.16

Where exactly was Paul when he wrote this last epistle?

Paul was mostly likely in an underground prison according to Bro. King Swee.  It was a small place, fifty and smelly as many prisoners were most probably dumped there to die either from starvation or strangulations by prisoners in there.

1. Paul's Exhortations to be steadfast minister (2:1-13)

(a) To be strong in Christ's grace (2:1)

(b) To disciple others to reproduce (2:2)

(c) To endure suffering (2:3-13)

      a)      To be strong in Christ’s grace (2:1)

b) To disciple others to reproduce (2:2)

2: and what you have heard from me before many witnesses entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.

4         generations for multiplication 

c) To endure suffering (2:3-13)

3: Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus.

9: the gospel for which I am suffering and wearing fetters like a criminal. But the word of God is not fettered.

10: Therefore I endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain salvation in Christ Jesus with its eternal glory

12: if we endure, we shall also reign with him; if we deny him, he also will deny us;

2. Paul's Exhortations to soundness in Doctrine (2:14-26)

(a) To shun doctrinal error (2:14-19)

(b) To pursue personal purity (2:20-22)

(c) To correct those who oppose (2:23-26)

a) To shun doctrinal error (2:14-19)

v.14…avoid disputing about words,

v15 Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.

v.16 Avoid such godless chatter

The best way to avoid doctrinal error is

to be diligent and discipline in the study of God’s word

(b) To pursue personal purity (2:20-22)

v.22 So shun youthful passions and aim at righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call upon the Lord from a pure heart.

(c) To correct those who oppose (2:23-26)

v.25 correcting his opponents with gentleness. God may perhaps grant that they will repent and come to know the truth,

Application

Be strong in the grace of the LORD

Make disciples to multiply

Diligent to study the word of God

Make every effort to save souls