2 Timothy 1:1-14
In our story for today, Paul had been released from his first Roman imprisonment. However, five to six years later Paul finds himself once again in a Roman prison, which is when he writes this second letter to Timothy. Paul had no hope or expectation of release and this letter urges Timothy to come to Rome for one last visit.
2 Timothy illustrates that Paul was aware the end was near and asks him to keep the family narrative, to keep the story, to keep the faith.
Paul was sharing how he himself had lived his life of faith in Jesus Christ- He was passing on the family narrative to Timothy with the responsibility to pass it on to the next generation.
As you read through 2 Timothy, think of it as a story, and with most stories, what’s the moral? Pass on the good word of God … no matter what. Through the toughest of times to the best, God wants us to continue the narrative and continue to spread his story.
Paul Encourages Timothy
From Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God. God sent me to tell about the promise of life that is in Christ Jesus. To Timothy, a dear son to me. Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord. I always remember you in my prayers, day and night. And I thank God for you in these prayers. He is the God my ancestors served. And I serve him, doing what I know is right. I remember that you cried for me. And I want very much to see you so that I can be filled with joy. I remember your true faith. That kind of faith first belonged to your grandmother Lois and to your mother Eunice. And I know that you now have that same faith. That is why I remind you to use the gift God gave you. God gave you that gift when I laid my hands on you. Now let it grow, as a small flame grows into a fire. God did not give us a spirit that makes us afraid. He gave us a spirit of power and love and self-control. So do not be ashamed to tell people about our Lord Jesus. And do not be ashamed of me. I am in prison for the Lord. But suffer with me for the Good News. God gives us the strength to do that. God saved us and made us his holy people. That was not because of anything we did ourselves but because of what he wanted and because of his grace. That grace was given to us through Christ Jesus before time began. It was not shown to us until our Savior Christ Jesus came. Jesus destroyed death. And through the Good News, he showed us the way to have life that cannot be destroyed. I was chosen to tell that Good News and to be an apostle and a teacher. And I suffer now because I tell the Good News. But I am not ashamed. I know Jesus, the One I have believed in. And I am sure that he is able to protect what he has trusted me with until that Day. Follow the true teachings you heard from me. Follow them as an example of the faith and love we have in Christ Jesus. Protect the truth that you were given. Protect it with the help of the Holy Spirit who lives in us. 2 Timothy 1:1-14 (ICB)
Questions for Reflection:
- How do you share God’s word with your family? With others?
- How do you speak up and speak out so others hear God’s words?
- How do you speak up, even when it feels like no one is listening?
Prayer:
Thank you for all that you are and all that you have allowed me to be. I pray that you continue to light the flame of God's spirit to help us all be brave enough to share your word in all times and all spaces. May we be brave in our journey.
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