#The Epistle of Second Timothy

[mybeautifulchristianjourney]

All Scripture is God-Breathed

All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching, for showing people what is wrong in their lives, for correcting faults, and for teaching how to live right. Using the Scriptures, the person who serves God will be capable, having all that is needed to do every good work. — 2 Timothy 3:16-17 | New Century Version (NCV) The Holy Bible, New Century Version®. Copyright © 2005 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Cross References: Deuteronomy 29:29; Zephaniah 3:2; Romans 4:23; Romans 15:4; 1 Timothy 6:11; 2 Timothy 2:21; Titus 1:16; Hebrews 13:21; 2 Peter 1:20-21

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God-Breathed Scripture

[aprillikesthings]

Reading the book of Romans for my religion class.

And in the middle of a bunch of confusing-to-me metaphors, Paul is like "I'm speaking with ordinary metaphors because of your limitations." (CEB translation, 6:19)

First of all: rude. Second of all: yeah they were probably "ordinary metaphors" to people at the time lol

He's also weirdly relatable sometimes (7:18-19): "The desire to do good is inside of me, but I can’t do it. I don’t do the good that I want to do, but I do the evil that I don’t want to do."

Yeah dude. I feel that.

Romans has both some of the worst shit in it (that section used against gay people, the whole "elect" business people turned into Calvinism) but it also has some of the most moving lines in the whole fucking bible, from 8:38-39:

"I’m convinced that nothing can separate us from God’s love in Christ Jesus our Lord: not death or life, not angels or rulers, not present things or future things, not powers or height or depth, or any other thing that is created."

"But April, why tf are you posting this to your main and not your religion sideblog" I mean, I am going to reblog it there.

But because ch9 has the line that's quoted in She-Ra, that Horde Prime says through Catra before pitching her off the platform to her (temporary) death. The wording is different because I'm using the CEB, but yeah.

19 You will say to me then, “Why then does he still find fault? For who can resist his will?” 20 But who indeed are you, a human, to argue with God? Will what is molded say to the one who molds it, “Why have you made me like this?” 21 Has the potter no right over the clay, to make out of the same lump one object for special use and another for ordinary use? 22 What if God, desiring to show his wrath and to make known his power, has endured with much patience the objects of wrath that are made for destruction, 23 and what if he has done so in order to make known the riches of his glory for the objects of mercy, which he has prepared beforehand for glory— 24 including us whom he has called, not from the Jews only but also from the gentiles?

(Couldn't find a gif of the actual line, so have the one from right before it.)

Yeah, Paul could say some unpleasant stuff sometimes, or at least things that have been interpreted in unpleasant ways--like I'm not the only one to look at those verses and think he's speaking metaphorically, I don't think he's saying that there are people God made just to send to hell as an example to the rest of us.

But the church ND Stevenson grew up in was hardcore Calvinist, and they looooove that whole "God decided whether you were saved or not before you were born and you can do nothing about it." (Most churches, side note, do not teach this. Mine doesn't.)

Someone else has already done a really great explanation of how Catra's story, specifically, is a refutation of some of the shittier parts of Calvinism, so I won't do it here.

But oh man one of the things that comes up in Romans, REPEATEDLY, is "don't judge other people, don't act like you're better than other people." Amazing how few people remember THAT part.

ALSO and this always cracks me up when people insist that the epistles are the literal word of God: most of ch16 is "Say hi to my friend so'n'so!" like there's a long list of friends and family members. And the next paragraph is "Oh and Timothy says hi!" pfft

[shammah8]

"For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God. For, 'All people are like grass, and all their glory is like the flowers of the field; the grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of the Lord endures forever.'"

1 Peter 1:23-25

SATAN'S ATTACK ON THE BIBLE

Brother Andrew continues his teaching on Satan’s strategic attacks:

The second prong of Satan’s attack is on the written word of God. He has historically tried to prevent Christians from having access to the Bible.

Satan understands the power of the Word of God. At the temptation of Jesus, he even made a sly attempt to use Scripture (actually misapplying it) to deflect Jesus from His true mission (Luke 4:1-3). Twisting Scripture is still a favourite tactic of Satan, and we believers need to know the Word so we can respond, just as Jesus did, with a well-applied “It is written…”

Peter recognised the significant role the Word has in our salvation. In his epistle to Christians passing through “fiery trials” he gives the words of encouragement in today’s scripture above.

Now you can understand my life’s passion to distribute the Bible, even in places where its importation or distribution is prohibited. Because I’ve gone around the world preaching that message, many people assume that I must have been the first “God’s smuggler.” Nothing could be further from the truth.

I personally believe that the first Bible smuggler probably was Timothy, the man Paul looked upon as his son in the gospel. This young man of delicate health, but of great spirituality and loyalty, was converted in Paul’s first campaign at Lystra.

At the end of his life, when Paul was in prison in Rome, he looked to Timothy for comfort. In a letter to him, Paul asked his friend to bring his books to the prison the next time he visited.

In 2 Timothy 4:13 it becomes clear Paul was requesting that scrolls of Old Testament Scriptures be brought to him for further study. But how could Timothy get them into Rome and into the jail when, by that time, Christians has already become an outlawed sect? The only possible way would have been to smuggle them in with other items.

Billy Graham, in his book Hoofbeats, suggests that John the apostle had to write his Revelation secretly, while closely guarded by the Romans. The parchment manuscript pages would have been smuggled off the island of Patmos and Christian volunteers copy them for the churches…

This world is an enemy-occupied territory filled with souls to whom Christ holds rightful claim. Under Christ’s command, we invade countries by any means that will help us to get in with the Word of God…

Today I want others to have what makes me grow spiritually — the Bible.

Response

Today I will make every effort to ensure that the Bible is available to everyone to read and practice.

Prayer

Pray for many believers around the world still waiting for their first personal Bible.

© 2013 Open Doors International. Used by permission.

[anumberofhobbies]

THE RAPTURE--ACCORDING TO JESUS

Feb 2, 2024 Jesus taught such a comforting, hope-filled message of His return to rescue His Church before the Tribulation, that His disciples went everywhere teaching this same truth.

When Paul had only a month in a pagan city where he planted a church, the Rapture was central to their doctrine.

The Rapture was First Taught by Jesus

The Rapture is a doctrine started and taught by Jesus, continued and spread by His disciples, and believed and passionately lived out by His Church.

The early church heard and understood this doctrine of Christ’s any-moment return, and radiantly lived, looking for ways to please Him when He came to rescue them.

James in the first NT letter said that Christ was standing at the door (5:7).

The second NT book was I Thessalonians and every chapter shines with Rapture-induced hope-filled expectancy (1:9-10; 2:19-20; 3:13; 4:13-18; 5:23).

Paul’s epistles start to finish, are seasoned with the flavor of a focused life awaiting Christ as in Philippians 3:20 where we as citizens of Heaven await Jesus eagerly, as Paul confesses in his last words of II Timothy 4 where he talks about His crown “at that day” when Jesus comes.

Peter says the same, going so far as asking what kind of lives should we live because we know the future (II Peter 3:11 ).

John’s Epistles are the same, in I John 3:2-3 he says that this “hope” causes us to purify our daily life looking for Christ’s coming.

In Revelation 3:7, Jesus Christ identifies Himself to the Church at Philadelphia as the One who is True, Holy, and has the unstoppable Messianic Key of David. When Jesus speaks He tells the Truth. When we listen to Him and hear what He says we can have confident assurance that He knows what He is talking about.

Jesus Christ taught repeatedly (Matthew 24, Mark 13, Luke 21) that His 2nd Coming is to Judge the ungodly.

That was the content of every sermon on the future that He ever preached.

Each sermon was taught in the context of Israel, was focused upon the Jews, and involved the city of Jerusalem and the nation of Israel.

The Rapture is Not The 2nd Coming

But, when Jesus spoke to believers His emphasis was different.

Jesus taught His own born-again children of the faith, three bedrock truths about the Rapture or His coming for His Church.

These truths are that: the Rapture will be a source of comfort; the Rapture will be similar to the Ascension; and that the Rapture will be an intentional rescue.

Those truths, taught by Jesus Christ Himself, constitute the Biblical, doctrinal basis for all that the early church was later taught by the Apostles and which extends to us throughout all the centuries since Christ’s ministry.

[enlargemycoast3]

Signs of a New Testament church:

1. Preaching & Teaching in the name of Jesus (Book of Acts)

2. Spiritual gifts are in operation ((Acts Ch. 2-5)

3. Healings, signs & wonders, miracles are following (Acts Ch. 2-5)

4. Giving to one another, making sure the needs of the church family are taken care of first, then others (outside of the church, second). (Acts Ch. 2-5)

5. Taking care of orphans and widows in the church. (James 1:27, 1 Timothy 5:3-16)

6. Missions-Supporting those who take the gospel to the world. (3 John 7-8, Galatians 6:6 and throughout Epistles)

[orthodoxydaily]

Saints&Reading: Sunday, Feruary 5, 2023

feruary 5_january 23

Sunday of the Publican and the Pharisee

This parabole marks the beginning of the pre-lenten period,  It’s the first day of the reading and chanting of the Lenten Triodion. And the beginning of a free-fast week. 

Today is the second of the preparatory Sundays leading us toward the holy season of Great Lent. On this Sunday we read the Gospel parable of the Publican and the Pharisee. Our Lord tells us that two men went into the temple to pray – one was a Pharisee who was diligent in keeping the fasts and all the rules of the Jewish law and the other was a Publican, a lowly and despised tax collector. The Pharisee stood in the temple with great confidence and pride, thanking God that he was not like other men. The Publican stood in the back of the temple and could hardly raise his eyes to heaven, only crying out ‘God, be merciful to me, a sinner!’ Our Lord Jesus Christ makes the point that it was the prayer of the Publican that was pleasing in God’s sight – “for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.”

It is very interesting and instructive and appropriate that on this day we read the Epistle from Apostle Paul to his spiritual child Timothy. In today’s Epistle we are exhorted to follow Orthodox ‘doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, love, perseverance, persecutions, afflictions.’ We are warned to beware evil men and imposters who might lead us astray from the true path. The Apostle advises us that we ‘must continue in the things which you have learned and been assured of, knowing from whom you have learned them, and that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.’ Apostle Paul is urging us to hold fast to the faith, to the traditions and teachings that have been handed down to us. We are forewarned of evil men and imposters who might lead us astray from the true path. We must know our faith and our traditions and we must adhere to them with all fidelity.

Isn’t this an interesting pair of readings assigned for this Sunday? In the Gospel lesson for today we are told very clearly that preoccupation with the letter of the law and an over-emphasis on the rules of tradition will not pave our way into the kingdom of heaven and can be a cause for spiritual arrogance and pride. However, in the Epistle lesson for today we are warned to carefully hold on to the traditions which have been handed down to us, that we must beware of straying from the true path, that these things ‘are able to make us wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus’.

Our Holy Mother Church is so wise in presenting these two teachings to us now, as we prepare ourselves for the Great Fast.

How are we to understand these seeming contradictions? Are strict adherence to the traditions of our faith on the one hand and simple-hearted humility on the other hand contradictory to each other? The answer, of course, is a resounding ‘no!’… these things are not contradictory. In fact, if we approach and pursue them in the right way, they can and should serve to complement and even fuel zeal for one another. The key to both of these things is in the correct disposition of our heart and mind.

The Pharisee of today’s Gospel is a man who held to the traditions of his fathers in the faith. He prayed daily, he fasted twice a week, he donated to the church, he was honest in his dealings with men. This is not a bad man… but he was missing something critically important! The disposition of his heart and mind was completely off track… he exalted himself through his careful observance of the Law and looked down upon the simple Publican saying ‘I thank God I’m not like this man.’ All of his fasting, all of his standing in the temple, all of his donations – these good things had not penetrated the coldness and arrogance of his heart.

The Publican recognized his unworthiness and could not even raise his eyes to heaven. He stood in the back of the temple, beating his breast and crying ‘Have mercy on me a sinner!’ The disposition of his heart and mind were right… his heart was breaking with sorrow and love for God. This was the contrite heart that God will not despise.

Listen to the words of St. Tikhon of Zadonsk who states very clearly: ‘If someone should say that true faith is the correct holding and confession of correct dogmas, he would be telling the truth, for a believer absolutely needs the Orthodox holding and confession of dogmas. But this knowledge and confession by itself does not make a man a faithful and true Christian. The keeping and confession of Orthodox dogmas is always to be found in true faith in Christ, but the true faith of Christ is not always to be found in the confession of Orthodoxy…. The knowledge of correct dogmas is in the mind, and it is often fruitless, arrogant, and proud…. The true faith in Christ is in the heart, and it is fruitful, humble, patient, loving, merciful, compassionate, hungering and thirsting for righteousness; it withdraws from worldly lusts and clings to God alone, strives and seeks always for what is heavenly and eternal, struggles against every sin, and constantly seeks and begs help from God for this.’

Brothers and sisters in Christ - our approach and our attitude to standing firm in the traditions and disciplines of the Church must be humble and must be motivated and activated first and foremost by love for God.

What greater example may we have than those holy ones whom we commemorate today – the holy new martyrs of Russia? Through their sufferings they demonstrated that harmony of bold and courageous fidelity to Christ along with deep repentance and extreme humility.

May God grant us this integrated and holistic approach to our prayer and fasting. First of all, granting us a contrite and broken heart like the Publican, which cries out to God: ‘Be merciful to me a sinner!’ And may that love and mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ then inspire and strengthen us to heed His words: ‘If you love me, you will keep My commandments.’ Letting our Lenten efforts of fasting, of prayer, of disciplining our lives to be in accordance with Christ’s commandments – to be an expression of our deep love and gratitude to God. And may that cycle of ‘love inspiring effort’ and ‘effort inspiring love’ cascade like a snowball, so that our love increases our efforts and our efforts increase our love.

By, Archpriest Fr.Martin person

THE MONK GENNADIUS OF KOSTROMA AND LIUBIMOGRAD ( 1565)

Saint Gennadius of Kostroma and Liubimograd, in the world Gregory, was born in the city of Mogilev into a rich family. He early displayed love for the church, and his frequent visits to monasteries evoked the dismay of his parents. Gregory, however, was firmly resolved to devote himself to God, and changing into tattered clothing, he secretly left his parental home and journeyed to Moscow.

He visited the holy places in Moscow, but he did not find it suitable in spirit and so set out to the Novgorod region. The destiny of the future ascetic was decided by an encounter with Saint Alexander of Svir (August 30). With his blessing, Gregory went to the Vologda forest to Saint Cornelius of Komel (May 19), and was tonsured by him with the name Gennadius. Together with Saint Cornelius, Gennadius moved on to the Kostroma forest. Here, on the shores of Lake Sura, in about the year 1529, there emerged the monastery of the Transfiguration of the Lord, afterwards called “the Gennadiev monastery”. Having become igumen, Saint Gennadius did not slacken his monastic efforts, and together with the brethren he went out to the monastery tasks: he chopped wood, carried firewood, made candles and baked prosphora. He also wore heavy chains. One of his favorite tasks was the painting of icons, with which he adorned his new monastery.

For his holy life Saint Gennadius received from the Lord the gift of clairvoyance and wonderworking. Journeying to Moscow on monastic affairs, at the house of the nobleman Roman Zakharin, the saint predicted to his daughter Anastasia that she would become Tsaritsa. Indeed, Tsar Ivan the Terrible chose her as his wife.

The Life of Saint Gennadius was written by his disciple, Iguman Alexis, between the years 1584-1587. In it was inserted his spiritual testament, dictated by Saint Gennadius himself. In it he commands the monks to observe the monastery Rule, to toil constantly, to be at peace with everyone, and to preserve the books collected at the monastery, while striving to understand their meaning. He said, “Strive towards the light, and shun the darkness.”

Saint Gennadius died on January 23, 1565, and was glorified by the Church on August 19, 1646.

Source; Orthodox Church in America

MATTHEW 28:16-20 

16 Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, to the mountain which Jesus had appointed for them. 17 When they saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some doubted. 18 And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age. Amen.

2 TIMOTHY 3:10-15

10 But you have carefully followed my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, love perseverance,11persecutions, afflictions, which happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra-what persecutions I endured. And out of them all the Lord delivered me. 12 Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution. 13 But evil men and impostors will grow worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived.14 But you must continue in the things which you have learned and been assured of, knowing from whom you have learned them, 15 and that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.

[bibleversegarden]

A Truly Liberated and Fruitful Life Brings Glory to God

The one, true and living God, the everlasting King, made the heavens and the earth and everything in them, by His great wisdom and power. Not the gods that are a lie and shall perish.

All God's works are done in truth; He is the truth. In Him, there is no falsehood or margins of error.

Being enticed by the devil, the first man and woman sinned and sin led to death, physically and spiritually. Grace and truth came by Jesus Christ, the second Adam from above, to reconcile us to God.

Jesus declares in John 14 verse 6: "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me."

To follow Christ, is to walk in truth and be set free. For whom the Son sets free is free indeed. (See John 8:31-59)

If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you. By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples." (John 15:7 & 8)

For when you were slaves of sin, you were free in regards to righteousness. What fruit did you have then in the things of which you are now ashamed? For the end of those things is death. But now having been set free from sin, and having become slaves of God, you have your fruit to holiness, and the end, everlasting life. For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 6:20-23)

For I rejoiced greatly when brethren came and testified of the truth that is in you, just as you walk in the truth. I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth. (The Third Epistle of John, Chapter 1:3 & 4)

A truly liberated and fruitful life, brings glory to God. Abide in Him and eat His words.

- A Walk In The Garden Devotions

Related Bible Readings:

John 1:14 & 17; John 4:23 & 24; John 7:14-29; John 8:31-59; John 14:6 and John 14:15-17; John Chapter 15 in its entirety; John 16:12-15; John 17:3 & 17; John 18:37; First Epistle of  John in its entirety; 1 Corinthians 13:6; 1 Corinthians 5:8; Galatians Chapter 5; Ephesians 6:10-24; 1 Thessalonians Chapter 2; 1 Timothy Chapter 4; 1 Timothy 6:3-6; 2 Timothy 2:15-19; Hebrews 10:26 & 27; James 5:19 & 20; Second Epistle of Peter in its entirety; Epistle of Jude; Genesis Chapter 3; Psalm 25:4, 5, 10; Psalm 33:4; Psalm 43:3; Psalm 85:10-13; Psalm 86:11; Psalm 89:14-18; Proverbs 3:3 & 4; Proverbs 23:23; Isaiah 42:8; Isaiah Chapter 44; Isaiah Chapter 61; Jeremiah 10:1-16

[pooma-bible]

Greetings in the matchless Name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Second Peter: DIVISION 03 – The Coming Again of Jesus Christ & The End of the World: Part (C) – The Things Believers Must Do Since Jesus Christ is Coming Again (Part I)!

Rhema Word: 2 Peter 3:14 (NKJV) “Therefore, beloved, looking forward to these things, be diligent to be found by Him in peace, without spot and blameless.”

Let us pray. Our Gracious Loving Father, thank You for giving us an opportunity to meditate Your Word today along with Your children who have been called to live a holy life, Father. I commit everyone who are all meditating this message into Your mighty hand Father. Bless them and give them the oneness of Spirit and make their heart as a good land to receive each Word which is living and active Father. Thank You Holy Spirit for helping us to understand the in-depth treasure of Your Word and helping us to live a life as per Your Word Lord. We give all the Glory and Honour to You only Father. We pray in the mighty Name of Your beloved Son Jesus Christ. Amen.

Introduction: To Whom Written: “To those who have obtained like precious faith with us by the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 1:1). “Beloved, I now write to you this second epistle” (2 Peter 3:1).

The epistle was apparently sent to the same believers who had received 1 Peter. Remember: they were scattered all throughout Asia. It was also probably written from the same place, Rome.

Purpose of this Letter: To combat and warn the church against false teachers and false doctrine.

Special Features of Epistle Second Peter:

(i) II Peter is “A General Epistle”. That is, it is not written to a specific church or individual, but rather, it is written to all Christian believers.

(ii) II Peter is “An Epistle Written to Combat False Teaching”. From its earliest days, the church had been born in controversy:

=> At first, it was the judaizing or legalistic problem which arose at Antioch (Acts 15:1).

=> Then there was the denial of the literal resurrection of the body by some in the Corinthian church (1 Corinthians 15:1).

=> There was also arising the corruptible beginnings of antinomianism and gnosticism. These false doctrines were appearing all throughout the Roman empire. They were appearing all throughout the Roman empire. They were using God’s grace as an excuse for sinning. They were using God’s grace as an excuse for sinning. The epistles of II Peter, I, II and III John, and Jude were written to combat such errors as these.

(iii) II Peter is “An Epistle Stressing the Importance of Knowledge”. The words know, knowing, and knowledge are used ten times. Knowing the truth is the answer to false teaching.

(iv) II Peter is “An Epistle Verifying the Inspiration of the Scripture”. Peter says in 2 Peter 1:20-21 “Knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation, for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.” Peter’s statement that Paul’s writings were Scripture shows that the canon was already being formed by the early church even while the early apostles were still alive (2 Peter 3:16; 2 Timothy 2:15; 3:16). The word “canon” simply means a collection of the writings considered to be inspired and breathed forth by God.

(v) II Peter is “An Epistle of the Missionary Apostle to the Jews”. Peter was given the primary responsibility of reaching the Jews throughout the world. He was the apostle to the Jews (Galatians 2:7-8; 11-21).

We have been meditating II Peter in following Three Divisions since last few weeks and completed Division 01 & 02:

DIVISION 01 – The Great Salvation of God: Part (A) – The Great Gift of Christ the Messiah: Salvation!

DIVISION 01 – The Great Salvation of God: Part (B) – The Great Things of the Believer’s Life!

DIVISION 01 – The Great Salvation of God: Part (C) – The Great Proof of Salvation!

DIVISION 02 – The Warnings Against False Teachers: Part (A) – The Description & Judgement of False Teachers!

DIVISION 02 – The Warnings Against False Teachers: Part (B) – The Character & Conduct of False Teachers!

DIVISION 03 – The Coming Again of Jesus Christ & The End of the World: Part (A) – The First Thing to Know: Scoffers Shall Come!

DIVISION 03 – The Coming Again of Jesus Christ & The End of the World: Part (B) – The One Thing Not to Be Ignorant About: Why Christ Has Not Yet Returned?

DIVISION 03 – The Coming Again of Jesus Christ & The End of the World: Part (C) – The Things Believers Must Do Since Jesus Christ is Coming Again (Part I)!

DIVISION 03 – The Coming Again of Jesus Christ & The End of the World: Part (D) – The Things Believers Must Do Since Jesus Christ is Coming Again (Part II)!

Let us try to meditate the Third topic in Division 03 - DIVISION 03 – The Coming Again of Jesus Christ & The End of the World: Part (C) – The Things Believers Must Do Since Jesus Christ is Coming Again (Part I)! today on the following, with the help of our Holy Spirit:

Introduction: Jesus Christ is coming to earth again. Therefore, there are some things that believers must do, and they are of critical importance:

(01) Believers Must Live Holy & Godly Lives:

(02) Believers Must Look For and Speed Up the Day of God:

(03) Believers Must Look For the New Heavens & New Earth:

(04) Believers Must Be Prepared For the Coming of Christ:

(01) Believers Must Live Holy & Godly Lives:

The Bible says in 2 Peter 3:11 “Therefore, since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness.”

Believers must live holy and godly lives. In fact, note the Scripture: “what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness”. There is to be no area of our lives – no part, no act – that is not holy and godly. Why? Why such a stress upon holiness and godliness? One strong reason is given.

The heavens and earth are to be dissolved because of the sin and evil of man. It is the sin and evil of man that has made the world so corrupt – corrupt beyond repair. God will be forced to destroy the world because of our sin and evil. The sin and evil are therefore terrible things, abominable things! They should be hated and despised by every man, woman, and child. All sin and evil should be despised because of the terrible things they do and have done. They have caused a curse of corruption and utter destruction upon the earth. For this reason, we should hate sin and evil and love holiness and godliness. We should be holy and godly in all of our behaviour.

(i) Holy means that our behaviour is sanctified, that is, set apart unto God; separated from the world and given over to God; given over to live pure and righteous lives.

The Bible says in Leviticus 11:45; Luke 1:74-75; Psalms 99:9; Isaiah 6:3; Revelation 15:4; Hebrews 12:14 “For I am the Lord who brings you up out of the land of Egypt, to be your God. You shall therefore be holy, for I am holy.” … “To grant us that we, being delivered from the hand of our enemies, might serve Him without fear, In holiness and righteousness before Him all the days of our life.” … “Exalt the Lord our God, and worship at His holy hill; for the Lord our God is holy.” … “And one cried to another and said: “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; The whole earth is full of His glory!” … “Who shall not fear You, O Lord, and glorify Your name? For You alone are holy. For all nations shall come and worship before You, For Your judgments have been manifested.” … “Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord.”

Apostle Paul says in 2 Corinthians 7:1 “Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.”

Apostle Peter says in 1 Peter 1:16; 2 Peter 3:11 “Because it is written, “Be holy, for I am holy.” … “Therefore, since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness.”

(ii) Godly means that we live like God and seek to be a godly person; that we live and do all things in the reverence and awe of God; that we are so conscious of God’s presence that we live like God would live if He were walking upon earth.

Lesson: Note: godly means to be Christlike. Godliness is Christlikeness: it is living upon earth just as Christ lived.

Apostle Paul says in 2 Corinthians 3:18; Titus 2:12-13 “But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.” … “Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ.”

Apostle Peter says in 2 Peter 3:11 “Therefore, since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness.”

(02) Believers Must Look For and Speed Up the Day of God:

The Bible says in 2 Peter 3:12 “Looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be dissolved, being on fire, and the elements will melt with fervent heat?”

Believers must look for and seek to bring the day of God about. The day of God refers to the day when God dissolve and destroy the heavens and earth, the day when the universe shall be “set aflame by fire and the elements will melt in the heat”. What is to be the attitude of the believer toward the day of God?

(i) The believer is to “look forward” (prosdokontas) the day of God. The word means to wait; to wait patiently but expectantly; to eagerly anticipate and long for the day of God; to be in expectation.

(ii) The believer is to speed the coming of the day of God. The term “speed its coming” (speudontas) can mean two things:

(a) To speed its coming can mean to hurry after; to earnestly desire; to rush toward. The believer is to live a holy and godly life looking for and hastening toward the day of God. Keeping his eyes upon that terrible day of judgement is to arouse him to live a holy and godly life. Every day that he lives upon earth is to be a day in which he hastens toward the judgement of God; he should never take his eyes off the terrible day of God that is coming. If he takes his eyes off that day, if he fails to direct his life toward the day of God, then he will most likely slip into unholiness and ungodliness. He must, therefore, stay focused upon the day of God, the day of the terrible judgement to come upon the heavens and earth.

(b) To speed its coming can also mean to speed up the day of God; to rush the coming of Christ; to cause the day of God to come sooner. The believer has a part in bringing about the eternal kingdom of God; he has a part in bringing about the return of Christ and the great day of God. How? God is “patient ….not wanting anyone to perish” (v.9). This is the reason He is delaying the return of Christ. Apparently, God has a certain number of believers that He has ordained to be brothers and sisters of His dear Son; apparently there are to be a certain number of believers to rule and manage the new heavens and earth for Christ. In His eternal knowledge God certainly knows the number who will be saved and serving His dear Son. Whatever the number and whatever the case, that number has to be reached before Christ can come and before the great day of God can destroy the universe and make a new heavens and earth. This much is known for sure:

=> God does have a certain number of believers in mind. Being God, He has purposed that His Son will have many brothers who will reign with Him and who will worship and serve God through all eternity. Apostle Paul says in Romans 8:28-29 “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren.” Yes, God will allow nothing to stop Him from giving Christ “many brothers”.

=> This Scripture tells us that we are to speed its coming, to help bring about the day of God.

Lesson: How can we help the day of God to come? How can we quicken the return of Christ and the end of the world? By living more holy and godly lives so that more people will more readily be attracted to Christ. The more they see Christ in us, His presence and power carrying us through the trials and temptations of life, the more they are going to want Christ and His power in their lives. The more holy and godly we live the more people will see the things for which they long…

=> strength to conquer the trials and temptations of life;

=> hope in the future;

=> assurance and confidence of living forever;

=> conviction, purpose, meaning, and significance in life;

=> love, joy, and peace.

When people see these things, the things for which they long, they will be attracted to Christ much quicker. The result will be more souls for Christ. They will be won much quicker and the number that God has in mind will be reached much sooner. Therefore, the way we are to speed up the day of God is to live more dynamic lives for Christ, and we must witness more diligently than ever before. We must begin to tell everyone that the Messiah, the Saviour of the world, has come – that He has come to save us from the sin and death of the world and to give us a life of love, joy, peace, and power – the power to live abundantly both now and forever.

The Bible says in Acts 24:15 “I have hope in God, which they themselves also accept, that there will be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and the unjust.”

Apostle Paul says in Colossians 1:5-6; Titus 2:12-13 “Because of the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, of which you heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel, which has come to you, as it has also in all the world, and is bringing forth fruit, as it is also among you since the day you heard and knew the grace of God in truth.” … “Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Saviour Jesus Christ.”

Apostle Peter says in 1 Peter 1:3; 3:15; 2 Peter 2:9 “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” … “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear.” … “Then the Lord knows how to deliver the godly out of temptations and to reserve the unjust under punishment for the day of judgment.”

Apostle John says in 1 John 3:1-3 “ Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God! Therefore, the world does not know us, because it did not know Him. Beloved, now we are children of God; and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is. And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure.”

(03) Believers Must Look For the New Heavens & New Earth:

The Bible says in 2 Peter 3:13 “Nevertheless we, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells.”

Believers must look for a new heavens and earth. Scripture clearly says that God is going to create new heavens and a new earth. No matter what men may think and say about the issue, God declares as simply, and as clearly as human language can describe that He is going to make new heavens and a new earth. Why? So that the world will be perfect and nothing but righteousness will exist therein. God has ordained a perfect world, a world in which only righteous people will live. God wants a world where there will be no more sin and evil, no more accidents, disease, suffering, murder, drunkenness, drugs, adultery, sexual perversion, war, or death. God wants a people who know only the fullness of love, joy, and peace, a people who worship and serve Him forever and ever.

Apostle John, like apostle Peter, speaks of a new earth, and tells us that that new earth will be the dwelling place of the blessed [believer]. He saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven; the throne of God and of the Lamb. The tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them. The holy city, Jerusalem, which is above, is in heaven now. But heaven will come down to earth; the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be there [upon earth]; there his servants shall serve Him.

In these new heavens and earth, only righteousness shall dwell, this is to be the habitation of such righteous persons as do righteousness and are free from the power and pollution of sin. Yes, those who are clothed with the righteousness of Christ, and sanctified by the Holy Spirit, shall be admitted to dwell in this holy place.

Apostle Paul says in Romans 8:18-22 “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. For the earnest expectation of the creation eagerly waits for the revealing of the sons of God. For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of Him who subjected it in hope; because the creation itself also will be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. For we know that the whole creation groans and labours with birth pangs together until now.”

The Bible says in Hebrews 11:10, 13-16 “For he waited for the city which has foundations, whose builder and maker is God.” … “These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off were assured of them, embraced them and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. For those who say such things declare plainly that they seek a homeland. And truly if they had called to mind that country from which they had come out, they would have had opportunity to return. 16 But now they desire a better, that is, a heavenly country. Therefore, God is not ashamed to be called their God, for He has prepared a city for them.”

The Bible says in Revelation 21:1-5 “Now I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away. Also, there was no more sea. Then I, John, saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, “Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.” Then He who sat on the throne said, “Behold, I make all things new.” And He said to me, “Write, for these words are true and faithful.”

The Bible further says in Isaiah 65:17; 66:22 “For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth; And the former shall not be remembered or come to mind.” … “For as the new heavens and the new earth which I will make shall remain before Me,” says the Lord, “So shall your descendants and your name remain.”

Apostle Peter says in 2 Peter 3:13 “Nevertheless we, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells.”

(04) Believers Must Be Prepared For the Coming of Christ:

The Bible says in 2 Peter 3:14 “Therefore, beloved, looking forward to these things, be diligent to be found by Him in peace, without spot and blameless.”

Believers must make every effort and be prepared for the coming of Christ. The world “effort” (spoudasate) means to be eager; to strive earnestly; to be zealous in seeking after. The believer is to be diligent, that is, eager, earnest and zealous in preparing himself for the return of the Lord. Why? So that the Lord will find him prepared. Note that three preparations are necessary:

(i) The believer must be found “spotless”. This means to be clean, pure, and unsoiled; to have no dirt, pollution, or contamination of sin whatsoever. The believer is to be confessing his sins always, all day long. He is to be walking in constant communion and fellowship with Christ, walking in open confession, confessing all the sin and contamination that he picks up from the world. Just being in the world means that some of the pollution sin catches the eyes and ears of the believer and causes unclean thoughts to cross his mind. The believer must walk in open confession, praying always for the power of Christ’s blood to cleanse him and to keep him pure. This is the only way a believer can ever be found spotless by Christ when He returns.

The Bible says in 1 John 1:9; Acts 13:38; Ephesians 1:7; Isaiah 55:7 “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” … “Therefore, let it be known to you, brethren, that through this Man is preached to you the forgiveness of sins.” … “In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace.” … “Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; Let him return to the Lord, and He will have mercy on him; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon.”

(ii) The believer must be found “blameless” (amometoi). The word means free from fault and censure; to be faultless; above reproach and rebuke. The believer is to live a blameless, faultless, and pure life, both in the church and in the world. No one is to be able to point to the Christian and accuse or blame him with anything. The Christian is to be clean, unpolluted, spotless, holy, righteous, and pure before man and God.

Apostle Paul says in Romans 16:19; Philippians 1:10; 2:15; 2 Timothy 4:18 “For your obedience has become known to all. Therefore, I am glad on your behalf; but I want you to be wise in what is good, and simple concerning evil.” … “That you may approve the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ.” … “That you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world.” … “And the Lord will deliver me from every evil work and preserve me for His heavenly kingdom. To Him be glory forever and ever. Amen!

The Bible says in Hebrews 7:26; Jude 1:24 “For such a High Priest was fitting for us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and has become higher than the heavens.” … “Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, And to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy.”

Apostle Peter says in 2 Peter 3:14 “Therefore, beloved, looking forward to these things, be diligent to be found by Him in peace, without spot and blameless.”

(iii) The believer must be found in “peace”. He must be at peace with both God and man. He must not be living in rebellion against God nor be divided against his brothers and sisters. He must not be...

=> living like he wants instead of how God says;

=> doing his own thing;

=> disobeying God;

=> living in sin;

=> cheating, lying or stealing;

=> being selfish and hateful;

=> gossiping and criticizing;

=> grumbling and backbiting;

=> stirring up trouble within the church;

=> neglecting and ignoring God.

Yes, the believer must be at peace with God and men. He must be living just like God says to live, and he must be living as one with his brothers and sisters. When Christ comes, no believer dare be found criticizing and being divided from a brother or sister. And no believer dare be found at odds with Christ and not living for Christ. Such sinful behaviour will be severely judged.

Apostle Paul says in Romans 5:1; 1 Corinthians 1:10; 2 Corinthians 13:11; Philippians 1:27 “Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” … “Now I plead with you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.” … “Finally, brethren, farewell. Become complete. Be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.” … “Only let your conduct be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of your affairs, that you stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel.”

Apostle Paul further says in Ephesians 2:14; 4:3; Colossians 1:20; 3:15 “For He Himself is our peace, who has made both one, and has broken down the middle wall of separation.” … “Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” … “And by Him to reconcile all things to Himself, by Him, whether things on earth or things in heaven, having made peace through the blood of His cross.” … “And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.”

The Bible says in Job 22:21; Psalms 34:14 “Now acquaint yourself with Him, and be at peace; Thereby good will come to you.” … “Depart from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.”

Apostle Peter says in 1 Peter 3:8 “Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tender-hearted, be courteous.”

Let us introspect ourselves.

Shall we submit ourselves to live holy and godly lives – a life separated from the world and given over to God to live pure and righteous lives?

Shall we look for and seek to bring the day of God by waiting patiently but expectantly - eagerly anticipating and longing for the day of God?

Shall we speed up the coming of the day of God by staying focused upon the day of God by living a more holy and more godly life on every new day so that more people will readily be attracted to Christ when they see Christ in us - His presence and power carrying us through the trials and temptations of life which would make them to want Christ and His power in their lives, resulting into more souls for Christ?

Shall we look for the new heavens and new earth which God is going to create wherein those who are clothed with the righteousness of Christ, and sanctified by the Holy Spirit, shall be admitted to dwell in this holy place and wherein God Himself will be with us He will be our God who will wipe away every tear from our eyes and there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying, no more pain?

Shall we make every effort to be spotless and be prepared for the coming of Christ by walking in constant communion and fellowship with Christ, walking in open confession by confessing all the sin and contamination that we pick up from the world, praying always for the power of Christ’s blood to cleanse us to keep us pure?

Shall we make every effort to be found blameless, faultless and live a pure life both in the church and in the world?

Shall we make every effort to be found in peace with both God and men by living just like God says to live besides living as one with our brothers and sisters?

Let us Pray: Our Heavenly Gracious Father, we thank You for helping us to understand about “Second Peter: DIVISION 03 – The Coming Again of Jesus Christ & The End of the World: Part (C) – The Things Believers Must Do Since Jesus Christ is Coming Again (Part I)”, today, Father. Father, please help us to submit ourselves to live holy and godly lives – a life separated from the world and given over to You to live pure and righteous lives. Please help us to look for and seek to bring the Your day by waiting patiently but expectantly - eagerly anticipating and longing for Your day, Father. Please help us to speed up the coming of Your day by staying focused upon Your day by living a more holy and more godly life on every new day so that more people will readily be attracted to Your beloved Son Jesus Christ when they see Him in us - His presence and power carrying us through the trials and temptations of life which would make them to want Christ and His power in their lives, resulting into more souls for Christ, Father. Please help us to look for the new heavens and new earth which You are going to create wherein those who are clothed with the righteousness of Christ, and sanctified by the Holy Spirit, shall be admitted to dwell in this holy place and wherein You will be with us and You will be our God who will wipe away every tear from our eyes and there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying, no more pain, Father. Please help us to make every effort to be spotless and be prepared for the coming of Your beloved Son Jesus Christ by walking in constant communion and fellowship with Him, walking in open confession by confessing all the sin and contamination that we pick up from the world, praying always for the power of His blood to cleanse us to keep us pure, Father. Please help us to make every effort to be found blameless, faultless and live a pure life both in the church and in the world and to make every effort to be found in peace with both God and men by living just like God says to live besides living as one with our brothers and sisters, Father. We thank You Father for filling us with Your joy, peace, and hope, for accepting us when we approach You through Your beloved Son Jesus Christ besides being merciful on us and loving us so much and predestined us to receive Your promise of glory through Your beloved Son Jesus Christ, Father. We give all praise, glory, and honour to Your Holy Name. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.

God bless you all.

[veale2006-blog]

Three Life-Changing Words Thursday, December 19, 2024

The Power of Being Wrong Paul, wrote in 1 Timothy: 'even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy… Messiah came into the world to save sinners of whom I am the worst.' In effect, Paul is saying, "I was wrong." He not only said that at the end of his life, he undoubtedly said it, acted on it, manifested it and lived it from the moment he encountered God on the road to Damascus onward… It all started there with three holy words: I was wrong. Had he never been able to say those words he would've never been forgiven, given a ministry, and been able to preach the Word, write the epistles and change the world. In fact, everything he ever said or wrote all rested on three initial words: I was wrong. Those three powerful words turned the chief of sinners into the foremost of apostles. Those three words in the grace of God will set you free from the old and open up your life to the healing and glory of God. It all begins when you say, "I was wrong."

Today's Mission Today, if you have a situation that calls for it, don't be afraid to say "I was wrong."

2 Corinthians 12:13 King James Version 13 For what is it wherein ye were inferior to other churches, except it be that I myself was not burdensome to you? forgive me this wrong. Well, now I’ve done it! I’ve made a complete fool of myself by going on like this. But it’s not all my fault; you put me up to it. You should have been doing this for me, sticking up for me and commending me instead of making me do it for myself. You know from personal experience that even if I’m a nobody, a nothing, I wasn’t second-rate compared to those big-shot apostles you’re so taken with. All the signs that mark a true apostle were in evidence while I was with you through both good times and bad: signs of portent, signs of wonder, signs of power. Did you get less of me or of God than any of the other churches? The only thing you got less of was less responsibility for my upkeep. Well, I’m sorry. Forgive me for depriving you.

HAVE A BLESSED DAY AND WEEKEND!

[yhwhrulz]

Charles Spurgeon's "Morning & Evening" Devotional for December 7

Morning

“The love of money is the root of all evil.”

1 Timothy 6

The first epistle to Timothy concludes with a practical exhortation relating to various classes in the church, and with an earnest word to the young minister himself.

1 Timothy 6:1 , 1 Timothy 6:2

For Christian servants to take undue liberties because their employers are believers, is shameful, they ought rather to render them higher respect and more willing service.

1 Timothy 6:6

It makes us truly happy, by making our little into much and sweetening all the trials of life: “Poor and content is rich, and rich enough.”

1 Timothy 6:7 , 1 Timothy 6:8

Enough is as good as a feast, and frequently better, for it saves us from the ills of surfeit, the sure punishment of greediness.

1 Timothy 6:9 , 1 Timothy 6:10

Money can be used for the best of purposes, but the love of it is idolatry and the cause of countless evils. How is it that so many professed Christians live only to make money, and are just as eager after wealth as the avowed worldling?

1 Timothy 6:17-19

Having spoken to those who seek riches, he now admonishes those who possess them, that they must not hoard for themselves, but lay up treasure in heaven by generously distributing their goods on earth. Have we property? Let us hold it as stewards of the Lord. It is both our duty and our happiness to use all that we have to glorify him who, though he was rich, yet became poor for our sakes. Is he truly ours? Then let all ours be truly his.

1 Timothy 6:20 , 1 Timothy 6:21

O Lord, grant that grace may be with us also, this day and till the last great day. Amen.

Let us, in life and death,

Thy steadfast truth declare;

And publish with our atest breath,

Thy love, and guardian care.

Evening

“Hold fast the form of sound words.”

2 Timothy 1

The second epistle to Timothy is remarkable as being probably the last which the apostle wrote; it contains dying advice, written in the immediate prospect of martyrdom. Looking forward calmly to the grave, and with the executioner’s axe in the foreground, Paul pens this letter to his favourite disciple, and solemnly charges him to abide faithful unto death.

2 Timothy 1:1-5

We see here the inmost heart of Paul. Deserted by many of his friends, and in the feebleness of old age, expecting a cruel death, he cherishes the memory of his beloved young disciple, and longs to look once more upon his face. With joy he remembers the holy mother and grandmother of his friend, and the unfeigned piety of Timothy himself. How natural and how touching!

2 Timothy 1:8-10

Do not hesitate to come to Rome and bear with me the reproaches and dangers which belong to the ministers of Christ,

2 Timothy 1:8-10

“The old man eloquent” feels his soul kindling as he describes the glories of the gospel, eternal in its purpose, matchless in its achievements. He sits on the brink of the grave, and sings of one who hath abolished death. Faith in the resurrection could alone suggest such a triumphant exclamation.

2 Timothy 1:13

This is the main burden of the apostle’s pleading with Timothy, “Hold fast.” We have equal need of the same exhortation, for this is an evil day, and thousands hold everything or nothing as the winds of opinion may change.

2 Timothy 1:14-18

This good man is here immortalised. When he risked his life to find out and succour a poor despised prisoner, he little knew that he would live for ever on the page of the church’s history. His cup of cold water given to an apostle has received an apostle’s reward. Are there any yet alive like Paul to whom we might minister in love after the manner of Onesiphorus?

Stripp’d of my earthly friends,

I find them all in One;

And peace, and joy that never ends,

And heav’n, in Christ alone!

Copyright Statement This resource was produced before 1923 and therefore is considered in the "Public Domain".

[mybeautifulchristianjourney]

As One Approved

Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. — 2 Timothy 2:15 | New International Version (NIV) Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® All rights reserved worldwide. Cross References: Romans 6:13; Ephesians 1:13; James 1:12; James 1:18

[freebiblestudyhub]

Who Wrote the Book of 2 Timothy in the Bible?

The Bible, as the sacred text of Christianity, is a compilation of various books, letters, poems, and prophecies, all of which were written by a diverse group of authors spanning several centuries. One of the most compelling and emotionally charged letters in the New Testament is the book of 2 Timothy. This letter, often seen as a final communication from a mentor to his protégé, offers profound insights into the Christian faith, pastoral leadership, and the challenges of faithfulness in the face of suffering and persecution.

The authorship of the New Testament books is a topic of great interest for scholars and believers alike. Many of the New Testament writings are attributed to the Apostle Paul, a key figure in early Christianity who traveled extensively, planted churches, and wrote numerous letters to various Christian communities. 2 Timothy is one such letter, widely accepted as a work written by Paul during the final years of his life. However, questions about its authorship, historical context, and the purpose of its writing continue to be subjects of discussion.

In this article, we will explore the authorship of 2 Timothy in depth, examine the evidence supporting the view that the Apostle Paul wrote it, and discuss the significance of this letter in the context of early Christianity.

The Historical Context of 2 Timothy

Before diving into the question of who wrote 2 Timothy, it is essential to understand the historical backdrop in which this letter was written. 2 Timothy is one of the Pastoral Epistles (along with 1 Timothy and Titus), a group of letters traditionally attributed to the Apostle Paul. These letters are named for their practical guidance to individuals serving in leadership positions in the church.

2 Timothy, however, is distinct among the pastoral letters because it is seen as Paul’s final letter before his death, written during a period of intense persecution of Christians under the Roman Emperor Nero. The letter reveals Paul’s sense of urgency, the deep personal nature of his relationship with Timothy, and his awareness of the end of his earthly life.

Paul is believed to have written 2 Timothy during his second Roman imprisonment, which occurred around AD 67-68. This imprisonment was different from his earlier one described in the book of Acts, which had been relatively comfortable and allowed Paul some degree of freedom. By the time of writing 2 Timothy, Paul was facing harsher conditions—he was in a cold, damp prison cell, awaiting his imminent execution. His situation was dire, and the letter reflects a sense of finality.

Authorship of 2 Timothy: The Case for Paul

The overwhelming majority of scholars and Christian tradition affirm that the Apostle Paul is the author of 2 Timothy. This conclusion is based on internal evidence within the letter itself, as well as external historical support.

1. Internal Evidence: Paul’s Personal References

One of the strongest pieces of evidence supporting Paul as the author of 2 Timothy is the letter’s personal tone and references to Paul’s own life and ministry. In the opening verses of the letter, Paul identifies himself explicitly as the author:

“Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, according to the promise of the life that is in Christ Jesus…” (2 Timothy 1:1, ESV)

Throughout the letter, Paul references his own sufferings, his faithfulness to the gospel, and his upcoming death. These personal reflections are consistent with what is known about Paul’s final years. For instance, in 2 Timothy 4:6-8, Paul writes:

“For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:6-7, ESV)

This language strongly suggests that Paul, in his own voice, is writing as someone who knows his death is near. Additionally, the letter includes several personal greetings, such as:

“Do your best to come to me soon. For Demas, in love with this present world, has deserted me and gone to Thessalonica…” (2 Timothy 4:9-10, ESV)

These intimate and specific references provide further evidence that the letter was written by Paul, as they reflect his personal experiences and relationships with his companions.

2. Theological Consistency with Paul’s Other Writings

Another argument in favor of Pauline authorship is the theological consistency between 2 Timothy and Paul’s other letters. For example, themes such as the faithfulness of God, the importance of sound teaching, and the call to persevere in the gospel are present in many of Paul’s writings. In 2 Timothy, Paul encourages Timothy to remain steadfast in the truth:

“Follow the pattern of the sound words that you have heard from me, in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.” (2 Timothy 1:13, ESV)

Paul’s emphasis on endurance and faithfulness, even in the face of suffering, is also consistent with his teachings in other letters, such as Romans 8:18 and Philippians 3:10-14. The letter’s focus on the gospel and the need for Timothy to guard the faith aligns closely with the overarching themes of Paul’s ministry throughout the New Testament.

3. References to Paul’s Companions

In 2 Timothy, Paul mentions several of his companions by name, including Luke, Mark, and Crescens (2 Timothy 4:11, 4:13). These references are consistent with what we know of Paul’s ministry from other sources, including the Acts of the Apostles and his other letters. The mention of these companions helps to ground the letter in the historical context of Paul’s final years and further suggests that it was indeed written by Paul.

4. Writing Style and Vocabulary

While some critics have pointed to differences in writing style and vocabulary between 2 Timothy and other Pauline letters, these differences can often be explained by the personal nature of the letter, its immediate circumstances, and Paul’s advanced age. By the time Paul wrote 2 Timothy, he was likely in his 60s or 70s, and his writing style could have shifted due to his personal circumstances, the passage of time, and the nature of the letter. Scholars generally agree that the letter still contains enough Pauline characteristics, such as his characteristic use of metaphor and theological concepts, to affirm that Paul was indeed the author.

External Evidence Supporting Pauline Authorship

In addition to the internal evidence, there is strong external evidence that supports the view that Paul wrote 2 Timothy.

1. Early Christian Testimony

From the earliest times, Christian tradition has attributed the authorship of 2 Timothy to Paul. The Muratorian Fragment, a list of New Testament writings from the 2nd century, includes 2 Timothy as part of Paul’s corpus of letters. Similarly, early church fathers such as Irenaeus, Clement of Alexandria, and Tertullian all affirmed that Paul wrote the letter.

2. Historical Context of Paul’s Imprisonment

The historical context of Paul’s second Roman imprisonment provides additional support for Pauline authorship. As mentioned earlier, Paul was likely imprisoned under the emperor Nero, who was notorious for his persecution of Christians. 2 Timothy, with its urgent and personal tone, seems to reflect the environment of harsh Roman imprisonment and the impending death of its author.

3. No Compelling Counterarguments

While there are some who have questioned the authorship of 2 Timothy, these arguments are typically based on stylistic differences or questions about the historical reliability of the letter. However, there is no compelling evidence that definitively challenges the traditional view of Pauline authorship. Most scholars agree that the internal and external evidence overwhelmingly supports Paul as the author.

Why Did Paul Write 2 Timothy?

Understanding why Paul wrote 2 Timothy is crucial for grasping the significance of the letter. 2 Timothy is not just a personal letter; it is also a letter filled with pastoral advice and exhortations for future generations of believers. Paul’s primary purpose in writing was to encourage Timothy—his dear son in the faith—and to equip him for the challenges of ministry. As Paul faced the end of his life, he knew that Timothy would soon be responsible for carrying on the work of the gospel. Thus, Paul offered him his final words of encouragement and wisdom.

1. Encouragement to Persevere in the Faith

One of the key themes of 2 Timothy is the call to remain faithful to the gospel, despite the challenges and persecutions that might come. Paul exhorts Timothy to be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus and to endure hardship as a good soldier of Christ (2 Timothy 2:1-3).

2. Guarding the Gospel

Paul urges Timothy to guard the gospel message, ensuring that it is passed on accurately to future generations. This responsibility is underscored by the apostle’s concern that false teachings and heresies could undermine the work of the gospel. In 2 Timothy 1:13-14, Paul writes:

“Follow the pattern of the sound words that you have heard from me, in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. By the Holy Spirit who dwells within us, guard the good deposit entrusted to you.”

3. Endurance in Suffering

Paul also emphasizes the importance of enduring suffering for the sake of the gospel. He encourages Timothy to expect persecution and to be prepared to endure hardship in order to fulfill the ministry entrusted to him. In 2 Timothy 3:12, Paul writes:

“Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.”

4. Passing on the Legacy

Finally, Paul encourages Timothy to entrust the gospel to faithful men who will be able to teach others (2 Timothy 2:2). This passing on of the faith is vital for the survival of the gospel message throughout future generations.

Conclusion

The evidence overwhelmingly supports the view that Paul the Apostle wrote 2 Timothy, one of his final letters to his beloved disciple, Timothy. The letter’s deeply personal tone, its theological consistency with Paul’s other writings, and the historical context of Paul’s imprisonment all point to Paul as the author.

In 2 Timothy, we find a profound example of mentorship and spiritual legacy. Paul’s exhortations to Timothy—encouraging him to persevere in the faith, guard the gospel, and endure suffering—remain relevant for Christians today. As a letter of encouragement, instruction, and exhortation, 2 Timothy continues to speak to the hearts of believers, reminding them of the importance of faithfulness to the gospel and the hope that awaits those who endure.

The authorship of 2 Timothy by Paul is not only supported by internal and external evidence but is also central to understanding the apostle’s legacy and the challenges of the early Christian church. Through this final letter, Paul’s voice rings out as a call to all Christians to remain steadfast, to preserve the truth, and to pass on the faith to future generations.

[shammah8]

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

Sunday 11 June 2023

CUSTODIANS OF TRUTH

Open ye the gates, that the righteous nation which keepeth the truth may enter in (Isaiah 26:2).

I’ll like you to observe two things that qualify a nation to come into the gates of God. The first is righteousness. The second is that the nation must have and walk in the truth. What nation is this custodian and observer of the truth?

God’s Word is Truth, and His truth was given to us in Christ Jesus. Thus, the Church of Christ is this nation that keeps the truth. Paul, writing to Timothy in 1 Timothy 3:15 called the house of God, which is the Church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth. We belong in the Church which is the custodian of the truth. The Church is a righteous nation. We’re God-like in true righteousness and holiness (Ephesians 4:24).

The Bible says, “For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him” (2 Corinthians 5:21). Everyone who has accepted Jesus as Lord and Saviour has been made righteous!

In Ephesians 4:24 (AMPC), Paul highlights that we were created in true righteousness and holiness: “And put on the new nature (the regenerate self) created in God's image, [Godlike] in true righteousness and holiness.” If you walk with sin consciousness, you wouldn’t know that you’re righteous. But His gate is opened to the righteous ones—the Church! What a blessing!

Peter corroborates this in his first epistle when he called us a holy nation: “But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a dedicated nation, [God's] own purchased, special people, that you may set forth the wonderful deeds and display the virtues and perfections of Him Who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light” (1 Peter 2:9 AMPC).

We’re a peculiar nation, born in righteousness, producing fruits of righteousness, and proclaiming His truth in righteousness.

              PRAYER

Righteous Father, your peace and prosperity reign in the nations of the world, as we, your Church, proclaim your truth and righteousness around the world. We overturn the structures, systems and schemes of satanic propagation of deception and fear across the nations, and we declare that your will be done in all the earth, as it is in heaven, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:

3 John 1:3-4;

1 Timothy 3:15

[bernardo1969]

The apostle Paul in his Second Epistle to Timothy highlighted the mystery of grace in the preaching of the Kingdom of God, the empire or dominion of the divine perfections, to pagans and Gentiles. The tradition of the Church holds that the apostle Paul was imprisoned on his arrival in the city of Rome to be tried by the emperor before his martyrdom, and it is probable from the expressions made by the apostle in the epistle to his beloved disciple that this text was written during this time. Despite the difficulties that the early Church faced due to persecution, Paul wanted to reaffirm Timothy's faith and for this reason he wrote these words to him: "I ask you to make full use of the gift God gave you when I placed my hands to you" 2 Timothy 1:6. Because for Paul, grace, that free choice that God makes of men to fulfill his plan from eternity, is a transforming spirit of the world: "For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline" 2 Timothy 1:7. Paul continued in the epistle with his teaching and called Timothy to persevere with determination in the face of difficulties, because Timothy as well as the apostle, with his conversion on the road to the city of Damascus, had been called to a mission and he expressed this truth in this way: "He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace" 2 Timothy 1:9. Like Timothy in the epistle, every Christian is called by grace to a freedom, a freedom that is contrary to the worldly desires, but which makes men brothers and children of God.

[bills-bible-basics]

APOSTLE PAUL IN ROME -- KJV (King James Version) Bible Verse List #Scriptures #BibleStudy #BibleVerses Visit https://www.billkochman.com/VerseLists/ to see more. As a matter of clarification, allow me to inform you that it is commonly believed that the Apostle Paul did not personally write all of his Epistles. Due to his poor eyesight -- which may have possibly been a result of the incident on the road to Damascus where the Lord struck down Paul, and left him blind for three days -- Paul was forced to dictate a number of his Epistles to his traveling companions. "After these things were ended, Paul purposed in the spirit, when he had passed through Macedonia and Achaia, to go to Jerusalem, saying, After I have been there, I must also see Rome." Acts 19:21, KJV "And the night following the Lord stood by him, and said, Be of good cheer, Paul: for as thou hast testified of me in Jerusalem, so must thou bear witness also at Rome." Acts 23:11, KJV "And from thence we fetched a compass, and came to Rhegium: and after one day the south wind blew, and we came the next day to Puteoli: Where we found brethren, and were desired to tarry with them seven days: and so we went toward Rome. And from thence, when the brethren heard of us, they came to meet us as far as Appii forum, and The three taverns: whom when Paul saw, he thanked God, and took courage. And when we came to Rome, the centurion delivered the prisoners to the captain of the guard: but Paul was suffered to dwell by himself with a soldier that kept him." Acts 28:13-16, KJV "To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ . . . So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel to you that are at Rome also." Romans 1:7, 15, KJV "Brethren, the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen. [To the Galatians written from Rome.]" Galatians 6:18, KJV "Grace be with all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. Amen. [To the Ephesians written from Rome, by Tychicus.]" Ephesians 6:24, KJV "The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. [To the Philippians written from Rome, by Epaphroditus.]" Philippians 4:23, KJV "The salutation by the hand of me Paul. Remember my bonds. Grace be with you. Amen. [Written from Rome to Colossians by Tychicus and Onesimus.]" Colossians 4:18, KJV "But, when he was in Rome, he sought me out very diligently, and found me." 2 Timothy 1:17, KJV "The Lord Jesus Christ be with thy spirit. Grace be with you. Amen. [The second epistle unto Timotheus, ordained the first bishop of the church of the Ephesians, was written from Rome, when Paul was brought before Nero the second time.]" 2 Timothy 4:22, KJV "The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen. [Written from Rome to Philemon, by Onesimus a servant.]" Philemon 1:25, KJV If you would like more info regarding the origin of these KJV Bible verse lists, go to https://www.billkochman.com/VerseLists/. Thank-you! https://www.billkochman.com/Blog/index.php/apostle-paul-in-rome-kjv-king-james-version-bible-verse-list/?feed_id=199220&APOSTLE%20PAUL%20IN%20ROME%20--%20KJV%20%28King%20James%20Version%29%20Bible%20Verse%20List

[noeticprayer]

Moses the Black of Scete

Reading from the Synaxarion:

Saint Moses, who is also called Moses the Black, was a slave, but because of his evil life, his master cast him out, and he became a ruthless thief, dissolute in all his ways. Later, however, coming to repentance, he converted, and took up the monastic life under Saint Isidore of Scete. He gave himself over to prayer and the mortification of the carnal mind with such diligence that he later became a priest of exemplary virtue. He was revered by all for his lofty ascetical life and for his great humility. Once the Fathers in Scete asked Moses to come to an assembly to judge the fault of a certain brother, but he refused. When they insisted, he took a basket which had a hole in it, filled it with sand, and carried it on his shoulders. When the Fathers saw him coming they asked him what the basket might mean. He answered, "My sins run out behind me, and I do not see them, and I am come this day to judge failings which are not mine." When a barbarian tribe was coming to Scete, Moses, conscious that he himself had slain other men when he was a thief, awaited them and was willingly slain by them with six other monks, at the end of the fourth century. He was a contemporary of Saint Arsenius the Great (see May 8).

Apolytikion of Moses the Ethiopian in the First Tone

Thou didst prove to be a citizen of the desert, an angel in the flesh, and a wonderworker, O Moses, our God-bearing Father. By fasting, vigil, and prayer thou didst obtain heavenly gifts, and thou healest the sick and the souls of them that have recourse to thee with faith. Glory to Him that hath given thee strength. Glory to Him that hath crowned thee. Glory to Him that worketh healings for all through thee.

Epistle Reading

The Reading is from St. Paul's First Letter to the Corinthians 16:4-12

Brethren, if it seems advisable that I should go also, they will accompany me. I will visit you after passing through Macedonia, for I intend to pass through Macedonia, and perhaps I will stay with you or even spend the winter, so that you may speed me on my journey, wherever I go. For I do not want to see you now just in passing; I hope to spend some time with you, if the Lord permits. But I will stay in Ephesos until Pentecost, for a wide door for effective work has opened to me, and there are many adversaries. When Timothy comes, see that you put him at ease among you, for he is doing the work of the Lord, as I am. So let no one despise him. Speed him on his way in peace, that he may return to me; for I am expecting him with the brethren. As for our brother Apollos, I strongly urge him to visit you with the other brethren, but it was not at all his will to come now. He will come when he has the opportunity.

Gospel Reading

The Reading is from the Gospel According to Matthew 21:28-32

The Lord said this parable, "A man had two sons; and he went to the first and said, 'Son, go and work in the vineyard today.' And he answered, 'I will not'; but afterward he repented and went. And he went to the second and said the same; and he answered, 'I go, sir,' but did not go. Which of the two did the will of his father?" They said, "The first." Jesus said to them, "Truly, I say to you, the tax collectors and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you. For John came to you in the way of righteousness, and you did not believe him, but the tax collectors and the harlots believed him and even when you saw it, you did not afterward repent and believe him."