2 TIMOTHY, CHAPTER ONE.
* The following is a compilation of some notes I took on 2 Timothy. I hope this study may serve as a helpful commentary or analysis for your quiet times *
The apostle Paul loved Timothy. He believed in Timothy. From the young cat’s evangelical summoning in Acts 16, to his appointment as a young church leader, he was called to 1) discipleship and 2) discipleship of others.
- SINCERE FAITH
Read (c.1, v.5) —> Timothy inherited from his grandmother AND mother (faithful women!) amazing faith — family is crucial for the inspiration for the youth.
(v. 6-7) —> “Fan into flame the gift of God…” That good ol’ Spirit. Keep it lit! Or, “keep that ablaze!” (The Message) The Spirit can only be lit through you when you have faith — the Spirit is not timid, nor does He produce a spirit of timidity. A challenging and interesting feat when we consider the nature of Timothy. Shy, young and inexperienced. Now, you’re saying that [my] nature is something that will be desecrated through this gift that I’ve received? “Well, yes, of course.” the Father answers. “But, Dad…” you say, “I can’t…” Can’t what? It’s not that you can’t… you’re just not doing your part.
You got some shame in you, boy. (or girl.)
“Do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord, or ashamed of me (Paul) his prisoner… join me in [suffering] for the Gospel…” (v.8a)
Why in the world are we timid? In some way, shape, or form — we are ashamed. Don’t let your shame that gives birth to timidity that gives birth to fear, extinguish, quench, and water down the fire of the Holy Spirit. BELIEVE!
SHAME+TIMIDITY+LACK OF FAITH= A FIRE EXTINGUISHER
If we have faith that sparks the Spirit, we will obtain:
- Power
- Love
- Self-discipline
(amongst other things)
- YOU ARE NOT “ENTITLED”
“Yet I am not ashamed, because I know whom I have believed…” (v.12b)
NO SHAME+CONFIDENCE+BELIEF= FAITH
“…by the power of God, who saved us and called us to a holy life — not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace.” (v.9)
- Your spiritual resume means nothing… without:
- Jesus’ Purpose
- God’s Grace
- GUARD THAT PRECIOUS JEWEL!
God entrusted you with “a good deposit.” Protect it!
The good news: YOU HAVE HELP! —> The counselor, the administer of truth, God’s gift to men (and women, ha.) “…the Holy Spirit who lives in [you]” (v.14)
You don’t have to carry Kid Cudi’s burden of being Mr. Solo Dolo. You’ve got God living inside of your very skin. Now, your thoughts can be His thoughts, when truly being lead by Him.
Like Paul loved and believed in Timothy; God loves you. God believes in you.
God is in you.
