2 Timothy 2
August 24, 2022
“Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, descended from David. This is my gospel, for which I am suffering even to the point of being chained like a criminal. But God’s word is not chained. Therefore I endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they too may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus, with eternal glory.” (v8-10)
Paul highlights that the gospel centers on the death and resurrection of Jesus.
And the proclamation of this gospel is so important to Paul - that he is willing to suffer for it - even to the point of enduring excruciating circumstances. But God’s Word isn’t less effective when it’s being communicated through a servant who suffers. In fact, a suffering servant is one of God’s appointed means of drawing many to salvation.
Lord, I praise You for the way You can use the suffering of Your servants to advance Your Kingdom. You are teaching me much about this - that suffering isn’t just a means of shaping me (James 1:2-4); it’s also a means of extending the reach of the gospel. Perhaps because it reflects the example of Your suffering leading to our salvation? Perhaps because people are more receptive to Your Word if it’s coming through someone who is suffering? I don’t know. But like Paul, I pray for Your grace to endure suffering - not only for Your glory and my good, but for the sake of those to whom I have the opportunity to share Your Word.
— Pastor Joshua Brooks
Use the following steps to guide your daily time with the Lord…
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Start with prayer. Ask God to open your heart to help you understand and receive His Word.
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Read and observe the passage carefully. As needed, read a second Bible version to help with understanding.
➡️ What does it say?
What does this passage teach me about God? What does it say about my sinful nature and my need for God’s grace? How does this passage point to Jesus?
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➡️ What am I going to do about it?
Does this passage include a promise to claim, an action/attitude to avoid/embrace, or a principle to apply? How can this truth apply to my life? What could my next step be? How can I share this with others? Is there a verse or section of Scripture I need to memorize?
