The New TempleSample

“For this reason, I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands, for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control. Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in suffering for the gospel by the power of God, who saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of his own purpose and grace, which he gave us in Christ Jesus before the ages began, and which now has been manifested through the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel, for which I was appointed a preacher and apostle and teacher, which is why I suffer as I do. But I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed, and I am convinced that he is able to guard until that day what has been entrusted to me. 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.” - 2 Timothy 1:6–14

Telling others about our faith is hard. We often don't know what people will think of us or even say about us behind our backs. Frequently when we share the gospel, we leave it open-ended and unfinished because we don't want to say the things that could hurt the people that we’re sharing it with. Timothy dealt with a lot of doubt in his early ministry. Timothy faced criticism from the Jews around him as he rose to a position of leadership in his church. Luckily Paul had some encouragement to share with him throughout his early ministry.

Just like Timothy we face criticism and hardship in our modern-day world and the same advice that applies to Timothy applies to us as well. To quote Paul in this letter what we have is a “Holy Calling” not because of our own works but because of Christ who has already done all the works necessary for salvation. Because of that we need to share Christ's works with other people. Our “Holy Calling” is to go out and tell other people the good news of Christ's Life, Death, Resurrection, and Ascension so that they may be saved!

Reflection:

How have you been challenged in your Personal ministry to your family and friends? How can you grow into a more faithful disciple and evangelist for Christ? What can you change about your behaviors to show the people around you Christ at work in your life? Who is someone you can go and talk to today to share with them the good news of Christ?

Other verses to consider:

-Matthew 28:16-20

-Acts 8:26-40

2 Corinthians 8:16-24