2 Timothy: Guard The GospelSample

Paul’s earthly ministry is about to end. He has completed his task of taking the gospel to the Gentiles (Acts 9:15; 13:46) and knows he will die soon. He uses two images that show he is anticipating death – sacrifice and departure.

Firstly, Paul writes of the ‘drink offering’ (v. 6) that was part of the daily sacrifices the Israelites were commanded to offer to the Lord (Num. 28:1–8). Since his conversion, Paul’s whole life has been one of sacrifice and worship. His execution will be his final sacrifice. Secondly, Paul says, ‘the time for my departure is near’ – his death is imminent. As a boat weighs anchor and gets ready to set sail for another shore, so Paul is preparing to set sail and depart for somewhere new. But he is confident because he knows is leaving this life for something much better.

Paul also sees his ministry as an athletics contest – he has taken part and completed his race successfully (v. 8). He has passed the gospel on to the Gentiles, and established churches and future leaders. Now he anticipates his prize.

In the Greek games, winning athletes received crowns or garlands made of evergreen leaves. These were highly valued, signifying the athlete’s victory and testifying to the relentless training and discipline they had endured to win. Paul looks forward to a far greater crown – the ‘crown of righteousness’ (v. 8) that Jesus will give him when he judges the world. Paul is about to face a guilty verdict and be condemned to death by a human judge in an earthly court. But one day Christ, ‘the righteous Judge’, will declare him to be righteous. This will not be because of Paul’s faithfulness in ministry, but because of his trust in Jesus alone as Saviour.

We look forward to the same reward, so we should eagerly and confidently anticipate Christ’s return. Unbelievers ought to dread his return – because they will face his righteous judgement for sin. But if we have trusted Jesus for salvation, we are ready for him.

Reflection

Are you longing for Jesus’ appearing? Are you willing to live a life of sacrifice now knowing you will receive the prize that is ahead? Ask God to give you an eternal perspective so you will live for eternal glory rather than earthly rewards.