2 Timothy: Guard The GospelSample

Since his conversion, Paul has been committed to preaching the gospel. He has been passionate to share God’s grace with everyone he meets. This should be our desire too. If we are to be faithful in this ministry, there are four commands in the letter that we must obey:

1. Guard the gospel. We must be committed to passing on the gospel to others who will be able to teach it to future generations. We need to explain it clearly – not adding to it and not altering the message to make it more acceptable in our society. We can do this confidently, knowing that God is the true guardian of the gospel and he will guard it until Jesus returns.
2. Suffer for the gospel. No-one enjoys suffering – we want our lives to be comfortable and easy. But ‘everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted’ (3:12). As we follow Jesus and obey his Word, we will become offensive to people who hate him. We can expect to be criticised, rejected, discriminated against and, maybe, physically harmed. But we must be unashamed and endure suffering because the gospel is worth it and our eternal reward is guaranteed (2:11–12; 4:8).
3. Continue in the gospel. We will face pressure to reject the truth and follow false teachers. Even within the church there will be teachers who reject God’s Word and offer a message that is attractive because it allows people to continue living for themselves. We must be committed to God’s Word which reveals Jesus as the only way of salvation (3:15). We must accept the authority of God’s Word and trust that it is enough to equip us for godly living (3:16–17). 
4. Preach the gospel. The gospel is good news that brings salvation. We must share this good news with others. We are not all gifted Bible teachers, but we should want to share the gospel whenever we have opportunity. 

As we await Jesus’ return, we too are called by God to be faithful and continue gospel work in our generation. Will you obey?

Reflection

Why can we be confident that God will help us as we seek to guard the gospel and pass it on to others? What will help you to endure any suffering you may experience for following Jesus?