2 Timothy 1-6.21.22
Scripture
2 Timothy 1:7-14
7 For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. 8 So do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner. Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God. 9 He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, 10 but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel. 11 And of this gospel I was appointed a herald and an apostle and a teacher. 12 That is why I am suffering as I am. Yet this is no cause for shame, because I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him until that day.
13 What you heard from me, keep as the pattern of sound teaching, with faith and love in Christ Jesus. 14 Guard the good deposit that was entrusted to you—guard it with the help of the Holy Spirit who lives in us.
Observation-What does it say?
While imprisoned for his faith, Paul continues to mentor Timothy through his letters. He encourages him in his purpose, the Gospel and gives him an example of loyalty vs. disloyalty.
Understanding-What does it mean?
Proclaim Jesus boldly, with help from the Holy Spirit.
Paul was telling Timothy not to be ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Although Paul was imprisoned for his faith, he encouraged Timothy to guard the message, live it out and share it with those he was called to serve.
Life Application
It doesn’t matter where we are in life. We can share the Gospel in a format as simple as A, B, C.
One of the goals at DSC is to make sharing the Gospel a lifestyle as a Christ follower. We don’t have to be in a church setting or a special church event. We can be at work, school, jury duty, at the grocery store, home improvement store, mall, park, gym, family get together, coffee shop, laundromat, beach, etc. We actually encourage everyone to get a 3rd place outside of church and ITC group, in order to share the love of Jesus.
We cannot be ashamed of the message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ or of our testimony. Where does this boldness come from? From faith, love and help from the Holy Spirit. It is as easy as A, B, C. If you are not part of an ITC group, I encourage you to join one, as we are training our groups in it OR contact me for the ABC document.
Dear Holy Spirit,
Please help us to guard, live out and proclaim the Gospel with love and boldness wherever you have placed us. Amen.
-Michelle Gaddi