INTRODUCTION
Outline.
1. Timothy's - Singleness of Heart
2. Timothy's - Seeking the Will of Christ
3. Timothy's - Service in the Gospel
Introductory Remarks.
1. In our lesson today, we will discuss one of the greatest needs in the church of the 21st century. The book of Philippians is one of Paul's prison epistles. We believe his first imprisonment. In our lesson, we will examine three things he says about one of his fellow servants, his son in the gospel, Timothy. The setting of the lesson, Epaphroditus, a messenger from the church at Philippi, has made his way to Paul in Rome, bearing a gift from the church, Philippians 4:15-18. He informs them of his situation and that of Epaphroditus, "who was sick unto death, but God had mercy on him, and not only him but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow," Philippians 2:25-27. Before speaking of Timothy, Paul wanted them to know some insight into his current state and desired to know theirs' as well. He wrote: "But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you shortly, that I also may be encouraged when I know your state," Philippians 2:19. Then he makes three critical things regarding Timothy that we need to discuss.
2. First, he wrote: "I have no man like-minded who will sincerely care for your state." The apostle conveys that he and Timothy had the same mind and soul; they were singleness of heart. Paul's imprisonment put him out of touch with the churches, so he used young men like Timothy to visit them, strengthen them, and then return to share this joy with him in prison. These visits would allow Paul to be of good comfort concerning their faith, patience, and love in Christ Jesus, whom he had preached unto them. Paul wrote: "Who will sincerely care for your state." His care would be genuine, just as that of the apostle Paul. What a profound compliment Paul gives to this young preacher!
3. Secondly, he penned: "While others seek their own, Timothy sought the things which are the will of Christ.” Many of Paul's companions sought their own will and not the things of Christ. Paul realized it took courage to contend for the faith when others were willing to compromise and even surrender because of trials and persecutions for being a Christian. Vincent Lombardy, the great football coach of the Green Bay Packard, once said: "fatigue makes cowards of us all." Satan has made cowards of many due to criticism and the need for personal sacrifice in serving the Lord. But not Timothy he was committed to the will of Christ. Paul used this young preacher to edify and strengthen the church, reminding them of their faith and commitment to Christ. It was always: "Not my will Lord, but thine be done," he learned this from Paul. We need sons like Timothy, who are unafraid in battle, unswerving in faith, unmovable from the course, and untiring in courage and devotion to the church. He, like Paul, trusted in the Lord Jesus Christ in all things. He knew all things were possible with Christ under any conditions. He was the son of a great example of service – the Apostle Paul!
4. Lastly, Paul recorded: "Timothy served with him in the gospel." They shared a unique bond in Christ's work and the saints' fellowship. Paul suggests that they were on common ground. Timothy was NOT under him, nor was Paul OVER him. He reminded the church that they knew of his character. He had worked among them with Paul. They labored in the love, patience, and faith of Jesus Christ. Paul would send his shortly to them so that they may hear of Paul's condition and concern for their faith. Paul and the church at Philippi recognized Timothy's work. Ministers and leaders should always appreciate the contribution and service of others. Paul appreciated Timothy's service and worked with him in the gospel of Christ. They were "laborers together with God" in Christ's great work and ministry. Let's notice their singleness of heart!
BODY OF LESSON
I TIMOTHY'S - SINGLENESS OF HEART
A. Paul wrote about Timothy. "I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timotheus shortly unto you...For I have no man like-minded, who will naturally care for your state," Philippians 2:19-20. "I have no man like-minded." The word "like-minded" in Gr., is "isopsuchos," from "isos," meaning equal or identical, and "psyche," meaning the soul or mind.
1. To have the same motives, be like, to be of one soul. Brethren, a good example, will do far greater things than the best sermons we will ever preach! Paul had surrounded himself with some great names, Apollos, Barnabas, Silas, Demas, Epaphroditus, Erastus, Luke, and others. But only of Timothy did he say, "I have no man like-minded." Paul so profoundly influenced Timothy that he became like-minded in his care for all the churches.
2. Each Christian should strive to become like-minded. Paul writes earlier in this Letter: "Only let your conversation (manner of life) be as it becometh the gospel of Christ; that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel," Philippians 1:27.
3. He wanted them to agree and be of one mind. He dictated: "Fulfill ye my joy, that ye be like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind," Philippians 2:2.
NOTE: Illustrate, “Can two walks together except they are agreed?” Amos 3:3. See also Psalms 133:1. And finally, he encouraged: "Let us walk by the same rule, and let us mind the same things," Philippians 3:16; 1 Corinthians 1:10, and Jude 1:3.
4. This is the mind of Christ. "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus, who (being) or is in the form of God, did not count it robbery to be equal with God, but made himself of no reputation, taking on the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. Therefore, God also hath highly exalted Him…the glory of God the Father," Philippians 2:5-11. [Text shortened for brevity].
B. In a Roman prison, he was concerned with the church, not himself. At this point, Paul was expecting to be released. But this was not a sure thing. Notice he says earlier in our text: "Yes, and if I am being poured out as a drink offering on the sacrifice and service of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all. For the same reason, you also be glad and rejoice with me," Philippians 2:17-18. Observe,
1. This was Timothy’s attitude always in serving the Lord. Paul penned: "For me to live is Christ, and to die is gain," Philippians 1:19-21.
2. Before the elders at Miletus, Paul informed them about his awaited fate. He preached: "And see; now I go bound in the spirit to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to be there, except that the Holy Spirit testifies in every city, saying that chains and tribulations await me. But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God. And indeed, now I know that you all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, will see my face no more," Acts 20:22-25.
3. And before the saint in Caesarea, while in Philip the Evangelist’s house. He says: "What do you mean by weeping and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to be bound but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus," Acts 21:8-14, Remember, Paul’s attitude: "I'm ready to be offered?" 2 Timothy 4:6-8. This missionary journey was not Timothy’s first for Paul. Observe,
C. Paul would send Timothy to Philippi, to learn of their state as he did other churches. He sent Timothy also to,
1. Thessalonica. Paul wrote: "But now when Timotheus came from you to us and brought us good tidings of your faith and charity, and that ye have good remembrance of us always, desiring greatly to see us, as we also to see you: Therefore, brethren, we were comforted over you in all our afflictions and distress by your faith: for now, we live if ye stand fast in the Lord," 1 Thessalonians 3:6. Further to,
2. Corinth. The apostle inscribed: "For this cause, I sent Timothy, who is my beloved in the Lord, who shall bring you into remembrance of my ways which be in Christ, as I teach everywhere in the church," 1 Corinthians 4:17. Next to,
3. Ephesus. He noted: "Unto Timothy, my son in the faith, grace, mercy, and peace from God our Father and Jesus Christ our Lord, as I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus when I went into Macedonia, that thou might charge some that they teach no other doctrine," 1 Timothy 1:2-3. Finally, unto,
4. Macedonia. Luke composed: "So he (Paul) sent into Macedonia two of them that ministered unto him, Timotheus and Erastus, but he stayed in Asia for a season," Acts 19:22.
5. The apostle informs the Philippian church, "I will send Timothy to you." So,
a. I may be of good comfort when I know your state.
b. And you may be of good comfort when hearing of my state.
c. Our love may abound one to another in the work of Christ.
D. He wrote: “Timothy will naturally care for your state (affairs)” -like a mother does her children. This vangelist was caring, sharing, and a comforting messenger to the saints. Paul reminded: "But we were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children. So being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you not the gospel of God only, but also our souls, because ye were dear unto us," 1 Thessalonians 2:7-8.
E. Timothy shared the same concerns for the church as Paul. The apostle enumerates all his trials, sufferings, perils, and hardships for the service of God, 2 Corinthians 11:23-27.
1. He concluded: "Beside those things that are without, that which cometh upon me daily, the care of all the churches," 2 Corinthians 11:28.
2. He instructed the saints at Roman: "Be kindly affectionate one to another with brotherly love; in honor preferring one another; rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep. Agree one toward another," Romans 12:10; Romans 12:15-16.
3. We should all care for each other as Paul and Timothy did for the churches. When “one member suffers, the whole body suffers; when one member rejoices, the entire body rejoices,” 1 Corinthians 12:26. I wish I had some help in this lesson. Let’s consider point two of this lesson.
II TIMOTHY'S - SEEKING THE WILL OF CHRIST
A. Paul continued: “They all seek their own.” But not Timothy, "he sought the things of Christ," Philippians 2:21. He was unlike many others of his time who Paul had brought into the faith and ministry. Timothy's contemporaries,
1. Demas. "For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world." More than the work of Christ, 2 Timothy 4:10.
2. Diotrephes. "Who loveth to have the preeminence among the brothers...casting them out of the church," 3 John 9-10.
3. Barnabas. Barnabas allowed the weakness of one family member (John Mark) to impair the work of the gospel, Acts 15:36-41.
4. Apollos. Apollos seemed to care more for his comforts than the saints in Corinth, 1 Corinthians 1:10-13; 1 Corinthians 16:12.
5. Phygellus and Hermongenes. "These turned away from Paul in Asia," 2 Timothy 1:15.
B. They all sought their own will. Paul noted: "All these men sought their own, and not the things of Christ." Paul wrote earlier: "Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife, and some also of good will; the one preaches Christ of contention, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my bonds; but the other of love, knowing that I am set for the defense of the gospel. What then? Notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretense or truth, Christ is preached; and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice," Philippians 1:15-18. Observe,
1. Church of Christ. Not all ministers and evangelists preach Christ to glorify God or edify Christ's body. Not all preach Christ in sincerity and love. Some preach about Him to their own glory. With many, it is not about Christ; but all about themselves!
2. Denominations. Some argue regarding denominational ministers. They are preaching Christ; why do we contend against them? We do not contend against them, but their doctrine!
a. Let me fix this, for some say: "We ought to leave these denominations alone; they are all preaching Christ." And quote these verses in the Philippians' Letter. Paul was discussing the message and the motives of his fellow preachers, not denominational preachers.
NOTE: Illustrate, we are discussing prominent preachers and evangelists in so-called T.V. ministries. These men are all in error in their messages of Christ and, therefore, cannot be sanctioned – “no, not for an hour,” Galatians 2:5.
b. All these should be marked. Notice, Paul: "Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them, which cause division and offenses contrary to the doctrine, which ye have learned, and avoid them. For they that are such server, not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their belly, and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple," Romans 16:17-18.
NOTE: Illustrate; we do more for the glory of Christ, from 10-12 AM, than any denomination could expect to do all day! This was an “Army Recruiting Ad” at one time. I repeat it now to denote the relevance of our worship and work in Christ on “The Lord’s Day,” Revelation 1:10.
C. But not Timothy. He "sought the things of the Lord." He followed the example of Christ in his service, Matthew 26:39. He followed the example of Paul, 1 Corinthians 11:1.
D. He sought the well-being of the church. The salvation of its membership was his most important work.
1. Paul inscribed: "To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all men that I might by all means, save some," 1 Corinthians 9:22.
2. He also penned: "Even as I please all men in all things, not seeking my profit, but the profit of many, that they may be saved," 1 Corinthians 10:33.
3. Paul sought to strengthen and edify the body of Christ. He recorded: "We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak and not to please ourselves. Let us please our neighbor for his good and edification," Romans 15:1-2.
E. Why so much concern? Paul feared he could have labored in vain.
1. To the Philippians, he warns: "Holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain or labored in vain," Philippians 2:16.
2. To the Galatians, he added: "I am afraid of you, lest I have bestowed upon you labor in vain," Galatians 4:11.
3. To the Thessalonians. He notated: "For this cause when I could no longer forbear, I sent to know your faith, lest by some means the tempter have tempted you, and our labor is in vain," 1 Thessalonians 3:5.
4. Paul gives a warning to those unruly, contentious brethren. He composed: "Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, and be patient toward all men," 1 Thessalonians 5:14.
NOTE: Illustrate Church Withdrawal. Review 2 Thessalonians 3:14-15.
III TIMOTHY'S - SERVICE IN THE GOSPEL
A. Finally, Paul stated: "Ye know the proof of him," Philippians 2:22. The word "proof" in Gr., is "dokime," which means “proof of genuineness or trustworthiness.” It must be either the experience itself; the act that one has proven oneself; or, the act of proving oneself true. In other words, the church at Philippi knew of Timothy's work and labor among them. He had proven himself! See also 1 Thessalonians 1:2-3.
1. To the deacon, Paul wrote: "Let these also first be proved.". Paul uses the same word about the elders and deacons. He composed: "And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, being found blameless," 1 Timothy 3:10.
NOTE: Illustrate "Dokimazo" in the selection of deacons and elders. I'm often asked: "How do we find these men?" I always respond: "Start with those already doing these works." Being “proven is a characteristic” of the faith and work of these men in the church, before their selection.
a. The church knows the work and service of its men. Just like Timothy!
b. These men are "proven and approved by their work," Acts 6:1-6.
c. Each man must prove himself; each sister must prove herself, Galatians 6:4.
2. Paul authored: "Examine yourselves, whether you be in the faith, prove yourselves," 2 Corinthians 13:5. Prove in Gr., is "Dokimazo." Church, "prove yourselves."
3. In taking the Lord's Supper. Paul wrote: "Let a man examine himself before communion," 1 Corinthians 11:28. Observe,
a. To the church at Corinth, Paul wrote: "But let a man (or woman) examine "dokimazo" themself, and so let them eat of that bread, and drink of that cup."
b. The word examine in Gr., is “dokimazo,” which means, "to prove, test, examine, discern, or to be approved." We are to: "Prove all things and hold fast to that which is good," 1 Thessalonians 5:21.
c. We must examine ourselves in how we partake of this Supper and not for our worthiness.
d. None of us are worthy, but we can all "partake of this Supper worthily and in thanksgiving."
B. Paul continued: "That as a son with the father, he hath served with me in the gospel," Philippians 2:22.
1. Timothy was Paul's son in the faith. He wrote: "Unto Timothy, my son in the faith: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God our Father and Jesus Christ our Lord," 2 Timothy 1:2. Who was Timothy?
a. A young convert of Paul, and a student in the ministry of Christ, Acts 16:1-3.
b. His father was a Greek, and his mother, a Jew. Observe,
2. Timothy knew of the Lord. Paul wrote: "And that from a child thou hast known the Holy Scriptures, which can make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus," 2 Timothy 3:15.
3. Product of excellent examples in the home. Paul noted: "When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice, and I am persuaded that it thee also," 2 Timothy 1:5.
4. Paul instructed him: "To study to show thyself approve unto God," 2 Timothy 2:15.
5. Timothy was charged to: "be a good example before the believers," 1 Timothy 4:12-16.
NOTE: Illustrate Paul's charge to Timothy. It encompasses three areas of his life.
a. His public life. How do the community and the church observe your faith and behavior?
b. His pulpit life. How does the church see your growth and development?
c. His private life. Is God well pleased with your reading, studying, and medication of His word?
d. We will expand on the life and work of the minister in our last thoughts.
C. Paul concluded: "He served with me in the gospel," Philippians 2:22. We are all co-workers in the gospel. This work was a joint venture! Amen, Brother Usher.
NOTE: Illustrate; co-workers are on common ground. When we all stand beneath the cross before the Lord, there are no "big I and little you!" Paul recognized Timothy's work was just as important as his own in the Lord. Observe,
1. We are all counted as fellow laborers in the work of God. Paul wrote: "Timotheus my fellow worker, and Lucius," Romans 16:21. Also, "Now if Timotheus comes, see that he may be with you without fear: for he worketh the work of the Lord, as I do," 1 Corinthians 16:10.
2. Paul scripted: "For we are laborer together with God,” 1 Corinthians 3:9. We would do more for the church if we all followed his example of service. We must learn to empower the church to do the work of God. We are “laborers together with God” and all the ministers who serve alongside us in the “work of evangelism and edification,” Ephesians 4:11-15. Consider,
3. First, Jesus said: "I must work the works of Him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh when no man can work," John 9:4; John 7:16-18.
4. Next, Jesus spoke: "My meat is to do the will of Him that sent me and to finish His work. Say not ye; There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? Behold, I say unto you: Lift your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest…I sent you to reap…and ye entered their labors," John 4:34-38. His message: “Look, the harvest is before our eyes!”
5. Finally, He remarked: "The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few: pray ye, therefore, the Lord of the harvest, that He would send forth laborers into His harvest," Luke 10:2.
NOTE: Illustrate the need for young men and women to go forth into the harvest. Pray the Lord will raise them, that they might help "gather in the precious sheaves" into the family of God.
6. Conclusion. David devised: "They that soweth in tears shall reap in joy. He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless return with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him," Psalms 126:5-6. Paul concluded,
D. Regarding Timothy. "Him, therefore, I hope to send unto you," Philippians 2:23. Paul honored Timothy greatly! I often wonder, how many times did Timothy read the words of Paul in this Letter?
1. Encouragement strengthens. No doubt Paul's words about him kept him encouraged and serving. Knowing the great apostle had this kind of trust and confidence in him. Indeed, this inspired him and gave him a greater resolve not to let the Lord down. Neither would he fail the beloved apostle in his service to the church.
NOTE: Illustrate a great complementor. Here is a true sign of a great leader and teacher. One who can give sincere compliments and compassionate critiques! Brothers in the Lord, covet such men in your midst. One of a salesman's best qualities is to find a reason to offer a sincere compliment to his prospective buyer. Sincere compliments and compassionate critiques have "encouraged many to buy the truth of the gospel," Proverbs 23:23; 2 Timothy 2:24-26. Observe,
2. The word charge in Gr., is “diamarturomai,” which means to "attest to the truth among witnesses." Paul charged this young evangelist with the gospel in a robust manner! He wrote: "I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine...But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry," 2 Timothy 4:1-5.
3. Paul left Timothy in Ephesus. To charge some, not to teach another doctrine. He wrote: "As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightiest charge some that they teach no other doctrine," 1 Timothy 1:3.
4. Finally, he wrote him to: "Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love, which is in Christ Jesus. That good thing which was committed unto thee, keep by the Holy Ghost which dwelleth in us," 2 Timothy 1:13-14, and 2 Timothy 2:2, Titus 2:1.
5. Timothy’s solemn charge. The apostle gives Timothy a solemn charge in "doing the work of an evangelist.” As I conclude, let's review Paul's final words to his son in the gospel. This is every minister’s charge in our beloved brotherhood. That is to: "Speak those things which become sound doctrine," Titus 2:1. These were also Paul’s words to Titus. Observe,
E. Paul's solemn charge. Paul's final message to Timothy, he penned: "I charge thee, therefore, before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ…Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine," 2 Timothy 4:2. In this text, Paul provides Timothy with his: authority, urgency, substance, duration, and vigilance in “doing the work of an evangelist,” 2 Timothy 2:5. Let’s consider each of them in order. Observe,
1. Authority. "Preach the word," 2 Timothy 4:2a. Timothy was urged to limit his message to the word of God. Recall,
a. From a child thou hast: "Known the holy scriptures, which were able to make you wise unto salvation through the faith which is in Christ Jesus," 2 Timothy 3:15-17.
b. As an evangelist, "preach the word" and "make full proof of thy ministry," 2 Timothy 4:5.
c. Paul commanded Timothy to:
1) First, "Charge some that they teach no other doctrine," 1 Timothy 1:3.
2) Second, "Put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained," 1 Timothy 4:6.
3) Third, "Hold fast the form of sound words," 2 Timothy 1:14.
4) Fourth, "Take heed unto thyself and the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself and them that hear thee," 1 Timothy 4:16.
2. Urgency. "Be instant in, and out of season," 2 Timothy 4:2a. He must be ready to preach in any season and, under every condition, the word of truth. His message must be timeless. It must be delivered with urgency. In the following two verses, Paul explains why:
a. First, "For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears," 2 Timothy 4:3; 1 Timothy 4:1-6. These members are no longer interested in truth but desire to be tickled and teased regarding their misguided faith.
b. Second, "They shall turn away their ears from the truth and shall be turned unto fables," 2 Timothy 4:4.
3. Substance. "Reprove, rebuke, and exhort, in preaching the word," 2 Timothy 4:2c.
a. First, the word reprove, in the Gr., is elegcho or e-le'n-kho, which means to confute, admonish: — convict, convince, tell a fault, rebuke, reprove. The minister does it with love and compassion. There will be saints who must be chastened, Titus 1:9-10; Galatians 2:11.
b. Further, the word rebuke, in the Gr., is epitimao or e-pe-te-mä'-o, which means to tax upon, i.e., rebuke or admonish; by implication, to forbid: —(straitly) charge, rebuke. Paul told Titus to admonish and "rebuke the opposition sharply," Titus 1:13.
c. Finally, the word exhorts or (encourage), in the Gr., is parakaleo or pä-rä-kä-le'-o, which means call near, i.e., invite, invoke (by imploration, or consolation): —beseech, call for, (be of good) comfort, desire, (give) exhort (-ation), intreat, pray. Paul uses each of these words in his Letter to Thessalonica, 1 Thessalonians 5:11-14. Exhort is the softest word in this charge!
4. Duration. "Preach with all longsuffering and doctrine," 2 Timothy 4:2d. Preach tirelessly with patience and the doctrine given to you. Paul wrote earlier: "But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them," 2 Timothy 3:14; 2 Timothy 2:2.
5. Vigilance. "But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry," 2 Timothy 4:5. What was Timothy's work as an evangelist? As I mentioned earlier: the evangelist is charged with managing his life in three ways. Paul wrote,
a. First, his public life. "Let no man despise thy youth, but be an example of the believers, in word (in your word and oaths), in conversation (manner of life), in charity (your love), in spirit (your zeal and spiritual life), in faith (your walk before all believers), and in purity (of life)," 1 Timothy 4:12. Paul wrote of Corinth: "Ye are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read of all men," 2 Corinthians 3:2. What message are your writing for others to read?
b. Second, in his pulpit life. "Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation (i.e., preaching and teaching of), and to (the) doctrine (the message of Christ). Do not neglect, the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery," 1 Timothy 4:13-14.
c. His private life. "Meditate upon these things, give thyself wholly to them, that thy profiting may appear to all. Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine, continue in them: for in doing this, thou shalt both save thyself and them that hear thee," 1 Timothy 4:15-16. Then Paul closes his comments on Timothy and tells the Philippians saints of his trust in the Lord and his possible release. Observe,
6. Paul’s wishes for Philippi. He concluded: "And I trust in the Lord to also myself come shortly unto you." I trust in the Lord. I shall be able to come shortly to you. To see you Philippians again, and share the "love of Jesus Christ," unto you. If it is the Lord’s will. That's what all preachers desire most to do! Share the love of Christ, 2 Corinthians 5:14-15.
a. Paul was eventually released from prison in Rome. The dates are speculative. Paul had accomplished much good while in Rome. His first imprisonment lasted nearly three years. His message even reached Caesar's house.
b. Paul’s success in Rome. Luke wrote: “And Paul dwelt two whole years in his own hired house, and received all that came in unto Him. Preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man forbidding Him,” Acts 28:30-31. The apostle had the Jewish leadership coming in and out, and the Roman soldiers chained to him.
c. He closes this Letter by recording: "All the saints salute you, chiefly they that are of Caesar's household," Philippians 4:22. What a great example Paul set for Timothy. Brethren, we should covet to present a similar example before the church, and in those young brothers, we have prepared to: “do the work of an evangelist,” like the beloved apostle Paul. As I conclude, let me quickly rehearse what we discussed….
CONCLUSION
A. Outline.
1. Timothy's - Singleness of Heart
2. Timothy's - Seeking the Will of Christ
3. Timothy's - Service in the Gospel
B. Summarize main points.
1. First, he wrote: "I have no man like-minded who will sincerely care for your state." Timothy he says: "Will sincerely care for your state." the apostle conveys that he and Timothy had the same mind and soul; they were singleness of heart. Paul's imprisonment put him out of touch with the churches, so he used young men like Timothy to visit them, enlighten them, and then return to share this joy with him in prison. These visits would allow Paul to be of good comfort concerning their faith and patience in Christ Jesus, the loving Savior he had preached to them. His care would be genuine, just as that of the apostle.
2. Secondly, he penned: "While others seek their own, Timothy sought the things which are the will of Christ. Many of Paul's companions sought their own will and not the things of Christ. Paul realized it took courage to contend for the faith when others were willing to compromise and even surrender because of trials and persecutions for being a Christian. Vincent Lombardy, the great football coach of the Green Bay Packard, once said: "fatigue makes cowards of us all." Satan has made cowards of many due to criticism and the need for personal sacrifice in serving the Lord. But not Timothy was committed to doing the will of Christ. Paul used this young preacher to edify and strengthen the church, reminding them of their faith and commitment to Christ. It was always: "Not my will Lord, but thine be done," he learned this from Paul. We need sons like Timothy, who are unafraid in battle, unswerving in faith, unmovable from the course, and untiring in courage and devotion to the church. He, like Paul, trusted in the Lord Jesus Christ in all things. He knew all things were possible with Christ under any conditions. He was the son of a great example of service – the Apostle Paul!
3. Lastly, Paul recorded: "Timothy served with him in the gospel." They shared a unique bond in Christ's work and the saints' fellowship. Paul suggests that they were on common ground. Timothy was not UNDER him, nor was Paul OVER him. He reminded the church that they knew of his character. He had worked among them with Paul. They labored in the love, patience, and faith of Jesus Christ. Paul would send his shortly to them so that they may hear of Paul's condition and concern for their faith. Paul and the church at Philippi recognized Timothy's work. Ministers and leaders should always appreciate the contribution and service of others. Paul appreciated Timothy's service and worked with him in the gospel of Christ. They were "laborers together with God" in Christ's great work and ministry. Let's notice their singleness of heart!
C. Invitation. As ministers, we ought to walk "giving no offense in anything that the ministry be not blamed," 2 Corinthians 6:3. Be an example, 1 Timothy 4:12. We should not handle the word of God "deceitfully, dishonestly or in craftiness," 2 Corinthians 4:2. We must "rightly divide the word of truth," 2 Timothy 2:15. Remember the power of the written word, and its condemnation, John 12:48. As believers "we ought to be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to wrath," James 1:19.
[Explain the pattern of conversion, i.e., hearing and believing the gospel; repentance of all past sins; confessing faith in Christ, as the Son of God; and then, by obeying the gospel; that is to: “repent and be baptized, in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and to receive the gift of the Holy Ghost,” Acts 2:38; Romans 6:17-18; Ephesians 1:12-14.]
D. Exhortation. Do as Peter directed: “Save thyself from this untoward (wicked and ungodly) generation,” Acts 2:40; Acts 2:36-39; Acts 2:41. Let it not be said of us: “The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and we are not saved,” Jeremiah 8:20.
E. Persuade. The church needs men like Timothy. Do we have some among us? Who are willing always to seek and follow the things of Jesus Christ. And ever be ready to serve in the gospel, in whatever area you find yourselves. Will you, if the Lord wills? I pray that we work now "for the time cometh when no man can work." Think about these things we rise and sing the invitation song. Come, the Lord is calling, the Spirit says come, and God is calling all to come unto Him and be saved. Be restored, be accepted, now is the “acceptable time, today is the day of salvation.”
Credits and Contributions
I give credit to my contributors; I, therefore: "Render to all their dues: tributes to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; and honor to whom honor, (is due)," Romans 13:7. I thank and acknowledge my consultation with these distinguished authors in this lesson.
References
1. Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary on the Bible, by Matthew Henry, Christian Classics Ethereal Library, Grand Rapids, MI, 1706.
2. The People's New Testament, by B. W. Johnson, Christian Publishing Company, Grand Rapids, MI, 1891.
3. The New Greek-English Interlinear New Testament; United Bible Societies,’ Fourth, Corrected Edition, Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, IL, 1990.
4. Textus Receptus, taken from the Greek Text of Stephens 1550, The Englishman’s Greek New Testament, Zondervan Publishing House, Grand Rapids, Michigan, First Zondervan Printing, 1970.
5. Clarke Commentary on the Bible, Eight Volumes, published 1810-1826, New York, Published by J. Emory, and B. Waugh, for the Methodist Episcopal Church, at the conference office, 13 Crosby-Street., J. Collord, Printer, 1831.
6. Vine’s Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words, by W. E. Vine, Fleming H. Revell Company, Old Tappan, NJ, Copyright, 1981.
7. Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary © 2015 by Merriam-Webster, Incorporated; Springfield, Massachusetts, 01105.
8. Merriam-Webster Online Thesaurus © 2015 by Merriam-Webster, Incorporated; Springfield, Massachusetts, 01105.
9. Smith's Bible Dictionary, William Smith, Grand Rapids, MI, Christian Classics Ethereal Library, Printing 1884.
10. The BlueLetterBible.org, (BLB’s) Interlinear, Textus Receptus; and the Morphological GNT, @ 2022, by the Blue Letter Bible. This tool allows you to access the Greek New Testament in both manuscripts. http://www.blb.org/The BLB also provides tutorials to help you learn how to use it. Link, (www.BLB.org).
A word of thanks to BLB.org:
Thank you for this valuable tool of study, BLB.org. It has been an excellent instrument for me to learn and use the Interlinear to bring my sermons alive to the audience. Thank you very much for this great Application to help study the scriptures.
Author’s Information
Ron Freeman, Evangelist
Worldwide Ministry Church of Christ.org.
Post Office Box 1112
Anniston, AL 36202
Communications and Websites
Email: ronald.e.freeman@wwmchurchofchrist.org
Email: wwmcoc@earthlink.net
https://wwmchurchofchrist.org/
Website: https://en.gravatar.com/refreeman
Visit and worship with the Church of Christ at Pickensville, AL, every Sunday at 11:00 AM and Wednesday at 6:00 PM. The call-in number is: 1-302-202-1110, Pin # is 214733. These men "know the Shepherd!"
Sermon updated: 5/23/2023.
