INTRODUCTION
Outline.
1. I Fought a Good Fight
2. I Finished My Course
3. I Fulfilled the Faith
Remarks.
1. In our lesson today we are going to be discussing the theme: "Paul's Final Assurances to Timothy." The apostle is now in a cold, wet and dark dungeon in Rome. He begins the chapter with a stirring charge to Timothy regarding his work in the ministry. 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...do the work of an evangelist...fulfill thy ministry," 2 Timothy 4:1-5. He then turns to his final words to him; regarding, his dedication and work in preaching the gospel of Christ.
2. First, we will describe his initial assurance, "I fought a good fight." He assured Timothy that he had fought an honorable and lawful fight; in presenting the message of Christ, and ran faithfully the "race set before him," Hebrews 12:1-2. To Corinth, he wrote, after mentioning how he had been made all things to all men, that he might, by all means, save some: "And this I do for the gospel's sake, that I might be partaker thereof with you. Know (you) not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown, but we an incorruptible. I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so I fight; not as one that beateth the air: But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway," 1 Corinthians 9:23-27. Paul hazarded his life for Christ, the gospel and all men; that he might save some while keeping his own body in subjection, that he might not be a castaway.
3. Second, we will discuss his next assurance, "I finished my course." Here Paul speaks of his faithfulness to remain in the work of Christ, and finish the work he was called to do, as an apostle. To the Ephesian elders, he said: "And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there: Save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me. But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God," Acts 20:22-24. Paul is now at the end of his ministry and faces the possibility of death at any time. He now desires to see Timothy again: and assure him that he has completed his work and charges him to: "Watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of his ministry," 2 Timothy 4:5. Truly, these are words that need to be preached to all ministers, leaderships, and memberships around the world.
4. Lastly, we will investigate his final assurance, "I fulfilled the faith." He wrote: "I kept the faith." He affirms that he abided in the teaching of Christ. He confirmed and defended the gospel of Christ. To the Philippians, he wrote: "I have you in my heart; since both in my bonds; and, in the defense and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace," Philippians 1:7. Paul had not wavered in his work for Christ, whether it brought joy or persecution. Timothy too was familiar with the apostles walk before them; and, before all the churches. This is why he wrote: "For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight...I have finished my course...I have kept the faith," 2 Timothy 2:6-7. With this introduction, let's consider our first point.
BODY OF LESSON
I - I FOUGHT A GOOD FIGHT
A. Paul affirms. That he has fought an honorable and lawful fight; in presenting the message of Christ, and running the "race set before him." In the Hebrew Letter, he wrote: "Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God," Hebrews 12:1-2. Notice:
1. First, "lay aside all things that will hinder our race." Some weights will not necessarily be sin; even these must be laid aside if we will run to win a crown.
2. Further, "run with patience the race set before us." Patience must be our goal in all things. Run with trust and patience in our everyday challenges. The race will not be won by the swift; but, for the one that runs with endurance.
3. Finally, "looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith." Keep our eyes on Jesus and the prize (a crown of life), Philippians 3:13-16. Remember Jesus:
a. Who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross.
b. Despising the shame, Galatians 3:13.
c. Has set down at the right hand of the throne of God, 1 Peter 3:22; Hebrews 1:3-4.
4. B. W. Johnson wrote: “Let us lay aside ever...hindrance. The figure used is that of the Greek foot races in the games then practiced in every province of the Roman Empire, including Palestine. Before running the runner laid off every weight. And the sin which doth so easily beset us. Our besetting sin, whatever it may be. In the case of these...the besetting sin was unbelief. Let us run with patience the race that is set before us. Run the race with steadfast perseverance,” Page 570.
5. Matthew Henry wrote: “Lay aside every weight...that is, all inordinate affection and concern for the body, and the present life and (the) world. Inordinate care for the present life, or (the) fondness for it, is a dead weight upon the soul...The sin that doth so easily beset us; the sin that has the greatest advantage against us, by the circumstances we are (presently) in...This may mean either the damning sin of unbelief or rather the darling sin of the Jews, an over-fondness for their own dispensation. Let us lay aside all...hindrances,” Page 1678.
6. Conclusion: Let us not forget to: “Look unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith,” Hebrews 12:2; Hebrews 5:8-9. Our race is due to the commitment we have made by accepting the grace of God. We must keep Him in all that we do and say. Our Lord has promised our success: “We are more than conquerors through Him that loved us,” Romans 8:37. Remember: we are in it, to win it, a crown of life that fadeth not away.
B. Paul wrote to Corinth:
1. First, "That he (in and through his ministry) had been made all things to all men, that he might, by all means, save some," 1 Corinthians 9:23.
a. For the Greek he became a Greek; for the Jew, he behaved like a Jew; and, for the Gentiles, he became a Gentile: that he might win some for Christ.
b. This must be our work also; to win many, for the cause of Christ.
2. Further, "And this I do for the gospel's sake, that I might be partaker thereof with you. Know (you) not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown, but we an incorruptible (crown). I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air," 1 Corinthians 9:24-26.
3. Finally, "But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway," 1 Corinthians 9:27; 1 Corinthians 15:58.
4. Conclusion: The apostle states that he ran this race to win the prize. That prize was an incorruptible crown of righteousness. To do such, he had to keep his body under subjection (control), that after he had preached to others, he might be a castaway. We will revisit this crown later in the lesson.
C. Men that hazarded their lives. Paul and others like him hazarded their lives for Christ, the gospel and all men; that they might save some while keeping their bodies in subjection, that they might not be a castaway. Observe--
1. After the Jerusalem Conference, the brethren wrote: "It seemed good unto us, being assembled with one accord:
a. To send chosen men unto you with our beloved Barnabas and Paul.
b. Men that have hazarded their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
c. We have sent therefore Judas and Silas, who shall also tell you the same things by mouth," Acts 15:25-27.
2. These brothers were willing to put their lives in "harm's way" for the kingdom's sake; and the unification of the saints, in the body of Christ.
3. There were those at this time, causing divisions and offense in the church. Others have abandoned the work of Christ; some because of unfaithfulness, and others because of fear of persecution and death. Paul speaks of several men in the next few verses.
D. Demas has forsaken me. He at his first imprisonment was part of Paul's help and encouragement. But now, he has forsaken him and the faith.
1. Forsaken me: "For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica," 2 Timothy 4:10. He once supported Paul; and refreshed him during his first imprisonment, Colossians 4:14; Philemon 1:24.
2. All Asia: "This thou knowest, that all they which are in Asia be turned away from me; of who are Phygellus and Hermogenes. The Lord give mercy unto the house of Onesiphorus; for he often refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chain: But, when he was in Rome, he sought me out very diligently, and found me. The Lord grant unto him that he may find mercy of the Lord in that day: and in how many things he ministered unto me at Ephesus, thou knowest very well," 2 Timothy 1:15-18.
3. Not all have fought a good fight; not all finished their course; not all kept the faith. Some deserted Christ, the church and their promise of salvation. Paul now encourages Timothy to remain in the fight and help others to do likewise.
E. Paul's appeal to Timothy: "For therefore we both labor and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Saviour of all men, especially of those that believe. These things command and teach. Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity. Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine. Neglect, not the gift that is in thee; which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands, of the presbytery. 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 4:10-16. Observe—
1. First, we both labor and suffer reproach:
a. Because we trust in the living God.
b. The Saviour of all men:
1) Especially of those that believe.
2) These things command and teach.
2. Further, let no man despise thy youth:
a. "Be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity."
b. "Till I come: give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine."
c. "Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery."
d. “Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all.”
3. Finally, "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 4:10-16. Consider--
a. Timothy was encouraged to take heed unto self; then, to the doctrine, to continue in them. He was told to remain faithful to the doctrine, and continue in it. Abide in the doctrine of Christ.
b. He was encouraged to save himself; and then, others that will hear him and so remain in the faith.
c. The man of God must first do the things that will save him; and, then help to save others that will listen to the message of Christ, being delivered to them.
d. Conclusion: Paul echoed these same words to the Thessalonians: "Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you: And that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men: for all men have not faith," 2 Thessalonians 3:1-2; Romans 16:17-18.
4. Paul charged Timothy:
a. To follow righteousness: "But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses," 1 Timothy 6:11-12.
1) These words must be preached from the pulpits all the time; but, more so during times of trials, temptations, and personal hardships.
2) Hold on to the Lord, unfortunately, the righteous will also suffer along with the wicked, when God's judgments are in the earth. Observe,
a) Solomon wrote: "Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people," Proverbs 14:34.
b) Isaiah wrote: "When thy judgments are in the earth, the inhabitants of the world will learn righteousness," Isaiah 26:9; Psalms 58:10-11.
c) Jeremiah wrote: "Great in counsel, and mighty in work: for thine eyes are open upon all the ways of the sons of men: to give every one according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings," Jeremiah 32:19; Matthew 16:27; Matthew 12:35-37; Luke 12:2-3.
b. To be strong: "Thou, therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also," 2 Timothy 2:1-2. Observe—
1) Be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.
2) Remember the witness regarding my work and life.
3) Identify and train faithful men.
4) Develop capable men to teach others.
NOTE: Review our lesson, “Paul’s Charge to Timothy,” on SermonCentral.com.
c. To endure hardness: "Thou, therefore, endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier. And if a man also strives for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strives lawfully," 2 Timothy 2:3-5. Consider--
1) Endure hardness as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.
2) Do not be entangled in the affairs of this life.
3) Seek to please the Lord, who has chosen you to be a soldier.
4) Strive for his mastery lawfully.
5) That he might win a crown of life.
d. Conclusion: This is good instruction for all of us. Follow after righteousness; be strong in the Lord; and, endure hardness as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. Timothy was Paul’s understudy in the faith.
1) He wrote: “But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timotheus shortly unto you, that I also may be of good comfort when I know your state. For I have no man likeminded, who will naturally care for your state. For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ's. But ye know the proof of him, that, as a son with the father, he hath served with me in the gospel. Him, therefore, I hope to send presently, soon as I shall see how it will go with me,” Philippians 2:19-23.
2) Timothy was a tremendous help to Paul and his work with all the churches.
3) Ministers and leaders must develop their own understudies, for this work. They must recruit and train young men: who are faithful, capable and committed to the cause of Christ, like Timothy. With this, let's consider our next point in this lesson.
II - I FINISHED MY COURSE
A. Finished my course: "I have finished my course." Here Paul speaks of his faithfulness to remain in the work of Christ, and finish the work he was called unto as an apostle of Christ. The Lord promised him these trials. Recall,
1. Paul's called to the apostleship. The Lord instructed Ananias: "But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake," Acts 9:15-16.
2. His resolve as an apostle. To Timothy he wrote:
a. First, "For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day," 2 Timothy 1:12.
b. Further, "Wherein I suffer trouble, as an evildoer, even unto bonds; but the word of God is not bound," 2 Timothy 2:9; Ephesians 6:18-20.
c. Lastly, "Therefore I endure all things for the elect's sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory," 2 Timothy 2:10.
3. His visit to Caesarea. Luke wrote: "And as we tarried there (Caesarea) many days, there came down from Judaea a certain prophet, named Agabus. And when he came unto us, he took Paul's girdle, and bound his own hands and feet, and said:"
a) "Thus saith the Holy Ghost, So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man that owneth this girdle, and shall deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles."
b) "And when we heard these things, both we, and they of that place, besought him not to go up to Jerusalem."
c) "Then Paul answered: What mean ye to weep and to break my heart? ...I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus."
d) "And when he would not be persuaded, we ceased, saying: The will of the Lord be done," Acts 21:10-14.
4. Conclusion: Jesus warns,
a. First, "Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you," Matthew 5:11-12.
b. Further, "Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name's sake...But he that endures unto the end, the same shall be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached into the (entire) world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come," Matthew 24:9-14; Acts 1:8; Colossians 1:23.
c. Finally, "These things have I spoken unto you, that ye should not be offended. They shall put you out of the synagogues: yea, the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service," John 16:1-2.
d. Conclusion: Christians should be prepared to suffer similar persecutions and rejection from nonbelievers; and, many so-called believers, 2 Timothy 3:10-13; 1 Peter 4:14-16; Galatians 2:4.
B. Ephesian elders. Paul spoke to these leaders on the Isle of Miletus; regarding his pending arrest and trials that lay ahead. He said: "And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there: Save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me. But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God," Acts 20:22-24. Observe—
1. First, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem.
2. Further, not knowing the things that shall befall me there:
a. "Save the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city,"
b. "Saying that bonds and afflictions abide (await) me."
3. Next, "but none of these things move me, neither count my life dear unto myself."
4. Finally, "so that I might:
a. "Finish my course with joy,"
b. "And the ministry,"
c. "Which I have received of the Lord Jesus,"
d. "To testify the gospel of the grace of God," Acts 20:22-24.
5. Conclusion: The apostles acknowledge that he will suffer persecutions and afflictions as a result of his apostleship, work of the ministry and determination to finish his course in preaching the gospel of the grace of God. He considers his life not dear unto himself; only to finish his course with joy, and the ministry which he had received of the Lord Jesus Christ. This he desires also, for his son Timothy.
C. Prison in Rome. Paul is now at the end of his ministry and faces the possibility of death at any time. He finds himself in a cold dungeon, shackled, without the chance of a second release.
1. Let's be plain here: it was his ministry unto the Gentiles that placed him in this predicament, Acts 22:17-22; Acts 13:42-52; Galatians 2:6-11.
2. He senses the urgency to see Timothy and others; before hearing the sentence of death from Nero, in Rome. The balance of this chapter is summoning Timothy and others to hasten their visit to him, in Rome. Observe--
a. Timothy: "Do thy diligence to come unto me...Do thy diligence to come before winter," 2 Timothy 4:9; 2 Timothy 4:21.
b. Mark: "Only Luke is with me. Take Mark, and bring him with thee: for he is profitable to me for the ministry," 2 Timothy 4:11. It appears that Paul had reconciled himself to John Mark, Colossians 4:10; Acts 13:13.
c. Tychicus: "Have I sent to Ephesus," 2 Timothy 4:12.
3. Conclusion: He now desires to see Timothy again: and assure him that he has completed his work, and charges him to: "Watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of his ministry," 2 Timothy 4:5. To Titus, Paul gives to same admonitions, Titus 2:7-8.
D. Paul's first trial. He wrote: "At my first answer no man stood with me, but all men forsook me: I pray God that it may not be laid to their charge. Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and that all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion. And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom (is) glory forever and ever. Amen," 2 Timothy 4:16-18. Paul had a divine counselor, divine deliverer and, a divine preserver. Observe—
1. Divine counselor. Paul advises Timothy that his divine counselor stood with him and strengthen him, during his first appearance before Nero. He reflects on his entire Christian ministry from his call and conversion to Christ in Damascus; till now, his pending conviction and death for the cause of Christ, in Rome.
2. Divine deliverer. His divine deliverer, allowed him to be delivered from the "mouth of the lion." He tells him of his first appearance, and those that laid charges against had been unsuccessful. He was able to escape the ax and the sentence of death from the Magistrate. We can be confident, that the Lord will at his good time deliver us from all of our trials, struggles, and temptations.
3. Divine preserver. He then mentions his divine preserver. Paul informs Timothy how that the Lord preserved him from death; and he believes, that He shall deliver him unto His heavenly kingdom. We can be sure that our Lord has a crown of life laid up for us, in that heavenly kingdom.
See our lesson, At My First Answer, on SermonCentral.com.
E. Paul's final words. He wrote: "The cloke that I left at Troas with Carpus, when thou comest, bring with thee, and the books, but especially the parchments. Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil: (may) the Lord reward him according to his works: Of whom (you should) be aware also; for he hath greatly withstood our words," 2 Timothy 4:13-15. Observe—
1. Amidst his current imprisonment; he was still attempting to work to preserve the doctrine of Christ. He asks Timothy to bring the parchments that he might continue to inscribe; the word of God and maintain communications, to the churches of the Lord.
2. Timothy, bring the cloke, so I might remain warm during the winter; that surely will come upon me. Do your best to arrive before winter.
3. Son, be aware of the adversaries. Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil. The Lord will reward him for his work. Be thou aware of him; for he has greatly withstood our words, Acts 19:33-41. With this warning, let's consider our last point in this lesson.
III - I FULFILLED THE FAITH
A. Fulfilled the faith. Finally, he wrote: "I have kept the faith." He affirms that he abided in the teaching of Christ. To Philippi, he wrote: "I have you in my heart; since both in my bonds; and, in the defense and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are (also) partakers of my grace," Philippians 1:7.
1. Paul had not wavered in his work for Christ, whether it brought for him, joy or persecutions; bonds or freedom; to be abased or abound. He learned to be content in every state he might be found in, Philippians 4:11-13.
2. Timothy also was familiar with the apostle's walk before him; before others and, all the churches of Christ.
3. This is why he wrote: "For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought...I have finished my course...I have kept the faith," 2 Timothy 2:6-7.
B. I am ready. Paul began his "I have's" with: "For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand," 2Timothy 4:5. This verse sets forth his confidence in his life and service for Christ. We must review this verse carefully. Observe—
1. First, "I am now ready to be offered." Let's consider these first words: "Ready to be offered." The word "ready" in the Gr., is hetoimos or he'-toi-mos, is from an old noun ?te?? eteós (fitness); adjusted, i.e. ready:—prepared, (made) ready (-iness, to our hand). It is a military word; meaning to be prepared; readiness.
a. In my 22 years of honorable military service, I underwent many inspections.
b. Never once, did I ever announce to the old man (the commanding officer), "that the Company was ready for inspection."
c. I would always report: "The Company has prepared for inspection." But Paul announces here he was: "ready to be offered." He had taken the necessary preparation, to be an acceptable offering unto God. These were his faithfulness, trust and confidence in the Lord's promises, and His approval for his work and dedication: "as a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ," Titus 1:1-3; Titus 3:1-8. Moving ahead, it is appropriate to consider the word "offered."
2. Further, the word offered in Gr., is spendo or spe'n-do, which means to pour out as a libation, i.e., to devote (one's life or blood, as a sacrifice) ("spend") :—( to be ready to) be offered. It is used two times by Paul referring to his willingness to be sacrificed for the cause of Christ. Observe—
a. One, to the Philippians: "Yea, and if I am offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy, and rejoice with you all," Philippians 2:17.
b. Second, to Timothy: "For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand," 2 Timothy 4:6.
c. Conclusion: He was ready to be put to death; to be offered upon the altar of sacrifice for Christ.
3. Next, The time of: "My departure." The word "departure" in Gr., is analysis or ä-nä'-lü-ses, which means to lose, dissolution, death, or depart:—departure. It is akin to our English word “analysis” meaning to separate, breakdown, investigate or study.
a. It is also a military word. The apostle uses it a lot in his Letters.
b. He uses it as a metaphor drawn from, “loosing from a mooring: in preparation for setting sail from a foreign port, or to go to one's home port.”
c. He is ready to leave this world; and go home to join the Lord, in heaven.
d. He describes this journey, in Philippians 1:21-24. Again, this word is used twice in Paul's letters, Philippians 1:23; 2 Timothy 4:6. He wrote of such during both of his imprisonments, in Rome. He escaped this offering in the first arrest and trial; but, would not be acquitted in this pending trial. Notice how he predicts it!
4. Finally, My time is: "at hand." Here the word is Gr., is ephistemi or e-fe'-sta-me, which means to stand upon, i.e., to be present; --assault, come (in, unto, upon), to be at hand (instant), present, to be on stand-by.
a. The idea here is nigh, near or real soon. Paul uses this same word, in 1 Thessalonians 5:3; 2 Timothy 4:2; and 2 Timothy 4:6.
b. The apostle was predicting his pending death, at the hands of Nero, to be at hand, by the Roman emperor.
c. His first hearing, the apostle had escaped "out of the mouth of the lion," 2 Timothy 4:16-18. This he wrote with Daniel in mind. His next hearing would result in him hearing a sentence of death. This too for him would be a deliverance from the mouth of the lion. In death he would be delivered from hardship, pain, suffering, and anguish; and ushered into the presence of the Lord, 2 Corinthians 5:6-9; Philippians 1:20-24; Job 19:25-26.
Illustrate, Daniel in the Lion's Den, Daniel 6:16-24.
d. B. W. Johnson wrote: "Death, to Paul, was simply a departure, a leaving the body and this world for a better state. At hand... His death had been predetermined by his enemies, and was near," Page 536.
e. Matthew Henry wrote: "And I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion, that is, of Nero (as some think) or some other judge. Some understand it only as a proverbial form of speech, to signify that he was in imminent danger. (But God spared him from death at that time)," Page 1499. The words in (--) are mine.
C. There is laid up for me. Paul continues: "Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing," 2 Timothy 4:8. Observe--
1. There is laid up for me a crown of righteousness. Paul assured Timothy that the Lord, the righteous Judge had laid up for him a "crown of righteousness;" which he shall give to him on that day. That day will be at His appearing; when He comes to judge the quick and the dead, 2 Timothy 4:1.
2. This righteousness is through the faith of Christ: "And be found in him, not having my own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith," Philippians 3:8-9. Notice these writers:
a. B. W. Johnson wrote: "Henceforth there is laid up for me. As the successful competitor in the games receives a crown, so the crown awaited him. The crown of righteousness (received from) ...the righteous judge. He was about to die by the sentence of an unrighteous judge. The higher Judge would reverse the sentence and give him a crown," Page 537. The (--) are mine.
b. Matthew Henry wrote: "There is a righteousness provided for us in Jesus Christ, and it is complete and perfect righteousness...Not having my righteousness... No, the righteousness which I depend...is through the faith of Christ...The righteousness which is of God by faith, ordained and appointed," Page 1296.
3. Paul wrote elsewhere to the saints of this same righteousness:
a. At Corinth: "Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God. For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him," 2 Corinthians 5:20-21.
b. At Rome: "But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; Even the righteousness of God which is by the faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference," Romans 3:21-22; Romans 1:14-17; Hebrews 10:38; Habakkuk 2:4.
c. At Galatia: "But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith. And the law is not of faith: but: The man that doeth them shall live in them," Galatians 3:11-12; Acts 13:38-39.
4. James wrote: "Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him," James 1:12.
5. Peter wrote: "And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away," 1 Peter 5:4. Here he was speaking of the shepherds of the sheep. The eldership! Be faithful, watch over the sheep, to receive a crown of glory, for their labor, 1 Peter 5:1-3.
6. John wrote: "Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life," Revelation 2:10.
7. Conclusion: The righteousness we can rely on is not our own. But the righteousness which is: "through the faith of Christ; the righteousness which is of God, by faith." Which has been granted, unto all believers: "by grace through the faith," Ephesians 2:8-9; Titus 3:4-7. We thank God for His immeasurable love, mercy, and grace, Ephesians 2:4-5.
NOTE: For more information on grace, see our lessons: "By Grace Ye Are Saved," on SermonCentral.com.
D. Righteous Judge. The Lord is a righteous judge. He will judge the: "quick and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom," 2 Timothy 4:1. Observe—
1. David wrote: "God judgeth the righteous, and God is angry with the wicked every day," Psalms 7:11.
2. Solomon wrote: "Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it is good, or whether it is evil," Ecclesiastes 12:13-14.
3. Paul wrote: "Which is a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God, that ye may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which ye also suffer: Seeing it is a righteous thing with God to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you," 2 Thessalonians 1:5-6. God shall judge all men, at the coming of the Lord. Consider--
a. As it is appointed: "Unto men once to die but after this the judgment," Hebrews 9:27.
b. Terror of the Lord: "For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it (is) good or bad. Knowing, therefore, the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are made manifest unto God; and I trust also are made manifest in your consciences," 2 Corinthians 5:10-11; 2 Thessalonians 1:7-10.
1) Prophets wrote: "They shall look on Him whom they pierced," John 19:37; Zechariah 12:10. This prophecy:
a) Relates to the crucifixion of Jesus of Nazareth, and Him being pierced by the soldier's spear, we have the Apostle John's account, in John 1:29; John 19:34-37.
b) Relates also to the suffering and death of the Messiah, in Isaiah 53; Psalms 22:16-18. We have Paul's report of this truth, in Hebrews 12:2.
2) John wrote: "Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen," Revelation 1:7; Acts 1:9-11; Amos 8:10.
3) They looked on Him during His suffering and death. They shall look on Him again at His coming, as the Righteous Judge, Revelation 1:7; Hebrews 9:28.
4. Peter wrote: "For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begins at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God? And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear? Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator," 1 Peter 4:17-19.
E. Given to all that love his appearing. Paul assures to Timothy, this crown of righteousness is not only promised to him; but unto all those that love his appearing. The faithful saints; are in anticipation, for the appearance of the Lord of glory. We are instructed to: "Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come," Matthew 24:42. He now informs Timothy and others also, of their promise of a crown of righteousness. Observe—
1. Paul concludes:
a. First, "Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing," 2 Timothy 4:8. What a wonderful promise to us as saints. Christ shall grant to all those that love His appearing, a crown of righteousness. We too, however, must fight a good fight; finish our course; and, keep the faith. I wish I had some help!
b. Further, "And to you who are troubled rest with us...When he shall come to be glorified in his saints and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day," 2 Thessalonians 1:7-10.
c. Finally, "And if a man also strives for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully, 2 Timothy 2:5. Also, "And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible," 1 Corinthians 9:25.
2. B. W. Johnson wrote: "And not to me only. All can have the same hope. All who serve him, and would love to see him come as their best friend, shall have the same crown," Page 537.
3. Matthew Henry wrote: "It is called a crown of righteousness because it will be the recompense of our services, which God is not unrighteous to forget; and because our holiness and righteousness will there be perfected, and will be our crown. God will give it as a righteous Judge... And yet this crown of righteousness was not peculiar to Paul, as if it belonged only to apostles and eminent ministers and martyrs, but to all those also that love his appearing...there is a crown of righteousness reserved (also) for them," Page 1496. The (--) are mine.
4. Conclusion: This is where the beloved Apostles Paul was at the time of this letter to Timothy. He was facing death. But he found time to write to his son Timothy to affirm his faithfulness to the Lord. And to encourage him to resolved to so live and die for the gospel of Christ. What a wonderful testimony, a father can give to his son in the Lord. As we begin to conclude--
CONCLUSION
A. Outline.
1. I Fought a Good Fight
2. I Finished My Course
3. I Fulfilled the Faith
B. Summarize main points.
1. First, we described his initial assurance, "I fought a good fight." He assured Timothy that he had fought an honorable and lawful fight; in presenting the message of Christ, and ran faithfully the "race set before him," Hebrews 12:1-2. To Corinth, he wrote, after mentioning how he had been made all things to all men, that he might, by all means, save some: "And this I do for the gospel's sake, that I might be partaker thereof with you. Know (you) not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown, but we an incorruptible. I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so I fight; not as one that beateth the air: But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway," 1 Corinthians 9:23-27. Paul hazarded his life for Christ, the gospel and all men; that he might save some while keeping his own body in subjection, that he might not be a castaway.
2. Second, we discussed his next assurance, "I finished my course." Here Paul speaks of his faithfulness to remain in the work of Christ, and finish the work he was called to do, as an apostle. To the Ephesian elders, he said: "And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there: Save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me. But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God," Acts 20:22-24. Paul is now at the end of his ministry and faces the possibility of death at any time. He now desires to see Timothy again: and affirm to him that he has completed his work, and charges him to: "Watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of his ministry," 2 Timothy 4:5. Truly, these are words that need to be preached to all ministers, leaderships, and memberships around the world.
3. Lastly, we investigated his final assurance, "I fulfilled the faith." He wrote: "I kept the faith." He affirms that he abided in the teachings of Christ. He confirmed and defended the gospel of Christ. To the Philippians, he wrote: "I have you in my heart; since both in my bonds; and, in the defense and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace," Philippians 1:7. Paul had not wavered in his work for Christ, whether it brought joy or persecution. Timothy too was familiar with the apostles walk before them; and, before all the churches. This is why he wrote: "For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight...I have finished my course...I have kept the faith," 2 Timothy 2:6-7.
C. Invitation. Present the plan of salvation, H.B.R.C.B.
D. Exhortation.
E. Motivation.
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.
We thank these prolific writers for their wisdom and insight into the Holy Scriptures. We acknowledge here our consultation of their work, in this lesson.
