His Word Today

¹⁶ “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, ¹⁷ that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16–17 (ESV)

For the next several days we will be examining the theological doctrine known as Sola Scriptura. What exactly do theologians mean when using this term?

The term Sola Scriptura was initially used by the 16^th Century Protestant Reformers. It means the inerrant Scriptures, the 66 books of the Bible, are the sole source of written divine revelation from God, which alone can bind the conscience. The Bible alone teaches all that is necessary for the sinner’s salvation from sin and is the standard by which all Christian behavior is evaluated. Therefore, no creed, council or individual may bind a Christian’s conscience. Additionally, the Holy Spirit will never speak independently, or contrary to, what is set forth in the Bible, and personal spiritual experience can never be a vehicle of revelation.

Sola Scriptura means Scripture alone is the believer’s preeminent authority.  It is the final influence by which the Christian’s conscience is bound.  It is the believer’s understanding and commitment that anything besides Scripture including feelings, passions, church traditions and teachings, along with personal convictions are secondary to God’s Word being the ultimate authority within the believer’s life.  

Dr. Michael Horton writes, “Scripture not only has the final say, but it is the formal principle of everything we believe about doctrine and conduct.”

Dr. W. Robert Godfrey explains that “the Protestant position is that all things necessary for salvation and concerning faith and life are taught in the Bible clearly enough for the ordinary believer to find it there and understand.”

Dr. John MacArthur adds, “Sola Scriptura simply means that all truth necessary for our salvation and spiritual life is taught either explicitly or implicitly in Scripture.”

The Westminster Confession of Faith of 1646 states that:

“The authority of the Holy Scripture, for which it ought to be believed, and obeyed, depends not upon the testimony of any man, or Church; but wholly upon God (who is truth itself) the author thereof: and therefore, it is to be received, because it is the Word of God. We may be moved and induced by the testimony of the Church to a high and reverent esteem of the Holy Scripture. And the heavenliness of the matter, the efficacy of the doctrine, the majesty of the style, the consent of all the parts, the scope of the whole (which is, to give all glory to God), the full discovery it makes of the only way of man’s salvation, the many other incomparable excellencies, and the entire perfection thereof, are arguments whereby it does abundantly evidence itself to be the Word of God: yet notwithstanding, our full persuasion and assurance of the infallible truth and divine authority thereof, is from the inward work of the Holy Spirit bearing witness by and with the Word in our hearts.”

There were two causes for the 16^th Century Protestant Reformation: a material cause and a formal cause. The material cause was a dispute over the doctrine of justification by faith alone (Sola Fide). The formal cause was the disagreement over biblical authority (Sola Scriptura). The Reformers coined this phrase, Sola Scriptura, but certainly not this doctrine, when they rejected the two-source view of authority; meaning the authority of church tradition is equal to the authority of the Scriptures.  In his book What is Reformed Theology Dr. R. C. Sproul writes:

“Roman Catholics taught (and teach) that there are two sources of infallible special revelation, Scripture and tradition. Since they attributed this authority (Scripture) to the tradition of the church, they did not permit any person to interpret the Bible in a way that was contrary to this tradition. This is precisely what (Martin) Luther did, leading to his excommunication and the condemnation of this doctrine. The Reformers insisted there is only one written source of special revelation, the Bible. This is the sola of sola Scriptura. The chief reason for the word alone is the conviction that the Bible is inspired by God, while church creeds and pronouncements are the works of men. These lesser works may be accurate and brilliantly conceived, capturing the best insights of learned scholars; but they are not the inspired Word of God.”

God has established many institutions of authority. These include government (Romans 13), family (Ephesians 6:1-2), employers (Ephesians 6:5-9; Colossians 3:22-25; I Timothy 6:1-2), and the church (Matthew 18:15-20; I Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9; Hebrews 13:7,17; I Peter 5:1-4). However, all of these authoritative structures are to be subordinate to the foundational authority of Scripture.  

The two-source tradition of authority arose in the sixth century through the writings of Basil and Augustine. It further entrenched itself in the twelfth century, and later still in the fourteenth century with the writings of William of Ockham. From the fourteenth century onward, two opposing views developed in the church: either Scripture alone is the preeminent authority which the church interprets or the church is a second source of authority supplementing biblical revelation. In the Protestant Reformation, we witness the Reformers embracing the former and the Catholic Church then, and later at the Council of Trent, committed to the latter.

In the Institutes of the Chistian Religion, John Calvin writes:

“Nothing therefore can be more absurd than the fiction that the power of judging Scripture is in the Church and that on her nod its certainty depends. When the church receives it and gives it the stamp of her authority, she does not make that authentic which was otherwise doubtful or controverted but, acknowledging it as the truth of God, she, as in duty bounds shows her reverence by an unhesitating assent.”

More to come. May all true believers in Christ remain committed to the doctrine of Sola Scriptura.

Soli deo Gloria!

¹⁶ “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, ¹⁷ that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16–17 (ESV)

Today’s essay contains thoughts from Scripture, and by various theologians and pastors, concerning the authority of Scripture.

“The authority of Scripture means that all the words in Scripture are God’s words in such a way that to disbelieve or disobey any word of Scripture is to disbelieve or disobey God.” – Dr. Wayne Grudem

¹⁷ “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. ¹⁸ For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished. ¹⁹ Therefore whoever relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. ²⁰ For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:17–20 (ESV)

“Unless I am convinced by the testimonies of the Holy Scriptures or evident reason (for I believe in neither the Pope nor councils alone, since it has been established that they have often erred and contradicted themselves), I am bound by the Scriptures that I have adduced, and my conscience has been taken captive by the Word of God; and I am neither able nor willing to recant, since it is neither safe nor right to act against conscience. God help me. Amen.” — Martin Luther

“We all therefore have to face this ultimate and final question: Do we accept the Bible as the Word of God, as the sole authority in all matters of faith and practice, or do we not? Is the whole of my thinking governed by Scripture, or do I come with my reason and pick and choose out of Scripture and sit in judgment upon it, putting myself and modern knowledge forward as the ultimate standard and authority? The issue is crystal clear. Do I accept Scripture as a revelation from God, or do I trust to speculation, human knowledge, human learning, human understanding and human reasons Or, putting it still more simply, Do I pin my faith to, and subject all my thinking to, what I read in the Bible? Or do I defer to modern knowledge, to modern learning, to what people think today, to what we know at this present time which was not known in the past? It is inevitable that we occupy one or the other of those two positions.” – Dr. D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones

“The authority of Scripture is a key issue for the Christian church in this and every age. Those who profess faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior are called to show the reality of their discipleship by humbly and faithfully obeying God’s written Word. To stray from Scripture in faith or conduct is disloyalty to our Master. Recognition of the total truth and trustworthiness of Holy Scripture is essential to a full grasp and adequate confession of its authority.” – Dr. James Montgomery Boice, Chicago Statement on Biblical Inerrancy

“The Christian principle of biblical authority means, on the one hand, that God purposes to direct the belief and behavior of his people through the revealed truth set forth in Holy Scripture; on the other hand, it means that all our ideas about God should be measured, tested, and where necessary corrected and enlarged, by reference to biblical teaching. Authority as such is the right, claim, fitness, and by extension power, to control. Authority in Christianity belongs to God the Creator, who made us to know, love, and serve him, and his way of exercising his authority over us is by means of the truth and wisdom of his written Word. As from the human standpoint each biblical book was written to induce more consistent and wholehearted service of God, so from the divine standpoint the entire Bible has this purpose. And since the Father has now given the Son executive authority to rule the cosmos on his behalf (Matt. 28:18), Scripture now functions precisely as the instrument of Christ’s lordship over his followers.” – Dr. J.I. Packer  

“The veracity and authority of Scripture is basic to the Christian faith, but it is not a “given” in the modern world. Not only is it directly attacked by skeptics inside and outside of the church, it is undermined by claims of authority for other alleged “holy books” such as the Qur’an and the Book of Mormon. In our skeptical and multicultural world, it is necessary for Christians to draw a line in the sand when the authority of Scripture is challenged.” – Dr. John MacArthur

“Is the ultimate, unquestionable authority for the church found in the Apostolic words of sacred Scripture or in the body of teachers who currently serve as overseers of God’s flock? That was the issue debated in the sixteenth century, at which time the Reformers determined that Scripture alone is the ultimate, authoritative revelation of God; the church does not have authority on an equal footing with Scripture.”  — Dr. R. C. Sproul

May the Lord’s truth and grace be found here.

Soli deo Gloria!

¹⁶ “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, ¹⁷ that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16–17 (ESV)

The following essay originally appeared in the December 9, 2009 issue of Tabletalk Magazine. It is entitled The Inspiration of Scripture.

“The supreme judge by which all controversies of religion are to be determined…and in whose sentence we are to rest; can be no other but the Holy Spirit speaking in the Scripture,” says the Westminster Confession of Faith (1.10). One of the many biblical passages that support this statement is our passage for today’s study, 2 Timothy 3:16–17, where we read that the Scriptures are “breathed out by God.”

Scripture finds its origin in the mind and character of the Creator so much so that His very words have been “breathed out” for all to hear. When we breathe out in our speech we speak audibly, and when the Lord God Almighty breathed out in speech long ago, His Word was written down by the apostles and prophets.

Some have said that Scripture contains the Word of God, becomes the Word of God, or is a witness to the Word of God, but as orthodox scholars like B.B. War eld have shown throughout history, none of these conceptions do justice to the concept of inspiration taught in 2 Timothy 3:16. The Holy Spirit so superintended the writers of the Bible that the words they produced are the words of each particular author and at the same time the exact words of God Himself, with all the authority His speech carries.

This is why Jesus can say “Scripture cannot be broken” (John 10:35) and why Paul can exhort Timothy to continue in the Word of God that He has heard and to use it to correct and edify other believers (2 Tim. 4:1–2). This is why Scripture is the final authority for teaching, reproof, correction, and training in righteousness, and it is why Scripture is necessary to make us competent for every good work (3:16–17).

Paul’s statement is applicable not only to the Old Testament — even though some argue that the apostle only has the old covenant writings in mind here. Yet since the apostle never speaks about the Old Testament apart from the revelation of Jesus Christ, Paul’s conception of Scripture includes the gospel, which is proclaimed clearly in the new covenant writings. Therefore, the old and New Testaments together are the very breath of God, the only infallible and inerrant rule for faith and practice.

Coram Deo

Augustine comments that we can never let our failure to understand a specific biblical text make us think that somehow that text is uninspired. “When we are wrong because we haven’t understood it, we leave it in the right. When we have gone wrong, we don’t make out Scripture to be wrong, but it continues to stand up straight and right, so that we may return to it for correction” (ACCNT 9, p. 269). We do not judge the Word of God; it judges us.

May the Lord’s truth and grace be found here.

Soli deo Gloria!

¹⁴ But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it ¹⁵ and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.” (2 Timothy 3:14–15 (ESV)

The following commentary on today’s featured text is by John Calvin.

But as for thee, continue in those things which thou hast learned. Although wickedness prevails, and pushes its way forward, he advises Timothy nevertheless to stand firm. And undoubtedly this is the actual trial of faith, when we offer unwearied resistance to all the contrivances of Satan, and do not alter our course for every wind that blows, but remain steadfast on the truth of God, as on a sure anchor.

Knowing from whom thou hast learned them. This is said for the purpose of commending the certainty of the doctrine; for, if anyone has been wrong instructed, he ought not to persevere in it. On the contrary, we ought to unlearn all that we have learned apart from Christ, if we wish to be his disciples. For example, it is the commencement of our pure instruction in the faith to reject and forget all the instruction of Popery. The Apostle therefore does not enjoin Timothy to defend indiscriminately the doctrine which has been delivered to him, but only that which he knows to be truth; by which he means, that he must make a selection. 

Besides, he does not claim this as a private individual, that what he has taught shall be reckoned to be a divine revelation; but he boldly asserts his own authority to Timothy, who, he was aware, knew that his fidelity and his calling had been proved. And if he was fully convinced that he had been taught by an Apostle of Christ, he concluded that therefore it was not a doctrine of man, but of Christ.

This passage teaches us, that we ought to be as careful to guard against obstinacy in matters that are uncertain, (such as all the doctrines of men are,) as to hold within unshaken firmness the truth of God. Besides, we learn from it, that faith ought to be accompanied by prudence, that it may distinguish between the word of God and the word of men, so that we may not adopt at random everything that is brought forward. Nothing is more inconsistent with the nature of faith than light credulity, which allows us to embrace everything indiscriminately, whatever it may be, and from whomsoever it proceeds; because it is the chief foundation of faith, to know that it has God for its author.

And which have been entrusted to thee. When he adds, that the doctrine had been entrusted to Timothy, this gives (αὔξησιν) additional force to the exhortation; for to “commit a thing in trust” is something more than merely to deliver it. Now Timothy had not been taught as one of the common people, but in order that he might faithfully deliver into the hands of others what he had received.

And that from (thy) childhood. This was also no ordinary addition, that he had been accustomed, from his infancy, to the reading of the Scripture; for this long habit may make a man much more strongly fortified against every kind of deception. It was therefore a judicious caution observed in ancient times, that those who were intended for the ministry of the word should be instructed, from their infancy, in the solid doctrine of godliness, that, when they came to the performance of their office, they might not be untried apprentices. And it ought to be reckoned a remarkable instance of the kindness of God, if any person, from his earliest years, has thus acquired a knowledge of the Scriptures.

Which are able to make thee wise unto salvation. It is a very high commendation of the Holy Scriptures, that we must not seek anywhere else the wisdom which is sufficient for salvation; as the next verse also expresses more fully. But he states, at the same time, what we ought to seek in the Scripture; for the false prophets also make use of it as a pretext; and therefore, in order that it may be useful to us for salvation, it is necessary to understand the right use of it.

Through faith, which is in Christ Jesus. What if anyone give his whole attention to curious questions? What if he adheres to the mere letter of the law, and do not seek Christ? What if he perverts the natural meaning by inventions that are foreign to it? For this reason, he directs us to the faith of Christ as the design, and therefore as the sum, of the Scriptures; for on faith depends also what immediately follows.

May the Lord’s truth and grace be found here.

Soli deo Gloria!

¹⁴ But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it ¹⁵ and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.” (2 Timothy 3:14–15 (ESV)

The Apostle Paul warned Timothy concerning the reality of false teachers, especially within the church (2 Tim. 3:1-9). Paul also encouraged him to follow his apostolic example of teaching, conduct, aim in life, faith, patience, love, steadfastness, and the persecutions and sufferings he experienced.

Paul wanted Timothy to remember how the Lord rescued him and gave him endurance (vs. 10-11). Additionally, the apostle counseled his young protégé regarding all who desired to live a godly life would be persecuted and evil people and imposters would go from bad to worse deceiving and being deceived (vs. 12-13).

The apostle reminded Timothy of his biblical heritage. This legacy was lived before him by his grandmother and mother (2 Tim. 1:5). This culture of biblical instruction began in his childhood. Timothy was acquainted with the Scriptures.

The phrase to be acquainted with (οἶδας; oidas) is a perfect active indicative singular verb. It refers to a past completed action with continuing results. The action in Paul had in mind concerned Timothy’s knowledge of the sacred writings. Sacred writings (ἱερὰ γράμματα; hiera grammata) is a reference to the Old Testament Scriptures. They are the holy writings of the Law and the prophets.

“Among the Jews education was definitely God-centered as to principles, contents, and methods. The devout Israelite taught his children because Jehovah commanded him to do so. And he instructed them with respect to the verba et gesta Dei (words and deeds of God), as recorded in “the sacred writings.” This is evident throughout the Old Testament (Gen. 18:19; Ex. 10:2; 12:26, 27; 13:14–16; Deut. 4:9, 10; 6:7, 9; 11:19; 32:46; Is. 38:19; and many other passages; cf. also Josephus, Antiquities, IV. viii. 12).”^[1]

The sacred writing of the Old Testament Scriptures had a purpose in Timothy’s life since childhood. This fundamental purpose continues to this day. This is in spite of what some theologians and pastors refer to as the insignificance of the Old Testament in the contemporary church.

This purpose is contained in the phrase “which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.” The Old Testament is able (δυνάμενά; dynamema) or capable. This is a present and personal ability from the Holy Spirit (2 Tim. 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:20-21). This inherent, and inerrant, ability is to make an individual wise (σοφίσαι; sophisai) or understanding. Understanding of what? The Apostle Paul wrote for salvation (σωτηρίαν; soterian). This means deliverance from sin’s penalty, power and eventual presence by grace alone, through faith alone in the person and work of Jesus Christ alone.

“Timothy’s mission is the mission of every Christian and it is really quite simple — to continue in what we have learned from the apostles and to keep on believing in their message (v. 14). Believers may not depart from the apostolic and prophetic Word into new and fanciful teachings but must rather study and proclaim the old, familiar story of Jesus and His love that is found on every page of Scripture,” explains Dr. R. C. Sproul.

“Paul has in mind a faith based on Scripture is confirmed in 2 Timothy 3:15 when he writes about the “sacred writings,” or more literally, “holy letters.” This was a common way first-century Jews referred to the Bible, and this is how Timothy would have understood the phrase (remember that he was Jewish, Acts 16:1). These Scriptures are able to make us “wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus,” a helpful reminder that the Bible is not an end in itself but was given so that the creator God may be glorified and His creation restored.” 

“Continue in the things you have learned and become convinced of. . . the sacred writings” — the Word of God, the Bible. Don’t advance. Don’t go forward. Don’t proceed from this. Continue in this. Stay in this. Remain in this. This kind of conservatism will make you the most radical, counter-cultural, risk-taking, free people possible in Christ. If you leave the Word, you will, in the end, just conform to the world – to the spirit of this age. This may feel freeing for a moment. But it will make you the slave of every passing fashion – and they are passing faster and faster,” states Dr. John Piper.

May the Lord’s truth and grace be found here.

Soli deo Gloria!

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^[1] William Hendriksen and Simon J. Kistemaker, Exposition of the Pastoral Epistles, vol. 4, New Testament Commentary (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1953–2001), 296.

¹⁴ But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it ¹⁵ and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.” (2 Timothy 3:14–15 (ESV)

The Apostle Paul warned Timothy concerning the reality of false teachers, especially within the church (2 Tim. 3:1-9). Timothy was to avoid these opponents of biblical truth because they were corrupted in mind and disqualified regarding the faith. As was the case in the early church, such has been the case throughout church history.

Paul also encouraged Timothy to follow his example of teaching, conduct, aim in life, faith, patience, love, steadfastness, and the persecutions and sufferings he experienced. Paul wanted Timothy to remember how the Lord rescued him and gave him endurance (vs. 10-11).

Additionally, the apostle counseled his young protégé regarding all who desired to live a godly life. They would be persecuted. Evil people and imposters would go from bad to worse deceiving and being deceived (vs. 12-13).

Following all these instructions and counsels, Paul then transitioned his thoughts with the following words: But as for you (σὺ δὲl so de). Paul invoked a contrast in his words to his beloved son in the faith. He no longer focused his attention on the false teachers and their attacks against the truth.  Rather, the apostle now stressed the importance of Timothy’s character and commitment to the truth.

The primary verb in today’s featured text is continue (μένε; mene). It is a present active imperative verb. Timothy was to continually, obediently and actively remain, abide and keep on in what he had learned (ἔμαθες; emathes). This refers to what Paul taught him as well as Timothy’s mother and grandmother (2 Tim. 1:5). What Timothy learned is what he also firmly believed (ἐπιστώθης; epistothes) and was convinced of in his mind, emotions and will. In other words, his heart and soul.

“You (note emphatic position in the original, at the very head of the sentence, just as in verse 10, must pursue a course which is the very opposite of that which was followed by the false teachers and their adherents. Timothy, then, is here admonished to continue or abide in “the things” (the doctrines based on Holy Writ, see verses 15, 16) which he has learned and of which he has become convinced. When did he learn them? And when had he become convinced of them? The tense used in the original does not specify. It simply states the historical fact that Timothy has learned and has become convinced. From the context (verse 15) we gather that the two activities (learning and becoming convinced) had begun already in very early childhood. It is natural to suppose that they had continued up to this very moment while Paul is admonishing him to remain in these things. Learning had increased throughout the years, and conviction had been deepened.”^[1]

“Note that learning is not enough. What has been learned must be applied to the heart by the Holy Spirit, so that one also becomes convinced, with a conviction that transforms life.”^[2]

John Piper writes, “In verse 14 Paul puts it positively again: “You, however, continue in the things you have learned and become convinced of” (even if it results in persecution). I want you to notice a contrast here between verses 13 and 14 that is more obvious in the original language than in English. But you can still see it if you look closely. In verse 13 the evil men, it says, “proceed from bad to worse.” The word for “proceed” means “advance” or “go forward,” and in this case it is from bad to worse. Then in verse 14 Paul says to Timothy, “You, however, continue in the things you have learned.” The word “continue” is the opposite of “advance” or “go forward.” It’s the word for “remain,” “abide,” “stay.” “You, Timothy, don’t advance, don’t go forward — remain, abide, stay, continue in the things you have learned.”

The church, and sometimes its leadership, often becomes enamored with the next big thing. It could be new songs to sing in worship, a new perspective on an old, biblical truth, or a new style of preaching. What Paul was writing was to stay the course. Remain and abide in the true and the trustworthy. Certainly, the church should sing new songs in worship and praise, but she should not forget the old hymns. New perspectives in biblical truth may be intriguing, but resolve to remain in what the biblical text says, what it means and how it may be applied. This understanding of the biblical text is best explained by expository preaching.

Holy words long preserved
For our walk in this world
They resound with God’s own heart
Oh, let the ancient words impart.

Words of Life, words of Hope
Give us strength, help us cope
In this world, where e’er we roam
Ancient words will guide us home.

[Chorus:]
Ancient words ever true
Changing me and changing you
We have come with open hearts
Oh, let the ancient words impart. – Lynn DeShazo  

May the Lord’s truth and grace be found here.

Soli deo Gloria!

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^[1] William Hendriksen and Simon J. Kistemaker, Exposition of the Pastoral Epistles, vol. 4, New Testament Commentary (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1953–2001), 295.

^[2] Ibid., 295.

¹² Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, ¹³ while evil people and impostors will go on from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived.”

The following is commentary by John Calvin concerning today’s featured text from 2 Timothy.

And all who wish to live a godly life. Having mentioned his own persecutions, he likewise adds now, that nothing has happened to him which does not await all the godly. He says this, partly that believers may prepare themselves for submitting to this condition, and partly that good men may not view him with suspicion on account of the persecutions which he endures from wicked persons; as it frequently happens that the distresses to which men are subjected lead to unfavorable opinions concerning them; for he whom men regard with aversion is immediately declared by the common people to be hated by God.

By this general statement, therefore, Paul classes himself with the children of God, and, at the same time, exhorts all the children of God to prepare for enduring persecutions; for, if this condition is laid down for “all who wish to live a godly life in Christ,” they who wish to be exempt from persecutions must necessarily renounce Christ. In vain shall we endeavor to detach Christ from his cross; for it may be said to be natural that the world should hate Christ even in his members. Now hatred is attended by cruelty, and hence arise persecutions. In short, let us know that we are Christians on this condition, that we shall be liable to many tribulations and various contests.

But it is asked, “Must all men be martyrs?” For it is evident that there have been many godly persons who have never suffered banishment, or imprisonment, or flight, or any kind of persecution. I reply, it is not always in one way that Satan persecutes the servants of Christ. But yet it is absolutely unavoidable that all of them shall have the world for their enemy in some form or other, that their faith may be tried and their steadfastness proved; for Satan, who is the continual enemy of Christ, will never suffer any one to be at peace during his whole life; and there will always be wicked men that are thorns in our sides. Moreover, as soon as zeal for God is manifested by a believer, it kindles the rage of all ungodly men; and, although they have not a drawn sword, yet they vomit out their venom, either by murmuring, or by slander, or by raising a disturbance, or by other methods. Accordingly, although they are not exposed to the same assaults, and do not engage in the same battles, yet they have a warfare in common, and shall never be wholly at peace and exempt from persecutions.

But wicked men and impostors. This is the most bitter of all persecutions, when we see wicked men, with their sacrilegious hardihood, with their blasphemies and errors, gathering strength. Thus, Paul says elsewhere, that Ishmael persecuted Isaac, not by the sword, but by mockery (Galatians 4:29.) Hence also we may conclude, that in the preceding verse, it was not merely one kind of persecution that was described, but that the Apostle spoke, in general terms, of those distresses which the children of God are compelled to endure, when they contend for the glory of their Father.

I stated, a little before, in what respect they shall grow worse and worse; for he foretells not only that they will make obstinate resistance, but that they will succeed in injuring and corrupting others. One worthless person will always be more effectual in destroying, than ten faithful teachers in building, though they labor with all their might. Nor are there ever wanting the tares which Satan sows for injuring the pure corn; and even when we think that false prophets are driven away, others continually spring up in other directions.

Again, as to the power of doing injury, it is not because falsehood, in its own nature, is stronger than truth, or that the tricks of Satan exceed the energy of the Spirit of God; but because men, being naturally inclined to vanity and errors, embrace far more readily what agrees with their natural disposition, and also because, being blinded by a righteous vengeance of God, they are led, as captive slaves, at the will of Satan. The chief reason, why the plague of wicked doctrines is so efficacious, is, that the ingratitude of men deserves that it should be so. It is highly necessary for godly teachers to be reminded of this, that they may be prepared for uninterrupted warfare, and may not be discouraged by delay, or yield to the haughtiness and insolence of adversaries.

May the Lord’s truth and grace be found here.

Soli deo Gloria!

¹² Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, ¹³ while evil people and impostors will go on from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived.”

¹⁴ “Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them.” (Romans 12:14 (ESV)

⁷ “But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us. ⁸ We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; ⁹ persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; ¹⁰ always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our bodies. ¹¹ For we who live are always being given over to death for Jesus’ sake, so that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our mortal flesh. ¹² So death is at work in us, but life in you.” (2 Corinthians 4:7–12 (ESV)

Dr. John MacArthur writes since the beginning of the church, “the persecutions of the church are still going on today, some 2,000 years later. During the first 300 years of the church’s existence, or the first three centuries, really, there were ten persecutions of major proportions brought against the church. Beginning with Stephen and extending nearly to all of the apostles, death became the common way to go, if you were a Christian.”

Whether it was apostles in the first century or pastors in the 21^st century, the church’s leaders acknowledged the reality of persecution facing believers in Christ. One of the most definitive statements concerning the persecution of Christians is found in today’s featured text from 2 Timothy. The more believers in Christ seek to be godly, they more persecution they will encounter. Correspondingly, the sins of the unrighteous will proportionately grow and proceed from bad to worse.

“The reason why persecution awaits all those who are firmly resolved to adorn their confession with a truly Christian life is that in the midst of contradictions coming from every side they refuse either to stop their ears or to cringe and compromise. Instead, they face the foe and challenge him to combat. They go right ahead, boldly defending the faith against every attack, and courageously assaulting the fortress of unbelief. The result is persecution, at times very bitter.”^[1]

The Apostle Paul identified persecutors of the church as evil people (πονηροὶ ἄνθρωποι; poneroi anthropoi). These are they who God identifies as immoral and wicked human beings. They are morally and criminally sick.

Paul also identified others as imposters (γόητες; goetes). This title refers to those who deceived others through pretense. They are hypocrites. In other words, they are individuals who pretend to be Christians but in reality, are nothing of the kind. They are false teachers and false believers.

The false believers and false teachers are not stagnant in their beliefs and behavior. They will go on (προκόψουσιν; prokopsousin). This means in the future they will actively and collectively progress and advance from bad to worse (χεῖρον; cheiron). Their behavior will become even more evil in deceiving (πλανῶντες; planontes) and being deceived (πλανώμενοι; planomenoi). What evil people and imposters actively and collectively do to others in seeking to lead them astray from the truth will be done to them.

“This inescapable character of persecution is a truth which Scripture proclaims everywhere (especially in such passages as Matt. 5:10–12; 10:28; John 15:17–20; 16:1–4, 33; 1 Thess. 3:4). The fact that Timothy knows before-hand that also this is included in God’s decree and takes place within the realm of God’s providence which is ever causing good to come forth out of evil, should be a source of comfort to him and to all true believers. The comfort becomes even greater when verse 12 is read in the light of the immediately preceding verse: even in the midst of bitter persecution the interests of every believer are perfectly secure with him whose name is Rescuer.”^[2]

Paul said to Timothy, 2 Timothy 3:12, “You” – pardon me – “Yea, and all that live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.” Now, that’s a very clear statement. “Yea, and all that live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.” You say, “Well, you know, I go along, and I don’t suffer persecution.” Read the verse again. “All that live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.” If you’re not suffering persecution, why aren’t you? Because you’re not living godly in Christ Jesus, it’s just that simple,” explains Dr. MacArthur.

“If you live the kind of life that God intends you to live in Christ, you will, by the very nature of that life, butt heads with the world. When I say world, I mean the system. If you are not suffering some persecution, you have either fallen right into the flow of the system so that they don’t know the difference, or they haven’t discovered yet who it is that you really are; you have hidden it well. But when you begin to live openly and godly in the world, you’re going to bang heads with Satan, and with his establishment.”

May the Lord’s Truth and grace be found here.

Soli deo Gloria!

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^[1] William Hendriksen and Simon J. Kistemaker, Exposition of the Pastoral Epistles, vol. 4, New Testament Commentary (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1953–2001), 293.

^[2] Ibid., 293.

¹² Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, ¹³ while evil people and impostors will go on from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived.”

One of the basic premises of proper biblical interpretation is Scripture interprets Scripture. Therefore, it is fitting for each believer in Christ to not only understand what the Apostle Paul wrote about suffering as a Christian, but also what other biblical writers said. For instance, the Apostle Peter spoke often about what followers of Christ should expect while living in this fallen and sinful world. The following biblical texts are taken from Peter’s first epistle.

^3 “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, ⁴ to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, ⁵ who by God’s power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. ⁶ In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, ⁷ so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” (1 Peter 1:3–7 (ESV)

^11 “Beloved, I urge you as sojourners and exiles to abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul. ¹² Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation.” (1 Peter 2:11–12 (ESV)

^13 “Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is good? ¹⁴ But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, ¹⁵ but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, ¹⁶ having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame. ¹⁷ For it is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be God’s will, than for doing evil.” (1 Peter 3:13–17 (ESV)

^12 “Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. ¹³ But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. ¹⁴ If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. ¹⁵ But let none of you suffer as a murderer or a thief or an evildoer or as a meddler. ¹⁶ Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name. ¹⁷ For it is time for judgment to begin at the household of God; and if it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God?” (1 Peter 4:12–17 (ESV)

 ^6 “Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, ⁷ casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. ⁸ Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. ⁹ Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. ¹⁰ And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. ¹¹ To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen.” (1 Peter 5:6–11 (ESV)

In each chapter, Peter addressed the subject of the suffering Christian. It is not a question of “if” persecution will come but rather “when” it will come. I encourage you to read and meditate on these five selected sections from I Peter as a preparation for persecution.  

“Persecution runs the gamut from being looked down upon by non-Christian friends or family to death at the hands of an evil government. But whatever form it takes, everyone who stands for Christ is bound to face some problems on account of their faithfulness. Let us not be discouraged by this fact but pray that the Holy Spirit would give us strength to persevere, and let us encourage one another to remain true to our confession even when it is difficult,” explains Dr. R. C. Sproul.

May the Lord’s Truth and grace be found here.

Soli deo Gloria!

¹² Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, ¹³ while evil people and impostors will go on from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived.”

“Frequently it is when we are crushed and devastated that the cross speaks most powerfully to us. The wounds of Christ then become Christ’s credentials. The world mocks, but we are assured of God’s love by Christ’s wounds.” –D. A. Carson in “How Long, O Lord?”

“What the Lord expects from us at such seasons is not to abandon ourselves to unreasoning sorrow, but trustingly to look sorrow in the face, to scan its features, to search for the help and hope, which, as surely as God is our Father, must be there. In such trials there can be no comfort for us so long as we stand outside weeping. If only we will take the courage to fix our gaze deliberately upon the stern countenance of grief, and enter unafraid into the darkest recesses of our trouble, we shall find the terror gone, because the Lord has been there before us, and, coming out again, has left the place transfigured, making of it by the grace of his resurrection a house of life, the very gate of heaven.” — Geerhardus Vos

¹⁰ “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. ¹¹ “Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. ¹² Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” (Matthew 5:10–12 (ESV)

Today’s featured text provides the believer in Christ with a striking cause and effect scenario. In other words, vs. 12 is a conditional statement by the Apostle Paul and from the Holy Spirit (2 Tim. 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:20-21). The causal statement is as follows: “Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus.”

The word indeed (καὶ; kai) functions in the sentence as an emphatic adverb stressing the reality of what Paul is about to write. Along with the adjective all (πάντες; pantes) referring to the whole, these two parts of speech connect vs. 12-13 with the previous context of vs. 10-11. What is the identity of this entire people group?

The identity is those who desire (θέλοντες; thelontes).  This is a present active plural participle verb referring to a want, a wish or a purpose. What is it these people want and desire? It is to live a godly life in Christ Jesus. To live (ζῆν; zen ) means to presently, actively and infinitely conduct oneself or to behave in particular way. The behavior in mind is a godly life (εὐσεβῶς; eusebos). This refers to a devotion and commitment to biblical truth and values. This desire to live a godly life is centered in the person and work of Jesus Christ. It is the life of a converted sinner who is now a believer in Christ.

What impact will such a purpose, driven life have upon the believer and those who they seek to share the Gospel? The impact is they will be persecuted. The phrase will be persecuted (διωχθήσονται; diochthesontai) is a future passive indicative plural verb. It means to be pursued, chased after, and harassed.

“The idea of the godly, pious, or devout life occurs again and again in the Pastorals (see p. 10; then for the noun also on 1 Tim. 2:2; 3:16; 4:7, 8; 6:3, 5, 6, 11; 2 Tim. 3:5; Titus 1:1; for the related verb see 1 Tim. 5:4. Here in 2 Tim. 3:12 and also in Titus 2:12 the adverb is used). But though the words built on this stem occur at times in a very general sense and are applied also to pagan religious life (see M.M., pp. 265, 266), Paul speaks distinctly about those who desire to live devoutly in Christ Jesus. The people whom he has in mind have made it their earnest resolution, with God’s help and by his grace, to live the life of devotion to Christ. They live in close fellowship with him (John 15:4, 5; Gal. 2:20; Phil. 3:10).”^[1]

“Now the apostle makes the definite statement that all those who desire to live devoutly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted. Paul’s own experience (see verse 11 above) is by no means peculiar. Scars are the price which every believer pays for his loyalty to Christ. They are also his credentials before God.”^[2]

“Persecution, whether heavy or light, is inevitable for all Christians; after all, our Messiah was murdered. Knowing this truth ahead of time will prepare us for any suffering we face and help us rely on the grace and power of the Holy Spirit to help us persevere. But if we are ill-prepared and try to endure in our own strength, we will do whatever we can to escape pain. This option is deadly to our souls, for as John Calvin says, “They who wish to be exempt from persecutions must necessarily renounce Christ,” explains Dr. R. C. Sproul.

“Persecution runs the gamut from being looked down upon by non-Christian friends or family to death at the hands of an evil government. But whatever form it takes, everyone who stands for Christ is bound to face some problems on account of their faithfulness. Let us not be discouraged by this fact but pray that the Holy Spirit would give us strength to persevere, and let us encourage one another to remain true to our confession even when it is difficult.”

May the Lord’s truth and grace be found here.

Soli deo Gloria!

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^[1] William Hendriksen and Simon J. Kistemaker, Exposition of the Pastoral Epistles, vol. 4, New Testament Commentary (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1953–2001), 293.

^[2] Ibid., 293.

¹⁰ You, however, have followed my teaching, my conduct, my aim in life, my faith, my patience, my love, my steadfastness, ¹¹ my persecutions and sufferings that happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium, and at Lystra—which persecutions I endured; yet from them all the Lord rescued me.” (2 Timothy 3:10–11 (ESV)

The following is John Calvin’s commentary on 2 Timothy 3:10-11.

But thou hast followed.  In order to urge Timothy, he employs this argument also, that he is not an ignorant and untaught soldier, because Paul carried him through a long course of training. Nor does he speak of doctrine only; for those things which he likewise enumerates add much weight, and he gives to us, in this sentence, a very lively picture of a good teacher, as one who does not, by words only, train and instruct his disciples, but so to speak, opens his very breast to them, that they may know, that whatever he teaches, he teaches sincerely. This is what is implied in the word purpose He likewise adds other proofs of sincere and unfeigned affection, such as faith, mildness, love, patience Such were the early instructions which had been imparted to Timothy in the school of Paul.

Yet he does not merely bring to remembrance what he had learned from him, but bears testimony to his former life, that in this manner he may urge him to perseverance; for he praises him as an imitator of his own virtues; as if he had said, “Thou hast been long accustomed to follow my instructions; I ask nothing more than that thou shouldst go on as thou hast begun.” It is his wish, however; that the example of his “faith, love, and patience” should be constantly before the eyes of Timothy; and for that reason, he dwells chiefly on his persecutions, which were best known to him.

“Having spoken of the troubles which were to befall the Church, and having exhorted Timothy to be firm, so as not to shrink from them, the Apostle adds, that now, for a long time, he must have been prepared for all this, because he had been taught in a good school. ‘Thou hast known intimately,’ like one who had followed him step by step; for such is the import of the word which Paul uses: ‘Thou hast known well the course which I have pursued.’”

But out of them all the Lord delivered me. It is a consolation which mitigates the bitterness of afflictions, that they always have a happy and joyful end. If it be objected, that the success of which he boasts is not always visible, I acknowledge that this is true, so far as relates to the feeling of the flesh; for Paul had not yet been delivered. But when God sometimes delivers us, he testifies, in this manner, that he is present with us, and will always be present; for from the feeling, or actual knowledge, of present aid, our confidence ought to be extended to the future. The meaning, therefore, is as if he had said, “Thou hast known by experience that God hath never forsaken me, so that thou hast no right to hesitate to follow my example.”

May the Lord’s truth and grace be found here.

Soli deo Gloria!

¹⁰ You, however, have followed my teaching, my conduct, my aim in life, my faith, my patience, my love, my steadfastness, ¹¹ my persecutions and sufferings that happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium, and at Lystra—which persecutions I endured; yet from them all the Lord rescued me.” (2 Timothy 3:10–11 (ESV)

What happens to us when leaders fail?  Leaders, be they personal acquaintances or people we know only through their ministries and occupations, are persons of influence. They may have a good influence or a bad influence, but their impact is unquestionable. But what happens to us when our mentor’s fail?

Today’s featured text should not provide us a mistaken perspective of the Apostle Paul. He was not a perfect man prior to his conversion to Christ and it would be wrong of us presume he was errorless following his conversion. He made mistakes, like all of us.

However, it was not the perfection of his life he wanted Timothy to remember, but rather the overall direction of his life. For Paul, what was most important was not only to leave a legacy but also to live a legacy. Remember, Paul was facing certain, and soon, execution. These were perhaps the last words he would communicate to his beloved son in the faith. He wanted Timothy to follow his example.

What examples did Paul have in mind for his young protégé to follow? The apostle listed nine particular areas of his life and ministry. What Paul listed, while not exhaustive, was extensive. It was wide-ranging, all-embracing, and far-reaching.

My teaching (μου διδασκαλία; mou didaskalia). This refers to the Apostle Paul’s instruction. It was when he was imparting knowledge and skill from God’s Word.  

My conduct (τῇ ἀγωγῇ; te agoge) was Paul’s manner and way of life and living. It was how he acted and controlled himself.  

My aim in life (τῇ προθέσει; te prothesei) referring to the apostle’s purpose, plan and personal goal in serving the Lord.

My faith (τῇ πίστει; te pistei) was Paul’s knowledge, agreement, trust, commitment, dependence and worship of the Lord Jesus Christ. His faith involved not only his mind, but also his emotions and will.

My patience (τῇ μακροθυμίᾳ; te makrothymia) refers to longsuffering and endurance of pain or unhappiness.

My love (τῇ ἀγάπῃ; te agape) was Paul’s self-sacrificial love of the will, emotion and knowledge. The apostle understood love, felt love and demonstrated love.  

My steadfastness (τῇ ὑπομονῇ; te hypomone) refers to patient endurance and perseverance. It is the power of God within the believer to withstand hardship or stress. It is God supplied inner fortitude necessary for endurance.  

My persecutions (τοῖς διωγμοῖς; tois diogmois) was the apostle’s acquaintance with people pursuing him to destroy him or to make him renunciate the Gospel.   

My sufferings (tois παθήμασιν; tois pathemasin) means great suffering and stress due to adversity.

Timothy witnessed these particular life experiences while Paul served in Antioch, at Iconium, and at Lystra. Paul particularly had in mind the persecutions he encountered and endured. He concluded with the affirmation, “… yet from them all the Lord rescued me.”

“Persecution is from a Greek verb that lit. means “to put to flight.” Paul had been forced to flee from Damascus (Acts 9:23–25), Pisidian Antioch (Acts 13:50), Iconium (Acts 14:6), Thessalonica (Acts 17:10), and Berea (Acts 17:14). Antioch . . . Iconium . . . Lystra. As a native of Lystra (Acts 16:1), Timothy vividly recalled the persecution Paul faced in those three cities. the Lord rescued me. Cf. 2 Tim. 4:17–18; Ps. 34:4, 6, 19; 37:40; 91:2–6, 14; Isa. 41:10; 43:2; Dan. 3:17; Acts 26:16–17; 2 Cor. 1:10. The Lord’s repeated deliverance of Paul should have encouraged Timothy in the face of persecution by those at Ephesus who opposed the gospel,” states Dr. John MacArthur.

Is this the kind of legacy you are living before your family? What legacy will be utmost on their minds when you die? If Paul’s nine characteristics of legacy living fits you, praise the Lord. It if doesn’t, repent and resolve today to press on to greater godliness.

May the Lord’s truth and grace be found here.

Soli deo Gloria!

¹⁰ You, however, have followed my teaching, my conduct, my aim in life, my faith, my patience, my love, my steadfastness, ¹¹ my persecutions and sufferings that happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium, and at Lystra—which persecutions I endured; yet from them all the Lord rescued me.” (2 Timothy 3:10–11 (ESV)

What happens to us when leaders fail?  Leaders, be they personal acquaintances or people we know only through their ministries and occupations, are persons of influence. They may have a good influence or a bad influence, but their impact is unquestionable. But what happens to us when our mentor’s fail?

Today’s featured text should not provide us a mistaken perspective of the Apostle Paul. He was not a perfect man prior to his conversion to Christ and it would be wrong of us presume he was errorless following his conversion. He made mistakes, like all of us.

However, it was not the perfection of his life he wanted Timothy to remember, but rather the overall direction of his life. For Paul, what was most important was not only to leave a legacy but also to live a legacy. Remember, Paul was facing certain, and soon, execution. These were perhaps the last words he would communicate to his beloved son in the faith. He wanted Timothy to follow his example.

“In this section Paul’s references to Timothy stand in strong contrast to the description of the false teachers in the preceding section. This is brought out by the emphatic pronoun You. Timothy is first given an historical reminder (10–12). He has had the advantage of observing Paul’s teaching and his manner of life. The fact that Paul notes that Timothy knows all about his teaching should caution us against drawing any unwarranted assumptions from the absence of some of Paul’s great themes from the Pastoral Letters, as if this could be an argument against his being the author. It is worth noting moreover that the reference to those spiritual qualities (faith, patience, love, endurance) which Paul had shown are the very qualities that he has already urged on Timothy himself (cf. 1 Tim. 6:11). As to his sufferings, Paul cites the incidents on his first missionary journey, presumably because it was at that time that he first made Timothy’s acquaintance. Timothy would vividly remember what Paul had had to endure and it is not impossible that the experience had been a powerful factor in persuading Timothy to become involved in the work of the gospel. When Paul says Yet the Lord rescued me from them all, Timothy would know from personal observation how true that was.”^[1]

What examples did Paul have in mind for his young protégé to follow? The apostle listed “nine” particular areas of his life and ministry. What Paul listed, while not exhaustive, was extensive. It was wide-ranging, all-embracing, and far-reaching.

What did Paul include in his list for Timothy to use as a standard to follow? Notice each of the items listed is preceded by the pronoun my (μου; mou). These were personal and poignant. They came not only from the Holy Spirit (2 Tim. 3:16-17; 2 Peter1:20-21), but also from the apostle’s heart and soul.

“Does the list of nine particulars show any definite order or grouping? It is impossible to answer this question categorically. Surely, if any sequence is pointed out, it should be a natural one, characteristic (at least to some extent) of Paul. An arbitrary division is of no help whatever. It must be admitted, however, that we today cannot be sure that our attempt to point out why one item in the list follows another corresponds with Paul’s own reasoning. If it be permissible, nevertheless, to make such an attempt—with the definite understanding that it is merely an attempt, which may or may not be entirely successful—I would suggest the following: All the items express or imply obedience to the Lord. The seven items in verse 10 are the manifestations of active obedience (even endurance, that is, “steadfast perseverance,” is active; and so is longsuffering, “the exercise of patience toward others”). The two items in verse 11 are the manifestations of a more passive type of obedience: a person is persecuted; as a result, he suffers.” ^[2]

It is this list of nine which we will give our attention to when next we meet. However, until then consider what list of examples you are currently living you desire to leave as your legacy. Consider what you live is what you leave.

May the Lord’s truth and grace be found here.

Soli deo Gloria!  

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^[1] Donald Guthrie, “2 Timothy,” in New Bible Commentary: 21st Century Edition, ed. D. A. Carson et al., 4th ed. (Leicester, England; Downers Grove, IL: Inter-Varsity Press, 1994), 1309.

^[2] William Hendriksen and Simon J. Kistemaker, Exposition of the Pastoral Epistles, vol. 4, New Testament Commentary (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1953–2001), 290.

¹⁰ You, however, have followed my teaching, my conduct, my aim in life, my faith, my patience, my love, my steadfastness, ¹¹ my persecutions and sufferings that happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium, and at Lystra—which persecutions I endured; yet from them all the Lord rescued me.” (2 Timothy 3:10–11 (ESV)

“One commentator has noted that Paul’s instructions to Timothy in 2 Timothy 1:1–3:9 are largely given by way of a negative example in that the godless character the apostle describes is the antithesis of what Timothy is to be like. This is especially evident in 3:1–9, for Timothy and, indeed, all Christians must not be “heartless, slanderous,” and “lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God.” With 3:10, however, Paul begins to instruct Timothy in a positive manner, that is, through telling him what to do instead of what not to do,” explains Dr. R. C. Sproul.  

Who do you recognize as mentors in your life? Realizing any one individual may have many counselors, guides, tutors, teachers and advisors. Let’s limit the focus to a spiritual and godly mentor. This may have been a pastor, a Bible college professor, or para-church ministry director who impacted your life for good and for God. Many such individuals come to my mind. How about yours?

Here’s another question to consider. Who would you say in your life views you as a mentor? It may be a fellow believer who was/is a member of your church, a former student, or a current colleague in ministry. Don’t minimize the Lord’s impact in their lives through your example of faithfulness and godliness.

Consider one more thought. What if your mentor committed a moral failure?  What if you did?  How would you feel, not only as a follower but also as a leader? The impact others have in our lives, and the impact we have in the lives of others, can be incalculable. It can also be devastating if we are not careful to guard our hearts (Prov. 4:20-27).

For Timothy, his mentor arguably was the Apostle Paul. Today’s featured biblical text portrays the apostle as a mentor to a younger man in ministry. One of the key pieces of evidence which demonstrates this idea in today’s text is the verbal phrase have followed (παρηκολούθησάς; parekolouthesas). It means to wholeheartedly, actively, realistically and faithfully follow or carefully investigate. It refers to a thorough examination of something or someone. Paul acknowledged the impact he had in his young protégé’s life and ministry.

“With the problem of false teachers fully in view, Paul once more turns to exhorting Timothy to faithfulness, first in terms of the example Paul has set (and implicitly that of Timothy’s mother and grandmother), and then in terms of confidence in and obedience to Scripture,” comments Dr. Sproul. “Once again, Paul appeals to his own life, both his faithfulness and his sufferings, as an example for Timothy (1:11-13; 2:8-10).”

“Between the false teachers and Timothy there had been a sharp contrast, so that Paul is able to exclaim, “You (with great emphasis on this pronoun), however, followed my teaching,” etc. The verb followed, in Greek as well as in English, when it is used in a figurative sense, can mean either watched, observed, investigated (cf. Luke 1:3); or took as a model, adhered to, copied. Though the latter meaning will do very well when associated with “my teaching, my conduct, my purpose, my faith,” etc., it will not do nearly as well with “the things which happened to me at Antioch,” etc. Probably what the apostle means is this, “Timothy, in contrast with our opponents, you took a deep, sympathetic interest in my teaching, my conduct,” etc. So interpreted, the verb implies that Timothy had actually taken Paul as his model, and had also listened to him with keen interest when he related his experiences, in some of which (for example, those at Lystra) the younger man had become intimately involved.”^[1]   

“Paul, soon to die, clearly is looking back upon his whole life of service to Christ, especially upon that part of it which began with his first missionary journey and extended to this very day here in the Roman dungeon. With respect to that entire long journey he says, in summary, “You … followed my teaching, conduct,” etc.

In the original each of the particulars with respect to which Timothy has “followed” Paul is definite. Hence, the correct rendering is not “my teaching, conduct, purpose,” etc. (A.V. and A.R.V.), but “my teaching, my conduct, my purpose,” etc., with “my” repeated before each item.”^[2]

It is to this list particular list of Paul’s pastoral mentorship we will examine when next we meet. Again, consider the questions which began today’s devotional. Who do you recognize as mentors in your life? Who would you say in your life views you as a mentor? What if your mentor committed a moral failure?  What if you did?  How would you feel, not only as a follower but also as a leader?

The impact others have in our lives, and the impact we have in the lives of others, can be incalculable. It can also be devastating if we are not careful to guard our hearts. May the Lord’s truth and grace be found here.

Soli deo Gloria!

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^[1] William Hendriksen and Simon J. Kistemaker, Exposition of the Pastoral Epistles, vol. 4, New Testament Commentary (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1953–2001), 289–290.

^[2] Ibid., 290.

⁸ Just as Jannes and Jambres opposed Moses, so these men also oppose the truth, men corrupted in mind and disqualified regarding the faith. ⁹ But they will not get very far, for their folly will be plain to all, as was that of those two men.” (2 Timothy 3:8–9 (ESV)

The following is John Calvin’s commentary on today’s featured text.

And as Jannes and Jambres resisted Moses. This comparison confirms what I have already said about the “last times”, for he means that the same thing happens to us under the gospel, which the Church experienced almost from her very commencement, or at least since the law was published. In like manner the Psalmist also speaks largely about the unceasing battles of the Church.

“Often did they fight against me from my youth, now let Israel say. The wicked ploughed upon my back, they made long their furrows.” (Psalms 129:1)

Paul reminds us, that we need not wonder if adversaries rise up against Christ to oppose his gospel, since Moses likewise had those who contended with him; for these examples drawn from a remote antiquity yield us strong consolation.

It is generally believed; that the two who are mentioned, “Jannes and Jambres,” were magicians put forward by Pharaoh. But from what source Paul learned their names are doubtful, except that it is probable, that many things relating to those histories were handed down, the memory of which God never permitted to perish. It is also possible that in Paul’s time there were commentaries on the prophets that gave more fully those narratives which Moses touches very briefly. However that may be, it is not at random that he calls them by their names. The reason why there were two of them may be conjectured to have been this, that, because the Lord had raised up for his people two leaders, Moses and Aaron, Pharaoh determined to place against them the like number of magicians.

9But they shall not proceed further He encourages Timothy for the contest, by the confident hope of victory; for, although false teachers give him annoyance, he promises that they shall be, within a short time, disgracefully ruined. ⁽¹⁸⁴⁾ Yet the event does not agree with this promise; and the Apostle appears to make a totally different declaration, a little afterwards, when he says that they will grow worse and worse. Nor is there any force in the explanation given by Chrysostom, that they will grow worse every day, but will do no injury to any person; for he expressly adds, “deceived and deceiving;” and, indeed, the truth of this is proved by experience. It is more correct to say, that he looked at them in various aspects; for the affirmation, that they will not make progress, is not universal; but he only means, that the Lord will discover their madness to many whom they had, at first, deceived by their enchantments.

For their folly shall be manifest to all. When he says, to all, it is by a figure of speech, in which the whole is taken for a part. And, indeed, they who are most successful in deceiving do, at first, make great boasting, and obtain loud applause; and, in short, it appears as if nothing were beyond their power. But speedily their tricks vanish into air; for the Lord opens the eyes of many, so that they begin to see what was concealed from them for a time. Yet never is the “folly” of false prophets discovered to such an extent as to be known to all. Besides, no sooner is one error driven away than new errors continually spring up.

Both admonitions are therefore necessary. That godly teachers may not despair, as if it were in vain for them to make war against error, they must be instructed about the prosperous success which the Lord will give to his doctrine. But that they may not think, on the other hand, that they are discharged from future service, after one or two battles, they must be reminded that there will always be new occasion for fighting. But on this second point we shall speak afterwards; at present, let it suffice us, that he holds out to Timothy the sure hope of a successful issue, that he may be time more encouraged to fight, And he confirms this by the example which he had quoted; for, as the truth of God prevailed against the tricks of the magicians, so he promises that the doctrine of the gospel shall be victorious against every kind of errors that may be invented.

“Thus, we see, that the Holy Spirit, by the mouth of Paul, holds out two reasons to fortify us. When we see that Satan opposes, and that the truth of God is not received by all, but that there are bad men who labor to pervert everything, and who slander and falsify the truth, here are consolations provided for us. In the first place, that our Lord treats us in the same manner as he has treated the Church in all ages, that those who lived before us were not better situated in this respect; for God tried them by sending false pastors, or rather by giving free scope to Satan for sending them. Let us know what has happened since the law was published. Here is Moses, who was before the other prophets. Yet already the war was begun, and that evil has never ceased.

If we must now endure the like, let us bear it with patience; for it is not reasonable to expect that our condition shall be better or easier than that of Moses, and of others who followed him. That is one argument. The second is that the result shall be prosperous and successful. Although we dislike fighting, and though it appears as if the truth of God were about to perish utterly, let us wait till God come forth in defense of it, for he will cause wicked men to be completely disgraced. After they have triumphed, God will, undoubtedly, discover their baseness, and we shall see how God takes care to support his cause, though that may not be evident for a time.”

May the Lord’s truth and grace be found here. Remain committed to biblical truth and not the uncertainty of foolishness of false teachers.

Soli deo Gloria!