God gave you a spirit not of fear, but of power & love & self-control. So get to work.
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2 Timothy 1 Summary
This is likely the final letter Paul wrote. He's near the end of his life and in prison. Although his love for his beloved child (v2) is evident as Paul recalls Timothy's faith in the opening verses, this letter is much more than a stroll down memory lane.
As is often the case in Paul's letters, chapter one hinges on a key word: Therefore (v8), and in this case it makes a very interesting connection that's especially relevant for people like us.
Timothy (and most of us) have grown up in the faith having it handed down to us from previous generations, therefore we must not lean back and enjoy its benefits, rather we must:
not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord (v8)
share in suffering for the gospel (v8)
Follow the pattern of the sound words that you have heard [read] (v13)
guard the good deposit entrusted to you (v14)
So a successful Christian life is very much dependent upon your effort and attitude!
But never forget the source of the grace which makes it possible for you to make these efforts. It comes by:
the power of God, who saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of his own purpose and grace (v9).
Dig Deeper
Paul gives Pastor Timothy a really interesting command:
Fan into flame the gift of God (v6)
It would seem like a guy like Timothy had already 'arrived.'
If even Pastor Timothy had to put effort into building up the fire of his faith, how much more must you and I do so?
Remember, Paul's teaching here is in tension: we must put effort into fanning the flames of our faith, but we do so with the power, love and self-discipline that the Spirit gives us (v7).
AAA Prayer:
ACKNOWLEDGE WHO GOD IS: Our Triune God: The Father, who gave us grace in Christ Jesus before the ages began (v9), and the Holy Spirit who dwells within us (v14)
ALIGN YOUR LIFE WITH GOD'S WILL: Pray for the strength to follow the pattern of these sound words (v13)
ASK GOD FOR WHAT YOU NEED:
