Our scripture this morning is 2 Timothy 2:8-14.
“Always remember that Jesus Christ, a descendant of King David, was raised from the dead. This is the Good News I preach. And because I preach this Good News, I am suffering and have been chained like a criminal. But the word of God cannot be chained. So I am willing to endure anything if it will bring salvation and eternal glory in Christ Jesus to those God has chosen. This is a trustworthy saying: If we die with him, we will also live with him. If we endure hardship, we will reign with him. If we deny him, he will deny us. If we are unfaithful, he remains faithful, for he cannot deny who he is. Remind everyone about these things, and command them in God’s presence to stop fighting over words. Such arguments are useless, and they can ruin those who hear them.”
Paul reminds us that Christ came as a sacrifice for us, and that God raised Him from the dead to break the power of sin forever. Jesus has opened the way for us, but it is up to each of us to choose to follow in faith. Paul writes that he is “willing to endure anything if it will bring salvation and eternal glory in Christ Jesus to those God has chosen” (v. 10). We too must be willing to do what is necessary to spread the Good News around the world.
Jesus told us that we could face opposition from the world. He said “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account” (Matthew 5:11-12). We must be ready to endure as Jesus taught, as Paul writes about in this passage.
We are told “If we endure hardship, we will reign with him. If we deny him, he will deny us. If we are unfaithful, he remains faithful, for he cannot deny who he is” (v. 12-13). Paul knew this and lived this, sharing his experience with everyone through his preaching and writing. We are called to share our faith and the joy we have found in our connection to Christ no matter what we face.
Loving Lord, we are grateful for the gift of our savior and the path to salvation He has shown us. Bless us to go to all Your children with the Good News of His coming. Amen.