Faithful to Proclaim the Word

This morning we continue in our study through the second letter of Paul to Timothy as we consider 2 Timothy 4:1-8. The Apostle Paul gives Timothy the ultimate charge to, "Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching" (2 Timothy 4:2). If we want to be faithful to the end, we must heed Paul's command to be faithful to proclaim the gospel that is rooted and anchored in the Holy Scriptures. Circumstances and the responses of the listeners are not to determine the proclamation of the word. The Word correct us and encourages us when we have doubts, rebukes us when we have rebelled, and comforts us when we can be tormented with fear.

The Apostle Paul followed the example of Jesus Christ. Jesus was faithful to the end. Jesus fought the fight, finished the race, and kept the faith. His life wasn't simply poured out as a drink offering, but his life was the offering. The final sacrifice once and for all. In gratitude and worship for all that Jesus has done for us, we share him with others and seek to be faithful witnesses to the gospel. We seek to do the work of an evangelist as we invite others to follow Jesus.