The Charge to a Soldier of God: Part 6

As we continue through the book of 2 Timothy we noticed a transition from characteristics of that soldier of God towards the trials and cautions for a soldier of God. In our first three studies we noticed these characteristics (Strong, Singled-Minded, Strict, Secure, and Sound of Faith). In our last two weeks we learned one of the cautions of a Soldier of God is the "false believer" we also learned how God protects us from this. To learn more about these click here. This week we will look to what God expects from us, "The Charge to a Soldier of God."

Let's begin by looking at 2 Timothy 4:1-5

1 I solemnly charge you before God and Christ Jesus, who is going to judge the living and the dead, and because of His appearing and His kingdom: 2 Proclaim the message; persist in it whether convenient or not; rebuke, correct, and encourage with great patience and teaching. 3 For the time will come when they will not tolerate sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, will multiply teachers for themselves because they have an itch to hear something new. 4 They will turn away from hearing the truth and will turn aside to myths. 5 But as for you, be serious about everything, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry. - 2 Timothy 4:1-5

In this text I see four major things Paul charges Timothy and us today:

I. Proclaim the Message

Paul says we should always share the good news of Christ by sharing the gospel whether easy and convenient or not. Paul understands that standing up for God isn't always easy, but knows that it's our duty and responsibility. 

II. Rebuke

This means to criticize wrong actions of your own and of others. Not meaning to point out flaws in an arrogant judgmental way, but with love and tenderness. 

III. Correct

After rebuking, we must show them the correct manner to go about it. We must look past our lists of rights and wrongs when rebuking and correcting, and strictly work using the Word.

IV. Encourage

We must do all these (especially the last two) with total love and care. Be tender to other's feelings and work to always encourage and build them up in Christ rather than discourage and tare them down.  To do so we must exercise great patience and have a positive attitude that instructs and teaches.

Verse 5 tells us we must do the work of an evangelist. Many would say that means to save people, but they're wrong. We can't save anyone. Instead we must share Christ with them, witness, share your testimony, and lead them to an understanding knowledge of Salvation through Christ. 

We have just one more lesson to go in order to finish up our series on 2 Timothy. If you haven't already I encourage you to go back and glance at the past weeks to prepare yourself for our final devotion.

Grounded in Christ,

Bro. Austin