Topic: Suffering for the Gospel

The focal scripture is 2 Timothy 1:8, “Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord or of me His prisoner, but join with me in suffering for the gospel according to the power of God.” Verses 1 through 10 speaks to steadfastness in the face of struggle, standing strong in the midst of the storm and staying steadfast on the battlefield. It is a passage that encourages us to persevere, to hold fast to the faith and to stand firm on the foundation of our faith.

We are not alone in our struggles. Paul writes to Timothy, reminding him of his sincere faith, which first lived in his grandmother Lois and in his mother Eunice. This is a reminder that we are part of a larger body of believers, a community of faith that stands together in the face of struggle. We draw strength from each other, we encourage each other and we support each other.

As we navigate the waters of life, we are often confronted with storms that threaten to capsize our faith. These storms can take many forms: personal trials, societal pressures or spiritual battles. Yet, the apostle Paul's words to Timothy in this passage offer us hope in the face of adversity.

Paul's unwavering faith, despite being imprisoned and facing death remains unshaken. He speaks of the promise of life in Christ Jesus. This promise is not just a future hope, but a present reality for those who are in Christ. It is this promise that enables Paul to stand strong in the storm.

Despite the hardships, Paul remains committed to the proclamation of the Gospel. He is not ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of his own status as a prisoner. Instead, he sees his suffering as a participation in the suffering of Christ for the sake of the Gospel. This commitment to the Gospel is what enables Paul to stand strong in the storm.

Paul's concern for Timothy is not just for his physical well-being, but for his spiritual well-being as well. This deep love and concern for others is another factor that enables Paul to stand strong in the storm.

Paul's reliance on the power of God acknowledges that it is not by his own strength or abilities that he is able to stand strong in the storm, but by the power of God. He speaks of the power of God that has saved us and called us to a holy life. This power is not a force to be harnessed or controlled, but a gift to be received and relied upon. It is this reliance on the power of God that enables Paul to stand strong in the storm

See you Sunday!

Dr. Scott Kallem