Day 72 - 2 Timothy 1-4, Titus 1-3 & Philemon 1

Paul's second letter to Timothy was his last (a good reminder that as we read the Bible, the books are not necessarily in chronological order). He writes this letter while in house-arrest in Rome. The last words of someone seem to be a bit more significant, and this book is no exception.

Paul continues to give instruction and encouragement to his fellow-laborer, Timothy. He also continues to warn him. He reminds Timothy of his godly heritage (1:5) and his gifting from God (1:6-7). He calls him to bold ministry for Christ even in the face of suffering (1:8-14). He reminds Timothy of the principle of multiplication in ministry (2:2). He calls him to be a single-hearted soldier, up-standing athlete and hard-working farmer for the kingdom of God (2:3-6). He reminds Timothy that usefulness in the work of God is dependent upon personal holiness (2:14-26). He warns of the coming apostasy and growing wickedness (3:1-9). He points Timothy to the source of confidence and success in the ministry--the Word of God (3:10-17). And finally, Paul closes the letter with a call to faithful ministry that follows his own pattern of faithfulness to the cause of Jesus Christ. O, that one day I would be able to say along with Paul, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith" (4:7)!

Titus is parallel in many ways to the letters to Timothy, yet there remain some significant differences that warrants the inclusion of this as well in the canon of the Scriptures. After recounting the qualifications for church leadership, Paul adds a section of warning concerning false teachers. As he closes this warning he makes a chilling statement: "They profess to know God, but they deny him by their works" (1:16). How important it truly is that we not merely "say" that we know God, but that our lives bear fruit that demonstrates that we not only know God but also that He knows us!

The short letter of Philemon is truly a thing of beauty! This slave, Onesimus, had run away from his master, Philemon, and had ended up in jail with Paul (vs10). While in Paul's company, Onesimus comes to faith in Jesus Christ. What a testimony, that even while in prison, Paul continues to share Jesus with people. Now, Paul is sending Onesimus back to Philemon. As he does, Paul appeals to Philemon to receive this slave as a brother in Christ (vs16). This is what our union with Christ does--it levels the playing field. We are all brothers and sisters in Christ, not masters and slaves of one another. Paul is confident that Philemon will do this (vs21). Yet, Paul realizes that Onesimus has wronged Philemon and so he is willing to assume any debt that Onesimus had accrued (vs18). What a wonderful picture of self-sacrificial love for the benefit of a fellow-believer!