Jesus’ gospel carries the potential for embarrassment to the messenger. Have you felt that among your unbelieving friends and family? Paul felt it. We can only assume that Timothy also felt it, which is why Paul speaks these words of encouragement to him in 2 Timothy.
“Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in the suffering for the gospel by the power of God, who saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of his own purpose and grace, which he gave us in Christ Jesus before the ages began.” 2 Timothy 1:8–9
A mistake we often make is trying to make the gospel too palatable or relevant, or you’re sacrificing truth to be winsome or appealing. But evangelizing isn’t glamorous; in fact, there’s intrinsic suffering that goes with our worship of Jesus.
Yet the power of God can help us to not be ashamed. Paul ties suffering to his identity in verse 9 because Jesus suffered. There’s a holy calling we’re called to and it’s going to include problems and persecution, which were planned before the foundation of the world.
“. . . which is why I suffer as I do. But I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed, and I am convinced that he is able to guard until that Day what has been entrusted to me. Follow the pattern of the sound words that you have heard from me, in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.” 2 Timothy 1:12–13
Here, Paul is showing that he was worried Timothy might be ashamed of him. Imagine if your mentor, a man you loved as a father, was locked up in prison for preaching the good news of Jesus with murderers, rapists, and thieves.
Yet Paul doesn’t want Timothy to be ashamed because God’s plan was always to save us in Christ, even before he created us. Paul is convinced God has something good in mind. We shouldn’t have confidence in our ability, but in Jesus. When we find our identity in Christ, two things will be prominent: faith and love.
“You are aware that all who are in Asia turned away from me, among whom are Phygelus and Hermogenes. May the Lord grant mercy to the household of Onesiphorus, for he often refreshed me and was not ashamed of my chains.” 2 Timothy 1:15–16
That’s a pretty big statement that “all who are in Asia turned away from me.” When that’s happened Paul can only remind Timothy that God is in control and he has the Holy Spirit (v. 14).
Three questions to ask yourself
- Are you convinced of the gospel? Paul says he was convinced in God. Be confident in Jesus. He’s able to accomplish his work in you.
- Are you ashamed of the gospel? Or, are you quick to tell others about Jesus, knowing you will probably be rejected? Jesus wants you to be bold.
- Are you refreshed? Who serves and refreshes you? Who stands by you and encourages you? Our church shouldn’t just be a place where you serve, but where people can serve you as well.
Last month, Pastor Dave took us through a look at the first part of 2 Timothy 1, verses 1–7. Stay tuned for more devotions from him on these important letters from the Apostle Paul to Timothy.
