This final letter of Paul's is deeply moving, with its intimate references to Timothy and also in the picture it gives us of Paul himself, lonely and almost alone in a prison in Rome awaiting execution. Those who should have stood with him deserted him (see 4:16). But it also gives us many tremendous verses, some of which have become well known to all believers. They range from personal assurance to the inspiration of the Scriptures. Once again Paul's prayer life is seen as he tells Timothy how often he prays for him - see verse 3. Even though in prison he maintained a continuous prayer ministry. It reminds us that even if we may be shut in or unable to do very much for Christ, the ministry of prayer is always open to us. Timothy's background is also mentioned. What a heritage a Christian mother and grandmother. But Paul is concerned that Timothy will continue serving Christ to the best of his ability and in the light of his God-given gifts. It is so easy to become discouraged when serving in a church. That almost sounds like a contradiction but is sadly true; the way is often hard and lonely. Our encouragement must be in Christ and not in others. God's gift to every believer is mentioned in verse 7. Without a doubt Paul is referring to the Holy Spirit here. He speaks of a spirit of power that could only be the Holy Spirit who is living in every believer to set us free from fear as well many other ministries. Paul also mentions love and self-discipline. Love is the first mark of the Spirit-filled life, one aspect of the fruit of the Spirit which should be seen in every believer's life. The last result of the Spirit's indwelling mentioned in this verse can be translated by various terms. The Amplified Version gives four of them - a calm and well-balanced mind, discipline and self-control. Perhaps stability could sum it all up. A believer's life needs to be stable, consistent with his profession, reflecting the control of the Spirit over his entire personality. That kind of life would certainly glorify Christ. |
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