2 Timothy 2:1-10

Context: Timothy has become timid in his ministry as the interim pastor. (2Ti 1:4 – crying; 1:7 – fearful; 1:8 – ashamed of the Gospel).

So, what are Paul’s words in 2 Timothy 2:1-10 meant to communicate to Timothy?

1. How to stop being a crybaby, sissy, simpleton, sell-out and become a conqueror for Christ. 

1.1. Stop caring about what others think and simply be good with Jesus being good with you. (v. 1; 1Co 4:3a)

Signs that you still care too much about what others think:

1.1.1. A good or bad day is determined by what others say about you or who likes you.

1.1.2. You can keep your sins a secret.

1.1.3. You don’t open your life up to the body.

1.1.4. You won’t admit when you’re wrong.

1.1.5. You won’t ask for help or ask questions.

1.2. Hang out with faithful people who want to spend their time talking about God’s Word and learning from each other. (v. 2; Eph 5:15-17; Col 3:16-17)

Signs you are failing in this area:

1.2.1. Your attendance at church sucks. 

1.2.2. You don’t spend weekends with your spiritual family.

1.3. Accept your call/identity as a special-ops soldier for Christ and His Kingdom. (v. 3)

The special operators are those whose missions often takes place in the civilian world, the Christian special operator’s mission? Advance God’s Kingdom.

Good soldiers/special operators:

1.3.1. Follow their leaders. (1 Tim 5:19; Gal 4:16)

1.3.2. Give themselves to training. (1Co 9:24-27; Eph 6:17)

1.3.3. Are okay with the pain that comes from war.

Signs you’re failing to accept this call:

1.3.4. Your Gospel and your life makes no disciples and/or no enemies. (Luk 6:26)

1.3.5. You question your leaders.

1.3.6. Your version of training or being a solider amounts to playing video games versus Bible study and self-control exercises.