In these last days, according to the teachings of the apostle Paul, God expects Christians to live in a manner that reflects His character and purpose. Let’s explore what Paul wrote to Timothy in 2 Timothy 3 about the conditions and expectations for believers:
1. Times of Trouble:
o Paul warns that in the last days, there will be times of much trouble. These challenging times will test the faith and commitment of believers.
2. Character of People:
o People will exhibit negative traits:
Self-Love and Love of Money: Self-centeredness and materialism will prevail.
Pride and Boasting: People will boast about their achievements.
Disobedience to Parents: Children and young people will rebel against authority.
Unthankfulness and Unholiness: A lack of gratitude and disregard for holiness.
Lack of Love and Truthfulness: People will not love each other, and lies will abound.
Wild Behaviour and Cruelty: A spirit of violence and cruelty will prevail.
Betrayal and Self-Centeredness: People will not stay true to their friends.
Love of Pleasure over Love of God: A preference for pleasure over devotion to God.
3. Exhortation to Timothy:
o Paul encourages Timothy to:
Hold Fast to the Truth: Remain grounded in the teachings he has received.
Remember God’s Word: The Holy Scriptures provide wisdom and salvation.
Be Equipped for Every Good Work: God’s Word prepares believers for service.
4. Perseverance and Suffering:
o Paul acknowledges that those who desire to live a godly life will face persecution and suffering.
o False teachers will increase, leading others astray.
5. Paul’s Example:
o Paul reminds Timothy of his own faith, love, endurance, and perseverance.
o Despite trials, God delivered Paul from troubles.
o Paul emphasizes the authority and sufficiency of Scripture.
o God’s Word equips believers for every good work and provides guidance.
As Christians in these last days, we are called to remain faithful, discerning, and committed to God’s truth. We must stand firm, love one another, and hold fast to the teachings of Christ.
As followers of Christ, we are called to be spiritual soldiers in His kingdom. Let’s explore what it means to be a soldier of Christ and the biblical principles that guide us:
1. Soldiers for Christ:
o The apostle Paul often used military imagery to describe the Christian life. Just as soldiers are trained, equipped, and committed to their cause, we too are enlisted in God’s army.
2. Spiritual Warfare:
o Our battle is not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces of darkness (Ephesians 6:12).
o As soldiers, we engage in spiritual warfare through prayer, obedience, and standing firm in our faith.
3. Characteristics of a Spiritual Soldier:
o Obedience: A soldier follows orders without hesitation. We obey God’s Word and submit to His authority.
o Courage: Soldiers face danger with bravery. We stand firm in our faith, even when it’s difficult.
o Discipline: Soldiers maintain self-control and focus. We discipline ourselves through prayer, study, and righteous living.
o Endurance: Soldiers endure hardship. We persevere in faith, trusting God’s promises.
o Unity: Soldiers work together as a team. We support and encourage fellow believers.
4. Scriptures on Being a Soldier of Christ:
o 2 Timothy 2:3-4 (NLT):
“Endure suffering along with me, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. Soldiers don’t get tied up in the affairs of civilian life, for then they cannot please the officer who enlisted them.”
o Ephesians 6:13 (ESV):
“Therefore, take up the full armour of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm.”
5. Our Commander-in-Chief:
o Jesus is our Commander-in-Chief. He leads us into battle, equips us, and ensures our victory.
o We fight not for personal gain but for His glory and the salvation of souls.
6. Daily Training and Readiness:
o As soldiers, we train daily through prayer, Bible study, and fellowship.
o We stay alert, recognizing the enemy’s tactics and guarding our hearts.
7. The Ultimate Victory:
o Our battle is not in vain. Christ has already won the ultimate victory through His death and resurrection.
o As soldiers, we fight from a position of victory, knowing that the enemy is defeated.
May we embrace our role as spiritual soldiers, standing firm in faith, advancing God’s kingdom, and bringing glory to our Commander, Jesus Christ.
The Message Bearer, Cornelius Bella
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