2 Timothy 4:1-8
Q.1. How do we know that Christ will come again? What difference should His return make to our service? – (2 Tim.4:1-5)
Paul instructed Timothy, based on his own motivation from his view of Endtime events – I solemnly charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by His appearing and His kingdom – (2 Tim.4:4:1). All through Paul’s teaching, he maintained this conviction that Christ will come again, to judge the living, and those who have already died. In view of this, Paul urged Timothy to leave no stone unturned to – preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with great patience and instruction (2 Tim.4:2). One thing is certain. In the Last Days there will be much apostasy – for the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance with the own desires and will turn their ears from the truth and will turn aside to myths (2 Tim.4:3-4). Paul urged Timothy (and us) to be – sober in all things, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry (2 Tim.4:5).
Q.2. What made Paul confident at the prospect of Christ’s coming? What attitude should we cultivate toward Christ’s return? – (2 Tim.4:6-8)
Paul had no doubt that he would leave this earthly scene soon (2 Tim.4:6). He could claim – I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith (1 Tim.4:7). He equated Christ’s return with a day of reward – in future there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness which the Lord, the righteous Judge will award to me on that day … and to all who have loved His appearing (2 Tim.4:4:8). A special reward is promised to those who live in the light of Christ’s coming.