Text: 2 Timothy 3:10-11
In our text, Paul wrote to Timothy about how the young evangelist had followed the apostle’s example in various ways. Examples are important. Paul knew that he needed to set an example to others (cf. 1 Corinthians 11:1). What about us? Are we setting the example that we need to set before others? Timothy was to follow Paul’s example, yet he was also to be an example to others (cf. 1 Timothy 4:12). The same is true for us. We need to set the same example for others that Paul set for Timothy (and for us).
Paul’s Teaching (1 Corinthians 4:16-17)
- He had a consistent message – taught the same thing in every church; Timothy would teach the same
- Our message should not change based upon what people want to hear (cf. 2 Timothy 4:2-5)
Paul’s Conduct (2 Corinthians 1:12)
- He lived a holy and godly life – maintained a good conscience; not according to worldly wisdom
- Our conduct should be in harmony with the word of God, not with the world (cf. Romans 12:2)
Paul’s Purpose (Colossians 1:28-29)
- His purpose was to lead people to Christ – this was why he did what he did, despite the difficulties
- Our purpose is to fear God and keep His commandments (cf. Ecclesiastes 12:13) – this includes what Paul said here
Paul’s Faith (2 Timothy 1:12)
- He was convinced that the Lord would protect him and reward him in the end, despite his sufferings
- Our faith should allow us to look past any present difficulties to the reward (cf. 2 Corinthians 5:7; 4:17-18)
Paul’s Patience (1 Corinthians 9:11-12, 3-6)
- He was not treated fairly by the Corinthians – yet he patiently endured so as to not hinder the gospel
- Our patience is needed in order to maintain our unity with one another (cf. Ephesians 4:2-3)
Paul’s Love (1 Thessalonians 2:7-8)
- He was willing to give his life for these brethren – this is love; putting others ahead of oneself
- Related to the previous point, our love should lead us to regard others as more important (cf. Philippians 2:2-4)
Paul’s Perseverance (Philippians 3:12-14)
- He knew he had not yet reached the reward – so he continued to press on to the goal
- No matter where we are now or how far we have come, we must continue to be faithful (cf. Revelation 2:10)
Paul’s Persecutions (Acts 21:11-13)
- He was warned about persecution in Jerusalem – yet he was willing to face even death if necessary
- We should not be surprised when we face persecution, but instead glorify God in it (cf. 1 Peter 4:12-16)
Paul’s Sufferings (2 Corinthians 11:23-29)
- He endured more for the gospel than we can imagine – persecution, hardship, discomfort, stress, etc.
- The hardships we face are not pleasant, but they will be for our good if we endure (cf. James 1:2-4)
Conclusion
- Just as Timothy was to follow Paul, we are to as well
- Every area of our lives needs to be under the will of Christ – this is what that looks like
