OCTOBER 7 READING…2 TIMOTHY 4
Remember who will be your judge…and act accordingly. Paul’s charge to the pastor comes with a warning of reality…all will stand before the Lord and give an account. For the preacher the primary criteria Paul gives for them to be concerned about is first, preach the Word. The pulpit is not a place to be cute, tell stories, pontificate on politics, philosophy, or cultural happenings. It is the place the pastor is to preach the Word! The pastor must always be ready to convince, rebuke, exhort, with all long suffering and teach. The pastor must be aware of the false doctrines and their proponents, who are all around us. Reject fables, reject people’s desire to hear them…and stick to the truth. A pastor must keep his eyes open, walking in biblical discernment…endure hardship…share the Gospel with the lost…and fulfill his calling.
As Paul closes this letter he knows where he is headed. He has done his best, and he has never given up. He knows that the Lord is waiting for him, and will reward him for his faithfulness. Paul desires to see all those with whom he has walked with in the ministry…those who have remained faithful. He closes by acknowledging that the Lord is faithful…He will give Paul strength…and He will deliver Paul according to His good plan.
Please share your thoughts from today’s reading.
MONDAY’S READING…TITUS 1
Comments