From 2 Timothy 1

The transition from 1st Timothy to 2nd Timothy represents a second letter from Paul to Timothy.  Presumably, Timothy has served as a pastor for longer and Paul has more wisdom to share with him and with his congregation.  The letter begins, however, with a reminder of the most basic parts of our faith.  Paul reminds Timothy to be proud of the testimony of the Gospel and to stick to the calling he has received (as a Christian).  That Gospel is not because of anything they did, but because of the work of Jesus who “abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the Gospel.”

We need this reminder just as much as Timothy did.  So often we can get caught up in all sort of things – work, family commitments, social happenings, even different church stuff.  It’s good to have a regular reminder of the foundation for our lives. It’s good to be reminded of the work of Jesus for us, what that means for us, and how we’re called to respond. And that need for a reminder is reflected in some of the things we do as a church.  It’s why Christian community is so critical, it’s why we say one of the creeds every week, and it’s why confession and absolution are included in our services so consistently.  The Gospel message is the foundation of everything we are, so it’s good to have so many reminders in our lives.

Focus on God

We are reminded in these verses of the gracious, saving work of Jesus.

Function in Our Lives

We are encouraged to share in suffering for the Gospel by the power of God.

Topics to Pray About                                                               

• Thank God for the work of Jesus and for the holy calling as a Christian you have received.
• Confess to God the times where you don’t put yourself in a position to be reminded about that faith.
• Ask God to bless His church and its mission.

In His Service,

J. LeBorious