Text: 2 Timothy 2:8-13
Exegesis
- Theme: Paul’s reason for enduring suffering for Jesus
- Topic: Why Paul was willing to endure everything for Jesus
- Truth: Paul was sure that Jesus will save all those who hear the good news and believe in Him.
- Thrust: Timothy must always remember the reason why he is in the ministry, the certainty of salvation through the person and work of Jesus Christ.
Exposition
- Theme: Motivation for those in ministry to endure everything for Jesus
- Topic: Why those in ministry must be willing to endure everything for Jesus
- Truth: Jesus Christ will surely save all those who hear the good news and believe in Him.
- Thrust: Those in ministry must always remember the reason why they are serving, the certainty of salvation through the person and work of Jesus Christ.
Exhortation
- Type: Truth-oriented
- Take Home Message: Only those who are sure can endure.
- Trailing question: Why those in ministry must be willing to endure everything to tell people about Jesus no matter what happens to them
- Talk (sermon):
A. Take-off (intro)
Ministry can sometimes be a thankless job. You work hard with minimal pay. No one really thinks about your employment benefits or needs, unless you tell them. But when you do, they accuse you of not being content. Sometimes they accuse you of not being spiritual or having little faith. You’re always running around helping people with their problems, but sometimes no one is willing to help you with yours. You get criticized or blamed for no reason at all. So you try to explain. But in the end they say you are just being defensive. You suffer when people lose their faith or follow after idols, yet they think you are just a meddler, instead of minding your own business. To be honest, ministry can sometimes be very discouraging. So why endure in the ministry?
B. Teaching outline (body):
- Salvation through Jesus will not be hindered by personal circumstances (vv.8-10).
- Salvation through Jesus will not be hindered by personal weaknesses (vv.11-13).
C. Touchdown (conclusion)
Salvation through faith in Jesus is sure. That’s why only those who are sure can actually endure. Regardless of one’s personal circumstances or weaknesses, salvation through faith in Jesus is a guarantee. When you believe this with all your heart, you can face whatever trials or sufferings that may come your way because of your calling to serve Christ. Those who hear and believe the good news about Jesus will surely be saved. If and when you are sure about this, nothing else matters. Remember, only those who are sure can endure.