The Superior Word Daily Devotional on 2 Timothy

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Timothy 3:7, 18 April 2018

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18, 2018


Wednesday, 18 April 2018


...always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. 2 Timothy 3:7


The Greek shows that this is still speaking of the “gullible women” of the previous verse. They are “always learning,” because they are looking to hear of a remedy for the sin in their lives. They listen intently to the false teachers, seeking to hear something that will exonerate their immoral lives while still allowing them to live out lives of immorality. They heap up words that will tickle their ears concerning their lives, but they are “never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.”


One cannot discover truth when pursuing lies from liars. One could ask, “Why would anyone go to a Universalist Church?” They teach that everyone goes to heaven. If this is so, then why even bother with church at all? One can do whatever they wish, pursue any desire of the heart, and continue down any perverse path they want, and yet they will be in heaven. Spending time in church then would be as pointless as a bald man buying a comb.


However, people continue to go because there is the perverse desire to be told, again and again, that things that will continue to be OK, even when a life of sin is pursued. These people will never come to the knowledge of the truth, but they continue learning. However, what they are learning is a lie. The sheer folly of such an existence is incredible, but it is the path of countless souls who simply need to fill their wayward lives with something to quell the conflict which rages deep inside.


Life application: Truth can only come from what reveals truth. And truth is what corresponds to reality. If a liar speaks, what he says is not truth. One must evaluate what is heard, and then determine if what is said corresponds to what actually is. To feed on lies because they are lies is not mentally sound, but it is the only option for someone who is sin-filled, and who desires to remain living sinfully. In order to be free of sin, one must come to Christ; die with Him, and then be given the new birth apart from sin. No other avenue will suffice.


Lord God, Your word asks us to die to sin so that we can live in righteousness. How can we do this while still living? Thank You that You have done it for us through the work of Christ. By receiving Him, we die to the law which He fulfilled. Without law, sin is not imputed, and we are free from condemnation. What a truly marvelous thing You have done for us. Thank God for the full, final, and forever work of Jesus Christ our Lord. Reconciled! Praise God, we are accepted once again. Hallelujah and Amen!

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Timothy 3:8, 19 April 2018


WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·THURSDAY, APRIL 19, 2018


Thursday, 19 April 2018


Now as Jannes and Jambres resisted Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, disapproved concerning the faith; 2 Timothy 3:8


Jannes and Jambres are the names of two of the “wise men and sorcerers” mentioned in Exodus 7:11 & 22. Though their names are not recorded in Scripture before this, the oral traditions of Israel kept them alive. They are also recorded in the Targum of Jonathan for Exodus 7:11 & 22. Paul now equates these two men of Pharaoh’s court, who stood against Moses as he cried out for Israel’s release from bondage, to those he has been describing in verses 1-7. And this is exactly what these false teachers Paul warns against are working towards – bondage for those they cunningly connive to captivate with their falsities.


Jannes and Jambres resisted Moses, and these people resist the words of the prophets and apostles which point to the finished work of Jesus Christ. As Paul says, “so do these men resist the truth.” Christ’s work is complete, and the Law of Moses is fulfilled and annulled in Him. But false teachers claim that we must continue to observe some or all of that now obsolete law. Christ calls us to holiness, but false teachers claim we can live lives of immorality and licentiousness. The Bible is written, and Scripture is complete. But false teachers continue to claim special revelation from God. On and on it goes. Where there is a stand against what is taught in Scripture, there the same spirit found in Jannes and Jambres continues to resist the truth.


Paul then speaks about their character, first calling them “men of corrupt minds.” The meaning of this is that these people have hearts which are wicked and they focus on evil, teach what is evil, and spread any falsehood which suits their depravity. They are men who are destitute of the truth. The meaning here is that they once knew the truth, but they put it away from themselves. Thus, they have nothing but that which is false to pass on to their hearers. This type of person doesn’t look to Christ for godliness at all. They look to bring others into subjection in order to wield authority over them. They are, as Paul says, “disapproved concerning the faith.”


The Greek word here signifies, “failing to pass the test; unapproved; counterfeit.” Their doctrine is worthless, and thus they are reprobate. This, however, does not mean that they were not ever believers. Nor does it mean that they have lost their salvation if they were saved. What it means is that they have departed from the faith, and they now teach that which is completely false. There will be no reward, but only loss, for their teachings.


Salvation is by grace through faith. It is a one-time occurrence which is eternal in its scope. Doctrine, however, is something to be developed after salvation. When one fails to learn proper doctrine, he will inevitably have bad doctrine. For those who wish to lead, but who are not sound in their doctrine, they will most likely end up like those Paul now describes.


Life application: The only knowledge Jannes and Jambres had of the Lord is what they heard from Moses, or what they learned as they saw the works of the Lord. At first, they stood opposed to the Lord. Eventually, Pharaoh’s magicians claimed that what Moses did was actually the finger of God (Exodus 8:19). It may be that this included Jannes and Jambres. If so, they realized that the Lord is God. However, whether they stayed in Egypt and continued down a wrong path, or whether they joined the Israelites in the Exodus, we cannot know. Having a knowledge of the Lord does not mean one has proper doctrine concerning the Lord. One must first grow in doctrine before becoming a teacher. If not, disaster will certainly be the end result.


Lord God, how can we know if the pastor at our church has proper doctrine or not? Maybe he is spot on, or maybe he is just blowing smoke. Unless we are willing to study the word ourselves, read up on sound doctrine, and then listen carefully to his words, we obviously have no idea at all. Whose fault is that then? With our souls destined to stand before You for judgment some day, shouldn’t we care a bit more about such things? Help us in this. Give us wisdom to apply our time to careful study of Your word. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Timothy 3:9, 20 April 2018


WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·FRIDAY, APRIL 20, 2018


Friday, 20 April 2018


...but they will progress no further, for their folly will be manifest to all, as theirs also was. 2 Timothy 3:9


Paul, referring to those “men of corrupt minds” who are “disapproved concerning the faith,” of the previous verse now says, “but they will progress no further.” He uses the same word as was used in 2 Timothy 2:16. There he said, “But shun profane and idle babblings, for they will increase to more ungodliness.” Whereas they were destined to increase in that verse, Paul shows that their increase will grow to a certain point and then “progress no further.”


And this has been true throughout the church age. False teachers creep in and tear some away. Nutty sects arise and flourish to a point as well. But these never wholly consume the church. The truth of the gospel continues to spread, and false teachers and sects are identified and tagged as such. From there, those groups become isolated and proceed forward apart from the true body. The reason for this is because “their folly will be manifest to all.”


Eventually, the cunning craftiness of their false teaching is exposed. This happened at the reformation. Men of God began speaking out, translating Scripture into modern tongues, studying biblical doctrine while standing away from church tradition, and the error of what had arisen in Roman Catholicism was revealed. The same careful identification of the false teachings of the Mormons, Jehovah’s Witnesses, Hebrew Roots, and many other sects has been, and continues to be, revealed. Their error is made manifest to all. For those who care, they will reject such teachings. For those who are unwilling to test the doctrine, they will continue to follow these false teachers and teachings.


Paul finishes up with a reference to Jannes and Jambres who resisted Moses. The false teachers’ folly will be manifest just “as theirs also was.” The Lord revealed His power, and confirmed His word through Moses. He continues to do this through His word today. That which is given through the apostles and prophets is a sure and powerful word. Though many have come along attempting to obscure or destroy its truth, they are exposed in due time. As this occurs, the church continues on with sound doctrine being revealed through faithful teachers and preachers of the word.


Life application: With social media, false teachers of the word have multiplied in abundance, and their teachings have risen to new levels of followers. One of the largest groups to benefit in this way in recent years is the Hebrew Roots Movement. This teaching, however, is contrary to the message of Christ. He has fulfilled the law, and the law is annulled in His death. Despite this truth, they teach adherence to the Law of Moses, in part or in whole. Though it may seem that this false teaching will prevail, it won’t. It will go so far, and it will find its peak. The Lord’s word exposes the folly of the teaching, and many who are willing to study it will walk away from this unsound doctrine.


Heavenly Father, there has been a continual need for reformation in Your church. As churches stray from Your word, a new generation steps out and shows where the error lies. This is because Your word has power, and Your word contains truth. When rightly divided and properly taught, that power is revealed, and its truth is seen. How blessed we are to have such a sure and wonderful gift from You to keep us on the straight path. Thank You for Your precious word, O God. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Timothy 3:10, 21 April 2018

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SATURDAY, APRIL 21, 2018


Saturday, 21 April 2018


But you have carefully followed my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, love, perseverance, 2 Timothy 3:10

Paul now contrasts Timothy with those who are “always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.” He says of him, “But you have carefully followed my doctrine.” It is important to know the true intent of this word is “followed.” The older KJV says, “But you have fully known my doctrine.” That fails to convey the meaning of Paul’s words. One can know to do right and yet not do it. The word “doctrine” here, means literally “teaching,” but either conveys the idea sufficiently. Paul is complementing Timothy on not only knowing his doctrine, but having followed it.


Timothy had traveled with Paul, he had seen him teach, preach, and evangelize. He had read his letters, and he had talked with him about things that were on his mind. After this, he took that great store of information, and he followed it; applying it to his own life, doctrine, and practice. How unlike so many who go to a sound seminary, are trained in proper theology, and then lead a church down a winding path of confusion and discord! Timothy was doing well in following Paul’s doctrine. But he also followed his “manner of life.”


It is a single Greek word, agógé, used only here in Scripture. It signifies leading or guiding, and thus a mode of life. Timothy was led by Paul, and he continued to follow that leading. This idea is conveyed, exactingly, concerning Timothy to those at Corinth –

“For this reason I have sent Timothy to you, who is my beloved and faithful son in the Lord, who will remind you of my ways in Christ, as I teach everywhere in every church.” 1 Corinthians 4:17


Along with this, he followed Paul’s “purpose.” The word is used to describe the show-bread (the consecrated bread) of the tabernacle. Thus it signifies “purposely set forth.” Paul’s life was set forth for a specific purpose by Christ. Timothy was following that purpose as well.


Next he is noted as having followed Paul’s “faith.” This may be speaking of simple trust in the Lord, as is outlined in Romans 10:9, 10. However, it may more be describing his faithfulness. In other words, it is a purposeful following of proper doctrines found in sound theology. Timothy knew them, and he applied them faithfully to his life.


Further, Paul notes that Timothy was faithful in following his “longsuffering.” If anyone could be considered longsuffering, it would be Paul. Several times in his letters, Paul speaks of the trials he faced. But despite them, he pressed onward. He didn’t just quit and sit around waiting for the rapture. He continued to place himself in a position of difficulty in order to get the gospel message out. To see one of Paul’s descriptions of his trials today, read 2 Corinthians 11:16-33.


After that, Paul notes that Timothy followed him in “love.” Paul describes love in 1 Corinthians 13. He wouldn’t send on such a marvelous description without taking the time to apply it to his own life. Timothy read the letter, saw the man applying it to self, and followed along on that same treasured path of love. Paul commends him for it now.


Finally, the verse notes Timothy’s perseverance. Merriam Webster defines perseverance as, “continued effort to do or achieve something despite difficulties, failures, or opposition.” Paul was longsuffering through his trials, and he persevered despite them. In other words, he didn’t just accept the trials as the necessary end to his work. He saw them as a part of his work. And so he persevered through them. Timothy saw this most marvelous trait in Paul, and he followed it closely, even right at his heels. Where Paul stepped, he stepped as well, pushing ahead despite everything that attempted to hider his forward motion.


Life application: Don’t get stuck in a single, fallible, translation of Scripture. Timothy didn’t just “fully know” Paul’s doctrine, manner of life, etc. He applied it to his own life, following it into the same hazardous conditions that he had already seen his beloved mentor face. “To know” does not necessarily mean “to do.” Be complete in your knowledge, and then get up, get out, and perform!

Lord God, thank You for the amazing abundance of Bible availability we have in today’s world. Where people just a few generations ago may have had one Bible in their house, we have multiple translations at our fingertips – including the original languages. We also have digital copies, audio Bibles, commentaries, study tools, and on and on and on and on! We are the blessed generation who can feed on Your word until sated, and then we can overindulge a bit more. But do we? Help us to do so! Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Timothy 3:11, 22 April 2018

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SUNDAY, APRIL 22, 2018


Sunday, 22 April 2018


...persecutions, afflictions, which happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra—what persecutions I endured. And out of them all the Lord delivered me. 2 Timothy 3:11


In this verse, Paul continues with his list of things which Timothy “carefully followed.” He had followed Paul in his doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, love, and perseverance. Paul now says that he also followed him in “persecutions.” The word signifies “pursuit,” and thus to hunt, or bring someone down like an animal. In this, persecutors try to suppress the convictions of another. This is seen happening to Paul throughout Acts. He would speak, and others would try to shut him down. Timothy, traveling with Paul, experienced this personally.


Next are noted his “afflictions, which happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra—what persecutions I endured.” As we can see, the words “persecutions” and “afflictions” are different things, but they occurred together at the places mentioned. The word “afflictions” is an internal one. The persecutions led to the afflictions. The Greek word specifically refers to “the capacity and privilege of experiencing strong feeling” (HELPS Word Studies). This includes suffering, agony, etc. Paul, accompanied by Timothy who also suffered in these afflictions, did so when persecutions came to him “at Antioch, at Iconium, [and] at Lystra.”

Timothy is first noted in Acts 16:1, and some of these things occurred prior to this. This means that either Timothy saw these things because they occurred in the area in which he lived, or he heard about them, and yet he was still willing to endure with Paul despite them. Either way, Paul’s words mean that Timothy either actively or passively endured these things with him. He then stresses the thought again with, “what persecutions I endured.”


Paul was one who bravely spoke out the truth of Christ, and thus he became a target of those who rejected this same truth. They persecuted him, they chased him, and they harmed him physically and mentally. Timothy saw this, and he also participated in these things to some extent. But Timothy also saw something else. It would seem that Paul would be overcome and completely silenced, or even destroyed. But instead, Paul joyfully proclaims, “And out of them all the Lord delivered me.”


During each trial, the situation seemed helpless. During Paul’s travels, there were riots, there were beatings, he was stoned, he was imprisoned, and etc. Each time, it seemed like he was a goner. And yet, each time, the Lord delivered him. It is obvious that the Lord would continue to use him until he had run the race set before him, and nothing would thwart that. His confidence in this is noted to encourage Timothy as well. The trials would come, but when they did, Timothy was to stand on the fact that if the Lord wanted him to endure, he would do so. Until his mission was likewise complete, he would continue on.


Life application: Would you deny that the Lord has a set time for your death (or rapture)? Obviously not! To deny that would mean that He is not omniscient. And so, whatever trial you are facing will either be one which you will endure through, or it will be one which will be the end of your trials. As it is completely in the Lord’s hands, then why worry at all? He will either be the one to ensure you get through it, or He will be the one to bring you home to His glory. Rest easy… He is there directing the events of your life.

Lord God, it is You who directs the events of our lives. You have a set time in which You will call each of us home. And so why should we get stressed and distressed when we face trials? You already have determined to get us through them, or to use them to bring us to Your arms of rest and safety. Either way, You are sovereign over the moments of our lives. Help us to accept this, and to rest comfortably in this knowledge. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Timothy 3:12, 23 April 2018

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·MONDAY, APRIL 23, 2018


Monday, 23 April 2018


Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution. 2 Timothy 3:12


Paul has been speaking of his own sufferings and persecutions. He has noted that Timothy shared in them with him, and that he understood all that he was relaying intimately. But now, knowing that his letter will be read and dispersed to the church, he ensures that all who read it will understand that the sufferings are not unique to him. Instead, they are to be the standard for all of God’s faithful. And so he says, “Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus.”


Notice that that he does not say, “all saved by Christ Jesus.” There are saved, and then there are saved who desire to live holy, godly lives. Paul doesn’t question salvation, but he directs sanctification. Further, he makes godliness exclusive by saying, “live godly in Christ Jesus.” As is noted by the famous German scholar –

“There is no godliness out of Christ Jesus.” Johann Bengel


Godliness is exclusive to life in Christ. People can act out a form of godliness in any religion, even Christianity, but they may deny either the Source of the godliness, or its power. This is noted by Paul in verse 3:5. Without Christ, true godliness cannot be attained. Paul then says that for the category of believers who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus, that “they will suffer persecution.”

Godliness is, by its very nature, at enmity with the things of the world. When people see someone pursuing righteousness in Christ Jesus, they perceive their own ungodliness, and they take offense at it. This has always been the case, and it is increasing almost geometrically in today’s world. This is so much so that pastors of churches are taking down crosses, amending their message to be more “seeker friendly” (which simply means that they don’t want to offend), changing the nature of the worship services, etc. These men may be saved, but they do not desire to live godly in Christ Jesus, and they do not desire that their own congregants strive for godliness or holiness as well.


But for those who do, suffering persecution is to be expected. It can even be expected from these anemic, weak, insipid, and ineffective pastors and congregants. Promote holiness on social media, and quite often, it is another Christian who will bring on the attack. Such is the nature of encouraging godliness in Christ Jesus.


Life application: Are you experiencing persecution for your stand on righteousness? Good job! Keep it up.


Lord God, Your word says that those who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution. This is for sure. It is even true as fellow Christians strive against those who desire to preach holiness, ensure holiness is maintained, and to speak against ungodliness. Your word states what we are to strive for, and so give us strength to not be weak in the face of those who are seeking political correctness, Christianity-lite, or easy theology which avoids possible confrontation concerning Your glory. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Timothy 3:13, 24 April 2018

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·TUESDAY, APRIL 24, 2018


Tuesday, 24 April 2018


But evil men and impostors will grow worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived. 2 Timothy 3:13

Paul now contrasts “all who desire to live godly” from the previous verse to those he will now describe. He says, “But evil men.” They are just the opposite of those desiring to live godly. The word is ponéros, a common word indicating evil, wicked, malicious, etc. In Matthew 7:11, Jesus equates it to the common state of man –

“If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask Him!”


Paul here, however, speaks of those who are not only evil because of a fallen, sinful, nature, but who have no desire to live in a godly manner. Instead, they are “imposters.” The word used, goés, is found only here in the Bible. It is used to speak of a juggler or a sorcerer. Thus he is someone who deceives. In ancient Greek, it signified a howler. Thus it is “a fraud who ‘sounds off’ like a whining enchanter. This person uses [his] verbal spells and incantations to give the (false) impression [he] can do miracles” (HELPS Word Studies).


This is actually a beautiful description of the modern charismatic teachers who use deception in, or to perform, supposed miracles and the like. Paul says that they, and others like them, “will grow worse and worse.” Using charismatics as our example, they start out with a bit of cheating in their presentation of explaining God’s word, or in the application of it. From there, they go further by claiming a miracle. From there, they go further and claim not only the performance of a miracle, but an ESP-like ability to determine that someone in the audience has a certain affliction, calling them up to be healed. In supposedly healing them, they go further still – from one deception after another. The Greek literally reads that they “shall proceed to the worse.”


Each cunning display of deception requires something more in order to keep the sensational alive. They claim that God speaks to them, and that God works through them. They are thus deceiving and being deceived. They deceive their audience, and the audience drinks it in like water coming down upon a dry desert. But in their deception, they actually begin to believe that they have divine powers and become deceived themselves. They believe that they are conduits of God, doing His work. And yet, they are evil followers of the devil’s devices.


Life application: Peter Popoff claims to be a charismatic faith healer. He would claim that he could feel someone in the 4th row had a heart defect. Then he would claim to heal the person. Eventually, someone found out that he had wireless transmission to an earplug telling him who to target, what affliction he had, etc. He is a charlatan. And yet, people still follow him and send him loads of money. He is typical of countless charismatic faith-healers. They are deceivers, and they are being deceived. And yet, the audience continues to follow these people like sheep being led to the slaughter.


Lord God Almighty, give us wisdom in our walk with You. Paul warns against those who are “deceiving and being deceived.” This shows us that we can be a part of the equation. If we are willing to be deceived, then we will be deceived. May we rather be willing to diligently study Your word, walk away from deception, and be grounded in sound theology. Help us from being caught up in that which is unhelpful and unproductive. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Timothy 3:14, 25 April 2018

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25, 2018


Wednesday, 25 April 2018


But you must continue in the things which you have learned and been assured of, knowing from whom you have learned them, 2 Timothy 3:14


Paul spoke of the “evil men and impostors” who would “grow worse and worse” in the previous verse. Now he contrasts them and their wayward path. He said of them that they were “deceiving and being deceived.” Instead of this, he says now to Timothy, “But you must continue in the things which you have learned and been assured of.”


Unlike those losers of verse 13, Timothy is to stand fast on the word of God, live out proper doctrine, and act in a holy and openly godly manner. He is to continue walking this path, teaching it to the next generation, and they are to follow suit with this throughout the ages ahead. His walk is to be one which trains their walk. It is to be a doctrinally sound path which does not deviate from the truth of the gospel.


Paul then says, “knowing from whom you have learned them.” The words here are words of surety. Timothy was instructed properly, Paul is aware of this, and he now admonishes his young protege to continue in that sound teaching. However, there is s dispute among the source texts as to whether the word “whom” is singular or plural. It is the difference of a single letter, tinōn or tinōs.

To be dogmatic here is probably not the best option. This is especially so when thinking of the possibilities of who “whom” is then referring to. If singular, is he speaking of himself? Or, is he speaking of the Lord through his word? In the coming verse, Paul refers to the Holy Scriptures. They are given by the Holy Spirit through men of God (2 Peter 1:21). If it is plural, then maybe he is referring to both the Holy Spirit and himself, or himself and Timothy’s grandmother Lois and his mother Eunice (see 2 Timothy 1:5).

Any of these is possible. A parent who knows the word, and who has also called on Christ would not purposefully teach incorrect doctrine. Paul wouldn’t refer to himself in this manner unless he was truthful and sound as an apostle and instructor. And the Holy Spirit, being God, is certainly the greatest Source of instruction if we pursue His word while being receptive to His leading. No matter which word Paul actually used, the precept remains true. Timothy was properly instructed, Paul knew this to be true, and he admonishes him now to follow faithfully on this sound path of proper doctrine.


Life application: What is stated here is that we are to follow the correct path of doctrine that we have been taught. Unfortunately, there are things that we were originally taught which are just plain wrong. It is almost universal that people will continue in their doctrine once it is set, and very few will ever change their position. But this is a bad path to follow if what they have been taught is unsound. We must be willing to rationally evaluate each precept we have learned, and then to compare it with what the Bible says. It is never good to blindly follow a teaching without being well versed in how that teaching aligns with a sound interpretation of Scripture.


Lord God, there are innumerable views on certain points of doctrine which stem from Your word. But that doesn’t mean Your word is uncertain. It is we who form opinions without carefully evaluating things in context. Give us sound teachers who will state what is correct, and then give us the wisdom to even check what they say. In the end, our ongoing relationship with You comes down to our application of Your word. Isn’t that worth our time and study? Help us to desire this close and personal walk with You. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Timothy 3:15, 26 April 2018

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·THURSDAY, APRIL 26, 2018


Thursday, 26 April 2018


...and that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. 2 Timothy 3:15


Paul now reminds Timothy of where and when he began to learn concerning the truth of God. He says, “and that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures.” The word translated as “childhood” rather means from infancy. It signifies a baby, or a child in arms. Before Timothy could walk, his mind was being enlightened with Scripture. So much so that he came to know it. It wasn’t as if he heard it once and then mom began to teach him about basket weaving. Rather, he was taught it to the point of it being infused (known) in him.


It must be understood that at the time of Timothy’s instruction, the “Holy Scriptures” consisted only of what is now known as the Old Testament. The New Testament didn’t exist. Timothy was instructed on this body of writings alone, and yet Paul then says that it is these “Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation.”


The verb translated as “which are able” is a present participle. Though Paul and other apostles are writing about the work of Jesus Christ, and though these writings are now a part of Scripture, Paul’s words here show us the enduring nature of the Old Testament to lead us, and to make us wise for salvation. They point to Jesus just as the New Testament points to Jesus. In Jesus, salvation is found. One should read the Old Testament, compare it to the Person and work of Jesus, and say, “I need Jesus.” This is true with the New as well. Either way, the entire body of Scripture points us to our need for Christ Jesus.


As Paul clearly states, it is this salvation which is “through faith which is in Christ Jesus.” One cannot hold to the Old Testament writings and be saved apart from Jesus Christ. There is no such thing as “dual-covenantalism” to be found in Scripture where one can be saved by adherence to the Old Testament law. That merely pointed to the need for the One who embodies the Law, Jesus Christ. As Peter states to the leaders of Israel in Acts –

“Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” Acts 4:12


Life application: The entire body of Scripture points to our need for Jesus Christ. There is no salvation apart from Him, and we only diminish his work by attempting to be justified by the law, or by observing certain rituals as a part of the now obsolete Law of Moses. In Christ, the law is set aside, annulled, obsolete, and nailed to the cross. All of these are terms used in the New Testament to show that Christ is the end of the law for righteousness for all who believe. Let us rest in Him and His completed work, and let us never waffle on the doctrine of grace which is found in Jesus Christ our Lord.


Heavenly Father, Your word says that Christ Jesus is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes. We cannot add to grace, and so why should we try? Help us to rest in Christ alone, without adding in precepts of a now obsolete law which could never save anyone. May we trust in Christ, and in Christ alone for our complete restoration with You. Thank You, O God, for Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Timothy 3:16, 27 April 2018

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·FRIDAY, APRIL 27, 2018


Friday, 27 April 2018


All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, 2 Timothy 3:16


This is certainly a “memory verse” if there ever was one. It should be committed to memory for those times when it will be needed. At the very least, where it is should be memorized, so that one can easily refer to it in order to obtain the exact quote.


In the previous verses, Paul noted to Timothy that the Holy Scriptures “are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.” Now, speaking of that same marvelous body of writings, Paul says, “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God.” It is to be remembered that at the time of his writing this, only the Old Testament Scriptures existed. This truth carries on for New Testament writings, but it is clearly and unambiguously showing that the body of writing we call the Old Testament is God’s word.

The Greek word translated as “inspiration of God” is theopneustos, or literally “God-breathed.” It is a term which was most probably coined by Paul, and which speaks of the sacred and holy nature of Scripture which contains the power to sanctify believers. It is of divine origin, having been breathed out by God in what is known as the process of inspiration. In the Greek, Paul uses the word in the singular. This then shows that “each part of speech (every inflected word-form, ‘reflex’) used in the Bible is God-breathed, i.e. inscripturated (written) under divine inspiration” (HELPS Word Studies). That is a technical way of saying that every iota of what was received by prophet or apostle is of divine origin. Peter explains this process in his second epistle –

“knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation, 21 for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.” 2 Peter 1:20, 21


As a point of doctrine, the words, “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God,” are more accurately translated as “Every Scripture inspired by God...” The reason for this subtle, but important, change is that it then does not exclude any writings beyond the Old Testament which were already in existence as transmitted by the apostles. It further does not exclude anything that would later come from the hand of the apostles. In this then, there would be the need to ensure that exactly what was contained in those writings be maintained exactly as they had been received. His words here are to be considered in that light, and they were to be kept as a protection against changing what had been received from the apostles’ hands. The words were God-breathed as they were received, and they remain God-breathed when being read. They are the word of God at all times.


After noting the inspiration of Scripture, Paul next says that this body of writings “is profitable for doctrine.” This means that they are to be used to teach the uninformed, correct the misguided, and renew the mind which has forgotten. These breathed-out words are to be what the believer uses to set his doctrine within the church. They are to be the final authority for church doctrine as well. The church cannot add to them, take from them, or amend them in any way. They are breathed out by God, and they belong to Him – being granted to us to use for our doctrine, but not for our manipulation. Paul then says that they are also “for reproof.”

The word used is found only here and in Hebrews 11:1. It signifies “inner conviction.” It “focuses on God confirming His inbirthing of faith” (HELPS Word Studies). If we hold to Scripture as God’s breathed-out word, God should internally persuade us through it of His intent for our life-practice and doctrine. Along with this, it is to be used “for correction.”


In this, Paul uses a word found only here in the Bible. It signifies “to make straight.” Thus, what is straightened becomes suitable once again because it has been restored to its original and correct position. In other words, there is a defect in man. The Bible is to be used to straighten that out. Further, even after coming to Christ, there are certainly defects in doctrine. The Bible is to be used to straighten them out as well. We can straighten ourselves out through the word, and we can also use the word to hopefully straighten others out. From there, Paul says that it is also to be used “for instruction in righteousness.”


The word for “instruction” speaks of the training and education of children. Therefore, the Bible is to be used as an instruction that will lead the believer to full maturity in their faith, doctrine, and practice. Just as a child needs to be disciplined and schooled in order to become a rationally thinking adult, all believers must grow in the word – applying it to themselves – until they are adults in the faith. But Paul notes that this instruction is to be “in righteousness.”


The Bible is often used by people as a means of divination as they look to determine the future. It is used as a secret code book to determine the mysteries of God. It is used by some as a place to find comfort during trials, but then put back on the shelf when the trials end. These and other uses miss the primary intent of Scripture. We are to have our noses in it, we are to open our minds to it, and we are to meditate upon it in order to understand righteousness, and then to apply that to our lives. God is the fount of all that is righteous, and we are to learn about Him in this capacity. Then we are to take this attribute of Him when it is rightly understood and emulate it.


Life application: Paul’s words of this verse are so important for us to remember, and to carry with us always. What we have in the pages of Scripture is the true and inspired word of God. Let us cherish it, care for it, exalt it, and pursue what it says all the days of our lives.


Lord God, You word is breathed out by You, and therefore it is exactly what we need for our lives. Nothing else can substitute it. Anything added to it is superfluous. Anything taken from it will leave us with a void. Help us to understand this, and to carefully hold to it as Your sacred and precious word, given to us to find righteousness and happiness as we live out our lives in Your marvelous presence. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Timothy 3:17, 28 April 2018

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SATURDAY, APRIL 28, 2018


Saturday, 28 April 2018


...that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:17


Paul’s words here continue the thought of verse 16 concerning Scripture. It is given by inspiration of God, and it is profitable for doctrine, reproof, correction, and instruction in righteousness. And the end goal of that is “that the man of God may be complete.” The intent of the term “man of God” is debated. Is it speaking of ministers of the gospel, or is it speaking of all believers in Christ. The answer is “both.”


First and foremost, the term is taken from Old Testament symbolism (which is reaffirmed in 1 Timothy 6:11), and it is speaking of the man chosen by God to receive and pass along God’s word, meaning the prophet in Old Testament times. That transfers to the minister of the New Testament who has received, and then evaluates and instructs in that word. In the instruction of that word, those who hear it then also become “complete.”


The word Paul uses is unique in Scripture. It gives the sense of “ready because prepared.” If we think of a pump which is ordered to replace another pump, it may come needing to be wholly or partly assembled, or it may come prepared to function. It simply needs to be installed and it will work properly. This is the idea of the word. In having Scripture as given by God, and by knowing it, rightly dividing it, and rightly applying it, the man of God is ready to function. He is in a state of “right now” readiness, and thus he is “thoroughly equipped for every good work.”


The Greek word here is well translated. It gives the sense of all parts working together, correctly and harmoniously. In this verse, it is in the passive voice. This then stresses the end-impact of Scripture on the believer who is receptive to what is furnished. As HELPS Word Studies says, “Indeed the Bible thoroughly fits (‘furnishes’) each believer to live in full communion with God.”

In this, Paul is obviously applying the term “man of God” to Timothy, and to those who will follow him in the ministry. But he is also in anticipation that their state of being “fully equipped,” will then be passed on to those they tend to. That is an obvious part of “every good work.”


It is Scripture which makes this possible. As it is obvious that up until just a few hundred years ago very few people had their own copy of the Bible, it is referring to those who have charge of Scripture, and then pass that knowledge on to others. Even today, where everyone can easily obtain the Bible, their lives will not always allow them time to become fully equipped apart from special teaching by those who are in full-time ministry. And more, there are always those who are ill-equipped to be in the ministry because of a lack of training or incorrect doctrine, and yet who go forth teaching that which is false.


Life application: Each of us is ultimately responsible for the doctrine we hold to. However, we need to learn it from somewhere. It is the rare soul who will pick up the Bible and become complete and thoroughly equipped in doctrine. There is a need, then, to listen to teachers, carefully evaluating them to see if what they teach is in accord with the word. Let us attentively listen, and then carefully evaluate what we hear. Let us reject that which is wrong, and hold fast to what is sound.


Glorious and awesome God of all power and wisdom! You have given us the greatest treasure in the pages of Scripture, and yet we are often not attentive to either studying it or applying it to our lives. What a great mistake this is! When things go wrong, we quickly blame You for the trouble, but the truth is that if we had applied Your word to our lives, things would go well. May we as individuals, and as collective groups, learn to put You and Your word first in our lives. Help us in this, O God. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Timothy 4:1, 29 April 2018

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SUNDAY, APRIL 29, 2018


Sunday, 29 April 2018


I charge you therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who will judge the living and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom: 2 Timothy 4:1


The opening words, “I charge you therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ,” are the same words that Paul used in 1 Timothy 5:1. This charge is a bit shorter in named witnesses, however, as it leaves off the words “and the elect angels.” But, it is longer in how it describes Christ Jesus in the second clause.


The word translated as “charge” bears more weight than the translation implies. It is rather, “solemnly charge.” It being a compound word comprised of “thoroughly” and “witness.” Thus, it is a solemn charge or an earnest testimony. Paul’s words then hold great weight as presented to Timothy. This is all the more seen by including both “God” and “the Lord Jesus Christ” as witnesses. He is making the most solemn charge possible by calling the infinite God, and His designated Mediator who comes from Him, to witness his charge to Timothy.


From there, he then describes the work of Christ by saying, “who will judge the living and the dead.” Christ Jesus is the One who holds the power over death. And so, whether alive at His coming, or already dead on that Day, it makes no difference. The souls of all men will be brought before Him for judgment. This will be “at His appearing and His kingdom.


In a careful study of the words of Paul, we see that his statement here is a general one which actually covers several events. There will be a rapture of believers, after which they will be judged, but not for salvation or condemnation. It will be a judgment for rewards and loss of rewards. There will also be the first resurrection which will occur after the seven-year tribulation period which will come upon the earth. And then finally, there will be what is called the Great White Throne judgment at the end of the millennium. Each judgment is in the Lord’s hands, and He will display perfect righteousness as He judges.


It is before God, and His designated Mediator, the Lord Jesus Christ, that Paul will next make his solemn charge.


Life application: If we look at our life and actions daily, considering them as a part of our judgment ahead, we will be more likely to live in a holy and circumspect manner. If we just take each day as an opportunity to please self, then when our time of judgment does come, we will have much to be ashamed for. Let us look ahead, and live out our lives as the Lord’s word directs us to do.

Heavenly Father, we tend for forget that a time of judgment awaits all of us. We get busy with life, desirous of attaining success, fame, or wealth, and we put the day on which we will stand before You out of our minds. Help us not to be so short-sighted. Instead, give us wisdom to contemplate our days, pursue You in them, and live in a manner which will be rewarded with favor. Help us in this, O God. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Timothy 4:2, 30 April 2018

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·MONDAY, APRIL 30, 2018


Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching. 2 Timothy 4:2


Paul’s “charge” of verse 1 is now given. Like in the Greek, it is quick and abrupt… “Preach the word!” The word “therefore” of verse 1 was based on Paul’s note about the Holy Scriptures of verses 3:14 – 3:17. His charge then is an emphatic call to take those precious words and to proclaim them like a herald. As he said in Romans 10 –


How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? 15 And how shall they preach unless they are sent? As it is written:

“How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace,

Who bring glad tidings of good things!”

16 But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Isaiah says, “Lord, who has believed our report?” 17 So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.


A person cannot call on Jesus unless they hear about Jesus. The source which tells of Jesus is the word of God. Likewise, a person cannot learn about Jesus unless they go to that same source. And so both faith and doctrine come from someone’s efforts in preaching the word. This is Paul’s exhortation for Timothy then, “Preach the word!” It is what he had spent his life since his conversion doing, and he was now passing the mantle on to Timothy to carry forward to a new generation.


He next tells him to, “Be ready in season and out of season.” In this, Paul uses the same root word, kairos, to explain his thought. It signifies, “the opportune time,” or “the favorable moment.” “In season” is eukairos. The prefix eu signifies good. Thus it would be “a good opportune time.” The term, “out of season” is akairos. The prefix signifies a negative. Thus it is “not the opportune time.” Paul is exhorting Timothy to be ready to preach the word regardless of the circumstances. If the house is on fire, it may not be a great time to stop and tell people the news, but Timothy is to be ready, even then, to do so. There is never a time that he should not be set and prepared to share the message of Christ.


From there, he gives rapid-fire advice concerning the preaching. First, he says, “Convince.” The idea here is “to expose.” Thus, it would be to convince with sound, solid, and compelling evidence. In this, it will prove that which is wrong, and correct it to that which is right. When the discussion is over, there should be no doubt concerning the truth and trustworthiness of the preaching.

Next, he says, “rebuke.” The idea here is to warn in order to prevent something from going wrong. As an example, a preacher may say, “You are walking an unsound path which can only lead to disaster. The gospel of Jesus Christ is the path which will bring restoration and fellowship with God. Call on Christ, and be reconciled to God through Him!”


He then tells him to “exhort.” This signifies encouragement. It is, in essence, to offer up evidence which will stand up in the court of God. Timothy is to use the Scriptures to encourage those he preaches to those things that will keep them on a sound, reasonable, and acceptable path.


Finally, Paul notes that he is to do each of these things, “with all longsuffering and teaching.” Timothy is being reminded that he (and all preachers) are to teach with patience and a gentle attitude. There is to be a spirit of perseverance while thick skulls slowly allow information to sink in. Sometimes, it will take saying the same thing again and again (and again). But the minister is to be ready and willing to just keep going with this slow, faithful, methodical, and repetitive instruction.


Life application: The main job of a preacher is to preach. It is the beginning of the faith for some, and it is to be the growth of the doctrine in them as well. It is only by the word of God that people will come to know Christ, and then to develop in Him. This doesn’t mean a tract cannot convince someone of coming to Christ, but the information on that tract must match the word of God, or it is not the true Christ who is being presented. Thus a false salvation will be the result. Everything must come back to Scripture.

Lord God, where are we going to learn about what You expect of us? We may think the answer is, “At church.” But if what the church is teaching is not based on Your word, then what we have learned is not correct. In the end, our salvation, and our doctrine need to go back to Scripture, or we have believed a lie. Keep us from assuming that going to church means we are OK with You. Rather, accepting Your word, and living in accord with it, is what we need. And so give us true teachers of Your word for our lives. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Timothy 4:3, 1 May 2018

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·TUESDAY, MAY 1, 2018



For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; 2 Timothy 4:3


The word “For” is given to show Timothy why he needed to preach the word, and to be ready at all times to convince, rebuke, and exhort. The time of judging the living and the dead (verse 4:1) will come, but people don’t want to think about such things. They push it out of their minds and instead pursue another path. Instead of caring about what God expects, Paul says that “the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine.”


His words show the depravity of man in the presence of God quite well. He is speaking of people who are Christians, or who supposedly are Christians, who simply want to hear what they want to hear. When they go to church and hear a message they don’t like (sound doctrine), they get upset and leave, vowing to never return again. This is obviously something that is much easier in a town with many varied churches. At some points in history, the state ran the church, and the message was kept unified. There was little chance of “church shopping.” In some towns, even today, there may be only one church. The same is true is such a case as that. One is left with either attending a church or not attending at all. However, with the advent of the internet, people can ignore these things and find what they want online.


Paul says that there is a reason for not wanting to hear sound doctrine. It is because they want to come to God, “according to their own desires.” What this means is that they have rejected the word of God, and thus the God of the Bible. They have created a god in their mind which will suit whatever fancy they follow. Some people hate the order outlined in Scripture that defines men as those who are to be leaders in the church. And so they, according to their own desires, find a church that is led by women. The same is true with countless pet peeves. Some are sexually immoral, and so they will, according to their own desires, find a church which condones a sexually immoral lifestyle. Pick any immoral activity or false doctrine and there is a church which will meet the desire – drugs, abortion, reinserting the law, salvation with no expectation of holiness, the prosperity gospel, etc.


Paul says they will follow such perverse teaching “because they have itching ears.” They have it in their minds what they want to do with their lives, not what God instructs them to do. Their ears itch to hear that what they desire is acceptable. And so they shop for someone to meet what they desire. However, such an attitude is completely at variance with God’s will. One must take in the whole counsel of God, accepting that He is the Creator and that we are the created. It is God who sets the parameters for salvation, righteousness, holy living, and so on. But because they don’t want to conform to God’s standard, Paul says that “they will heap up for themselves teachers.”


The more voices who will validate what they desire rather than what God expects, the more reassured they become. The idea is, “Surely all of these wonderful teachers can’t be wrong!” Instead of going to the source, meaning God’s word, they rely on whatever the false teacher says. In this, they can continue to live out their lives as they see fit, and feel comfortable that there will be no condemning voice from their spiritual leader.


It must be contemplated that the direction of the church will generally follow the direction of the surrounding culture, or vice versa. The church may cause the people to turn to God, or the morals of the culture may cause the church to fall away from the truth. This is why those who hate God, abhor Jesus Christ. Those who despise the truths contained in Scripture work both in the church and in the surrounding society to attack the word, question its reliability, tear apart the message of Christ, and exalt any false teaching which will diminish true Christianity in the process.


Life application: The ideologies found in communism, socialism, fascism, the progressive left, and a host of other ideologies which form political movements are based on principles which are contrary to the word of God. When people from these ideologies can get into church leadership positions, they will naturally work to destroy the truth of Scripture through false teaching. The same is true with people who may be apolitical, but who want to exercise whatever false belief suits their mores. When people with such values get into church leadership positions, those who follow the same false ideologies will flock to them. Paul showed us, right at the beginning of the church age, exactly what could be expected. Let us pay heed and be extremely careful to hold closely to the word of God, never deviating from its precepts.


Lord God, help our national leaders to understand that right and proper morality stems from You, and that those sound principles are found in Your word. May those who are willing to call on Your name, through Christ Jesus, be bold in their adherence to that which is right, holy, and honorable. This is especially important now. Those who truly hate what Your word directs are found in abundance and are eager to quiet what is moral and proper. Be with Your people, guide them in righteousness, and may we remove those who promote immorality and divisiveness. Turn our national heart back to You. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Timothy 4:4, 2 May 2018

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·WEDNESDAY, MAY 2, 2018


...and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables. 2 Timothy 4:4


Paul now describes the result of what will come upon those who will not endure sound doctrine, who have itching ears, and who thus heap up teachers for themselves. He says that “they will turn their ears away from the truth.” The Greek literally reads, “the hearing they will turn away.” The word is “used of the inner (spiritual) hearing that goes with receiving faith from God” (HELPS Word Studies). This is the same word used in Romans 10:17 where it notes that faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of God.


And so what Paul is saying is that they turn their spiritual ears from the eternal, beautiful, and life-giving truth of Scripture, and they turn “aside to fables.” The Greek word is muthos. In it, one can see where the English word “myth” is thus derived.” This then is reflected in Paul’s words of Romans 1:25 where people exchange “the truth of God for the lie.” It is also seen in 1 Timothy 1:4 where he urges Timothy to not “give heed to fables and endless genealogies.”


This is a constant problem, even with saved Christians today. Conspiracy theories are held to as if sound and reliable. Evolution is accepted as truth. People believe that the earth is flat, they accept that one version of the Bible is divinely inspired and all others are of the devil, they accept Jewish tradition over the words of Scripture, and they constantly watch videos which predict (for the ten-jillionth time) the day of the rapture. There is little discernment among a vast swath of the Christian community because of turning from the truth, and turning aside to fables.


Life application: The more Bible you put in your life, the less time you will have to accept fables. Be wise and discerning with your time. Read! Study to show yourself approved! Don’t listen to those who would pull you into their box, and then close it around you. Pursue Christ, fix your eyes on Jesus, and live out the word in a holy, reasonable manner.

Lord God, help us to be kept from fables and conspiracy theories which have no basis in reality. Help us to not assimilate anything which is contrary to Your word, and to even carefully evaluate those things which may not be contrary to it, but which would distract us from a close and personal walk with You. Help us in this, O God. We are so very easily distracted. Guide us always. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Timothy 4:5, 3 May 2018

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·THURSDAY, MAY 3, 2018


But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry. 2 Timothy 4:5


Paul now returns to Timothy as a contrast to those described in verses 3 & 4. In verse 2, he had said, “Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching.” It was then that he described why he should do that. It was concerning those described in verses 3 & 4. Beginning with the word “But” here is to contrast them, and to complete the exhortations now that the description of those people has been provided. Therefore, he says, “But you be watchful in all things.”


The word translated as “watchful” literally means, “to be sober.” Here he is using it figuratively to indicated having a presence of mind which involves clear judgment, to remain rational, and to steer clear of intoxicating influences such as passion, greed, and the like. He is to act this way in “all things.” No part of his walk should be overlooked, but he was to remain circumspect in all ways.

Paul then tells him to “endure afflictions.” It is a single Greek word first used in 2 Timothy 2:9. It gives the sense of continuing on through painful hardships which may seem to be a setback to the progress being made, but which really isn’t. Nothing occurs apart from God’s knowledge, and so even the evils we suffer are given to instruct us, mold us, and refine us – if we will so allow them to work as such.


After this, Timothy is admonished to “do the work of an evangelist.” This simply and exactingly is asking Timothy to “preach the gospel.” It is what he was told to do in verse 2, and it is reexplained to him here. An evangelist was to proclaim sound doctrine, teach properly, and stick to the truth – exactly the opposite of what those described in verses 3 & 4 were looking for. In other words, even if the world calls out for meaningless, misguided messages of mushy ministers, Timothy was to continue to evangelize with soundness. It hearkens back to Noah whom Peter calls a “preacher of righteousness” despite the entire world following a different path. Timothy was to follow in that same path as Noah. He, and all who follow him, should be willing to put the true gospel forth at all times.


Finally, Paul says to him, “fulfill your ministry.” The word here “is used of God’s power bringing the believer to maximum potential, ‘matching’ their true knowledge of Him” (HELPS Word Studies). Timothy is exhorted to bear the work of God to it fullest extent. Every fiber of him was to be exerted, even to maximum capacity.


Life application: Though these words are directed to Timothy, and thus to all ministers, should any believer in Christ do any less than pursue the path directed by Paul? This doesn’t mean that everyone should leave their lives to become ministers, but that everyone can use their lives as if ministers. We should all be looking for opportunities to share the word, endure the afflictions associated with that, and fulfill our calling in Christ. Onward!


Lord God, we are saved by what Jesus did. As this is so, how can we hold back sharing this good news with others? If we truly believe we are saved, that means we were saved “from” something. A person drowning in the ocean isn’t concerned about a new car. Rather, he is concerned about life and breath. Many are in an ocean of sin, leading to death. Help us to be willing to share the news that can get them out of it. To Your glory we pray. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Timothy 4:6, 4 May 2018

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2018


For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand. 2 Timothy 4:6


Here we have a strong contrast between “But you” of verse 4:5 and “For I” of this verse. Paul has exhorted Timothy to be watchful, to endure, to carry on his work, and to fulfill his ministry. However, Paul’s words now reveal the contrast. Whereas Timothy is to move forward, Paul was now at his end. He says clearly enough, “For I am already being poured out.”


The KJV says, “For I am now ready to be offered.” That translation falls short in two ways. First, the verb signifies that he is already being offered, not “ready” to be offered. Further, the verb is not well defined. The word is spendó, and it signifies to be made a drink offering, and thus “poured out.” The symbolism is that of the life being drained as a complete offering on the altar of sacrifice. There are all kinds of offerings, some resulting in death, some not resulting in death. The symbolism of the KJV does not convey, at all, the appropriate intent of Paul’s solemn words. What he says here now is more strongly worded than he had previously implied to those at Philippi –

“Yes, and if I am being poured out as a drink offering on the sacrifice and service of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all.” Philippines 2:17


There is no “if” here in Paul’s words to Timothy. He is being poured out “as a drink offering.” His life is to end, and indeed his circumstances show that it is already in the process. His life to the Lord will be returned upon the altar of sacrifice to Him. This libation, or drink offering, was the final part of the sacrifice. Paul knew that he would be martyred, closing out his service to the Lord in that manner. With this act coming, he then says, “and the time of my departure is at hand.”


Here he uses a noun, analusis, found only here in the Bible. It signifies a loosing for departure. When animals are unloosed, such as a horse, it is for making a departure. When the anchor is loosed from the ship, it is set to sail away. When the stays of a tent are loosed at a military camp, it is for the purpose of departure. Paul’s words are clear, and his intent would be clearly understood by Timothy. In his pouring out (martyrdom) Paul’s soul would be loosed from its earthly bonds. He would be freed from this present life, and he was ready for his journey to that “building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens” (2 Corinthians 5:1).


Life application: If you knew that your time was coming to an end, how would you redirect your life? What changes would you make so that you were prepared to meet your Maker? Guess what, your life is coming to an end. We know not the day or hour of that event, and so we should always be ready. Let us live our lives out as if every moment counts for eternity. Why? Because… every moment counts for eternity.


Lord God, direct our steps so that we are always prepared to meet you. We do not know the time of our departure from this life, but it is as sure to come as the next sunrise. Help us then to wisely live out our lives with this in mind. Every moment we have counts for eternity. Let us not waste one precious second of our short time in this life. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Timothy 4:7, 5 May 2018

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SATURDAY, MAY 5, 2018


I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 2 Timothy 4:7


Paul has just spoken of his coming death, being poured out as a drink offering. This referred to the time of his departure. Now he reflects on the conduct of his life in Christ leading up to that point. Did he do what he was called to do? Did he fulfill his mission? His words now answer that for Timothy to reflect upon. First, he says, “I have fought the good fight.” Paul uses a metaphor to describe his conduct in Christ. He may be speaking of a wrestling match, as if engaged in direct combat with the enemy (see Ephesians 6:12), or he may be speaking of being a warrior who has been engaged in battle (see 2 Timothy 2:3, 4). Either way, he is comparing his life to that of one who was in a fight, working against the foes of the gospel, and against both human and spiritual enemies.


From there he says, “I have finished the race.” Again, it is a metaphor which he uses to describe the life he was called to. He used that metaphor several times elsewhere, such as in 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 –

Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. 25 And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown. 26 Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. 27 But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified.


As we can see from his words, Paul not only looked at his life as a wrestler, but as one in a race who must endure to the end. Now with the fight complete and the race finished, he says with a note of surety, “I have kept the faith.” This is similar to what he had encouraged Timothy to do in his first epistle to him –

“Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.”


The terminology conveyed to Timothy was of the Grecian games. They were as well known then as the Olympics are for us today. In this expression, he equated Timothy to a fighter on a set team (the faith) and he encouraged him to fight that good fight on its behalf. The goal of such a fight is to “lay hold on eternal life.” This is what Paul had done, and he was now awaiting his reward, having kept the faith.


Life application: Paul is writing as a minister of the gospel to a minister of the gospel. His words are to be taken as such, but there is no reason that what he says, unless limited to an ordained minister, cannot be applied to one’s own life. We all have a fight to fight in Christ. We all have a race to run in Christ. And, we all have faith which was exercised in coming to Christ. We should keep that faith, and cause it to grow until the very end.


Lord God, help each of us to not fritter away the few short days of this life you have granted to us. Give us wisdom to contemplate that sure end which we all will face, and the judgment which is set to follow that end. Give us wisdom to accept Your pardon for our sins, granted through Christ, and then give us wisdom to fight the good fight, run the race to the finish, and keep the faith which we have professed. Surely with these things, You will be pleased with our conduct. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Timothy 4:8, 6 May 2018

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SUNDAY, MAY 6, 2018


Sunday, 6 May 2018


Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing. 2 Timothy 4:8


The word “Finally” here gives the sense of “henceforth.” Paul isn’t so much summing up his thoughts as he is saying, “From this point on, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness.” He is acknowledging that what he has worked for has been attained. His work is complete, and the Lord has the crown of righteousness set aside for him. His words look to the thought of the Grecian games. For the one who successfully worked through the games, there was a crown kept in hand for him. The same is true for the believer. A crown is laid up for him. Charles Ellicott says, “It is called ‘the crown of righteousness,’ it being the crown to which righteousness can lay claim—that is, the crown awarded to righteousness.”


Paul then says, “which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me.” He ties the righteous nature of Christ in with the bestowal of this crown of righteousness. Only one who is righteous can truly determine who has conducted life’s affairs righteously. Being God, His character is one of absolute righteousness, and thus He can and will judge righteously. For Paul, he is certain that he has conducted his affairs in a manner which will lead to his receiving this crown of righteousness “on that Day.”


The term, “on that Day,” is speaking of the day when the saints stand before Christ Jesus’ bema seat for judgment. It is not a judgment for salvation or condemnation, but one for rewards and losses. The judgment for salvation of believers was accomplished at the cross. The judgment for rewards and loss will be at this bema seat. It will be a judgment which is completely impartial, and perfectly fair.


From there, Paul says that the reception of this crown of righteousness is not limited to him alone. Rather, it is “not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.” This is an important addition because the word “crown” has a definite article in front of it. It is “the crown of righteousness.” Because of this, one might say, “Gee, Paul got the only crown of righteousness.” But such is not the case. It is for “all who have loved his appearing.” It is a crown to be bestowed upon everyone who falls into this category. It is not “a crown of righteousness” (see incorrect KJV), but “the crown of righteousness.”


It is the same crown of honor to be bestowed upon all who love the appearing of Christ. It is His righteousness, once and forever bestowed upon the faithful soul who has trusted in Him, and anticipated His return. A taste of this is seen in the taking of the Lord’s Supper. There Paul writes, “For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death till He comes.” We take the Lord’s supper in anticipation of His coming. We do not worship a dead Savior, we remember the death of the Savior. From there, we anticipate the return of this resurrected and forever-alive Savior when He comes for His people. This is what is worthy of the bestowal of this crown of righteousness.


Life application: Have you called on Jesus, but let go of the eager anticipation of His return? If so, you should reconsider what it meant to you to have trusted Him and been saved by Him. Re-nourish your early faith in Christ, remind yourself of the depths from which He pulled you. Remember the difference between your life before that day and after that day. And then look forward to a change which will outshine that first change by a million-fold. What has happened in you was glorious. What is yet to come for you is exceedingly so. Re-ignite within you the fire of anticipation in the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Lord God, I once was lost, but then was saved by You. The change from who I was to who I am now was immeasurable. Once we were enemies, but through Christ, we are reconciled. And yet, the change which has taken place is only a glimpse of the glory which lies ahead. O! May we eagerly anticipate that Day when we come before You in the crown of righteousness which is to be granted to all who have loved Christ’s appearing. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Timothy 4:9, 7 May 2018

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·MONDAY, MAY 7, 2018


Monday, 7 May 2018


Be diligent to come to me quickly; 2 Timothy 4:9


The word translated as “Be diligent,” is used in verse 2:15 while encouraging Timothy to “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God.” It gives the sense of hastening, and that is the sense borne out here. Paul wants Timothy to “hasten to come to me quickly.” There is an urgency in the words, and it is an urgency repeated in verse 4:21. One main reason for this urgency is found in verse 13, which will be explained then. But there are secondary reasons which will be noted as well. For now, this is a short request which seems completely out of place with the words of a man who has just said that “my departure is at hand.”


However, it also shows us the authenticity of the epistle. Nobody claiming to be Paul, and who has stated he was about to die, would then implore the person he is writing to leave behind his church and come for a visit. But Paul would. When Paul says, “my departure is at hand,” it is indicating that he feels his imprisonment will end in his execution. However, he was – as a Roman citizen – entitled to a trial, appeals, etc. This could be a long, drawn-out thing. Though his departure was at hand based on his circumstances in prison, that same place of incarceration may be his home for a while. And so, with the desire to see Timothy, and to assist him with several important things in his visit to Rome, Paul encourages his young protege to hasten to his side.


Life application: The only contradictions to be found in Scripture are those that come from a lack of study, or a presupposition that the Bible is not the word of God. When we take all things concerning Scripture in context, and without presupposition, and then study them carefully, we will always find that those things which seem contradictory are actually not at all so.


Wow Lord! It is always exciting to wake up and read Your word. It starts the day off beautifully. It is then marvelous to read the word during the day. It may lift us up from a low spot, or it may direct our feet on a path we have been considering. Yes! It is great to read Your word during the day. And of course, the evening time is a fantastic time to read Your word. As the day is ending, we find comfort and rest in it as we commit our sleep to You, pondering the treasure we have read. And, of course, at night when we wake and need to settle our thoughts… that is a magnificent time to read Your word. It does settle our racing thoughts, and it also brings sweet sleep to us once again. Wow Lord! It is always exciting to read Your word. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Timothy 4:10, 8 May 2018

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·TUESDAY, MAY 8, 2018


Tuesday, 8 May 2018


for Demas has forsaken me, having loved this present world, and has departed for Thessalonica—Crescens for Galatia, Titus for Dalmatia. 2 Timothy 4:10


Paul had just said, “Be diligent to come to me quickly.” The reason for this is forthcoming, but it is more urgently necessitated because of the words of this verse. He says, “for Demas has forsaken me.” Demas is mentioned in Colossians 4:14 and Philemon 1:24. He had obviously been around Paul for some time, and during his previous imprisonment, but now he has abandoned him.

Though we can only speculate, he was probably afraid of the persecution Paul was experiencing, feeling it may come to him as well. It was seemingly assured that Paul would be martyred, and he didn’t want to be the next one on the chopping block. Paul says that instead of staying by his side Demas had forsaken him, “having loved this present world.”


The word translated as “world” here, aión, signifies the present age in contrast to the future age. It is the time in which he is living. Therefore, this doesn’t necessarily mean he loved the world and the things in the world, but he loved his life and did not want it to end. Obviously, if he didn’t care about the things of the world, he wouldn’t care about his life in the same way either, but Paul’s choice of the word shows that he was probably more afraid of the termination of this present life. He had believed in Christ’s resurrection, thus he was a saved person, but his unsurety about his own mortal life seems to show a failure to stand fast on what the resurrection meant to him personally.


Because of this failing, Paul says that he “has departed for Thessalonica.” By leaving the reason why Demas chose Thessalonica unstated, it can be assumed that Timothy knew, or would have understood, the reason for the choice. It may have been his home; it may be that during their travels he really liked the place and wanted to go back and get established there; or he may have seen it as an opportunity to get reestablished in life in a new spot. Thessalonica at this time was one of the great Roman cities. It thus had many opportunities for someone to live out life in the present age.


Paul then says, “Crescens for Galatia.” Crescens, or as the Greek reads, Kréskés, is found only here in the Bible, but he was obviously known to Timothy. His name is actually Latin. Paul doesn’t say that he departed for a negative reason such as Demas did. He merely notes that he had departed. The same is true with Titus who had gone on to Dalmatia.


Dalmatia was a part of Illyricum, a Roman province which lays on the east coast of the Adriatic Sea. As nothing is said about why Demas and Titus had left, and nothing negative is indicated by Paul, we can only speculate as to the reason for their departure. It would be nice to think that both were commissioned by Paul to continue preaching the gospel in places that Paul was now unable to go to.


Life application: Paul often writes about those who had moral failings in his epistles. He also notes things about people, such as Demas today, showing that they were imperfect beings. However, there is not a single instance in his writings that he says, “That person was never saved,” or “That guy has lost his salvation.” Paul’s writings show us, time and again, that salvation is eternal, but we will be judged based on our actions after salvation. Let us stand steadfast in our faith, not be counted as those who shy away from our duties, and let us instead go forward in the Lord’s strength, applying His word to our lives always.

Heavenly Father, it sure is wonderful to know that You are ever-present in our lives. There is no time that You are on vacation or unavailable to us. Throughout the span of our lives, and wherever we go, we can seek Your face. And more, we can come to You with our needs, desires, and hopes. It is a wonderful thought that we are always in Your presence. Glory to You, O God. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Timothy 4:11, 9 May 2018

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·WEDNESDAY, MAY 9, 2018


Wednesday, 9 May 2018


Only Luke is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you, for he is useful to me for ministry. 2 Timothy 4:11


Luke is none other than the author of the Gospel which bears his name, and also the book of Acts. He is thus either the only Gentile to author some of the Bible, or – if Job was written by Job – one of only two. This can be determined from Colossians 4 where Luke is excluded from being one of the “circumcision” noted in Colossians 4:11. Though some argue against it, they do so in vain. He was neither a proselyte to Judaism nor was he a Jew. He was, and he remained, a Gentile. He stuck with Paul through many adventures as indicated by the book of Acts, normally seen during the “we” sections. Luke would say “we” to indicate that he was personally with Paul and others at those times. Paul had Luke with him there in Rome during this incarceration as well.


He then directs Timothy to, “Get Mark and bring him with you.” This is speaking of John Mark (Acts 15:27), the writer of the gospel of Mark. This note to bring Mark along is especially tender because in Acts, he had been the traveling partner of Paul and Barnabas on one of their mission journeys. However, he had left to go back home before completion of the work. Acts 15:36-39 details an argument between Paul and Barnabas over taking Mark with them again. The Greek word used indicated that it was a very strong argument. This led to them splitting up. Paul took Silas and departed, traveling through Syria and Cilicia. Barnabas took Mark and they traveled to Cyprus.


It appears that even if the argument between Paul and Barnabas never died down, which is unknown, there was at least reconciliation between Paul and Mark. As Paul says, “for he is useful to me for ministry.” It is unknown how, or in what capacity, this was so. But Paul ensures that Timothy understood this now. Timothy stood in much the same relationship to Paul as Mark once had. By acknowledging Mark as useful, it shows that reconciliation was both possible and a good thing. It is a lesson for Timothy to remember as he assumed the mantle of the next generation of leaders within the church.


Life application: It is never mentioned if Paul and Barnabas reconciled or not. However, it is probably so. If Paul and Mark did, then unless Barnabas had already died, it is a pretty good indication that they did also. Mark was Barnabas’ cousin, and so the family news would be well known. Such is only speculation, but it should be a reminder to each of us that reconciliation, if possible, is always the preferred option. We will be facing our fellow Christians for all eternity. How much better then to let enmity die before we do!


Lord God, it is rather easy to break off friendships in today’s world. The “unfriend” button is so tempting to click, even over small disagreements. But the reasonable thing to do is to not take offense at every little thing which bothers us. We have become a world full of offended people, instead of those who are willing to overlook faults. Help us in this, especially with those who are our fellow believers in You. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Timothy 4:12, 10 May 2018

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·THURSDAY, MAY 10, 2018


Thursday, 10 May 2018


And Tychicus I have sent to Ephesus. 2 Timothy 4:12
  

The Greek more correctly reads, “But Tychicus...” Paul has asked for Timothy to join him. He then said that Demas had forsaken him, that Crescens departed for Galatia, and that Titus had gone to Dalmatia. He then noted that Luke was still with him. After that he noted that Mark should be brought along too, being useful to the ministry. With all of that understood, he then says, “But Tychicus I have sent to Ephesus.” Others had forsaken, voluntarily left, or voluntarily stayed, but Tychicus was personally sent by Paul. This may partially explain why Paul especially wants Timothy to bring Mark.


Tychicus had filled a needed role as a friend and a faithful brother, but Paul felt it more necessary that whatever business was needing to be accomplished in Ephesus was more important than keeping him in Rome. Mark would be able to assist Paul in the lack left in Tychicus’ absence.


Tychicus is mentioned Acts 20:4, Ephesians 6:21, Colossians 4:7, and Titus 3:12. In Ephesians 6, Paul calls him “a beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord.” He speaks similarly well of him in Colossians.


Life application: How easy it is to sever friendships in this world. People who portray themselves as faithful friends are often faithful when the wind is blowing from the south, but when it switches 1 degree towards the east, they depart. It is the rare soul, like Luke or like Tychichus, that remains faithful. We’ll all be remembered for how we live out our lives. What will the record of our life state concerning our allegiances to our friends, our family, our employers, and our church?


Lord God, the Bible is filled with notes of the faults and failings of people throughout history. It is also filled with notes of those who were faithful to their God, their friends, and to those around them. Each life is recorded to reveal to us how we can and should conduct our own lives, because we also will be remembered by You and judged for the life we lived. Help us to remember this truth, and act faithfully towards others, and especially towards You. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Timothy 4:13, 11 May 2018

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2018


Friday, 11 May 2018


Bring the cloak that I left with Carpus at Troas when you come—and the books, especially the parchments. 2 Timothy 4:13

Paul now makes a specific request for Timothy to accomplish. He says, “Bring the cloak that I left with Carpus at Troas when you come.” It seems like a simple thing to request, easy to translate, and without any need for conflict in interpretation. And yet, it is none of these. The word is found only here in the New Testament, phelonés. Some say it is the same as the Latin word paenula, a cape which fell down below the knees.


Others say that it is a phailone which speaks of a carrying bag. This is how the translator of the Syriac understood it. Others come to one of these two same conclusions using different Greek words, either a cloak or a carrying case. Some have even combined the two, thus signifying a cloak used for carrying.


It is truly hard to be dogmatic with a word used only once, and which has so many possible roots. If it is a cloak, the request is not at all unreasonable. If winter were coming, a cloak of this type could mean life or death for a man bound in a cold Roman prison. There would even be an urgency to it. It may have been hot when he left, and he thought he would not need it immediately. However, with an extended time in prison, the need arose for his garment. Sleeping in one’s garment is actually a concept found in the Old Testament –

“If you ever take your neighbor’s garment as a pledge, you shall return it to him before the sun goes down. 27 For that is his only covering, it is his garment for his skin. What will he sleep in? And it will be that when he cries to Me, I will hear, for I am gracious.” Exodus 22:26, 27


This general thought is repeated in Deuteronomy 24:13 as well. On the other hand, it is hard to imagine Paul, a man who was so well traveled, and who would constantly move from one clime to another, would go along his route without a cloak that was needed when it was cold. And so the second option is also quite possible. If so, he had a traveling case that he left behind in the care of “Carpus at Troas.” This is the only time Carpus is mentioned in the Bible, but he was obviously someone who could be trusted by Paul. Whether cloak or carrying case, Paul had entrusted something important to him.


The idea of it being a carrying case is then bolstered by the words to Timothy that he was also to bring “the books, especially the parchments.” These would have been Paul’s cherished copies of Scripture, possibly including early copies of the gospel of Matthew, Mark, and even Luke. They could have source material for all of Luke’s interviews and the like. There could have been the writings of Greek philosophers, at times quoted by Paul during his travels and in his epistles. Whatever they contained, a carrying case would make complete sense for Paul to request.


The word “books” is translated from biblion, meaning a papyrus roll; a paper. The word “parchments” is translated from a word unique in the New Testament, membrana. One can see the modern word “membrane” as coming from it. It signifies a sheep-skin; a parchment. Whatever was written on these parchments, be it Scripture, or letters from churches, or whatever else, they were especially important to Paul. He wanted them possibly even as a witness during any trial he would face.


Life application: Is the Bible so important to you that you would request it to be brought to you if you were restricted to a hospital, a prison, or some other type of place? Or would you ask for your favorite movie to be brought to you? The most valuable possession that anyone could possess is often treated as something cumbersome or useless to their needs at such times. In fact, exactly the opposite is true. Treasure your Bible, long for its presence in your life, and let it fill the times when you so most desperately need it.

Lord God, if we have an extended stay in the hospital or some other place of confinement, what is it that we would ask our family or friends to bring us. If our first request is not the Bible, then we are erring in our priorities. The most precious treasure of all is often the thing we relegate to a much lower status than should ever be. Help us to have our priorities straight. Help us to hunger after Your word first and foremost. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Timothy 4:14, 12 May 2018

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SATURDAY, MAY 12, 2018


Saturday, 12 May 2018

Alexander the coppersmith did me much harm. May the Lord repay him according to his works. 2 Timothy 4:14


This bad guy at first seems to be the same one referred to in 1 Timothy 1:20, but it is more probable that he is the individual identified in Acts 19:33. This is because he is identified as “the coppersmith.” The other Alexander, in 1 Timothy 1:20, is not so named. Paul seems to be making a distinction between the two. However, if he is the same as in 1 Timothy, it doesn’t mean he isn’t saved, or that he has lost his salvation. Rather, exactly the opposite is true based on the same terminology being used in 1 Corinthians 5. Handing someone over to Satan is a corrective measure, not a note of condemnation.


But, with the assumption that he is identified in Acts 19 and not in 1 Timothy, he is a person who was chosen to speak against Paul. He was a Jew and not favorable to faith in Christ as the fulfillment of their laws. As such, he would be one that instead of simply trusting in the grace of Jesus Christ, and allowing others to do so, continuously worked to have others brought back under the law of Moses – an annulled, obsolete, and set aside law. It is a law that was “nailed to the cross” according to Paul in Colossians 2:14. Paul says that this wayward soul, “did me much harm.” The Greek reads “did me much evil.” Based on his coming words, it seems clear that he testified against Paul in a legal sense. Whatever other things he did against Paul, it was enough for him to say, “May the Lord repay him according to his works.”


Paul is not seeking personal revenge, but the Lord’s righteousness. In harming the apostle, the apostle’s message was hindered. The gospel message is the means of salvation for all men. Therefore, if a Judaizer creeps in and steals people away from the grace found in Jesus Christ, their repayment is justly due. If not saved, they will receive their just condemnation. If saved, they can stand at the back of the line in heaven when rewards are handed out. If they persisted in their aberrant doctrine, they will be repaid with a frown and a handful of nothing. There will be only loss.


Life application: It cannot be stressed enough that those who teach adherence to the Law of Moses, in part or in whole, are to be utterly rejected. There is one gospel, and that is that Jesus Christ has fulfilled the law. We are not under law, but under grace. To reapply the law to one’s life, doctrine, and practice, is to set aside the grace of Jesus Christ. It is in essence, “Nice try Jesus, but I can do better.”


Heavenly Father, it has become fashionable for sects of Christians to teach observance of some, or all, of the Law of Moses in their daily lives as a part of somehow adhering to Your commandments. But Jesus has fulfilled the law, and initiated a New Covenant in His own blood. Shall we say to You, “Nice try God. Jesus did OK, but I can do better”? Or should we rest in the finished work of Jesus? Help us to see rightly and to apply what has been accomplished to our walk before You. Help us to live in the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.