The Contagious Christian Life

The apostle Paul encourages Timothy in his effort to lead the church in Ephesus by reminding him of the gift of Christ's forgiveness, and the God-given abilities to accomplish His purposes. By not neglecting these gifts and moving forward, Christians can cultivate genuine spiritual excitement and vitality. Includes information from "Spiritual Leadership" by Oswald Sanders.

God has called, set apart, and entrusted Christians with the task of loving and reconciling people to God through Jesus. Here, the apostle Paul writes to Timothy to encourage him to persevere in leading for Christ in this way amid challenging circumstances.

Paul exhorts Timothy to abide in the strength that God's grace supplies. How this grace affects identity, others-centered relationships, and the larger local community is explored.

Paul asks Timothy to consider moving deeper into complicated relationships with the message of God. With this example, we're challenged to have a radical others-centered focus, while taking a sober look at what the world is truly like.

Paul imparts confidence in Timothy by reminding him of the importance, power, and relevance of Scripture. Like Timothy, when Christians are true to the Word of God, they gain clarity from God and closeness to Him. When diligent in this endeavor, Christians can build spiritual depth and spiritual relationships.

In the last days, selfish love will increase. Paul describes the kind of depravity that will occur; man will pursue love of self, money, and pleasure. This will result in corruption of self, destruction of relationships, and spiritual depravity. The alternative is a fulfilled life pursuing others and relationships.

The Bible uniquely claims to be the inspired Word of God, holding the answers to some of our biggest questions. Only, why should we trust the Bible to speak objective truth? Why should we believe it is God's Word? We examine why the Bible is a trustworthy source, and why it truly is unique.

Paul closes up his letter to Timothy, describing his own perspective on the present, past, and future in order to teach Timothy how to live well. We, like Timothy, should live our lives sacrificially loving others, doing the work of God, and striving to please Him. Paul leaves Timothy with four aspects of a mature servant: be alert, prepare for battle, focus on what matters, and respond to God's leading.

How will we respond to suffering, rejection, and failure in our walks with God? Will we respond like Demas and give into defeat, listening to our broken pride? Or will we instead find humility in grace like Mark, allowing ourselves to be grown by God's discipline? Paul reveals some of the difficulties of following God, and the choice we have between giving up or fighting the good fight and growing from failure.