Wednesday, October 21, 2009

2 Timothy 2 , Paul's instructs again to "endure hardship" as a soldier of Christ. Paul uses a few analogies, such as pleasing the "commanding officer" and "following the rules" will result in "crowns" , a "share of the crops", and obtaining "eternal glory".
Paul says that if we endure, we will receive these future rewards in a more glorious life (reign) with him forever. But, if we "disown Him", Christ will deny us these future rewards and the potential reign we would have otherwise enjoyed in eternal glory. Paul then warns against quarreling and "Godless chatter", but rather "present yourself to God as one approved", "who correctly handles the Word of truth", and "pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace". To be sure, though, "the Lord knows those who are His", and even "if we are faithless, He will remain faithful" .