Today in God's Word

Today in God's Word—January 2023 East Tallassee Church of Christ January 29, 2 Timothy 4 The long journeys are over. The end is near. In the autumn of 67 AD, from a dungeon in Rome, Paul wrote to Timothy what would be his last words in the New Testament. If tradition is correct, he would be beheaded the following spring. What was on his mind? What were his final instructions? With the same solemnity that would mark our conversation with a dying loved one, let’s review Paul’s last recorded words.

Paul was conscious of God’s presence. Some of his companions had been sent on missions; others, like Demas, had deserted him. Dr. Luke had been there all along. Paul wanted John Mark to come with Timothy. Mark had quit on one missionary journey, and Paul didn’t want him on the next one. Since that time, Mark had become a valuable member of Paul’s team. But whether he had human company or not, Paul knew the Lord was with him. At his first defense, when no one stood with him, Paul said the Lord stood by him, strengthening him. This consciousness of God’s faithful presence had propelled Paul throughout his ministry, and would bring him safely home.

With that same awareness of being in God’s presence, Paul gave Timothy a solemn charge to preach the word whether it was popular or not, to endure suffering as he patiently taught and encouraged people who didn’t want to hear it. Paul’s work would continue through Timothy and others, but only if the younger preachers were faithful to preach the word. Paul knew he would die soon, and he was full of confidence in the face of death. He reviewed his life’s work, knowing that it was done. Paul might not have received justice from all the judges he faced in this world, but he was sure the Lord, the righteous judge, would reward him with a crown of righteousness. By faith he saw that crown laid up for him, waiting for the day the Lord would reward all the people who had longed for his return.

Paul’s awareness of his imminent death also gave his instructions to Timothy a sense of urgency: Come soon, do your best to come before winter. Winter weather would suspend travel for several months. Timothy might not see his old friend and teacher again in this life if he delayed.

I am sorry if this seems morbid, but it is important. If the circumstances near the end of your life are such that you know death is approaching, what solemn words will you leave with your loved ones? Will you anticipate death with confidence and assurance of the Lord’s presence, even as you enter the valley of the shadow of death? Will you look back on life with satisfaction and a sense of completion? In such a moment, will your faith serve you well? The only way to face death like Paul did is to live like Paul did, with total reliance on the Lord.

From The Abiding Companion: A Friendly Guide for Your Journey Through the New Testament, Copyright © 2010 by Michael B. McElroy. Used by permission. All rights reserved.