2 Timothy 2:1-13
“The phrase rendered, “be strong,” derives from the passive imperative form of the verb, endynemoo (1743), “to empower.” Furthermore the imperative is present tense, which calls for an ongoing response. So the command is best translated, “keep on being empowered”. Theologians call this kind of passive verb a “divine passive “ because it implies divine agency. In other words, God does the empowering, so our responsibility is to submit to His work and to cooperate with it. Christ is the source, Grace is the means by which it flows from Him to us. This must be : continual, uninterrupted process. Just like electricity in your home, if the flow of power stops nothing works. (Quote from Swindoll’s New Testament Commentary on 1&2 Timothy – Titus page 190)
Three Endeavors: 2 Timothy 2:3-6;
Christ Example & Paul’s Endurance: 2 Timothy 2:-8-10;
Four Realities: 2 Timothy 2:11-13;
First Reality: (2:11) “If we died with Him, we will live with Him.”
Salvation is a foundational promise of the gospel. Unconditional, what Jesus Christ endured for us.
Second Reality: (2:12) “If we endure with Him, we will also reign with Him.”
Sanctification, is the conditional nature of living out the life of Christ in us through empowering grace and the Holy Spirit.
Third Reality: (2:12) “If we deny Him, He also will deny us.”
Fourth Reality: (2:13) “If we are faithless, He remains faithful, for He cannot deny Himself.”