Pass It On

January 22, 2020

Timothy, my dear son, be strong through the grace that God gives you in Christ Jesus. You have heard me teach things that have been confirmed by many reliable witnesses. Now teach these truths to other trustworthy people who will be able to pass them on to others. 2 Timothy 2:1-2 NLT

This is the last letter Paul would write. At this moment, Paul is very near the end of his life. He is confined within the Roman Mamertine prison, awaiting his execution. Paul’s final days are lived in the shadow of the executioner’s axe, knowing he will soon give his life for the faith.

As Paul penned this last epistle, many thoughts weighed heavy on his mind. He greatly missed his son in the faith, Timothy. The church was growing rapidly, and Paul felt the need to address church organization, continued doctrinal purity, and guidance for daily Christian life. Paul was also aware of the dangers of false teaching, which had become prevalent within the modern culture, and was finding its way into the church. He was very intent that the true gospel continues until Jesus comes back. Knowing his time was limited, Paul wanted to leave final instructions for the young pastor he loved, and the church at large, to which he had committed his life.

Paul knew the most important thing was that the truth of Jesus (Timothy had not met Him in the flesh—he likely was not even born yet when Jesus went back to heaven) that had been confirmed by many reliable eyewitnesses, be transmitted to the next generation who would then pass it on. Then they would pass it on, then they would pass it on . . . you get the picture, right? That’s why WE are here. We are a direct result of these verses, the obedience of the people, and the success of the strategy.

It is more important than ever that we recognize this passion and calling today. We are a critical link in passing on the faith to new generations. We must be trustworthy and reliable, not filtering the message through our own preferences and opinions but keeping the clear message of salvation through Jesus and our first-hand transformation central to our sharing. We are witnesses. Let’s be reliable and consistent.

• Pray: Lord, I am never more in line with Your mission than when I am reliably and directly sharing the good news of salvation. May I be a link to people who do not yet know You. Amen.