Always remember that Jesus Christ, a descendant of King David, was raised from the dead. This is the Good News I preach. And because I preach this Good News, I am suffering and have been chained like a criminal. But the word of God cannot be chained. So I am willing to endure anything if it will bring salvation and eternal glory in Christ Jesus to those God has chosen. 2 Timothy 2:8-10 ESV
Enduring. Suffering. These words probably bring up memories or emotions. What are you willing to endure for something you believe in? In 2 Timothy 2:9 Paul tells us, “And because I preach this Good News, I am suffering and have chained like a criminal.” Sometimes, in the American church we say we know about being persecuted for being Followers of Christ. I have been guilty of making that statement.
Bottom line. No. We don’t.
We don’t know the first thing. Paul was jailed and chained and ultimately would die for the sake of the Gospel. Would I be willing to be jailed, chained and executed? Would you?
Paul then says in the rest of verse nine, “but the word of God cannot be chained.” Some translations use the word bound instead of chained. Either way, you get the point. He knows that while he is in bondage the word of God is free, active, and moving. How about that?
Verse ten is really where it’s at for me though, so you may want to settle in, pull out your notepad and pen. “So I am willing to endure anything if it will bring salvation and eternal glory in Christ Jesus to those God has chosen.” Pause. Read that again, legit, I read it three times. Paul said he was willing, not coerced, obligated, or forced to – willing to endure anything if it would bring salvation and glory to Christ.
I say a person’s past does not define who they are now, I make it a practice to not bring it up. I have been granted grace upon grace, and Jesus has transformed and forgiven me. Thankfully, I am not who I used to be. Paul could say the same. BUT-A BIG BUT here, we really need to look at Paul’s past considering verse ten. Remember, Paul used to be Saul, ya’ know, the guy that was dragging men, women and children from homes and jailing them for following Jesus? Ya’ know the guy that was there when Stephen was stoned and he “agreed completely” with his killing, according to the book of Acts. Ya’ know the guy that was travelling all over to “destroy” the church.
This is all worthy to mention, because if anyone can be so BOLD as to say they are willing to endure anything if it will bring salvation and glory to Jesus, it is Paul.
The dude has street cred y’all.
Paul knew exactly what would happen to him. At this point in time, not only was he present when Stephen was murdered, James son of Zebedee had been martyred also. In my research, I found that some say Phillip had been killed, while others would argue it was later. Either way, Paul was a leader in persecuting the early church. So yes, when he says he’d be willing to suffer anything, it makes me want to pause, listen, check my heart, and share the Good News even more.
What about you? How does Paul’s profession impact on your viewpoint of sharing the Good News?
Heavenly Father, I thank you that I am alive in a time where I can publicly profess my faith, declare with my mouth that Jesus You are my Lord and my Savior. May, I unabashedly share the Good News with others, may You take over my heart, may I die to myself and may I show You. Forgive me when I don’t. I know I fail frequently. Thank you for Your Grace, which I need so often.
In Your Son’s Precious and Holy Name,
Amen