Passing the Torch

Ephesians 6:19 Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel. (NIV)

            The Apostle Paul had a special closeness to his mentee, Timothy. Paul thought of him as his spiritual son and gave him instructions concerning the teaching of the gospel. He commended Timothy’s grandmother, Lois, and his mother, Eunice, for being faithful to God and having raised Timothy to do the same. They had passed the torch of faith to Timothy and set a Godly example before him, which cultivated him into becoming the warrior for Christ that he was meant to be. Proverbs 22:6 Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it. (NIV) Their training and discipline, set the foundation for Timothy, by which, Paul would later have the privilege of mentoring and entrusting the Lord’s work into his hands as his death came near.

 

Paul dedicated some of his writings to Timothy with regards to effective leadership within the body of Christ. He advised him to be strong and not be ashamed, or timid when teaching the gospel even unto death. 2 Timothy 2:3-4 Endure hardship with us like a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No one serving as a soldier gets involved in civilian affairs – he wants to please his commanding officer. (NIV) To be a minister of the gospel during those times was very dangerous and could cost one his life, but even with the threat of death, God required them to remain strong.

            It was important for Timothy to imitate Christ by setting the proper example for those around him. He also had to teach new converts the will of God regardless of if it was of popular opinion or not. 2 Timothy 4:2 Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage with great patience and careful instruction. (NIV) Timothy saw the example of what it took to be a fearless warrior for Christ through the life of Paul as well as his teachings, for they lined up with who Jesus was. It enabled him to pick up where Paul left off and continue the ministry of winning souls for the Kingdom of God.

There are times when popular opinion will not coincide with the Word of God. However, as a warrior for Christ, we must make a stand even more so. The world has become increasingly dark and there are going to be difficult days ahead, for many Christians in the West, just as it is for numerous believers around world. Nevertheless, we too must pass the torch of Christ to others, so that their souls can be saved and for the spreading of the unadulterated gospel throughout the world.