January 25
2 Timothy 2.1-7
1 You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. 2 And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others. 3 Join with me in suffering, like a good soldier of Christ Jesus. 4 No one serving as a soldier gets entangled in civilian affairs, but rather tries to please his commanding officer. 5 Similarly, anyone who competes as an athlete does not receive the victor’s crown except by competing according to the rules. 6 The hardworking farmer should be the first to receive a share of the crops. 7 Reflect on what I am saying, for the Lord will give you insight into all this.
Early in my ministry I had someone come to me and ask questions about how we share our faith. She wanted to share the Gospel with some of her neighbours, but didn’t know what she should share or if she would have all of the answers necessary. She felt under-equipped for the task. This is why different people have written books and guides to sharing faith. Things that worked for them, in a particular place at a particular time. Things we tried to replicate in different places, at different times, with different people. With varying levels of success.
I didn’t offer her any of those resources, as they were not as applicable in our context. In my response I didn’t cite this text either, but it certainly undergirds what I think of the answer for her, and for us all as we wonder about this. If I know enough for me to believe, I have enough to share. I share the parts I know and admit that there are always things I don’t know.
Paul has left Timothy in a place to lead and teach others. Teaching them the things Paul taught him. Teaching them so that they can teach others these things, so that those who learn from them can teach others also. And it goes down the line. Out to various places of the world and through the centuries that have followed.
Paul’s reminder is for us all. We don’t need to know all things for us to help others become disciples of Jesus, or to help others follow Jesus better. We simply share the things we know and learn with people as we come to things we don’t. Even wondering at times together about the things we may never fully understand. Taking to heart what Paul says to Timothy, because this is what will encourage us and enable us as well. Reflect on what we have heard, for the Lord will give us insight into all of this.
Song – Lord, I Give You My Heart
Prayer
Grant, O Lord, that what we have read and heard over our lives of following you, we may believe in our hearts, and that what we believe in our hearts we may practice in our lives, through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.