For The Sake of The Gospel: 2 Timothy 2:10
“10) For this reason I endure all things for the sake of those who are chosen, so that they also may obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus and with it eternal glory.” 2 Timothy 2:10
Paul was will to endure all things for the sake of the pure gospel. Philippians 1:7 tells the story of how Paul understood that his life was appointed to both define and depend the true gospel. He literally laid down his life for the sake of the chosen.
He stated in 2 Timothy 2:10 that the salvation of others was at stake for his willingness to endure all things for the sake of the gospel. This verse stretches my theology, but I cannot deny the sincerity of the Apostle. What are you willing suffer for the sake of the gospel?
I believe a special grace comes on every believer who suffers for the sake of Jesus and the gospel. Paul’s farewell to the church at Ephesus as recorded in Acts 20:17-27 captures his mindset. Knowing that suffering awaited him, he said; “22) And now, behold, bound by the Spirit, I am on my way to Jerusalem, 23) not knowing what will happen to me there, except that the Holy Spirit solemnly testifies to me in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions await me. 24) But I do not consider my life of any account as dear to myself, so that I may finish my course and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify solemnly of the gospel of the grace of God. 25) And now, behold, I know that all of you, among whom I went about preaching the kingdom, will no longer see my face. 26) Therefore, I testify to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of all men. 27) For I did not shrink from declaring to you the whole purpose of God.”
Every time I read this text, it inspires me to adopt the same mindset. Jesus, the gospel and others are worth any amount of personal suffering. This is the same mindset of believers in the persecuted church today. No wonder the presence and power of the Holy Spirit flows through them as it did in the early church.
One of the results of revival is a renewed focus on the gospel. Paul was urging Timothy to realign his life with his calling. The same is needed by the western church today. A willingness to suffer for Jesus and the gospel is part of the package.
Daily Bible Commentary By Terry Baxter: Cofounder of GoServ Global.
