The epistle of Second Timothy is considered to be one of Paul’s most personal letters. He is writing during his second and final imprisonment to his trusted and beloved son in the faith. Paul knows his execution is imminent. His concern is not for himself, but for Timothy, who must continue in the spiritual battle. His theme, “the good soldier of Jesus Christ” follows that of first Timothy, “Fight the good fight” (1Ti 1:18; 1Ti 6:12).
Gene Cunningham - June 7, 2010
Courage in Conflict
Endurance is the greatest forms of courage — the ability to hang on in difficult situations. Key verse in Chapter 4 (2Ti 4:5). Be alert the enemy is lurking (Eph 6:10-12). Temptation and trails have God's way of escape through the problem not out of it (1Co 10:13). The work of witness is a task for all of us [reference Dickson "Getting the Gospel Wrong" and Lybrand "Back to Faith"]. Focus is always Jesus Christ; faith alone in Christ alone (Joh 1:12). Everyone has a ministry: a priesthood, is an ambassador, and is a minister. Taking up the cross is simply fulfilling the Will of God for your life. Three elements of battlefield action: conflict, fear, and courage. The conflict causes fear. Fear is a call to faith (Psa 56:3). Overcoming fear results in courage. We face the battle within (Rom 7:14-25, 1Jo 2:15-17). We have the external struggle (Eph 6:10-13) so that we can stand (Eph 6:14). If we win the inner battle we'll win the external battle. The single most critical tactic and battle plan — continued faith (1Jo 5:4-5, Col 3:1-3, Phi 1:29, Rev 12:11). To conquer fear (Psa 27:1, Heb 13:5-6).
Scripture References: Psalms 27:1, John 2:15-17, Revelation 12:11, Romans 7:14-25, Philippians 1:29, Psalms 56:3, Colossians 3:1-3, John 1:12, John 5:4-5, Ephesians 6:10-12, Ephesians 6:14, Hebrews 13:5-6, Ephesians 6:10-13
From Series: "Arkansas Youth Camp 2010 - Courage in Conflict"
Given at Arkansas Youth Camp 2010