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 - February 13, 2000
Cross to the Crown #4
Three stages of discipleship (1Jo 2:12-14). "I am the Way, Truth, and Life" (Joh 14:6). Nurture stage -- spiritual infancy (1Jo 2:12) is marked by keen awareness of forgiven sins; we have a sense of their Father (Rom 8:15). Spiritual Infant focus is spiritual self awareness; what they have; God as "the giver of good gifts"; must grow up (1Co 13:11); believers focused on themselves (1Co 3:1). Spiritual infants need: (1) to know their eternal security (Joh 10:28-29, 1Pe 1:5); (2) children need cleansing (1Jo 1:9, Gal 6:1); (3) children need nourishment (1Co 3:2, 1Pe 2:2, ); (4) a child needs training/exercise (Heb 5:11-14, 1Th 2:7-11). Young men (1Jo 2:14) have tasted victory at times; the Word abides in them. Key is spiritual exercise and productivity (Heb 5:13-14, Joh 15:7-8). Fathers refers to mature believers -- they know the Father intimately (Phi 3:10-13, 2Ti 4:8).
Scripture References: Hebrews 5:13-14, John 2:12, John 2:14, John 14:6, Hebrews 5:11-14, John 2:12-14, Galatians 6:1, John 1:9, Philippians 3:10-13, John 10:28-29, John 15:7-8, Romans 8:15
From Series: "The Cross to the Crown"
To get from 'the cross to the crown' we need to make decisions to live a life of spiritual dynamics using God's provisions -- His Word and Spirit. This series given in early 2006 before Gene moved back to the States outlines ten aspects of our discipleship.