November 4, 2023 - 2 Timothy 3

Paul writes, “Understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty” (3:1). I suppose every generation can make the case that these verses well describe its situation. Also, this should not be surprising because we live in a fallen world, and evil never takes a vacation. And even when we see some espousing religion, so often they are those whom Paul describes as “having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power” (3:5). Such certainly describes well our present generation.

Paul named the wicked – “Jannes and Jambres who opposed Moses,” and there were those who opposed Paul – and Paul, writing about “my persecutions and sufferings that happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium, and at Lystra-- which persecutions I endured,” could testify, “Yet from them all the Lord rescued me” (3:8-11). Furthermore, Paul warns, “Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (3:12). But, as the Lord rescued Paul, so he will care for us and rescue us. With the psalmist, we testify, “He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, ‘My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust’” (Psalm 91:1-2).

Let us make our boast

Of His redeeming power,

Which saves us to the uttermost,

Till we can sin no more.

Let us take up the cross

Till we the crown obtain;

And gladly reckon all things loss,

So we may Jesus gain. --Charles Wesley (1749)