Tuesday, October 27, 2009

2 Timothy 4

This chapter makes pastoral ministry look simple. The exhortations are short, obvious and noble (2 Tim. 4:1-5).

He tells us what it looks like to finish well. He clearly has in view a reward, that in his mind may be only days away.

In stark contrast to the reward is the loneliness and disappointment of ministerial life. Demas left him for the present world. He made an insane exchange. Paul describes Alexander who did him much harm and how he was left all alone at his first trial.

The hope of reward and the reality of life make the simple requests even more personal. Bring my coat, books, and friends before winter.

No comments: