The true faith
As we continue through the book of 2 Timothy, we focus on chapter 3, verses 10 - 15. This passage of scripture is written by Paul, to his protege Timothy, and is the final letter Paul writes in imprisonment, before being martyred. Paul so far has encouraged Timothy to be unashamed of the gospel, and to continue the mission to the ends of the Earth. Faith is the substance of things hoped for, and evidence of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1), and we learn from this passage the importance of faith in the Christian life.
A Proven Faith
Up to this point, Paul has faced physical harm, and aggressive opposition for sharing the true gospel. In Acts 14 we can read about Paul’s journey in Antioch, Iconium and Lystra, which he references in his letter to Timothy, acknowledging that “the Lord rescued [Paul] from all of them” (v. 11). Paul’s faith in God was tested each time he faced opposition, and even when Paul was used to do healing miracles for others (Acts 14: 8-10). As Paul’s mentor, Timothy is reminded of how he witnessed firsthand Paul’s “teaching, way of life, … purpose, faith, patience, love, endurance, persecutions, sufferings” (v. 10-11). Paul’s faith has proven to be rooted in a living God, and outwardly displayed in his actions, beliefs and attitudes. Our faith stands on the foundation of a resurrected savior, who laid down his life by crucifixion, so that humans can have an everlasting relationship and saving grace from eternal condemnation. This faith needs to be proven genuine by the very way we life and our purpose in life.
A Faith in the Word
Timothy was a young Jewish man, who in those days, would have heard the “Holy Scriptures” (v. 15) being taught in the synogogue. Paul encourages Timothy to continue in the teaching that he has known and grown within, having known those that have shared the Old Testament with him, namely Timothy’s mother, Eunice and grandmother, Lois. These women have been commended to be faithful influences (2 Timothy 1: 5) in Timothy’s Christian walk. It is important that our faith is not based on mere experiences, but on the living and transformative word of God. The Bible is a firm foundation for faith because “all scripture is God-breathed” (v. 16). As Christians, we must trust the entirety of the Bible, and not become lukewarm and nit-picky in believing some but not all scriptures.
A Saving Faith
In this passage, the holy scriptures refers to the Old Testament, since in Paul’s time the New Testament was not available in written form nor shared in the synagogues. Paul writes that these same scriptures are able to bring wisdom or insight about salvation found in Christ Jesus. Wisdom is a valuable tool and is a recurring theme in the Bible. It’s a prized characteristic that all Christians should desire. The reading and reciting of scripture is important not only for “teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness” (v. 16), but is required so Christians can attain biblical-wisdom, and as Paul mentions, “wise for salvation” (v. 15). The Bible is our weapon in an ongoing spiritual war, and an adjunct for salvation. Our faith can only be attained through believing and confession that Christ is indeed Lord, and savior (Romans 10: 9-10).
Do you have the true faith, one that is rooted in wisdom for salvation and outworked in your beliefs, way of life and purpose? As Paul encouraged Timothy, remain faithful to the gospel that you have been taught, and if you feel unsure, seek out the truth of God’s word.
Dear Father God,
Thank you for inviting us into eternal relationship with you. I pray that I would continue to fight for kingdom come, and endure persecution for your name’s sake. Help me to be stand firm in faith against opposition, and to be loving when enemies come my way. Thank you for the gift of faith, and your never-ending faithfulness.
In your name,
Amen