Do We Have The Necessary Insight?

Paul the apostle gave Timothy an entrustment to pass on what he had learned (2 Timothy 2:1-7). To do this effectively, he challenged him both to rely on the grace of God, and also work hard.

How could Paul expect him to do both? How could he expect the Philippians to allow God to work His purpose in them, and yet at the same time work out their own salvation (Cf. Philippians 2:12-13)? How can we hold the tension between our reliance on God and our responsibility to God?

This kind of paradox requires an insight. And that is what Paul suggested to Timothy. He wrote, “…reflect on what I am saying, for the Lord will give you insight into all this…” (2 Timothy 2:7).

The concept of passing on what we have learned to others, which is so central to our commission, and so vital to the church, is more than just a human responsibility, it is a divine revelation.

Are we reflecting on this?

Do we have the necessary understanding of our entrustment?

Have we received the revelation necessary to be the faithful and reliable people that Paul expected of Timothy – and God expects of us?

Robert