2 Timothy 4:9-22

2 Timothy 4:9-22

Were it not for one ray of hope, this passage, indeed this book, would be depressing. Paul comes to the conclusion of our last known letter from him, and there is not the swelling roar of a church growth victory. He was aware that this imprisonment would end in his death. He is lonely, having dispatched most of his team on missions and having been abandoned by one. Dimas didn’t simply leave him; he forsook his responsibility. He was a deserter. Paul is facing winter without his outer wrap and doesn’t have his study materials. At least one team member was too sick to travel. During the first part of this trial, Paul was unsupported; everyone left him because being associated with his case was too toxic. On top of that, one of the opponents of the gospel, Alexander the metalworker, was still creating mischief. There appeared to be no earthly resolution to Alexander’s attacks. Paul placed Timothy on guard against this dangerous opponent. Despite all this, Paul has continued his preaching. Read carefully the words and the tone of this passage; he sounds like an exhausted and discouraged person. If only Paul had known enough to “name and claim” victory over his circumstances.

But there is one ray of hope that shines out of this somewhat gloomy text. In fact, it shines bright enough to dispel all the clouds and darkness. Paul seems to say, “I will choose to have hope.” But it is not the hope of circumstances changing. It is not the hope of wealth, health, reconciliation, or some vague better future here on earth. Paul’s hope is expressed in verse 18. The Lord will deliver me from every evil deed. That is not only the evil actions propagated against Paul but also the evil that might be of his own doing. The first part of his hope is personal holiness. Verse 18 continues, “and will bring me safely to His heavenly kingdom.” Paul anticipates the victory of going to his forever home. In the midst of this ministry at the end of a faithful life, Paul sees the preferred vision of the future in two things: personal holiness and the resurrection. When we come to that understanding of victory, we will be within sight of a life well lived.

“Lord, help me have the great hope that inspired Your servant Paul. AMEN”