2 Timothy 2:25 – Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth
2 Timothy 2:25 – Enduring Hardships As a Minister
As Timothy faced his own impending death, Paul wrote these words to encourage him. The apostle wanted to make sure that Timothy, who had just completed his tenth missionary journey, would be able to stand strong in his faith and have a firm reliance on the written Word of God.
The Word of God is always true, regardless of what people may say about it. We must be careful to follow the truth when others are promoting false teaching and to remain devoted to doctrinal purity.
To heed the words of God means to do what is right, to guard our faith, and to obey Jesus’ commands in all areas of life. This is a serious and arduous task.
It involves training and discipline. It requires a great deal of effort, and it is not for the perpetual adolescent who wants to coast through life or play video games without doing any real work for God.
Enduring Hardness
The apostle calls on Timothy to faithfully endure various hardships as a minister, like a good soldier of Christ. He is to teach what he originally learned from Paul and pass on that knowledge to faithful men.
He will face many trials, but he will also win victories when his message is accepted and shared by the right people. It is important for him to do this because he will be part of a long train of teachers who have been entrusted with God’s Word and with the purpose to teach it.
