2 Timothy 2:1-26
Hmm, I didn't know what we were going to read according to this title, but the beginning of Paul's second letter to Timothy has my attention. This admonition to stick to the proscribed rules and not to be sidetracked by other things and ideas. This is similar to what he said yesterday, using slightly different examples.
"No soldier gets entangled in civilian pursuits, since his aim is to please the one who enlisted him."
Again this entreaty to avoid "irreverent babble." Sometimes people just need to keep their mouths closed. This is more than just keeping quiet though, in this I think Paul is trying keep us from getting distracted or distracting others. And more than that, talking in ways that are contrary to God's word and the Good News of Christ.
The ending paragraph of this passage reminds me of certain questions that have come up over the years; the question of when the world will end and Christ return in judgement. There are other things we like to quarrel over or discuss at length, and yet Paul, (who is not known for being wishy-washy in his convictions) says not to go there. Perhaps he has learned through experience that it isn't useful to be in the middle of arguments over "ignorant controversies."
Gentle teaching will do more for getting a point across. I heard a sermon on a similar topic last Sunday, and the way to achieve this is by listening; hearing what another person has to say and asking them to tell you more-so that when the time comes they may ask you what you think and you can then tell of the hope that is in you. By following this plan: remember who enlisted you, don't get sidetracked, avoid irreverent babble, and using gentle teaching, these are ways to be a follower of Christ. Ways in which you will live "strengthened by the grace that is in Christ Jesus."
See you tomorrow.
-maggie
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