Steadfastness in the Face of Persecution. 2 Timothy 3:10-11.
You, however, have followed my teaching, my conduct, my aim in life, my faith, my patience, my love, my steadfastness, My persecutions and sufferings that happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium, and at Lystra – which persecutions I endured; yet from them, all the Lord rescued me.
Dear New Israel,
The purpose of Paul’s letter to Timothy is to encourage him in ministry. Having cautioned him about the deceivers, Paul now turns his attention to himself.
Dedication (v. 10). Paul presents himself as the opposite of the deceivers. His life, of which Timothy is a witness, has been characterized by faithfulness to the truth (teaching), integrity (conduct), purpose (aim), unwavering faith, endurance (patience), love, and steadfastness. Paul is contrasting himself to the liars that Timothy is up against in order to encourage him to keep striving. Timothy is not alone in the struggle – he has his mentor.
Distress (v. 11a). Paul has suffered persecution many times and in many places. He deliberately chooses the sufferings he went through in Antioch, Iconium, and Lystra (Acts 14:2-8, 19), because this was Timothy’s home area (Acts 16:1-2). This is intended to bring home just how close persecution is to us. It is right in our home town.
Deliverance (v. 11b). Paul endured all the persecution inflicted on him but he did not have to go through it indefinitely. God rescued him. We should not give up because God always provides relief. He will not let us be tempted beyond what we can endure (1 Corinthians 10:13), so we should hold on a little longer – relief is on the way.
Your Loving Pastor Chris.