Solemn Charge. 2 Timothy 4:1-2.
I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingdom: Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching
Dear Citizens of Heaven,
There is no doubt that Timothy was committed to the gospel. Why Paul charges him so solemnly is not clear. It could be that Paul expected others to access the letter and was writing this for their benefit. Or more likely, Paul feared that Timothy could be intimidated by the opposition and being a man of peace, avoid preaching the gospel in situations that could foment trouble.
Presence (v. 1). Paul calls as witness the two persons who are the essence of the gospel God the creator and author of salvation, and Christ Jesus, the Saviour whom God appointed as judge of “the living and the dead” at the end of the age. Paul reminds Timothy that we are all in anticipation of Christ’s appearing to establish his kingdom. In a sense, Paul is saying that too much is at stake for one even as timid as Timothy to be cowed by the opposition.
Proclamation (v. 2). Timothy is to preach the word and always be ready to do so, whether the conditions are favorable or not. This is the word that has just been declared to be profitable for all manner of instruction. Paul repeats some of the things he said earlier and adds also to the list.
Reprove. This, as we saw earlier, is to show a person where they have gone wrong. Rebuke. Similar to reproof, it is warning a person of the danger inherent in the wrong he has done. Exhort. This is to encourage a person to live and do right. All of this is to be done with patience and teaching. There may be opposition, but we must never forget that many people are ignorant of the truths of the gospel and may change their opposition to support, if well taught. Preach the word!
your Loving Pastor Chris.