Assurance of Perseverance.2 Timothy 1:12.
Which is why I suffer as I do. But I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed, and I am convinced that he is able to guard until that Day what has been entrusted to me.
Dear People of God,
Paul now links his imprisonment and other forms of suffering to his calling as a preacher, apostle, and teacher of the gospel.
Suffering (v. 12a). Paul is in prison and by all indications, he will not get out alive. It is very clear in his mind that his imprisonment is because of the proclamation of the gospel. The gospel is an offense and a threat to many and given the opportunity, even in our time, they will remove the offense by silencing the preacher.
No Shame (v. 12b). Being a prisoner is usually a shameful thing because it marks one as a wrongdoer and lawbreaker. But Paul is not ashamed. He knows the Saviour he has put his faith in. Earlier, he identified himself, not as a prisoner of the state, but of the Lord (v. 8). The right perspective of our situation is what ensures that we do not cave in under persecution.
Sure (v. 12c). Paul has no doubts about the One he has put his faith in and his ability to deliver on his promises. Often, we fear to commit totally to God because we doubt his intentions toward us. The meaning of this last clause is uncertain. Some translations say, “that which I have entrusted to him,” while others say, “that which has been entrusted to me. Whatever option one goes with, the point is that God will not let us down. We can depend on him and trust him to ensure that those who put their faith in him will triumph over evil and opposition. Do not let adversity derail you from God’s plan for your life.
Your Loving Pastor Chris.