Guardians Of The GospelSample

Are you pursuing every opportunity you have to share the Gospel? If you’re on social media, you will be tempted to share the many good things in your life with others. Our culture programs us to share an alternate reality of our lives that better presents our ideal world, rather than our real world. Paul shares an unfiltered image of his life with Timothy in this letter as he heads towards the end of his earthly journey. Paul is authentic, vulnerable, and displays a sense of urgency in his tone.

Do you ever feel like your life is not your own? I guess there are times when we all wonder what our life’s purpose is and wonder how what we do matters in the greater scheme of things. If this is how you sometimes feel, you are not alone! Paul describes his life in terms linked to the Old Testament concept of a sacrificial cup offering. Paul was aware that his very existence was sacrificial. That’s true of us too; we are chosen by God for a distinct purpose and gifted in ways to serve the Gospel. Elsewhere, Paul makes it clear that God delights in giving spiritual gifts to people and has given the church, as a whole, the gift of people such as evangelists, pastors, or teachers, and apostles (Eph 4:11-12). Whatever gift we receive, our lives are to be lived with a distinct sense of purpose, making the most of every opportunity, as we empty ourselves out in service to King Jesus. 

Paul reminds Timothy of three aspects of his faith that link up to the metaphor given here (which call back to 2 Tim 2:3-6):

Paul declared that he has fought the good fight (as a soldier). On reflection, his life may not have been perfect, but it was defined by obedience to God and diligence in the execution of his duty.

Paul has finished his race (as an athlete). He had given his best and had competed in such a way that he would gain a great reward for his efforts. Paul was on the winning team and this determined how he ran his race. 

Paul has kept the faith (like a farmer tending his crops). As a result of this intense focus exerted on Paul’s behalf, he’s more convinced at the end of his life and ministry of the reward that Jesus will give him and others who have done the same.

Don’t give up! Don’t give in! Don’t lose faith! We are not always able to see the end of what we pour our lives into, but we can trust in God’s faithfulness. Let’s make the most of every opportunity that God gives us each day so that we will serve the purposes of God well. Although you may not always see your impact, keep sharing the reality of the gospel in every God-given opportunity you get because people in your world need to hear the good news and you may be their God-given opportunity to do so.

Advancing the Gospel - join the movement

Multiplication is at the heart of Advance. An evangelist should always be ready to seize any opportunity that comes their way to proclaim the gospel, but also to support the multiplication of the evangelistic endeavor of the church. One way we do this is to encourage evangelists to mentor others who have a desire to effectively take the gospel into the world.