DAY 3: 2 TIMOTHY 4:1-5
BE ALWAYS READY
Read 2 Timothy 4:2.
I have heard it said that as a pastor, one needs to be prepared to preach at any given time. Having a sermon in one’s “back pocket” is perhaps good advice because one might never know when it will come in handy. The message in today’s passage is a similar one – be prepared in season and out of season to challenge, warn, and urge people on (MSG). The NEB version says it this way, “press it home on all occasions, convenient or inconvenient.” The point here is that good leaders will always be ready to take advantage of an opportunity to press home the truth.
The picture of being in season or out of season can either relate to Timothy or his hearers. If to Timothy, then it meant that he was to preach the word (correct, rebuke, encourage) whether he felt like it or not (see 2 Tim. 1:6-7). If to his listeners, then he was to preach whether or not it was convenient to his audience. Considering what Paul says in the subsequent verses, it is likely Paul was telling Timothy to preach the word to a sometimes not so receptive or interested audience. In that case, I’m not sure I would feel like preaching, which would then make both possibilities apply!
But this was more than simply preaching from a pulpit. Timothy is told to patiently work with his people, giving careful instruction. He was not to be angry over a lack of progress or frustrated by continually correcting false ideas. He was to be patient in his approach.
This is a picture of biblical leadership. Someone who goes to great lengths to ensure others are growing in the knowledge of the truth and living in such a way that is pleasing to God. They’re not afraid to do what is good and right even when it’s inconvenient. A strong leader doesn’t hammer on people to walk with God, but gently and patiently works with people to help them understand the Scriptures, to apply the Scriptures, to correct when needed, to cheer them on in their progress, even in their failings.
To consider: What kind of leader are you? How are these characteristics exhibited in your leadership?
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Questions for Home Groups
1) As one under the care of leaders, how do you best receive direction, correction, and encouragement?
2) How difficult would it be for you to teach an audience who didn’t want to listen? Based on this passage, how should a good teacher respond?
