Watchful in all Things

Text: 2 Timothy 4:1-5
30 October 2005

(I) A GRAVE BATTLE SCENARIO

“For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers;

And they will turn their ears away, and be turned aside to fables.” 2 Timothy 4:3-4

1. Sound doctrine rejected

2. False teachers accepted

3. Instead of doctrines- fables!

(II) FIGHTING THE GOOD FIGHT OF FAITH SUCCESSFULLY

“But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry” 2 Timothy 4:5

1. Watchfulness

“But you be watchful…” 2 Timothy 4:5

“Be watchful, and strengthen those things which remain, that are ready to die…” Revelation 3:2

2. Endurance

“Endure afflictions…” 2 Timothy 4:5

“Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life” Revelation 2:10

3. Focus (on Soul-winning work)

“Do the work of an evangelist…” 2 Timothy 4:5

“I know your works. See, I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it; for you have a little strength, have kept My word, and have not denied My name.” Revelation 3:8

4. Holding Fast

“Fulfill your ministry” 2 Timothy 4:5

“Behold, I am coming quickly! Hold fast what you have, that no one may take your crown.” Revelation 3:11

(III) A GREAT EXAMPLE TO EMULATE

“Therefore I endure all things for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory” 2 Timothy 2:10

1. The Power of an Exemplary man of God

2. The Passion to Emulate a great example set

a) Acceptance of Suffering

b) Strength to endure

c) Eternal glory in view always

POEM

FAITH

Faith is a living power from heaven

That grasps the promise God hath given,

A trust that cannot be o’er thrown,

Fixed heartily on Christ alone.

Faith finds in Christ whate’er we need

To save or strengthen us indeed;

Receive the grace He sends us down

And makes us share His cross and crown.

Faith in the conscience worketh peace

And bids the mourner’s weeping cease;

By faith the children’s place we claim,

And give all honour to One name.

Faith feels the Spirit’s kindling breath

In love and hope that conquer death;

Faith worketh hourly joy in God,

And trusts and blesses e’en the rod.

We thank Thee, then, O God of heaven,

That Thou to us this faith hast given

In Jesus Christ Thy Son, who is

Our only fount and source of bliss.