BE STRONG IN THE GRACE THAT IS IN CHRIST

Text: 2 Timothy 1-2
14 August 2011

(I) A FATHER’S ADMONITION

1. To be strong

2. To find that strength in the grace found in the Lord Jesus Christ

(II) GRACE IN LIFE AND MINISTRY

1. Saved (2 Timothy 1:9a)

a) From death

b) To life

c) Through the Gospel ( 2 Timothy 1:10 )

2. Called (2 Timothy 1:9b)

a) Appointed

i) A preacher

ii) An apostle

iii) A teacher of the Gentiles

b) Suffering

i) Accepted as part of ministry ( 2 Timothy 1:12a )

ii) Undeterred and unashamed ( 2 Timothy 1:12b )

iii) Absolute confidence in Christ ( 2 Timothy 1:12c )

(III) CHALLENGE TO SUCCEED IN LIFE AND MINISTRY

1. Vital ministry

a) To treasure vital spiritual knowledge ( 2 Timothy 2:2 )

b) To pass on this knowledge to the next generation ( 2 Timothy 2:2 )

2. Essential strength

a) To be found in the grace of the Lord

b) To learn how to draw this strength from the Lord

3. Powerful imagery employed

a) A good soldier who is able to endure hardship ( 2 Timothy 2:3-4 )

b) A good athlete who does not cheat ( 2 Timothy 2:5 )

c) A hardworking farmer ( 2 Timothy 2:6 )