2 Timothy is thought by many scholars to be the last letter Paul wrote. It is, at the least, probably the latest of Paul’s letters included in the Scriptures. It was written during his second imprisonment in Rome, which was much harder than the first, likely ending in his death. He was shut away, with few visitors, and he felt his death was imminent. He was about to give the last drops of his blood for the work of the LORD. [4:6]
As the last letter, it has much to say to us. Paul’s words are deep and for many of us, familiar. We have heard them quoted, even perhaps memorized many of this letter’s verses. There are only four short chapters. If you get a chance, read them; they have much to say about our nation’s current struggles.
One of the first things Paul reminds Timothy, his son in the faith, is found in chapter 1, verses 8-11. Paul is not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ Jesus, even though it has brought him imprisonment and approaching martyrdom. He wants Timothy to also not be ashamed, so he reminds him of the glorious calling of God.
“He has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace, which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began.” [v 9 CSB]
We belong to God not through any self-determination or self-merit. We belong to God because of God’s purpose and through God’s grace. It is a holy calling, ours before time began. That thought alone should bring us to our knees. (If we belong to God through our own merits, our own righteousness, we will have much about which to boast. But we belong to God because He wants us and that should humble us beyond measure!)
We heard God’s call. We placed our trust in Him. Now, we like Paul can say: “I am not ashamed, because I know the One I have believed in and am persuaded that He is able to guard what has been entrusted to me until that day.” [v 12]
