II Timothy Chapter 4
Paul writing to Timothy expressed his feelings of the season he was in. Paul felt that the end of his life would be soon, and he wanted Timothy to come and visit him before the end came. Imagine what went through Timothy’s mind as he read these words. Paul had been like a father to him. He probably dropped whatever he was doing and packed immediately to leave. Paul had given Timothy so much godly advice and in turn the letters he wrote, being inspired (God breathed) by the Holy Spirit – encourages us in our faith as well.
Paul saw his life as being poured out like a drink offering, a reference to the Old Testament sacrificial system. This pouring out is a continuous action indicating that it is God working through Paul in the past, the present, and the future events of his life.
Exodus 29:38,40-41Now this is what you shall offer on the altar…And with the first lamb a tenth measure of fine flour mingled with a fourth of a hin of beaten oil, and a fourth of a hin of wine for a drink offering. The other lamb you shall offer at twilight, and shall offer with it a grain offering and its drink offering, as in the morning, for a pleasing aroma, a food offering to the LORD.
Paul could proclaim that he had been a sweet aroma to his Savior. He had given all that he had to serve the Lord Jesus. He was being poured out.
Let's Reflect
1. As Paul continued his warnings about the end times, how did he describe the preaching that is needed to bring people to salvation?
2. Sadly, there will be those who will reject the truths of the Scriptures. What do they prefer to listen to?
3. The words that Paul uses to encourage Timothy to keep persevering in the faith are found in verse 6. What will be the result if Timothy does persevere? What will be the result for us if we do the same? See verse 7.
4. Paul left behind an incredible legacy. His legacy is that he did everything he could to point people to the gospel. He endured really horrible things for taking a stand for his faith. There were many friends (brothers in Christ) who deserted him. They did not hold up under the pressure. Why do you think these men are named for Timothy and for us to read?
5. Paul’s desire is not that these men be blamed for what they did, because Paul was relying not on these men but on whom? Sadly, people will sometimes disappoint us and let us down.
6. No matter what people would do to Paul (including murdering him), Paul was confident knowing exactly what the end of the story would be. What would God do for Paul?
7. What legacy will you leave behind when God calls you home?
