Paul continues his letter to Timothy, describing the method and importance of “training in righteousness“. This training involves following Paul’s example, his teaching, conduct, aim in life, faith, patience, love and steadfastness. It requires us to be ready to “preach the word” at all times, to continue in what we have learned and firmly believed from the Bible, knowing that the instruction contained provides a wisdom far greater than man’s.
Paul also reminds Timothy that, even though he has endured persecutions, “from them all the Lord rescued me“. Even though “all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted“, like Paul we have a promise of a far better existence. “Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that Day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing“.
It is up to us to demonstrate our love for Jesus’ appearing in the way we live our life today. Paul was confident that “the Lord will rescue me from every evil deed and bring me safely into his heavenly kingdom“, and we can have that same confidence in following Paul’s advice.