Immerse: Messiah - Flipbook - Page 266
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IMMERSE
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MESSIAH
3:9–4:8
oppose the truth just as Jannes and Jambres opposed Moses. They have
depraved minds and a counterfeit faith. But they won’t get away with this
for long. Someday everyone will recognize what fools they are, just as with
Jannes and Jambres.
But you, Timothy, certainly know what I teach, and how I live, and what
my purpose in life is. You know my faith, my patience, my love, and my endurance. You know how much persecution and suffering I have endured.
You know all about how I was persecuted in Antioch, Iconium, and Lystra—but the Lord rescued me from all of it. Yes, and everyone who wants
to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution. But evil people
and impostors will flourish. They will deceive others and will themselves
be deceived.
But you must remain faithful to the things you have been taught. You
know they are true, for you know you can trust those who taught you. You
have been taught the holy Scriptures from childhood, and they have given
you the wisdom to receive the salvation that comes by trusting in Christ
Jesus. All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true
and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we
are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and
equip his people to do every good work.
I solemnly urge you in the presence of God and Christ Jesus, who will
someday judge the living and the dead when he comes to set up his Kingdom: Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favorable
or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good
teaching.
For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and
wholesome teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for
teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear. They
will reject the truth and chase after myths.
But you should keep a clear mind in every situation. Don’t be afraid of
suffering for the Lord. Work at telling others the Good News, and fully
carry out the ministry God has given you.
As for me, my life has already been poured out as an offering to God.
The time of my death is near. I have fought the good fight, I have finished
the race, and I have remained faithful. And now the prize awaits me—the
crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me
on the day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who
eagerly look forward to his appearing.
