A Soldier, An Athlete, and a Farmer

James Rochford
2 Timothy 2:3-7

When Paul tells Timothy to suffer hardship with him, he is asking him to make a voluntary choice to suffer for the cause of Christ. The question is whether this suffering is really worth it. Paul argues that it is and gives three metaphors that demonstrate that the sacrifice and suffering indeed are all worth it. He describes the sacrifices a soldier, an athlete and a farmer all make to reap the benefits that come later. The real question is do you believe it?

More Than Worth the Hardship Involved

Chris Hearty
2 Timothy 2:3-7

Paul writes to Timothy to persevere in suffering and reflects on three metaphors to illustrate this point. The first being a soldier trying to please his commanding officer, the next being an athlete that competes according to the rules, and the last being a hard-working farmer receiving a share of his crops. Paul urges us to call on God for insight into perseverance through suffering.

Portraits of Endurance

Scott Risley
2 Timothy 2:3-7

Paul, writing to Timothy from a Roman prison, calls him to endure hardship with him. He gives three portraits of endurance. He reflects upon the devotion of the soldier, the discipline of the athlete, and the diligence of the farmer. They each willingly suffer and sacrifice in order to attain the goal of their efforts.

Six Ways to Lead a Tough Church

James Rochford
1 Timothy 4:1-16

Paul gives Timothy six ways to lead a tough church undergoing attack by false teachers who promote doctrines of demons. Timothy is directed: to stay well-fed by the Word, to work hard, to become what he wants to see, to lead with his Bible, to exploit the spiritual gift in him, and to trust that God will use him. God is not a harsh task-master. He will work on one area needing improvement at a time. What is one area you need to grow in?

Setting the Right Example

Chris Hearty
1 Timothy 4:12-16

Paul exhorts Timothy to be an example to the church he was leading in his speech, conduct, love, faithfulness and purity. His congregation would have a hard time looking down on him if they need to look up to his example. By conscientiously striving under grace to set an example, Timothy would cause both himself and his hearers to grow and prosper spiritually. What about your life is worth imitating by others?

Helping Kids Deal with Adversity

Scott Risley
1 Timothy 4:12-16

While it's tempting to to protect our kids from adversity and trouble, it's our job as parents to help them learn how to handle life's challenges. As we seek to help them step through adversity, rather than avoid it, we will help them become stronger children, and they will be well prepared for the challenges of adult life.

Facing Social Pressure

James Rochford
1 Peter 3:18-4:6

Noah no doubt faced intense social pressure as he labored in faith for decades to build a barge in the middle of the desert. Then the rains came. Then God baptized the ungodly into the flood waters and baptized Noah and his family into the ark. Peter encourages believers to surprise the ungodly by resisting the desires of the flesh and live for the will of God instead.

Spiritual Lifestyle in a Rugged World

Dennis McCallum
1 Peter 4:12-19

Peter offers six things to do or not do when encountering suffering as a Christian. Firstly, do not be surprised! Jesus told us the world first hated Him and will hate us as well. Secondly, keep on rejoicing. We can rejoice because suffering teaches us many valuable lessons. Thirdly, do not bring on unnecessary suffering by sinning. Fourthly, do not be ashamed because you bear the name of the One who was not ashamed to go to the cross for us. Fifthly, entrust your soul to a faithful Creator because surely the One who created you will also take care of you in all circumstances. Finally, continue in doing what is right even in the face of difficulties.

Lion Awareness

Ben Foust
1 Peter 5:8-11

One of the essential attitudes for enduring what Peter calls the "fiery ordeal"--suffering in the name of Christ--is an awareness of God's enemy, Satan. Peter describes him as a lion, prowling around, looking for someone to devour. Peter says the keys to defeating him are knowing your enemy, being on the alert, and resisting him.