2 Tmothy 1:8-12a: Now That Christ Has Appeared

In 2 Timothy, we have Paul’s last words and final thoughts as he mentors Timothy, who pastors the church in Ephesus. As persecution was ramping up, it seems that Timothy struggled with fear and timidity in his proclamation of Jesus. Paul speaks a word of encouragement to Timothy to “not be ashamed,” and to be ready to “share in the suffering” that comes with the gospel. All of us are called to stand courageously as we minister the message of the good news about Jesus, and all of us wrestle with some fear and timidity. As Paul encourages Timothy, he does so by emphasizing the greatness of God and the glory of God’s grace which can be clearly seen now that Christ has appeared.