“Timothy's Genuine Faith”

Tuesday, August 04, 2015

when I call to remembrance the genuine faith that is in you, which dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am persuaded is in you also.” (2 Timothy 2:5

The tone of Paul’s second letter to Timothy is urgent. Paul knows he is about to die. Timothy's charge at Ephesus will have its own challenges. Enemies of Christ will seek to unravel this young evangelist. Paul wants to remind Timothy of the tools that will aid him in standing fast.

A reminder of former victories can help us to survive the dark times. The lessons of faith of Timothy's childhood and past conquests would provide a strong foundation for future challenges. So, while the clouds of persecution and false teaching surround him, Paul calls upon Timothy to remember the past.

There is no greater need for the Christian during perilous times than a strong faith. Fortunately, Timothy's faith is already worthy of commendation. Timothy's faith is “unfeigned”, thus genuine or real. He has already proven himself to be true in the midst of conflict. He trusts in the risen Christ, thus he is willing to suffer any loss.

Timothy's faith first dwelt in his grandmother and mother. Here we see the advantage of children instructed by godly parents. The tremendous influence of godly mothers is witnessed in other leaders like Moses. (Hebrews 11:23-27)  Timothy had been taught the Scriptures from childhood. (2 Timothy 3:15)  Hopefully, those important lessons learned under the influence of Lois and Eunice will serve him well when his conviction wants to waver under the burdens.

Thus, in times of weakness when fatigue leads to burn out, perhaps we can draw upon the strength from the past. When the pain of persecution threatens us to compromise, let us remember our roots, and lean upon God's unchanging word.

By George Slover
 

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