Paul says a few things in this passage that we need to hear. The first is this: truth matters and disciples have a special role in upholding that truth.

2 Tim 2:14 – “Remind them of these things and charge them before God not to quarrel about words, which does no good, but only ruins the hearers.”

This is Timothy’s ongoing task, week in and week out. Do it this week and do it again next week. Keep reminding people of the truth. Keep going. Never stop. That is discipleship!

As a pastor, I know that preaching doesn’t always have to explain new truths. Neither does it always have to persuade people to believe those new truths. Nor does it always have to exhort people to obey those new truths. Sometimes it can simply remind folks of what they already understand, believe, and are striving to obey. Sounds like the book of James.

We don’t need new truths; we often need to be reminded of old ones!

As part of this command, Paul tells Timothy what else to do. He’s supposed to charge his people not to quarrel about words. What does Paul mean here? Paul is saying that truth matters, and we need to be reminded of the truth, but that doesn’t mean we should get into word fights. I know folks who won a battle but made an enemy of the very souls they were supposed to win! Won a battle but lost the war – it must be God who is always right – not me!

How is Timothy supposed to manage this balance of reminding and keeping the focus on the truth without letting people fight about everything? He’s got to handle the Word well himself.

2 Tim 2:15 “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.”

Paul says in verse 15. The image is of a worker who cuts straight. A good teacher knows how to cut the Word of God straight. A good teacher knows how to interpret and apply the Bible faithfully. It is essential that we know the truth and are able to handle God’s word well.

Join me on Sunday as we read these teachings and more! God’s Word is true – we must be true to it!

See you Sunday,

Pastor Mike