THEY ARE LOOKING AT US!

II Timothy 3:10,11

It is most noteworthy that as the eminent apostle Paul speaks about the proliferation of evil in the last days and many succumbing to the seductive powers of evil, he precludes Timothy, his young protégé from being so affected. He more than strongly implies that Timothy has no excuse. Others might could claim ignorance and pretend not to know how to counteract and withstand the onslaught of evil in the last times, but not Timothy!

Timothy knew too much and was exposed to too much of the faith and godly examples of righteousness to fall prey to the seducing spirits of darkness and doctrines of devils, especially manifested in the latter times. He had the remarkable examples of his mother and grandmother, and he had the prominent, first-hand mentoring of the Apostle Paul – (II Timothy 1:5, II Timothy 3:10). In no uncertain terms, he addresses his son-in-the-faith, Timothy, reminding him “But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience, Persecutions, afflictions . . .” (II Timothy 3:10,11). In other words, he was emphasizing that Timothy was not ignorant. People can say what they want to say and live how they want to live but not Timothy.

It was Paul’s contention that Timothy knew too much to act like a simpleton. He could not disavow what true Christianity was and looked like. He saw it in action. He experienced it. He saw it mirrored and modeled in the life of the great apostle, not only in times of sunshine and prosperity but in times of great stress and strain, and in times of sorest adversity. Timothy could not in any way claim ignorance. Paul could say to Timothy, “I lived it before you. I mentored. I practiced what I preached. I did not only verbalize; I realistically represented the message, not just in word but in deed and in lifestyle. I practically discipled. The disciplines of the faith were daily lived out before you, up close and personal.” Timothy saw in Paul, every day he was with him, a true replica of the faith.

Therefore, our simple thought this week, as we quickly approach Advent, is that the minister must, for all good intent and purposes, mirror Christ. They model Christ not just for their own good, but for those who are following. The great apostle Paul was diligent to point out “Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ” (I Corinthians 11:1). How true it is that the life of the minister must reflect Christ, especially in these characteristically evil days. We cannot afford by any means to confuse the minds of our disciples – the ones who as students study our lives.

Paul was able to remind the young, impressionable Timothy, you have fully known me and all about me – the good things and even the seemingly bad things that transpired in my life (II Timothy 3:10,11). He was able to use his life as a testimony of inspiration and encouragement to this young student-minister. His life like an open book, bore testimony to the fact that Christianity was not just theoretical but practical. It is about Christ in us, the hope of glory, daily lived out in practical ways! People are watching.

Let it be that in everything we do as ministers that Jesus will be seen in us! Let us crucify the flesh! May Christ and only all of Christ be fully seen in us. May our lives be always a reflection of His! May we lead intensely devout and Godly lives! May we decrease so that He can increase! More of Him, less of us! May we give ourselves away! No longer I, but Christ! God help us to be crucified followers of Jesus, always living the cruciform life, especially in these apocalyptic times. They are looking at us!

Leroy V. Greenaway

Presiding Bishop – Northeast Region

December 3, 2022

Weekly Messages

II Timothy 3:10,11

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