"Saving Grace" Leads to "Staying Grace"


2 You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. 2 And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others. 3 Join with me in suffering, like a good soldier of Christ Jesus. 4 No one serving as a soldier gets entangled in civilian affairs, but rather tries to please his commanding officer. 5 Similarly, anyone who competes as an athlete does not receive the victor’s crown except by competing according to the rules. 6 The hardworking farmer should be the first to receive a share of the crops. 7 Reflect on what I am saying, for the Lord will give you insight into all this.

 Paul again admonishes young Timothy to be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.  Jesus gives us "saving grace", but he also gives us "staying grace".  Relying on grace means relying on the gift we have been given in the Holy Spirit.  Grace is not only unmerited acceptance but also undeterred strength.  Paul knows from personal experience that not only will Timothy need saving grace, but he will need strength when he is called on to suffer with Christ.  

 Paul also instructs Timothy not to try do all the work by himself, but to find others to help him in teaching and reaching others.  God never calls us to go it alone.  Team teaching and preaching helps the congregation hear from a variety of teachers, each gifted in particular areas. It also takes the focus off one person and diversifies the leadership.  Many pastors burn out from not entrusting others to carry the burden of preaching and teaching.  

 Finally, Paul uses several metaphors for what it means to be strong in the grace in Christ Jesus.  He uses the examples of a soldier, an athlete, and a farmer.  What they all have in common is that hard work produces the reward they seek.  One thing Paul always emphasizes is the value of hard work, and he was never afraid to do it himself.  

 So we see three traits for any young Christian leader.  Being strong in grace that is in Christ Jesus.  Entrust qualified people to help with preaching and teaching.  And finally, work hard. Someone has said, "the harder I work the luckier I get!"

Do you try to live in your own strength or in the grace that is in Christ Jesus?

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