Paul's words to Timothy are dripping with instruction and fatherly love. Paul had brought Timothy along and had basically fathered him in the Lord. Now, as Paul is at the end of his life, he takes the time to give Timothy more wisdom so that Timothy will be prepared to carry on without Paul there. I love the entire purpose behind his words, as it is all about helping Timothy to become what Paul was becoming. I say "was becoming" because Paul was still following Jesus, and he had not yet reached the pinnacle. Even though he was near the end of his life, it wasn't over yet.
Paul uses three riddles in a row. "No soldier gets entangled in civilian pursuits, since his aim is to please the one who enlisted him. An athlete is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. It is the hard-working farmer who ought to have the first share of the crops." And just like me, you probably anticipate that Paul will explain what he means, but he leaves it open. All he tell Timothy is to think about it, and God will help you understand.
The way my mind works, I want to figure out the thread that runs through each of these statements, but I wonder if there are three different truths Paul is trying to communicate. In fact, I wonder if the rest of the chapter is merely commentary on those three statements. Nonetheless, we must continue to think about these things. So think about it. I know I am being called to serve Christ with everything in me, to do my best to present myself as one approved by God. He is my King!
What do these statements call you toward?
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