II Timothy
By Joyce Webb 2024
Chapter 2 Verse 15-26
Verse 15 Paul tells Timothy—Study (the scriptures)—-so that people can see that you know the scriptures well.
They will be able to trust that you know what you are talking about.
And God will approve (be pleased with you.)
You will not be ashamed. And you will be preaching what is correct— and the true meaning of the scriptures.
Verse 16 Do not get into arguments about scriptures or men’s ideas about religion. This is empty talk. It does not benefit anyone.
Verse 17-18 Hymenaeus and Philetus are two men who have left the correct path of truth.
They are now preaching that the resurrection of the dead has already happened.
(The resurrection of the dead does not happen until the end of this world.)
Verse 19 God’s truth stands sure—like a foundation stone of a building.
This “stone” could have a writing on it saying—-”The Lord knows who are his own.”
”Those who say they belong to the Lord must turn away from all sin and wickedness.”
Vs. 20 In a rich man’s house—-some vessels (jars, bowls, pans, etc.) are made of gold and silver. Some are made of wood or clay.
The expensive gold and silver ones are used for special things.
The wood and clay ones are used for everyday work and such.
Vs.21 You are a “vessel” that God uses to preach the gospel.
Keep yourself clean and pure (spiritually). So you can be used of God.
(No one will be able to blame you for wrong living.)
Vs. 22 Keep yourself from sexual sin —this is a great temptation especially in youth.
Follow right living, grace, peace, love and kindness.
Choose friends that follow Christ’s teachings.
Then God will be able to use you to lead others.
Vs. 23-26 Do not join in with arguments about spiritual things or religion. We must not have “fights with words”. This does not help anyone.
You are God’s servant—-you must be able to teach God’s word correctly. Be patient with people who are difficult to get along with.
Gently teach people who may at first not accept what you teach.
Teach them gently. Maybe they will accept what you say.
God may change their hearts and they will accept the truth.
Then they will not get caught up in the devil’s trap of wrong teaching.
Some of them have been trapped in wrong teaching for awhile.