Exploring the Scripture
Our exploration of 2 Timothy ends on a sad note. We read of Paul’s losing battle against martyrdom. He undoubtedly regretted the lost opportunities to witness of Jesus Christ due to his approaching death. But he affirms the joy of uniting with God and anticipates his reward for faithful service. His message is one of fortitude, acceptance, and trust in God—tinged with bitterness against those who deserted him in his hour of need.
Paul viewed his coming martyrdom as a way to honor God and Christ. He says he is “being poured out as a libation” (v. 6). Greeks and Romans honored their gods by pouring wine, oil, honey, or grain on the deity’s altar or the earth. Romans often built “libation tubes” into the graves of deceased family members. They would pour liquid or grain down the tube into the grave below, especially on festival days. This practice connected them to their loved ones, honored their memory, and “fed” the departed soul in the afterlife.
Viewed through this cultural tradition, Paul helped connect the living Christians with the dead and “fed” the church with his martyrdom. His example of dying for his faith helped bring others to Christ.
As Paul reflects on his faith journey, he likens it to an athlete completing a grueling race. He has done his best and “kept the faith” (v. 7) despite multiple difficulties. He expects a “crown,” just as Greek athletes received laurel wreaths after winning athletic competitions. Jews also used wreaths of leaves or flowers to symbolize joy at weddings and family celebrations. Paul’s “crown of righteousness” (v. 8) is more than a token of success for a faithful life. It is the salvation offered by Jesus Christ, God’s unmerited love and grace, and new life in the coming reign of God.
All of Christ’s faithful followers will be rewarded similarly when they stay loyal to Christ in the face of suffering.
The scripture lesson skips over verses 9–15, where Paul lists the names of those who abandoned him in prison. These sentences provide insight into Christians’ difficulties supporting those imprisoned for their faith. Some followers, like Luke, remained faithful to their friends and risked death to bring them food, clothes, blankets, and other resources. Others would turn away, fearing being identified as a Christian and facing a similar fate.
As we pick up our lection again, Paul strives to deal gently with those who deserted him. “May it not be counted against them!” (v. 16). His bitterness toward them must be balanced by Christian mercy, which is never easy. When Paul appeared before a court to defend himself (probably against accusations of sedition), he continued to witness of Jesus Christ as Savior. Although others deserted him, God stood by him, and he escaped a death sentence. But Paul is still in prison and anticipates that his next trial will end differently since he already is “being poured out as a libation.”
What is the final message Paul leaves as he faces violent death? “The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and save me for his heavenly kingdom” (v. 18). God will not preserve his life on Earth, but will rescue him for God’s heavenly kingdom to come. For Paul, the final word is faith in new life and glory to God.
Faith Unfiltered Podcast
Hosts Karin Peter and Blake Smith consider how this week's scripture connects to our lives today.
Central Ideas
- As Paul anticipates martyrdom, he expresses joy in uniting with God and affirms his reward for faithful service.
- Paul’s faith, hope, and peace in the face of persecution helped bring others to Christ.
- Although others may turn away, God stands by us through all circumstances.
- For Paul, the final word is faith in new life and glory to God.
Questions to Consider
- Where are Christians being persecuted for their faith in today’s world? How does that affect your faith journey?
- What “crown” do you hope to receive due to your faith and service? Is it a self-centered reward or one that opens the door for others to find Christ?
- When have you felt betrayed by trusted friends? How did you sense God’s presence with you during that time?
- What would your final message be if you knew you were facing a violent death because of your faith?