"A Good Soldier for Jesus Christ" by Steve Manhanga

2 Timothy 2:2 – 7 “And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others. Endure hardship with us like a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No-one serving as a soldier gets involved in civilian affairs – he wants to please his commanding officer. Similarly, if anyone competes as an athlete, he does not receive the victors crown unless he competes according to the rules. The hardworking farmer should be the first to receive a share of the crops. Reflect on what I am saying, for the Lord will give you insight into all this.”
As Christians we are engaged in a war. We can get injured or even die. We are on a battlefield and not the playground. When in a battle, we need to keep our guard up, our eyes and ears open.

From Timothy, we see that Paul speaks of 3 types of people: soldiers, athletes and farmers

1. Soldiers: need to be ready for war. They need to give up worldly comforts and endure discipline. They need to face the enemy.
2. Athletes: have to train hard. They need to discipline the body and follow rules. Paul says we are athletes.
3. Farmers: We need to work hard. Be patient. Plant now and harvest 6 months later. Continue going when things are tough. Have a vision of being a winner and a hope of harvesting.

11 Timothy 2:15 “Study to show yourself approved of God, a workman who need not be ashamed.....” Lets study the word of God. Paul said to Timothy – don’t be ashamed, know the word, study the word.

11 Timothy 2:16 Paul warn against 2 men who are preaching a false doctrine. If we don’t know the word of God, we’ll be easily swayed. We see church discipline here.

What kind of vessel am I? Am I made of gold, silver, wood or clay? The type of vessel I am will determine how I am used. Verse 22 – 23James said “draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.” Steve encouraged the young people to keep themselves and to run when faced with temptation – like Joseph. He encouraged everyone to live pure, holy and righteous lives.

Next week we look at 11 Timothy 3:1 – 17 and we see how Paul gives a charge to Timothy.

Summarised by Molly Manhanga