2 Timothy 1:8
Verse
Context
Faithfulness under Persecution
7For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.8So do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, or of me, His prisoner. Instead, join me in suffering for the gospel by the power of God. 9He has saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works, but by His own purpose and by the grace He granted us in Christ Jesus before time began.
Sermons
Brother Yun
John Piper
Compilations
Stephen Kaung
William Kelly
C.H. SpurgeonSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Be not - ashamed of the testimony - The testimony of Christ is the Gospel in general, which proclaims Christ crucified, and redemption through his blood. In the sight of the world, there appeared to be reason why a man should be ashamed of this; ashamed of him who was crucified as a malefactor; but, when this Gospel became the power of God to the salvation of every one that believed, it was a subject to exult in. Hence the apostle, Rom 1:16 (note), said, I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ. Nor of me his prisoner - When our friends are in power and credit, we can readily acknowledge them, and take opportunities to show that we have such and such connections; but when the person falls into disgrace or discredit, though we cannot pretend not to know him, yet we take care not to acknowledge him. This induced Cicero, in relation to friendships, to give for a maxim - Amicus certus in re incerta cernitur: "A true friend is known in adverse circumstances;" and from this we have borrowed our proverb, A friend in need, is a friend indeed. Be thou partaker of the afflictions of the Gospel - No parent could love a child better than Paul loved Timothy; and, behold! he who could wish him nothing but what was great, honorable, and good, wishes him to be a partaker of the afflictions of the Gospel! Because, to suffer for Christ, and suffer with Christ, was the highest glory to which any human being in this state could arrive. The royal way to the crown of glory, is by the cross of Christ. According to the power of God - While thou hast no more affliction than thou hast grace to sustain thee under, thou canst have no cause to complain. And God will take care that if a faithful discharge of thy duty shall expose thee to afflictions, his power manifested in thee shall be in proportion to thy necessities. His load cannot be oppressive, who is strengthened to bear it by the power of God.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
therefore--seeing that God hath given us such a spirit, not that of fear. Be not thou . . . ashamed--I agree with ELLICOTT, in opposition to ALFORD, that the Greek subjunctive here, with the negative, implies action completed at one time, not continued action, which the present imperative would express; thus implying that Timothy had not decidedly yet evinced such feeling of shame; though I think, Paul, amidst the desertion of others who once promised fair, and from being aware of Timothy's constitutional timidity (see on Ti2 1:7), felt it necessary to stir him up and guard him against the possibility of unchristian dereliction of duty as to bold confession of Christ. Shame (Ti2 1:8) is the companion of fear (Ti2 1:7); if fear be overcome, false shame flees [BENGEL]. Paul himself (Ti2 1:12), and Onesiphorus (Ti2 1:16), were instances of fearless profession removing false shame. He presents in contrast sad instances of fear and shame (Ti2 1:15). of the testimony of our Lord--of the testimony which thou art bound to give in the cause of our Lord; he says "our," to connect Timothy and himself together in the testimony which both should give for their common Lord. The testimony which Christ gave before Pilate (Ti1 6:12-13), is an incentive to the believer that he should, after His Lord's example, witness a good testimony or confession. nor of me his prisoner--The cause of God's servants is the cause of God Himself (Eph 4:1). Timothy might easily be tempted to be ashamed of one in prison, especially as not only worldly shame, but great risk, attended any recognition of Paul the prisoner. be thou partaker--with me. of the gospel--rather, as Greek, "for the Gospel," that is, suffered for the Gospel (Ti2 2:3-5; Plm 1:13). according to the power of God--exhibited in having saved and called us (Ti2 1:9). God who has done the greater act of power (that is, saved us), will surely do the less (carry us safe through afflictions borne for the Gospel). "Think not that thou hast to bear these afflictions by thine own power; nay, it is by the power of God. It was a greater exercise of power than His making the heaven, His persuading the world to embrace salvation" [CHRYSOSTOM].
John Gill Bible Commentary
Be not then therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord,.... Either that testimony which Christ bore personally by his doctrine and miracles, and by his sufferings and death; or rather the Gospel so called, because it comes from Christ, and because it is a testimony concerning him; concerning his person, his offices, his righteousness, blood, sacrifice, and satisfaction; concerning his obedience, sufferings, death, resurrection, ascension, session at God's right hand, intercession for his people, and second coming to judgment; and concerning life and salvation by him: and which no preacher or professor of Christ has reason to be ashamed of, it being so true in itself, so great, so glorious, and so useful; and whoever is, Christ will be ashamed of him another day: nor of me his prisoner; for Paul was now a prisoner at Rome, but not for any capital crime, or for any immorality, but for the sake of Christ, and for preaching his Gospel; wherefore none of his friends had any reason to be ashamed of him; he was suffering in a glorious cause, and setting a noble example to others; it looks as if Timothy was somewhat blameworthy in this respect. But be thou partaker of the afflictions of the Gospel; the Gospel is here represented as a person suffering afflictions, and the apostle would have Timothy suffer them as that did, and along with it; he means those afflictions which come upon men for preaching and professing the Gospel; for though the Gospel is a Gospel of peace, yet, through the corruption and depravity of men, it brings a sword, division, and trouble. Tribulation arises on account of it; and this should be endured patiently, and constantly, for the sake of it: according to the power of God; which is only sufficient to enable persons to bear them; and is mentioned for the encouragement of Timothy and others, to endure them cheerfully.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:8 This verse summarizes the letter. Timothy would probably experience suffering (2:3; 3:12; 4:5; see Heb 13:23) both in coming to Rome and in his subsequent ministry as Paul’s successor.
2 Timothy 1:8
Faithfulness under Persecution
7For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.8So do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, or of me, His prisoner. Instead, join me in suffering for the gospel by the power of God. 9He has saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works, but by His own purpose and by the grace He granted us in Christ Jesus before time began.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Brother Yun - Heavenly Man
By Brother Yun27K40:51Underground ChurchMAT 14:29MAT 28:18JHN 8:32ACT 4:12ACT 16:251CO 15:42TI 1:8In this sermon, the speaker shares his personal experience of losing his first love for God while being caught up in the busyness of ministry. He emphasizes that past obedience is not enough and that repentance is necessary to avoid God's discipline. The speaker also highlights the importance of every believer in sharing the gospel and declares that the church is the hope of the world. He encourages listeners to be obedient to God's calling and to trust in His power to deliver them from trials.
How Our Suffering Glorifies God
By John Piper3.1K37:36MAT 10:21MAT 16:24JHN 16:1ACT 5:41ROM 8:16PHP 1:292TI 1:82TI 3:121PE 4:12This sermon emphasizes the call to embrace suffering for the sake of Christ, highlighting the need to endure persecution and hardships in order to display the glory of God's grace. It challenges listeners to follow Jesus on the path of sacrifice and missionary sacrifice, rather than seeking comfort or prosperity. The message underscores the importance of rejoicing in sufferings, completing what is lacking in Christ's afflictions through personal sacrifices, and being willing to endure hardships for the sake of spreading the gospel.
(Suffering in the Christian Life) 4. Suffering as Testing
By Roy Hession1.5K56:38TestingsMAT 6:331CO 4:91CO 4:132CO 11:232TI 1:8HEB 1:8HEB 2:10In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the challenges and trials faced by the apostles and Christians. He emphasizes their role as fools for Christ's sake, contrasting their weakness with the strength and respect of some Christians. The preacher shares personal experiences of betrayal and the importance of relying on Jesus in difficult times. He then shifts the focus to Jesus himself, highlighting his sufferings and temptations as a qualification for his role as a merciful high priest. The sermon encourages listeners to find comfort in Jesus' understanding of their trials and to trust in his ability to help them overcome.
Unashamed (Compilation)
By Compilations71304:44CompilationMAT 6:33MRK 8:38LUK 9:26ROM 1:162CO 11:232TI 1:8HEB 12:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of not being ashamed of the gospel. He draws inspiration from Hebrews 12:2, which states that Jesus despised the shame for the joy that was set before him. The speaker encourages listeners to overcome their feelings of shame by focusing on the power of the gospel to bring salvation. He warns against seeking approval from others and being a slave to their opinions. Instead, he urges listeners to follow Jesus' example of boldly facing shame and refusing to let it rule over them. The sermon also highlights how the preaching of the gospel can bring shame upon believers, but they should not be ashamed of it, as it is the power of God for salvation. The apostle Paul is cited as an example of someone who faced shame for preaching the gospel but remained unashamed.
What God Has Entrusted to His Church, 1 of 3
By Stephen Kaung6271:20:55Church2TI 1:8In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of trust and faithfulness in the church. He highlights that as the coming of the Lord approaches, believers have a special responsibility to bear the testimony of Jesus and bring in His Kingdom. The speaker refers to Ephesians 1:22-23, which states that God has made Jesus the head over all things to the church, and it is the church's responsibility to fulfill this testimony. The speaker also emphasizes the faithfulness of Jesus, who fully entrusted Himself to God's plan and declared the Father throughout His life, even unto death.
The Holy Calling
By William Kelly0ROM 1:16EPH 1:4PHP 3:142TI 1:8HEB 3:1William Kelly emphasizes the importance of suffering for the gospel according to the power of God, highlighting the distinction between worldly pursuits and true devotion to Christ. He underscores that the gospel is the power of God for salvation, surpassing legalistic practices and human wisdom. Kelly stresses the significance of God's holy calling, urging believers to focus on heavenly rather than earthly things, especially in times of spiritual decline.
To Declare Myself a Friend of Christ
By C.H. Spurgeon0Testimony for ChristBoldness in FaithMAT 5:16MAT 10:32MRK 8:38LUK 12:8JHN 15:15ACT 4:20ROM 1:16PHP 1:202TI 1:81PE 3:15C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the importance of boldly declaring oneself as a friend of Christ, urging Christians to stand firm in their faith even when faced with challenging questions or scrutiny. He reflects on the example of a man who, despite being questioned by the Pharisees, confidently affirmed his relationship with Jesus without hesitation. Spurgeon encourages believers to be unashamed in owning their faith and to respond promptly when challenged about their allegiance to Christ. He calls for a clear and distinct testimony from every Christian, reinforcing the idea that Jesus should be acknowledged as our Savior and Friend.
The Supreme Importance of the Incorruptible
By A.T. Robertson0ISA 48:10ACT 2:27ROM 1:231CO 3:131CO 9:251CO 15:532TI 1:81PE 1:18A.T. Robertson preaches about the importance of living a life focused on intrinsic, eternal values rather than superficial or comparative ones. He emphasizes that the essence of the gospel is to bring to light life and incorruption through Jesus Christ, who abolished death. Robertson explains that incorruption is the standard measure of heaven and should be applied to every aspect of believers' lives, including their knowledge, Christian work, and personal growth. He challenges listeners to evaluate their lives based on the incorruptible nature of their actions, teachings, and emotions, emphasizing that God values depth, solidity, and intensity in building eternal value.
Honour and Glory Unto Him
By Arno Clemens Gaebelein02TI 1:82TI 2:212TI 3:5HEB 10:7REV 5:12Arno Clemens Gaebelein preaches about the great worship scene in Revelation, where the Lamb is honored and glorified as the only one worthy of praise. As believers, it is our call to honor and glorify God's Son in this present age and in the last days. The sermon emphasizes the dishonor and rejection of Christ in Christendom, highlighting the importance of standing up for His honor and separating from anything that dishonors Him.
Letter 154.
By James Bourne0PSA 46:1ROM 8:182CO 12:9PHP 4:132TI 1:8James Bourne writes a letter to Mrs. T. expressing his struggles with self-abasement and the fear of feigned humility and dissembled love. He shares about the spiritual experiences of Mrs. G. and others, emphasizing the importance of discovering God's love in Christ Jesus. Bourne finds comfort in the words from 2 Timothy, encouraging believers not to be ashamed of the testimony of the Lord but to partake in the afflictions of the Gospel, relying on God's power and strength through the Holy Spirit to endure all things.
The 'Plus' and 'Other' of Heaven
By T. Austin-Sparks0Heavenly IdentityIncorruptible Life2TI 1:8T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the 'plus' and 'other' of heaven in the life of Jesus, illustrating how His constant reference to heaven shaped His identity and purpose. He argues that Jesus had a heavenly background, an extra world of resources, and a different standard of living that set Him apart from the world. Sparks challenges believers to reflect on the lasting impression they leave on others, urging them to embody the incorruptible qualities of Christ. He highlights the importance of drawing from heavenly resources in times of need and maintaining a distinct Christian identity in a corrupt world. Ultimately, the sermon calls for Christians to live in a way that reflects their heavenly calling and leaves a lasting impact on those around them.
The Testimony of the Lord Is Sure"
By H.J. Vine0EXO 25:16PSA 19:7ROM 8:4ROM 10:181TI 2:11TI 2:62TI 1:8H.J. Vine preaches on the unchanging and faultless testimony of God to humanity, emphasizing the wisdom and understanding it imparts to those who believe with open hearts. The sermon delves into God's testimonies in creation, the law given to Moses, and the ultimate testimony in Christ, highlighting the surety and importance of each revelation in guiding humanity towards God's grace and salvation.
God Will Answer
By C.H. Spurgeon0ECC 4:14EPH 3:12TI 1:8PHM 1:1HEB 10:34The preacher delves into the concept of being a prisoner of the Lord, drawing parallels between physical imprisonment and being bound to Christ voluntarily. Paul, despite his Roman captivity, embraced his status as a prisoner of Christ, highlighting the sacrificial nature of his commitment. The preacher emphasizes the importance of willingly choosing to be captives of Christ, finding true liberty in surrendering to His will and purpose, even amidst worldly constraints. Through Paul's example, believers are encouraged to walk worthy of their calling, understanding the cost and dedication required to follow Christ wholeheartedly.
The Psychology of Impermanence
By A.W. Tozer0JHN 15:181CO 15:57EPH 6:112TI 1:82TI 4:5The preacher delves into the Greek word 'sugkakopatheo,' which means to suffer hardship together with another, emphasizing the command for believers to endure persecution, misfortune, and ill treatment for the sake of the gospel. Paul's urgent command to Timothy to join in suffering highlights the reality of spiritual warfare and opposition in the Christian life, stressing the need for believers to stand firm and be willing to endure hardships like good soldiers of Christ Jesus. The sermon underscores the importance of being prepared for the battles faced in the Christian journey, knowing that suffering for one's faith is an inevitable part of following Christ.
Witnessing for Christ
By Catherine Booth0MAT 28:19ACT 1:8ACT 5:322TI 1:81PE 3:15Catherine Booth preaches about the importance of being faithful witnesses for God in a world that is in rebellion against Him. She emphasizes the need for believers to testify to the truth of God's saving power and to be good witnesses by living out their faith consistently. Catherine Booth highlights the necessity of personal knowledge of the Gospel, speaking the whole truth boldly, and testifying before others, even in the face of opposition or uncertainty. She shares her personal testimony of overcoming fear and timidity to become a powerful witness for God, encouraging others to do the same.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Be not - ashamed of the testimony - The testimony of Christ is the Gospel in general, which proclaims Christ crucified, and redemption through his blood. In the sight of the world, there appeared to be reason why a man should be ashamed of this; ashamed of him who was crucified as a malefactor; but, when this Gospel became the power of God to the salvation of every one that believed, it was a subject to exult in. Hence the apostle, Rom 1:16 (note), said, I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ. Nor of me his prisoner - When our friends are in power and credit, we can readily acknowledge them, and take opportunities to show that we have such and such connections; but when the person falls into disgrace or discredit, though we cannot pretend not to know him, yet we take care not to acknowledge him. This induced Cicero, in relation to friendships, to give for a maxim - Amicus certus in re incerta cernitur: "A true friend is known in adverse circumstances;" and from this we have borrowed our proverb, A friend in need, is a friend indeed. Be thou partaker of the afflictions of the Gospel - No parent could love a child better than Paul loved Timothy; and, behold! he who could wish him nothing but what was great, honorable, and good, wishes him to be a partaker of the afflictions of the Gospel! Because, to suffer for Christ, and suffer with Christ, was the highest glory to which any human being in this state could arrive. The royal way to the crown of glory, is by the cross of Christ. According to the power of God - While thou hast no more affliction than thou hast grace to sustain thee under, thou canst have no cause to complain. And God will take care that if a faithful discharge of thy duty shall expose thee to afflictions, his power manifested in thee shall be in proportion to thy necessities. His load cannot be oppressive, who is strengthened to bear it by the power of God.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
therefore--seeing that God hath given us such a spirit, not that of fear. Be not thou . . . ashamed--I agree with ELLICOTT, in opposition to ALFORD, that the Greek subjunctive here, with the negative, implies action completed at one time, not continued action, which the present imperative would express; thus implying that Timothy had not decidedly yet evinced such feeling of shame; though I think, Paul, amidst the desertion of others who once promised fair, and from being aware of Timothy's constitutional timidity (see on Ti2 1:7), felt it necessary to stir him up and guard him against the possibility of unchristian dereliction of duty as to bold confession of Christ. Shame (Ti2 1:8) is the companion of fear (Ti2 1:7); if fear be overcome, false shame flees [BENGEL]. Paul himself (Ti2 1:12), and Onesiphorus (Ti2 1:16), were instances of fearless profession removing false shame. He presents in contrast sad instances of fear and shame (Ti2 1:15). of the testimony of our Lord--of the testimony which thou art bound to give in the cause of our Lord; he says "our," to connect Timothy and himself together in the testimony which both should give for their common Lord. The testimony which Christ gave before Pilate (Ti1 6:12-13), is an incentive to the believer that he should, after His Lord's example, witness a good testimony or confession. nor of me his prisoner--The cause of God's servants is the cause of God Himself (Eph 4:1). Timothy might easily be tempted to be ashamed of one in prison, especially as not only worldly shame, but great risk, attended any recognition of Paul the prisoner. be thou partaker--with me. of the gospel--rather, as Greek, "for the Gospel," that is, suffered for the Gospel (Ti2 2:3-5; Plm 1:13). according to the power of God--exhibited in having saved and called us (Ti2 1:9). God who has done the greater act of power (that is, saved us), will surely do the less (carry us safe through afflictions borne for the Gospel). "Think not that thou hast to bear these afflictions by thine own power; nay, it is by the power of God. It was a greater exercise of power than His making the heaven, His persuading the world to embrace salvation" [CHRYSOSTOM].
John Gill Bible Commentary
Be not then therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord,.... Either that testimony which Christ bore personally by his doctrine and miracles, and by his sufferings and death; or rather the Gospel so called, because it comes from Christ, and because it is a testimony concerning him; concerning his person, his offices, his righteousness, blood, sacrifice, and satisfaction; concerning his obedience, sufferings, death, resurrection, ascension, session at God's right hand, intercession for his people, and second coming to judgment; and concerning life and salvation by him: and which no preacher or professor of Christ has reason to be ashamed of, it being so true in itself, so great, so glorious, and so useful; and whoever is, Christ will be ashamed of him another day: nor of me his prisoner; for Paul was now a prisoner at Rome, but not for any capital crime, or for any immorality, but for the sake of Christ, and for preaching his Gospel; wherefore none of his friends had any reason to be ashamed of him; he was suffering in a glorious cause, and setting a noble example to others; it looks as if Timothy was somewhat blameworthy in this respect. But be thou partaker of the afflictions of the Gospel; the Gospel is here represented as a person suffering afflictions, and the apostle would have Timothy suffer them as that did, and along with it; he means those afflictions which come upon men for preaching and professing the Gospel; for though the Gospel is a Gospel of peace, yet, through the corruption and depravity of men, it brings a sword, division, and trouble. Tribulation arises on account of it; and this should be endured patiently, and constantly, for the sake of it: according to the power of God; which is only sufficient to enable persons to bear them; and is mentioned for the encouragement of Timothy and others, to endure them cheerfully.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:8 This verse summarizes the letter. Timothy would probably experience suffering (2:3; 3:12; 4:5; see Heb 13:23) both in coming to Rome and in his subsequent ministry as Paul’s successor.