2 Timothy 1:9
Verse
Context
Faithfulness under Persecution
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.10And now He has revealed this grace through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has abolished death and illuminated the way to life and immortality through the gospel,
Sermons
Derek Prince
Steve Hill
Alan Martin
David RavenhillJohn Murray
Paris Reidhead
Carter ConlonSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Who hath saved us - From sin; the spirit of bondage, and all tormenting fear. This is the design of the Gospel. And called us with a holy calling - Invited us to holiness and comfort here; and to eternal glory hereafter. Not according to our works - We have not deserved any part of the good we have received; and can never merit one moment of the exceeding great and eternal weight of glory which is promised. See the notes on the parallel passages. Before the world began - Προ χρονων αιωνιων. Before the Mosaic dispensation took place, God purposed the salvation of the Gentiles by Christ Jesus; and the Mosaic dispensation was intended only as the introducer of the Gospel. The law was our schoolmaster unto Christ, Gal 3:24. See the parallel places, and the notes there.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Who . . . called us--namely, God the Father (Gal 1:6). The having "saved us" in His eternal purpose of "grace, given us in Christ before the world began," precedes his actual "calling" of us in due time with a call made effective to us by the Holy Spirit; therefore, "saved us" comes before "called us" (Rom 8:28-30). holy calling--the actual call to a life of holiness. Heb 3:1, "heavenly calling" [TITTMANN, Greek Synonyms of the New Testament]; whereas we were sinners and enemies (Eph 1:18; Eph 4:1). The call comes wholly from God and claims us wholly for God. "Holy" implies the separation of believers from the rest of the world unto God. not according to--not having regard to our works in His election and calling of grace (Rom 9:11; Eph 2:8-9). his own purpose--The origination of salvation was of His own purpose, flowing from His own goodness, not for works of ours coming first, but wholly because of His own gratuitous, electing love [THEODORET and CALVIN]. grace . . . given us--in His everlasting purpose, regarded as the same as when actually accomplished in due time. in Christ--believers being regarded by God as IN HIM, with whom the Father makes the covenant of salvation (Eph 1:4; Eph 3:11). before the world began--Greek, "before the times (periods) of ages"; the enduring ages of which no end is contemplated (Co1 2:7; Eph 3:11).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Who hath saved us, and called us,.... And therefore should not be ashamed of his Gospel, but should readily partake of the afflictions of it, depending on his power to support under them. There is a salvation previous to calling: there is a temporal salvation; a special providence attends the elect of God, as soon as born; God's visitation in a very special manner preserves their spirits; they are kept from many imminent dangers, and some of them from the grosser immoralities of life; and there is a chain of providences, as the fixing of their habitations, bringing to such a place, and under such a ministry, with various other things, ways and methods, which lead on to the effectual calling: and there is a preservation of them in Christ Jesus, antecedent to calling, Jde 1:1. God had a mind to save some; he pitched on his own Son to be the Saviour of them; he put those persons into his hands, where they are safely preserved; so as not to be damned, and everlastingly perish, notwithstanding their fall in Adam, their original corruption, and actual transgressions, until called by grace: yea, that spiritual and eternal salvation, which is by Jesus Christ, is before calling; this was resolved upon from eternity; a council of peace was formed; a covenant of grace was made; a promise of life given; persons were fixed upon to be saved; a Saviour was appointed, and blessings of grace were put into his hands; and all according to an eternal purpose. Salvation was not only resolved upon, but the scheme of it was contrived from eternity, in a way agreeable to all the divine perfections, in which Satan is most mortified, the creature abased, and the elect effectually saved; nay, salvation is obtained before calling, Christ being called to this work, and having undertook it, was in the fulness of time sent to effect it, and is become the author of it: the thing is done, and all that remain are the application of it, which is in the effectual calling, and the full possession of it, which will be in heaven. The calling here spoken of is not to an office, nor a mere call by the external ministry of the word, but a call by special grace, to special privileges, to grace and glory; and is an high and heavenly one, and is here called holy, for it follows, with an holy calling. The Vulgate Latin and Ethiopic versions read, "with his holy calling": the author of it is holy; it is a call to holiness, and the means of it are holy; and in it persons have principles of grace and holiness implanted in them; and are influenced to live holy lives and conversations: not according to our works; neither salvation nor calling are according to the works of men: not salvation; works are not the moving cause of it, but the free love and favour of God; nor the procuring cause of it, but the Lord Jesus Christ; nor the adjuvant or helping cause of it, for his own arm brought salvation alone: nor calling; which must be either according to works before, or after; not according to works before calling, for such are not properly good works, being destitute of faith in Christ, and proceeding neither from a right principle, nor to a right end; not according to works after calling, as they are after it they are the fruits of calling grace, and cannot be the cause, or rule, and measure at it: but according to his own purpose and grace; salvation is according to both: it is according to the purpose of God; God resolved upon the salvation of some; in pursuance of this resolution, he set up Christ as the Mediator; and it being necessary that he should be man, this was agreed to, and a body was prepared him; the time of his coming was fixed, called the fulness of time; and his sufferings and death, with all the circumstances of them, were determined by God. And it is according to grace; the resolution for it, and the contrivance of it, are owing to the grace of God; and which also appears in the making of a covenant; in setting up Christ as the Mediator of it; in the mission of him into this world; and in all the parts and branches of salvation: in the choice of persons to it; in the redemption of them by Christ; in their justification by his righteousness; in the pardon of their sins through his blood; in their adoption, regeneration, sanctification, and eternal glory; and the end of it is the glory of the grace of God. Vocation is also according to both the purpose and grace of God: it is according to his purpose; the persons called are fixed upon by him; whom he predestinates he calls; none are called, but whom God purposed to call; and for their calling no other reason can be assigned but the sovereign will of God, nor can any other reason be given why others are not called; the time of their calling is fixed in the decrees of God; and the place where, and means whereby, and occasion whereof, all are predetermined by him: and this is also according to grace; the author of it is the God of all grace; and in it is made the first discovery of grace to sinners; nothing out of God could move him to do it, and so it is sovereign grace; it is of some men, and not all, and so is distinguishing grace; it is of sinners, and so is free grace; and it is both to grace and glory, and so is rich grace: and it is according to grace which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began; it is a gift, and a free gift, not at all depending upon any conditions in the creature, and entirely proceeding from the sovereign will of God; and it was a gift from eternity; there was not only a purpose of grace in God's heart, and a promise of it so early, but there was a real donation of it in eternity: and though those to whom it was given did not then personally exist, yet Christ did, and he existed as a covenant head and representative of his people; and they were in him, as members of him, as represented by him, being united to him; and this grace was given to him for them, and to them in him; in whom they were chosen, and in whom they were blessed with all spiritual blessings. The Ethiopic version reads, "in Christ Jesus, who before the world was"; but without any foundation.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:9-10 This passage underscores the importance of obedience (1:8) and strengthens Timothy for it (cp. 1 Tim 1:15; 2:5-6). • God saved us . . . Christ Jesus, our Savior: God and Christ are described interchangeably in the role of Savior (see 1 Tim 1:1; 2:3-4). • called us to live a holy life: Salvation and godliness are linked (see 1 Tim 3:14-16; 5:8; Titus 2:11-14; 3:4-7; Eph 2:10). • not because we deserved it: We deserve condemnation (see Rom 3:23-24; 5:6-11; Eph 2:8-9; Titus 3:5). • that was his plan from before the beginning of time: See Titus 1:2; John 17:24; Eph 1:4, 11; 1 Pet 1:20; Rev 13:8. Salvation is completely removed from human merit and located exclusively in the gracious working of God.
2 Timothy 1:9
Faithfulness under Persecution
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.10And now He has revealed this grace through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has abolished death and illuminated the way to life and immortality through the gospel,
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
How to Find Your Place
By Derek Prince12K32:01PoorRUT 2:12MAT 6:33ROM 12:22CO 3:18EPH 2:81TI 1:92TI 1:9In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of finding and fulfilling the good works that God has prepared for each individual. He contrasts two different approaches taken by Christians - some pursue personal ambition and worldly success, while others seek to align themselves with God's purpose. The speaker encourages Christians to understand their worth and significance in God's eternal plan, which can help overcome low self-esteem. The message is applicable to all Christians and lack of understanding in this area can lead to frustration in their lives. The sermon is based on 1 Timothy 1:9 and 2 Timothy 1:9, highlighting the idea that God has called and saved believers according to His own purpose and grace.
Draw Yourself a Circle Around Your Life
By Steve Hill2.0K11:07PRO 22:4ECC 4:9MAT 6:11JHN 6:662TI 1:9
Steve Hill shares his personal journey of being a drug addict saved by grace and emphasizes the importance of humility and approaching God with reverence. He delves into the biblical concept of focusing on God's plan for our lives and not being overwhelmed by worldly desires. Hill highlights the significance of having a small, godly circle of influence and staying within that circle to walk in God's favor.
Reigning in Life - Part 1
By Alan Martin1.9K00:00VictoryJHN 16:131CO 2:122TI 1:92TI 2:1In this sermon, the focal point is verse 17 of Romans, which talks about how much more those who receive God's abundant provision of grace and righteousness will reign in life through Jesus Christ. The speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding the present tense of "those who receive" and highlights the concept of being earthen vessels, representing our weakness. The sermon also emphasizes the idea that grace is not just undeserved favor, but a person, Jesus Christ. The speaker encourages the audience to receive the grace and mercy of God through accepting Jesus as the Son of God.
Love God
By David Ravenhill1.8K1:11:39MAT 9:13LUK 15:12TI 1:9In this sermon, the speaker tells a story about a woman who experiences different emotions throughout her life. She starts off feeling content and joyful after getting married and having a baby. However, tragedy strikes when her baby falls ill and she realizes that the child is going to die. The speaker uses this story to illustrate how sin and the enemy can dirty and tear us apart, but God still sees our value. He emphasizes that the Gospel is the answer to our brokenness and that Jesus came to heal and restore us. The sermon concludes with a reference to a Bible verse about having a clean heart and a washed body.
Work Out Your Salvation
By John Murray1.6K27:26SalvationROM 11:6EPH 2:8PHP 2:122TI 1:9TIT 3:5JAS 2:171PE 1:5In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the idea that our working is completely dependent on God's working in us. He explains that the manifestation of God's working in us is our own working, and if we are not actively working, it means that God is not working in us. The preacher emphasizes the importance of relying on God and working out our own salvation with fear and trembling, as it is God who works within us to fulfill His good pleasure. He also highlights that it is the fact that God works in us that provides the incentive and encouragement for us to engage in good works. The sermon emphasizes the need for obedience to God's revealed will as the standard for determining what is good.
Hope
By Paris Reidhead1.5K39:04HopeMAT 6:33JHN 3:3ROM 8:29EPH 1:42TI 1:91PE 1:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of living in the present moment and not allowing small things to disrupt our lives. He acknowledges that we are creatures of the present, constantly influenced by external factors. However, he reminds his audience that there is another dimension to consider - the eternal perspective of God. The preacher encourages the listeners, who are strangers and have been deprived of their rights and possessions, to remain submissive and not become bitter or rebellious. He assures them that God knew them before the world began and has made sufficient provision of grace to maintain their peace and glorify Him in any situation that may come their way.
Fear Not
By Carter Conlon1.4K31:39FearGEN 15:1PSA 46:1ISA 41:10MAT 6:33ROM 8:33PHP 4:132TI 1:9In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of standing as the bride of Jesus Christ and the confidence that comes with it. He encourages the congregation to share their testimonies of how God has transformed their lives and provided them with strength and courage. The preacher reminds the audience that they are not defined by the devil or their own doubts, but by what Christ says about them. He assures them that no matter the challenges they face, they should not fear because God's plan for their lives is real and they will glorify Him in their generation.
The Persistent Love of God
By Hoseah Wu1.3K1:01:13Love Of GodGEN 1:1GEN 13:17MAT 6:33JHN 1:352TI 1:12TI 1:9TIT 1:2In this sermon, Garag Kong emphasizes the importance of consecration in the Christian life. He shares three messages on consecration: the call to consecration, the vision of consecration, and the life of consecration. He explains that without consecration, we have not truly begun our Christian journey and that consecration is not just about dedicating our talents to God's work, but about allowing God to work in us. The sermon also highlights the transformative power of being with Jesus and the lasting impression it leaves on people.
The Abundance of God's Grace
By Gisela Yohannan1.1K50:58God's GraceEXO 34:6ROM 3:242CO 8:9EPH 2:82TI 1:9TIT 2:111PE 4:10In this sermon, the pastor shares a story about a missionary who persecuted Christians, including a pastor. However, when the missionary broke his leg and needed a blood transfusion, the pastor showed him grace by collecting money for his operation and donating blood. This act of grace led the missionary to understand and receive Christ. The pastor emphasizes that God chooses to give to us and that even our ability to bear fruit and give comes through grace. The pastor also highlights the importance of living sacrificially and honoring Jesus in our lives, as many Christians today live too closely to the world, diminishing the honor of Christ.
Brownsville Revival, Part 1
By David Ravenhill8159:26RevivalGod's PurposeThe Abrahamic CovenantPSA 67:1PSA 96:3ISA 42:6MAL 1:11ACT 13:36ACT 20:27ROM 8:28GAL 3:8EPH 1:112TI 1:9David Ravenhill emphasizes the importance of understanding God's purpose and calling in the life of believers, using the metaphor of a jigsaw puzzle to illustrate how many Christians possess fragmented pieces of truth without seeing the complete picture. He discusses the significance of the Abrahamic Covenant, highlighting that God's intention was for Israel to be a blessing to all nations, not merely to enjoy His blessings for themselves. Ravenhill warns against the church's focus on conversions over callings, urging believers to recognize their divine purpose and to manifest God's glory in their lives. He stresses that true leadership requires a clear vision of where one is going, and that understanding God's overarching plan is essential for effective ministry.
Southern Salt Morning 2
By David Ravenhill331:08:47God's PurposeChristian LifeObedience in FaithMAT 28:19ACT 13:36ROM 8:28EPH 1:112TI 1:9David Ravenhill emphasizes the importance of understanding God's purpose for our lives, likening it to assembling a jigsaw puzzle without the box. He encourages believers to recognize that being saved comes with a calling to actively participate in God's mission to bless all nations. Ravenhill warns against becoming so engrossed in religious knowledge that we lose sight of our responsibility to share the gospel and fulfill God's purpose. He highlights that obedience is key to fulfilling this calling and urges the audience to seek their role in God's plan, ultimately leading to a life that counts for eternity.
The Testimony of Jesus
By T. Austin-Sparks0The Nature of the ChurchThe Testimony of Jesus1TI 3:51TI 3:142TI 1:92TI 2:10HEB 1:21JN 4:20REV 1:9REV 3:1REV 4:5REV 5:6T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the transformation of Christianity from its original spiritual essence to a more formal and institutionalized structure by the end of the apostolic age. He highlights the Apostle Paul's letters to Timothy as a call to recover the true nature of the Church, which is a spiritual entity governed by the Holy Spirit, rather than a mere organization. Sparks argues that the Church exists to embody the testimony of Jesus, demonstrating His living presence and victory over death. He stresses the importance of viewing the Church from Heaven's perspective, where it is seen as a unified body of believers rather than divided sects. Ultimately, the Church's mission is to express the nature of Christ and maintain the testimony of Jesus in a world that seeks to undermine it.
Church Be Still!
By C.H. Spurgeon0NUM 23:19JOS 23:141SA 15:29JHN 14:6ROM 4:212CO 1:202TI 1:9HEB 4:1HEB 6:18HEB 9:15HEB 13:8REV 19:11In this sermon on the concept of 'Cannot lie,' the preacher delves into the profound truth that God is the epitome of truth and cannot lie, contrasting Him with the deceitful nature of the devil. Various Bible verses are explored to emphasize God's faithfulness and trustworthiness, such as Numbers 23:19, 1 Samuel 15:29, John 14:6, Revelation 19:11, and Hebrews 6:18. The sermon highlights the certainty of God's promises, particularly the pledge of eternal life, which was made by God before time began, showcasing His unchanging nature and eternal wisdom.
The Seeds of Future Change
By K.P. Yohannan0FaithPurpose in LifePRO 16:3ISA 6:8MAT 19:26ROM 12:21CO 10:31EPH 2:10PHP 4:13COL 3:232TI 1:9JAS 1:22K.P. Yohannan reflects on his transformative experience at an institute in Singapore founded by John Haggai, who inspired him with stories of Christians as overcomers and challenged him to embrace a vision from God. Haggai's refusal to accept impossibilities and his commitment to personal responsibility ignited a restlessness in Yohannan, prompting him to seek God's ultimate will for his life. The challenge to define a singular, God-glorifying purpose led Yohannan to introspect deeply, ultimately shaping his ministry and lifestyle. This sermon emphasizes the importance of diligence in one's calling and the power of faith in effecting change.
Service and Sovereignty
By T. Austin-Sparks0Sovereignty Of GodServiceEZR 1:1ISA 64:8JER 1:5DAN 9:2ZEC 2:4ROM 8:281CO 1:29EPH 2:10PHP 1:62TI 1:9T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the intertwined themes of service and sovereignty in the life of Jeremiah, illustrating how God calls individuals to serve despite their feelings of inadequacy. He highlights that true service requires a deep passion for God's people, coupled with a profound awareness of one's own limitations, as seen in Jeremiah's hesitance to accept his prophetic calling. Sparks further explains that God's sovereignty governs the lives of His servants, ensuring that their purpose aligns with His divine plan, even when they feel unqualified. The sermon encourages believers to recognize their unique calling and the importance of relying on God's strength rather than their own abilities. Ultimately, it reassures that God's sovereign hand is at work in every believer's life, shaping them for His purposes.
Grace, Grace!
By Thomas Brooks0SalvationGraceROM 3:23ROM 9:151CO 1:291CO 15:10EPH 2:82TI 1:9TIT 3:5JAS 4:61PE 5:51JN 4:19Thomas Brooks emphasizes that salvation is solely a result of God's free grace, not based on any merit or goodness in humanity. He explains that God's choice to show mercy is rooted in His own will, often selecting the weak, poor, and unworthy to demonstrate that no one can boast in their own righteousness. This divine selection serves to highlight the glory of God's grace, leading all to proclaim 'Grace, grace!' as the source of their salvation. Brooks reinforces that our identity and worth come from God's grace alone, as stated in 1 Corinthians 15:10.
Of Good Works in General.
By John Gill0Good WorksFaith and SalvationMAT 7:12ROM 3:201CO 10:31EPH 2:8PHP 1:112TI 1:9TIT 3:14HEB 13:16JAS 2:18John Gill emphasizes the multifaceted nature of good works, categorizing them into natural, civil, relative, and charitable actions. He explains that true good works must align with God's will, stem from love, be done in faith, and aim for God's glory. Gill also highlights that while good works are essential, they do not merit salvation, which is solely through grace. He stresses that only those transformed by Christ can perform good works, and these actions serve to glorify God and benefit others. Ultimately, good works are the fruit of faith and a reflection of one's relationship with God.
The Call of God
By A.W. Tozer0Divine CallingHolinessMAT 5:16ROM 12:11CO 10:31EPH 2:10COL 3:231TH 4:72TI 1:9HEB 12:11JAS 1:221PE 1:15A.W. Tozer emphasizes that the call of God is not about the position one holds but about the holiness of the individual. He reflects on Meister Eckhart's assertion that a person's calling does not inherently make them holy; rather, it is the individual's relationship with God and their commitment to holiness that sanctifies their work. Tozer encourages believers to prioritize their spiritual state over their achievements, reminding them that true significance comes from being a person of God first. He concludes with a prayer for focus on holiness rather than fame or success.
The Christian's Assurance
By A.W. Pink0Assurance in TrialsGod's SovereigntyGEN 42:36PSA 18:16ISA 26:3ISA 40:17ISA 57:15ROM 8:281CO 15:2EPH 1:112TI 1:92PE 3:1A.W. Pink emphasizes the profound assurance found in Romans 8:28, illustrating how God orchestrates all circumstances for the good of those who love Him. He reassures believers that despite trials and adversities, faith recognizes God's sovereign control and purpose in every situation. Pink highlights that true Christians, marked by their love for God, can trust that even the most challenging experiences contribute to their ultimate good. He encourages believers to reflect on their calling and the divine purpose behind their love for God, which is rooted in His grace. Ultimately, Pink assures that all things, even those that seem contrary, work together for the benefit of God's children, leading them toward eternal glory.
Whereas Thou Hast Been Forsaken and Hated
By A.B. Simpson0TransformationGrace Of GodPSA 30:11ISA 61:3JHN 3:16ROM 5:202CO 5:17EPH 2:8PHP 4:132TI 1:9JAS 1:171PE 2:9A.B. Simpson emphasizes God's transformative power, illustrating how He takes the most forsaken and hated individuals and turns them into magnificent testimonies of His redeeming love. He highlights that God specializes in transforming the worst aspects of our lives into powerful examples of divine mercy, showcasing that even the most difficult circumstances can lead to profound change. Simpson reassures that the grace of God can overcome any unfavorable situation, turning curses into blessings and demonstrating that where sin abounds, grace abounds even more.
Desiring but Not Progressing
By H.J. Vine0PSA 27:4PRO 13:4ISA 26:3PHP 4:62TI 1:9HEB 10:25H.J. Vine preaches about the unenviable state of soul of one who knows they are saved but lacks desire for prayer or fellowship with other believers, resulting in spiritual stagnation. This individual, despite receiving grace and salvation, neglects communion with God and fellow believers, failing to make progress in their faith. Vine emphasizes the importance of awakening to the neglect of God's love and guidance, redirecting desires towards Christ, and having a purposeful heart focused on seeking the Lord. He highlights the necessity of prayer, overcoming hindrances, valuing spiritual progress, and the joy found in serving the Lord.
On the Two Covenants
By Thomas Reade0EPH 1:4EPH 1:112TH 2:132TI 1:9TIT 3:51PE 1:21PE 1:20REV 13:8Thomas Reade preaches about the two covenants - the covenant of works proclaimed to Adam and the covenant of grace established by God before the world began. The covenant of grace, originating in God's everlasting love, was revealed to Adam after he broke the covenant of works, offering hope, pardon, and salvation through the promised 'seed of the woman,' Jesus Christ. Believers are called to reflect the character of the redeemed, chosen by God for holiness, salvation, and good works, walking in love and obedience to Christ. Reade emphasizes the importance of trusting in the immutable and everlasting covenant of grace, finding hope, peace, and joy in Jesus, the author of eternal salvation.
This Is the True Grace of God
By James Smith0ACT 14:3ROM 3:24ROM 5:17ROM 6:142CO 8:92CO 12:9EPH 1:72TI 1:9TIT 2:111PE 5:12James Smith preaches about the true grace of God, emphasizing that it is the free, sovereign, and eternal favor of God towards sinners in Christ. The Father chooses, the Son redeems, and the Spirit sanctifies those who are recipients of this divine grace, leading them to glory. True grace is different from human conceptions, as it is the root of holiness, brings faith, obedience, and consolation, and leads to a transformed life in communion with God.
Prayer of a Servant
By A.W. Tozer0ServanthoodDivine CallingEXO 3:11ISA 6:8JER 1:5MAT 28:19JHN 15:16ROM 8:28PHP 4:132TI 1:9HEB 5:41PE 2:9A.W. Tozer emphasizes the profound honor and responsibility of being called as a servant of God, acknowledging the fear and weight of the task ahead in a time of great upheaval. He reflects on the divine calling that sets apart those chosen by God, like Aaron, to deliver His message to a stubborn and resistant audience. Tozer encourages believers to relinquish their insecurities and trust in God's sovereign choice, affirming that the responsibility of the mission lies with God, not with the servant. Ultimately, he submits to God's will, expressing a deep commitment to fulfill the calling despite personal inadequacies.
In Christ Jesus
By H.J. Vine02TI 1:9H.J. Vine preaches from 2 Timothy, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the abundant resources available 'in Christ Jesus' rather than being consumed by the difficulties of the last days. Believers are encouraged to be wise in what is good, simple in avoiding evil, and to draw upon the treasured up resources for victory. The sermon highlights the characteristics of those who are separated to the Lord and the promise of being more than conquerors through faith, love, and peace.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Who hath saved us - From sin; the spirit of bondage, and all tormenting fear. This is the design of the Gospel. And called us with a holy calling - Invited us to holiness and comfort here; and to eternal glory hereafter. Not according to our works - We have not deserved any part of the good we have received; and can never merit one moment of the exceeding great and eternal weight of glory which is promised. See the notes on the parallel passages. Before the world began - Προ χρονων αιωνιων. Before the Mosaic dispensation took place, God purposed the salvation of the Gentiles by Christ Jesus; and the Mosaic dispensation was intended only as the introducer of the Gospel. The law was our schoolmaster unto Christ, Gal 3:24. See the parallel places, and the notes there.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Who . . . called us--namely, God the Father (Gal 1:6). The having "saved us" in His eternal purpose of "grace, given us in Christ before the world began," precedes his actual "calling" of us in due time with a call made effective to us by the Holy Spirit; therefore, "saved us" comes before "called us" (Rom 8:28-30). holy calling--the actual call to a life of holiness. Heb 3:1, "heavenly calling" [TITTMANN, Greek Synonyms of the New Testament]; whereas we were sinners and enemies (Eph 1:18; Eph 4:1). The call comes wholly from God and claims us wholly for God. "Holy" implies the separation of believers from the rest of the world unto God. not according to--not having regard to our works in His election and calling of grace (Rom 9:11; Eph 2:8-9). his own purpose--The origination of salvation was of His own purpose, flowing from His own goodness, not for works of ours coming first, but wholly because of His own gratuitous, electing love [THEODORET and CALVIN]. grace . . . given us--in His everlasting purpose, regarded as the same as when actually accomplished in due time. in Christ--believers being regarded by God as IN HIM, with whom the Father makes the covenant of salvation (Eph 1:4; Eph 3:11). before the world began--Greek, "before the times (periods) of ages"; the enduring ages of which no end is contemplated (Co1 2:7; Eph 3:11).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Who hath saved us, and called us,.... And therefore should not be ashamed of his Gospel, but should readily partake of the afflictions of it, depending on his power to support under them. There is a salvation previous to calling: there is a temporal salvation; a special providence attends the elect of God, as soon as born; God's visitation in a very special manner preserves their spirits; they are kept from many imminent dangers, and some of them from the grosser immoralities of life; and there is a chain of providences, as the fixing of their habitations, bringing to such a place, and under such a ministry, with various other things, ways and methods, which lead on to the effectual calling: and there is a preservation of them in Christ Jesus, antecedent to calling, Jde 1:1. God had a mind to save some; he pitched on his own Son to be the Saviour of them; he put those persons into his hands, where they are safely preserved; so as not to be damned, and everlastingly perish, notwithstanding their fall in Adam, their original corruption, and actual transgressions, until called by grace: yea, that spiritual and eternal salvation, which is by Jesus Christ, is before calling; this was resolved upon from eternity; a council of peace was formed; a covenant of grace was made; a promise of life given; persons were fixed upon to be saved; a Saviour was appointed, and blessings of grace were put into his hands; and all according to an eternal purpose. Salvation was not only resolved upon, but the scheme of it was contrived from eternity, in a way agreeable to all the divine perfections, in which Satan is most mortified, the creature abased, and the elect effectually saved; nay, salvation is obtained before calling, Christ being called to this work, and having undertook it, was in the fulness of time sent to effect it, and is become the author of it: the thing is done, and all that remain are the application of it, which is in the effectual calling, and the full possession of it, which will be in heaven. The calling here spoken of is not to an office, nor a mere call by the external ministry of the word, but a call by special grace, to special privileges, to grace and glory; and is an high and heavenly one, and is here called holy, for it follows, with an holy calling. The Vulgate Latin and Ethiopic versions read, "with his holy calling": the author of it is holy; it is a call to holiness, and the means of it are holy; and in it persons have principles of grace and holiness implanted in them; and are influenced to live holy lives and conversations: not according to our works; neither salvation nor calling are according to the works of men: not salvation; works are not the moving cause of it, but the free love and favour of God; nor the procuring cause of it, but the Lord Jesus Christ; nor the adjuvant or helping cause of it, for his own arm brought salvation alone: nor calling; which must be either according to works before, or after; not according to works before calling, for such are not properly good works, being destitute of faith in Christ, and proceeding neither from a right principle, nor to a right end; not according to works after calling, as they are after it they are the fruits of calling grace, and cannot be the cause, or rule, and measure at it: but according to his own purpose and grace; salvation is according to both: it is according to the purpose of God; God resolved upon the salvation of some; in pursuance of this resolution, he set up Christ as the Mediator; and it being necessary that he should be man, this was agreed to, and a body was prepared him; the time of his coming was fixed, called the fulness of time; and his sufferings and death, with all the circumstances of them, were determined by God. And it is according to grace; the resolution for it, and the contrivance of it, are owing to the grace of God; and which also appears in the making of a covenant; in setting up Christ as the Mediator of it; in the mission of him into this world; and in all the parts and branches of salvation: in the choice of persons to it; in the redemption of them by Christ; in their justification by his righteousness; in the pardon of their sins through his blood; in their adoption, regeneration, sanctification, and eternal glory; and the end of it is the glory of the grace of God. Vocation is also according to both the purpose and grace of God: it is according to his purpose; the persons called are fixed upon by him; whom he predestinates he calls; none are called, but whom God purposed to call; and for their calling no other reason can be assigned but the sovereign will of God, nor can any other reason be given why others are not called; the time of their calling is fixed in the decrees of God; and the place where, and means whereby, and occasion whereof, all are predetermined by him: and this is also according to grace; the author of it is the God of all grace; and in it is made the first discovery of grace to sinners; nothing out of God could move him to do it, and so it is sovereign grace; it is of some men, and not all, and so is distinguishing grace; it is of sinners, and so is free grace; and it is both to grace and glory, and so is rich grace: and it is according to grace which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began; it is a gift, and a free gift, not at all depending upon any conditions in the creature, and entirely proceeding from the sovereign will of God; and it was a gift from eternity; there was not only a purpose of grace in God's heart, and a promise of it so early, but there was a real donation of it in eternity: and though those to whom it was given did not then personally exist, yet Christ did, and he existed as a covenant head and representative of his people; and they were in him, as members of him, as represented by him, being united to him; and this grace was given to him for them, and to them in him; in whom they were chosen, and in whom they were blessed with all spiritual blessings. The Ethiopic version reads, "in Christ Jesus, who before the world was"; but without any foundation.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:9-10 This passage underscores the importance of obedience (1:8) and strengthens Timothy for it (cp. 1 Tim 1:15; 2:5-6). • God saved us . . . Christ Jesus, our Savior: God and Christ are described interchangeably in the role of Savior (see 1 Tim 1:1; 2:3-4). • called us to live a holy life: Salvation and godliness are linked (see 1 Tim 3:14-16; 5:8; Titus 2:11-14; 3:4-7; Eph 2:10). • not because we deserved it: We deserve condemnation (see Rom 3:23-24; 5:6-11; Eph 2:8-9; Titus 3:5). • that was his plan from before the beginning of time: See Titus 1:2; John 17:24; Eph 1:4, 11; 1 Pet 1:20; Rev 13:8. Salvation is completely removed from human merit and located exclusively in the gracious working of God.