2 Timothy 2:13
Verse
Context
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
If we believe not - Should we deny the faith and apostatize, he is the same, as true to his threatenings as to his promises; he cannot deny - act contrary to, himself.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
believe not--"If we are unbelievers (literally, 'unfaithful'), He remains faithful" (Deu 7:9-10). The oldest manuscripts read, "For He cannot (it is an impossibility that He should) deny Himself." He cannot be unfaithful to His word that He will deny those who deny Him, though we be not faithful to our profession of faith in Him (Rom 3:3). Three things are impossible to God, to die, to lie, and to be deceived [AUGUSTINE, The Creed, 1.1], (Heb 6:18). This impossibility is not one of infirmity, but of infinite power and majesty. Also, indirectly, comfort is suggested to believers, that He is faithful to His promises to them; at the same time that apostates are shaken out of their self-deceiving fancy, that because they change, Christ similarly may change. A warning to Timothy to be steadfast in the faith.
John Gill Bible Commentary
If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful,.... The Syriac and Ethiopic versions read, "if we believe not him". This may be understood, either of such who are altogether destitute of faith, who do not believe in Christ at all; and particularly do not believe what was just now said concerning his denying such that deny him, but mock and scoff at his coming, and at a future judgment: this unbelief of theirs will not make void his faith or faithfulness; see Rom 3:3, he will abide faithful to his word of threatening; and what he says in Mar 16:16 will be found to be an everlasting truth: or it may be understood of true believers, whose faith sometimes is very low, as to its exercise on Christ, and with reference to their future glory and happiness; but Christ is faithful to all his, covenant engagements for them, to bring them to glory, and to every word of promise concerning their happiness, and to every branch of the faithful saying above mentioned; and he is ever the same in his love to them, and in the efficacy of his blood, righteousness, and sacrifice; and his salvation is an everlasting and unchangeable one; nor do the saints' interest in it, and security by it, depend upon their acts of believing, or their frames, but upon the firmness and unchangeableness of Christ, the object of faith. He cannot deny himself; he cannot go contrary to his word; that would be to act contrary to his nature and perfections, and would be a denying of himself, which is not possible; wherefore his faithfulness will never fail, even though, the faith of his people does, as to the exercise of it.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:13 he remains faithful: This could mean that (1) he allows those who have stumbled an opportunity for repentance; (2) he faithfully judges unbelievers in accord with his unchanging will; (3) he himself is an example of faithfulness for his people to follow; and/or (4) he will faithfully accomplish his purposes in history, to save those who trust in him through the Good News (1:12; 2:19). See also Rom 3:3-4; 1 Cor 10:13; 1 Jn 1:9.
2 Timothy 2:13
Grace and Perseverance
12if we endure, we will also reign with Him; if we deny Him, He will also deny us; 13if we are faithless, He remains faithful, for He cannot deny Himself.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Titus - Part 4): In Hope of Eternal Life Ii
By A.W. Tozer3.9K33:24TitusPSA 121:4ISA 40:28ISA 53:12MAL 3:6LUK 1:372TI 2:13TIT 1:2In this sermon, the preacher begins by emphasizing the importance of family night and invites everyone to attend. He then focuses on a passage from the book of Titus, where Paul declares himself as a servant of God and apostle. The preacher highlights the significance of the phrase "in hope of eternal life" and discusses the trustworthiness of God's promises. He also mentions the struggle to believe in these promises and encourages the congregation to have faith. The sermon includes references to various biblical figures and teachings, such as John Flavill's sermon on Isaiah 53:12 and the concept of a covenant between God the Father and Jesus Christ.
God's Peculiar People
By A.W. Tozer3.1K24:20Peculiar People1TI 6:141TI 6:162TI 1:102TI 2:132TI 4:1TIT 2:13In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being zealous for good works as children of God. He highlights that God does not approve of armchair Christianity or ivory tower Christianity, where believers simply have theoretical knowledge but lack action. The preacher encourages everyone, even those who may not be theologians, to actively engage in understanding and applying the teachings of the Bible. He also mentions the blessed hope of the appearing of Jesus Christ and the role of grace in teaching believers to be zealous for good works. The sermon references various Bible verses, including Titus 2:14 and 2 Timothy 1:10.
Call to the Fellowship of God's Son
By Stephen Kaung93548:10EXO 3:5MAT 18:201CO 1:11CO 1:92TI 2:13In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the exhortation given by the Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians. The exhortation is to be perfectly united in the same mind and opinion, without divisions among believers. The preacher emphasizes that saying the same thing does not mean blindly following a party line, but rather finding unity despite having different minds and opinions. The sermon highlights the sacrifice and love of God in giving up his only begotten Son to bring humanity into fellowship with him. The preacher also reminds the audience of the positive statement in 1 Corinthians that God is faithful and has called believers into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ.
Rest in the Love of God
By David Wilkerson0God's LoveFaithJER 9:24MAT 21:22MRK 11:242TI 2:13David Wilkerson emphasizes the importance of resting in the love of God, especially when our faith feels weak or unanswered prayers leave us confused. He challenges the notion that unanswered prayers are due to faulty faith or sin, asserting that God's actions are motivated by His love rather than the quality of our faith. Wilkerson reassures believers that even in moments of doubt, God remains faithful and committed to His promises. He encourages the congregation to find comfort in the steadfast love and kindness of God, which is the foundation of our faith.
Belief in God and His Goodness
By K.P. Yohannan0FaithGod's GoodnessPSA 36:5PSA 100:5PSA 130:7ISA 41:10LAM 3:22LUK 22:32ROM 8:341CO 10:132TI 2:13HEB 10:23K.P. Yohannan emphasizes the critical importance of maintaining belief in God and His goodness, likening it to a safety rope that helps us navigate through life's challenges. He reflects on the story of Charles Templeton, who lost his faith and struggled to recover, and draws parallels to Peter, reminding us that while we may face failures, Jesus intercedes for us to ensure our faith does not fail. Yohannan reassures that God's faithfulness remains unchanged, even in our unfaithfulness, and encourages believers to put their hope in the Lord, who offers unfailing love and redemption. He concludes with a call to hold on to faith, especially in dark times, trusting in God's constant love.
Unto You Who Once Knew the Truth.
By John Banks0MAT 24:45GAL 3:91TI 6:22TI 2:13REV 1:5The preacher delves into the significance of being faithful, emphasizing the importance of trustworthiness and reliability in fulfilling duties and responsibilities. The sermon explores the dual meanings of 'pistos' in the New Testament, highlighting the active sense of trusting or believing in the Lord Jesus for salvation and the passive sense of being trustworthy and dependable. Various Bible verses are examined to illustrate God's faithfulness, the faith required for salvation, and the call for believers to be faithful stewards of God's Word and promises.
Faithfulness in Spite of Our Failures
By David Wilkerson0Overcoming FailureGod's Faithfulness1SA 16:131SA 18:14PSA 23:4PSA 37:23ISA 41:10LAM 3:22ROM 8:28PHP 1:62TI 2:13HEB 13:5David Wilkerson emphasizes the theme of God's faithfulness despite our failures, using the life of David as an example. Despite being anointed and chosen by God, David faced trials and made unwise decisions, including fleeing to Gath and pretending to be insane. Yet, even in his moments of weakness and poor choices, God remained faithful to David and continued to fulfill His purpose for him. Wilkerson encourages listeners to recognize that during chaotic times in their lives, God is still at work, demonstrating His unwavering commitment to His promises. The message reassures that no matter how far we stray, God's faithfulness endures.
Back, Then Forward
By C.H. Spurgeon0Covenant RelationshipGod's FaithfulnessPSA 89:34ISA 54:10LAM 3:22EZK 16:60JHN 10:28ROM 8:381CO 1:92TI 2:13HEB 13:201PE 5:10C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes God's unwavering faithfulness in His covenant with us, reminding us that despite our sins, He looks back fondly on the early days of our relationship with Him. The Lord does not hold our insincerities against us but rather cherishes the sacred bond established through His love. He reassures us that His promises are everlasting and will not fail, as He remains steadfast in His commitment to us. Spurgeon encourages believers to find comfort in the assurance that God remembers the blood of the everlasting covenant through Jesus Christ, who secures our relationship with Him. This message calls us to reflect on God's grace and faithfulness in our lives.
As Your Days, So Shall Your Strength Be
By Octavius Winslow0Daily Dependence on GodGod's FaithfulnessDEU 33:25PSA 121:2ISA 41:10JER 33:3LAM 3:22MAT 6:11PHP 4:192TI 2:13HEB 13:5JAS 1:17Octavius Winslow emphasizes the unwavering faithfulness of God as we enter a new period of time, encouraging Christians to trust in His promises and provision for the future. He reassures believers that despite the uncertainties and challenges ahead, God's grace, love, and strength will be sufficient for each day. Winslow calls for a personal dedication to God, urging individuals to seek forgiveness for the past and to rely on Christ's atoning sacrifice as they move forward. He highlights the importance of approaching God with childlike faith, asking for daily sustenance and strength. Ultimately, he reminds us that as our days unfold, so shall our strength be, rooted in God's unchanging nature.
God Is Still Faithful
By David Wilkerson0God's FaithfulnessTrust in God1SA 16:131SA 18:141SA 21:11PSA 34:4PSA 37:25LAM 3:22ROM 8:28PHP 1:62TI 2:13HEB 10:23David Wilkerson emphasizes that despite David's moment of unfaithfulness when he sought refuge in Gath, God remained faithful to His promises and purpose for David's life. Anointed by Samuel, David was a man of prayer, worship, and great faith, yet he faltered in his trust during a time of fear. Even when David acted foolishly, pretending to be mad to escape danger, God's plan for him continued to unfold, demonstrating that God's faithfulness is not dependent on our actions. Wilkerson encourages believers to remember that God's faithfulness persists even in our failures, as He works all things for our good.
Chosen, Called, and Cared For
By Thomas Bradbury0MAT 5:45LUK 18:7JHN 6:37ACT 9:1ACT 27:232TI 2:132TI 4:16Thomas Bradbury preaches on the profound truths of God's sovereign election, emphasizing the Father's gracious choice of His people, the irresistible calling of the elect to Christ, and the eternal security and preservation of those who come to Him. He highlights the exclusivity of God's liberality and benevolence, contrasting it with the sectarian spirit of the world. Bradbury delves into the story of Saul of Tarsus, illustrating how even the most vehement persecutors can be transformed by Christ's love and grace, never to be cast out. He reassures believers that despite their weaknesses, doubts, and failures, Christ's faithfulness and promise to never cast them out remain unwavering.
Escaping the Dark Hole of Depression
By Brent Barnett0PSA 23:4ISA 26:3LAM 3:24ROM 4:18PHP 4:6PHP 4:82TI 2:13Brent Barnett preaches on the topic of depression, emphasizing the hope and faithfulness of God in overcoming this struggle. Depression, a common response to life's difficulties, can lead to a self-focused mindset that distances us from God and others. The key to escaping depression lies in shifting our focus away from ourselves and towards God, trusting in His love, character, and promises. By fixing our minds on Christ, surrendering our burdens to Him, and seeking to love and serve others, we can experience the peace and victory that comes through faith in God.
Letter: 13f 33 Mr Maylan, Geneva, January 2nd, 1840
By John Nelson Darby0Faithfulness of GodUnity in the Body of ChristMAT 28:19JHN 15:12ROM 12:10GAL 6:2EPH 4:3PHP 4:191TH 5:112TI 2:13HEB 10:231PE 5:8John Nelson Darby encourages Mr. Maylan in his work for the Lord, emphasizing the importance of trusting in God's faithfulness amidst trials and the dangers of isolation in faith. He warns against the temptations of pride and depression that can arise when walking a path less traveled by others, urging constant communion with God. Darby expresses concern about the potential weakening of Mr. Maylan's ties to the established church as he pursues evangelization, advocating for unity among all believers despite differing views. He stresses the necessity of remaining free from human constraints while serving God, and the joy found in brotherly communion. Ultimately, Darby conveys his heartfelt support and love for the Swiss brethren, hoping for their continued strength in faith.
Four Things Which God Cannot Do
By Thomas Brooks0God's HolinessThe Nature of SinPSA 5:4ISA 59:2HAB 1:13ROM 3:232TI 2:13TIT 1:2HEB 6:18JAS 1:131JN 1:5REV 21:8Thomas Brooks emphasizes the immutable nature of God by outlining four things that God cannot do: He cannot lie, die, deny Himself, or look favorably upon iniquity. This sermon highlights God's infinite purity and righteousness, illustrating that His gaze upon sin is filled with hatred, anger, and vengeance. Brooks encourages believers to understand the seriousness of sin in the eyes of a holy God, reminding them of the importance of living a life that reflects God's purity.
Brokenness
By K.P. Yohannan0BrokennessSpiritual GrowthPSA 51:17ISA 57:15MAT 11:29ROM 8:282CO 12:9PHP 1:62TI 2:13HEB 12:1JAS 4:101PE 5:6K.P. Yohannan emphasizes that true brokenness is a gradual process rather than an instant fix, contrasting the quick solutions often sought in modern Christianity. He reassures believers that God is always working in their lives, remaining faithful even in times of personal failure. The sermon encourages humility and a willingness to learn, urging listeners to embrace their brokenness as a means to grow closer to God and become more like Christ. Yohannan highlights the importance of prayer and the need for grace to remain teachable and soft-hearted in the journey of faith.
Of the Faithfulness of God.
By John Gill0Faithfulness of GodTrust in God's PromisesGEN 9:11NUM 23:19DEU 7:9PSA 89:8JER 31:33LAM 3:232TI 2:13HEB 3:21PE 4:191JN 1:9John Gill emphasizes the faithfulness of God as an essential attribute that defines His nature, asserting that without faithfulness, God would not be God. He illustrates this by referencing God's promises to humanity, such as the covenant with Noah and the prophecies concerning Christ, all of which have been fulfilled. Gill highlights that God's faithfulness is unwavering and manifests in both His promises and His judgments, providing a firm foundation for believers to trust in Him. He encourages the congregation to recognize God's faithfulness in their lives, assuring them that He will fulfill His promises and provide for their needs. Ultimately, Gill's message is a call to trust in the faithful Creator who has proven His reliability throughout history.
Where Are They?
By L.A. Anderson0PSA 12:11CO 1:9GAL 5:72TI 2:13HEB 13:8L.A. Anderson preaches on the urgent cry for godly and faithful men in our day, reflecting on the disappearance of such individuals from previous generations. He emphasizes the importance of godliness and faithfulness, traits that are attainable by all, regardless of gifting. Despite the scarcity of these qualities in today's society, Anderson encourages believers to seek God's help in raising up a new generation of godly and faithful individuals who will walk closely with Jesus.
Remember the Word Unto Thy Servant
By C.H. Spurgeon0Faith in Times of NeedGod's PromisesPSA 119:49ISA 40:29ISA 43:25ISA 54:7MAT 5:62TI 2:13HEB 10:23JAS 4:8C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the importance of claiming God's promises in times of need, encouraging believers to bring their specific struggles to God and remind Him of His word. He reassures the weary that God gives power to the faint and invites those seeking closeness with Christ to hunger and thirst for righteousness. Spurgeon highlights the assurance of forgiveness for sins and the steadfastness of God's covenant love, urging the faithful to plead these promises in prayer. He encourages believers to return to God, reminding them that His mercies are great and His presence is always available. Ultimately, he calls on the faithful to trust in God's promises as a source of hope and strength.
His Fullness
By Thomas Bradbury0GEN 49:10ISA 11:2JHN 1:16JHN 3:272CO 12:10GAL 4:4EPH 3:18COL 1:182TI 2:13Thomas Bradbury preaches about the all-encompassing grace of God, starting with the disputed point of who spoke the words in John 1:16, highlighting the ministry of John the Baptist and his humble acknowledgment of Christ's pre-eminence. The sermon delves into the vast subject of the fullness of Christ, emphasizing His overflowing abundance of grace and blessings for believers. Bradbury explores the concepts of predestination, election, redemption, justification, and forgiveness as manifestations of God's grace, leading to a deep reflection on the believer's journey from sinfulness to experiencing the fullness of God's grace and glory.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
If we believe not - Should we deny the faith and apostatize, he is the same, as true to his threatenings as to his promises; he cannot deny - act contrary to, himself.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
believe not--"If we are unbelievers (literally, 'unfaithful'), He remains faithful" (Deu 7:9-10). The oldest manuscripts read, "For He cannot (it is an impossibility that He should) deny Himself." He cannot be unfaithful to His word that He will deny those who deny Him, though we be not faithful to our profession of faith in Him (Rom 3:3). Three things are impossible to God, to die, to lie, and to be deceived [AUGUSTINE, The Creed, 1.1], (Heb 6:18). This impossibility is not one of infirmity, but of infinite power and majesty. Also, indirectly, comfort is suggested to believers, that He is faithful to His promises to them; at the same time that apostates are shaken out of their self-deceiving fancy, that because they change, Christ similarly may change. A warning to Timothy to be steadfast in the faith.
John Gill Bible Commentary
If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful,.... The Syriac and Ethiopic versions read, "if we believe not him". This may be understood, either of such who are altogether destitute of faith, who do not believe in Christ at all; and particularly do not believe what was just now said concerning his denying such that deny him, but mock and scoff at his coming, and at a future judgment: this unbelief of theirs will not make void his faith or faithfulness; see Rom 3:3, he will abide faithful to his word of threatening; and what he says in Mar 16:16 will be found to be an everlasting truth: or it may be understood of true believers, whose faith sometimes is very low, as to its exercise on Christ, and with reference to their future glory and happiness; but Christ is faithful to all his, covenant engagements for them, to bring them to glory, and to every word of promise concerning their happiness, and to every branch of the faithful saying above mentioned; and he is ever the same in his love to them, and in the efficacy of his blood, righteousness, and sacrifice; and his salvation is an everlasting and unchangeable one; nor do the saints' interest in it, and security by it, depend upon their acts of believing, or their frames, but upon the firmness and unchangeableness of Christ, the object of faith. He cannot deny himself; he cannot go contrary to his word; that would be to act contrary to his nature and perfections, and would be a denying of himself, which is not possible; wherefore his faithfulness will never fail, even though, the faith of his people does, as to the exercise of it.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:13 he remains faithful: This could mean that (1) he allows those who have stumbled an opportunity for repentance; (2) he faithfully judges unbelievers in accord with his unchanging will; (3) he himself is an example of faithfulness for his people to follow; and/or (4) he will faithfully accomplish his purposes in history, to save those who trust in him through the Good News (1:12; 2:19). See also Rom 3:3-4; 1 Cor 10:13; 1 Jn 1:9.