Verse
Context
Preach the Word
6For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand.7I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.8From now on there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but to all who crave His appearing.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
I have fought a good fight - Every reader will perceive that the apostle, as was his very frequent custom, alludes to the contests at the Grecian games: Τον αγυνα τον καλον ηγωνισμαι· I have wrestled that good wrestling - I have struggled hard, and have over come, in a most honorable cause. I have finished my course - I have started for the prize, and have come up to the goal, outstripping all my competitors, and have gained this prize also. I have kept the faith - As the laws of these games must be most diligently observed and kept, (for though a man overcome, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully), so I have kept the rules of the spiritual combat and race; and thus, having contended lawfully, and conquered in each exercise, I have a right to expect the prize.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
"I have striven the good strife"; the Greek is not restricted to a fight, but includes any competitive contest, for example, that of the racecourse (Ti1 6:12 [ALFORD]; Co1 9:24, &c.; Heb 12:1-2). kept the faith--the Christian faith committed to me as a believer and an apostle (compare Ti2 1:14; Rev 2:10; Rev 3:10).
John Gill Bible Commentary
I have fought a good fight,.... The fight of faith; the same as in Ti1 6:10; see Gill on Ti1 6:10, I have finished my course, or race; the race of life set before him, his course of years; his days were extinct, the grave was ready for him, and he for that; his last sands were dropping, and he was just going the way of all flesh; or else he means the course of his ministry, which he desired to finish with joy, and was now finishing; Act 13:25 he was now got to the end of his line, to Rome, where he was to be a martyr for Christ, Act 23:11 so that he now concluded his work was done, and his warfare accomplished: I have kept the faith; by which he means, not so much the grace of faith, that was kept by Christ, the object, author, and finisher of it, and through his effectual grace and powerful intercession; but rather the profession of faith, which he had held fast without wavering; and chiefly the doctrine of faith, which was committed to his trust, which he had kept pure and incorrupt against all opposition; unless his faithfulness and integrity in the ministerial work should be thought rather to be intended; and which sense is favoured by the Syriac and Ethiopic versions, which render it, "I have kept my faith"; or have been faithful to my trust, as a good steward of the mysteries of God; not concealing and keeping back any thing that was profitable, but declaring the whole counsel of God; and now what remained for him was the crown of righteousness; and this he says for the comfort and encouragement and imitation of Timothy and others. The phrase seems to be Jewish; it is said (y) by the Jews, that he that does not keep the feast of unleavened bread, is as he who does not , "keep the faith of the holy blessed God". (y) Zohar in Exod. fol. 51. 2.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:7 Paul had remained faithful to the trust that was committed to him (see study notes on 1:12; 1 Tim 6:20; cp. Acts 20:24). He had preserved the integrity of the Christian faith and wanted Timothy to follow his example (see 2 Tim 2:3-7; 1 Tim 1:18; 6:12; cp. Rom 15:30-31; 1 Cor 9:25-27; Heb 12:1; Jude 1:3).
Preach the Word
6For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand.7I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.8From now on there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but to all who crave His appearing.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
You Can Fulfill God's Perfect Plan
By Zac Poonen9.7K54:54Will Of GodGEN 1:31MAT 6:33EPH 2:82TI 4:7In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of seeking and following God's plan for our lives. He uses the example of the apostle Paul, who faced numerous challenges and hardships but remained faithful to God's calling. The speaker also highlights the message in the first chapter of Genesis, which shows that God can take a messed up situation or life and transform it into something very good. He encourages believers to learn from their failures and trust in God's ability to bring success. The sermon concludes with the reminder that God opens doors in His perfect timing, and when He does, believers can confidently walk through them.
Ii Timothy - Part 2 - Proclaim the Gospel
By John Stott7.4K48:20ProclaimPRO 15:1MAT 6:332TI 3:162TI 4:22TI 4:7In this sermon, Reverend John R. focuses on the importance of preaching the word of God. He emphasizes that our proclamation should be urgent, never losing our sense of urgency in sharing the message. The word of God, which consists of the Old Testament scriptures and the gospel, is a treasure that we are charged to proclaim. Reverend John R. concludes by reminding us of Paul's last words, expressing the desire for the Lord to be with us and for grace to be with us.
Running the Right Race (Birmingham Conference)
By David Wilkerson4.3K46:23Running The RaceDependence on the Holy SpiritMAT 6:33ROM 8:51CO 9:242CO 4:2GAL 1:6PHP 3:142TI 4:7HEB 12:1JAS 4:41JN 2:15David Wilkerson emphasizes the importance of running the right race in the Christian life, distinguishing between the spirit race, which leads to Christ, and the flesh race, which leads to worldly success. He warns that many Christians, including pastors, are caught up in the flesh race, leading to spiritual exhaustion and shipwrecked lives. Wilkerson calls for a return to dependence on the Holy Spirit and a commitment to preaching the uncompromised gospel of Jesus Christ. He encourages believers to seek a deeper relationship with God, reminding them that true success is found in Christ alone, not in worldly achievements. The sermon concludes with a call to stand firm in faith and not compromise the truth of the gospel.
I Press Toward the Mark
By A.W. Tozer3.5K38:55Pressing OnMAT 6:33MAT 22:37ROM 5:201CO 2:2EPH 4:14PHP 3:142TI 4:7In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of seeking God's presence and experiencing His power. He uses the analogy of a pilot assuring passengers that they will soon be in sunlight despite the current rainy weather. The preacher encourages listeners to trust in God's ability to bring them into His presence and to not be discouraged by obstacles or confusion. He also references the apostle Paul's words in Philippians 3:13-14, where Paul expresses his determination to press on towards the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. The preacher concludes by urging listeners to let go of past failures and focus on moving forward in their relationship with God.
(Pdf Book) Against the Wind
By K.P. Yohannan2.7K00:00EbooksCharacter in MinistryPerseverance2TI 4:7K.P. Yohannan emphasizes the necessity of perseverance and character in the Christian life, drawing parallels between the struggles faced by early church leaders and those encountered today. He urges believers to remain steadfast in their faith, even amidst trials and temptations, and to cultivate a deep dependence on God for strength and guidance. Yohannan highlights the importance of living a life of integrity, humility, and service, encouraging individuals to be examples for others in their walk with Christ. Ultimately, he calls for a radical commitment to evangelism, reminding us that the urgency of reaching the lost should drive our actions and decisions.
Looking Unto jesus...for the Joy
By Leonard Ravenhill2.4K42:27Suffering Of ChristMAT 20:28MAT 28:20JHN 14:17ROM 8:282TI 4:7HEB 12:1REV 22:20In this sermon, the preacher reflects on his experience of reading the Bible and how it humbled him. He emphasizes the need for patience in the Christian journey, using the analogy of running a race. The preacher also highlights the sacrifice and love of Jesus, reminding the audience that they should not expect better treatment from a world opposed to Christ. He concludes by discussing the loneliness of God and the joy that Jesus had in fulfilling his mission. The sermon encourages believers to prioritize their relationship with Jesus over worldly pleasures and to find freedom in Christ.
'Here Am I, Send Me'
By Stuart Olyott2.1K55:49MAT 6:12MAT 6:142TI 4:71JN 3:14In this sermon, the speaker begins by referencing the story of Noah and the ark, highlighting that out of the eight people in the ark, one was not a very spiritual person. The speaker then discusses the format of the seminar, explaining that it will be more informal with a talk and some questions. They also mention some logistical details such as the microphones and late arrivals. The speaker corrects a mistake from a previous session, clarifying that Noah preached for over a hundred years. The speaker then addresses the audience, suggesting that some may be questioning whether they are genuine Christians or counterfeits. They emphasize the existence of counterfeit Christians and the need for self-reflection. The sermon concludes by outlining the structure of the talk, which will present three points, with the third point leading towards finding answers to the question of when a Christian is not a Christian.
Death Procession
By William Booth1.9K01:58MAT 25:211CO 15:58PHP 2:32TI 4:7This sermon reflects on the passing of William Booth, the founder of the Salvation Army, in 1912. It highlights the honor and respect shown during his funeral procession in London, where people from all walks of life gathered to pay tribute to this dedicated soldier of God who devoted his life to serving the marginalized and lost.
Three Keys to Spiritual Victory
By Jim Cymbala1.8K32:51Spiritual Victory2SA 15:21MAT 16:26ROM 7:19EPH 6:121TI 6:122TI 4:7In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of fighting for souls and standing against evil. He encourages believers to fight for their loved ones through prayer, even when they are facing difficult situations. The preacher also highlights the need to discern when to walk away from certain battles and not waste time and energy on unnecessary conflicts. He calls for a deeper commitment to Christianity, beyond just attending church on Sundays, and urges believers to be all in for God's work. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the importance of being fully engaged and committed in every aspect of life, just like a dedicated basketball player on the court.
What Is Your Life - Part 8
By Leonard Ravenhill1.7K09:44LUK 9:23JHN 14:27ACT 20:24ROM 6:72TI 4:7This sermon emphasizes the need for believers to move beyond just being saved and living a basic Christian life. It delves into the importance of seeking a deeper spiritual experience, surrendering fully to God, and allowing Him to work in our lives to remove bondage, fear, and weakness. The sermon also highlights the dangers of envy and jealousy in hindering spiritual growth, using biblical examples like Saul and Paul to illustrate the consequences of such attitudes.
Thou Hast Covered My Head
By Bob Jones Sr.1.7K14:22PSA 140:7ISA 40:31MAT 24:6LUK 21:26EPH 6:122TI 4:7REV 22:20In this sermon, Dr. Bob Jones Sr. emphasizes the importance of staying faithful to God despite the difficulties and problems we may face. He encourages believers to persevere in the midst of struggles, temptations, and darkness, reminding them that God renews their strength and keeps them going. The psalmist's words in Psalm 140:7, "Thou hast covered my head in the day of battle," serve as a reminder that God is with us and protects us in times of conflict. Dr. Jones urges listeners to continue going God's way, even if it means overcoming obstacles or facing opposition from enemies.
The Spirit's Power
By J. Glyn Owen1.7K46:02Spirit's PowerMAT 28:19MRK 1:17LUK 19:10ACT 1:8EPH 3:8EPH 3:162TI 4:7In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the truth and power of the Gospel. He acknowledges that the story of salvation is not a mere imagination but a reality that has transformed countless lives over the past 2,000 years. The preacher highlights the immense power of God that Christians can draw upon and experience in their lives. He mentions the Apostle Paul's recognition of God's power in giving birth to the Gospel and also in transforming the lives of believers. The preacher encourages the congregation to focus on God's provision and forgiveness, and to live in the power of the Holy Spirit, fulfilling the good works that God has prepared for each individual.
(Revelation) the Scene in Heaven
By Willie Mullan1.6K1:12:33Throne Of GodMAT 6:331CO 9:92TI 4:7HEB 12:1REV 4:2REV 5:5REV 7:14REV 21:23REV 22:12REV 22:16In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of working diligently and being fully committed to serving God. He refers to the six wings of the heavenly creatures mentioned in Isaiah chapter six, highlighting their swiftness and completeness. The speaker emphasizes the need to have the characteristics of these creatures, such as being bold like a lion and being diligent like a man. He also mentions the transcendent nature of God's throne and how studying the book of Revelation can bring new understanding and blessings.
Gleanings From 144,000
By Danny Bond1.5K43:42Israel2TI 4:7JUD 1:24REV 14:1REV 14:4In this sermon, the speaker focuses on Revelation chapter 14, which contrasts the negative events of chapter 13 with the positive events of chapter 14. The speaker highlights the significance of the 144,000 mentioned in verse 1, emphasizing that they are real people with real feelings, purpose, and passion for Christ. These individuals are portrayed as feisty followers of Jesus, standing with him on Mount Zion in Jerusalem. The sermon also emphasizes the power and ability of God to present believers faultless before his throne, and the importance of living a genuine and triumphant Christian life.
Hindrances
By Jim Cymbala1.2K29:32HindrancesMAT 6:33ACT 20:27EPH 2:41TH 2:182TI 4:7JAS 4:71PE 5:8In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being a soldier for God and facing discouragements and hindrances with determination. He shares personal experiences of facing discouragement and wanting to quit, but ultimately persevering. The speaker also highlights the love and longing that a minister should have for their congregation, using the example of Paul's love for his disciples. Lastly, the speaker warns about the tactics of Satan, who tries to hinder believers from fulfilling their calling and encourages the audience to rely on the Word of God for faith and strength.
Thoughts in the Book of Judges
By George Verwer1.0K22:14JudgesJDG 5:3MAT 6:33LUK 9:51ROM 8:181CO 15:572CO 4:172TI 4:7In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of loving one's neighbor as oneself. He shares a personal experience of realizing the significance of a small act of kindness towards his brother. The speaker emphasizes that even though these small acts may seem unimportant in the grand scheme of things, they are actually of great importance to God. He then references 1 Corinthians 9:24, where the Apostle Paul talks about the goal of running the race of life to obtain the prize. The speaker encourages the audience to live their lives with the goal of pleasing God and loving others.
The Great Reward for Sacrificial Communication
By Jeff Keehn1.0K1:41:05CommunicationMAL 3:161TI 3:152TI 4:7HEB 10:19HEB 10:35HEB 13:162PE 3:11In this sermon, the speaker uses the analogy of plowing with a horse to illustrate how life can sometimes throw us off track. He emphasizes the importance of refocusing and not dwelling on past mistakes. The speaker also discusses the qualifications for those who want to prepare for the Lord's return, highlighting the importance of ruling one's own household well. The sermon concludes with a message about the great reward for sacrificial communication and holy conversation, urging listeners to be ready for the signs of the Lord's coming.
Listen to These Three Odd Old Preachers
By Ian Paisley89933:42MAT 28:19JHN 3:16JHN 3:30ACT 7:541TI 4:162TI 4:7REV 2:13In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of giving and the attitude with which we should approach it. He highlights the story of Jesus observing the gifts being given at the collection plate, particularly focusing on a poor widow who gave all she had. The preacher urges the congregation to give themselves fully to God and to recognize that Christ demands everything from us. He also discusses the role of the preacher and the responsibility to preach the Word of God faithfully, emphasizing the need for personal salvation and the power of the Bible. The sermon concludes with a warning about the consequences of not responding to the gospel and the urgency of accepting Christ before it is too late.
Will You Finish Well
By Richard Owen Roberts81606:44MAT 24:13LUK 9:621CO 16:13PHP 3:132TI 4:7HEB 3:6JAS 1:12REV 2:10This sermon emphasizes the importance of finishing strong in the Christian faith, highlighting that it is not just about how you start but how you continue until the end. The book of Hebrews is discussed, showcasing the dual themes of elevating Christ doctrinally and warning about the necessity of enduring faith. The passages in Hebrews stress the need to hold fast to faith and repentance until the end, not just making a one-time commitment but living a life dedicated to Christ.
More Than Conquerors
By Basilea Schlink59104:35Radio ShowMAT 6:33ROM 8:371CO 15:572TI 4:71JN 5:4The video is a sermon on the theme of becoming conquerors through Jesus' love. The speaker emphasizes that Jesus offers complete victory and calls on believers to make themselves ready for battle against sin. The Apostle Paul's words in Romans 8:37, "In all these things we are more than conquerors, through him who loved us," serve as a reminder that believers can overcome struggles, troubles, and suffering. The ultimate goal is to enter the city of God as conquerors and victors, inheriting glory, the throne, and crowns.
After Against the Night What Next
By George Verwer53117:44MissionsPSA 68:5ISA 35:6LUK 12:48LUK 14:28LUK 15:72TI 4:7JAS 1:22In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of following up on a revival or deep spiritual experience with action. They quote the Bible, stating that those who receive much will be required to give much. The speaker encourages the audience to share what they have learned and experienced with others, and to get involved in activities that allow them to share their faith. They also discuss the need for balance and grace in our spiritual journey, reminding listeners to pace themselves and not become discouraged when they make mistakes.
The Four W's 04 the Work of God
By Stan Ford39559:35MAT 6:33ACT 20:24ROM 12:12TI 4:7In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being steadfast and faithful in serving God. He mentions that each person has a unique role to play in God's work based on their background and abilities. The speaker encourages the audience to seek a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and to rely on Him for guidance in their service. He also highlights the need for joy in serving God and the importance of not being swayed by external circumstances.
What Is a Christian 20 Christian an Ambassador
By James K. Boswell37551:23PRO 24:11LUK 6:23LUK 20:21GAL 6:8GAL 6:112TI 4:7In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of keeping one's word and being trustworthy. He urges the audience to remember that their word should be their bond, whether in personal relationships, business, or within the church. The preacher also highlights the need for selflessness and reconciliation with God. He shares a story of a man who abandoned his family and the consequences that followed. The sermon concludes with a reminder that even in difficult times, one should not grow weary in doing good, as there will be a great reward in heaven.
I Was Not Disobedient to God's Purposes by James Jennings
By James Malachi Jennings3561:04:202TI 4:7This sermon emphasizes the importance of being obedient to God's specific purposes for our lives, drawing insights from the examples of Paul recounting his conversion before King Agrippa, along with the lives of historical figures like Henry Martin, George Mueller, and Bak Singh. The message highlights the need to have a steadfast commitment to fulfilling God's purposes, even in the face of challenges, distractions, and the temptation to compare or seek visible results. It encourages believers to seek God's guidance, be patient, and remain faithful to the course set before them, ultimately focusing on advancing the Gospel and glorifying God.
Fear
By Leonard Ravenhill1591:00:33Overcoming FearFaith and CourageFearPRO 1:7ISA 41:10MAT 25:25ACT 1:8ROM 12:11CO 6:42TI 1:72TI 4:7HEB 11:71JN 4:18Leonard Ravenhill emphasizes that fear is the true public enemy number one, overshadowing sin, ignorance, and poverty. He draws from historical and biblical examples to illustrate how fear can paralyze individuals and communities, contrasting it with the spirit of power, love, and a sound mind that God provides. Ravenhill highlights the importance of recognizing fear's reality while also understanding that it can be overcome through faith and the teachings of Scripture. He encourages believers to stir up the gifts within them and to stand firm in their faith, especially in perilous times, as Paul advised Timothy. Ultimately, he calls for a return to a deep, abiding trust in God to combat the fears that plague humanity.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
I have fought a good fight - Every reader will perceive that the apostle, as was his very frequent custom, alludes to the contests at the Grecian games: Τον αγυνα τον καλον ηγωνισμαι· I have wrestled that good wrestling - I have struggled hard, and have over come, in a most honorable cause. I have finished my course - I have started for the prize, and have come up to the goal, outstripping all my competitors, and have gained this prize also. I have kept the faith - As the laws of these games must be most diligently observed and kept, (for though a man overcome, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully), so I have kept the rules of the spiritual combat and race; and thus, having contended lawfully, and conquered in each exercise, I have a right to expect the prize.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
"I have striven the good strife"; the Greek is not restricted to a fight, but includes any competitive contest, for example, that of the racecourse (Ti1 6:12 [ALFORD]; Co1 9:24, &c.; Heb 12:1-2). kept the faith--the Christian faith committed to me as a believer and an apostle (compare Ti2 1:14; Rev 2:10; Rev 3:10).
John Gill Bible Commentary
I have fought a good fight,.... The fight of faith; the same as in Ti1 6:10; see Gill on Ti1 6:10, I have finished my course, or race; the race of life set before him, his course of years; his days were extinct, the grave was ready for him, and he for that; his last sands were dropping, and he was just going the way of all flesh; or else he means the course of his ministry, which he desired to finish with joy, and was now finishing; Act 13:25 he was now got to the end of his line, to Rome, where he was to be a martyr for Christ, Act 23:11 so that he now concluded his work was done, and his warfare accomplished: I have kept the faith; by which he means, not so much the grace of faith, that was kept by Christ, the object, author, and finisher of it, and through his effectual grace and powerful intercession; but rather the profession of faith, which he had held fast without wavering; and chiefly the doctrine of faith, which was committed to his trust, which he had kept pure and incorrupt against all opposition; unless his faithfulness and integrity in the ministerial work should be thought rather to be intended; and which sense is favoured by the Syriac and Ethiopic versions, which render it, "I have kept my faith"; or have been faithful to my trust, as a good steward of the mysteries of God; not concealing and keeping back any thing that was profitable, but declaring the whole counsel of God; and now what remained for him was the crown of righteousness; and this he says for the comfort and encouragement and imitation of Timothy and others. The phrase seems to be Jewish; it is said (y) by the Jews, that he that does not keep the feast of unleavened bread, is as he who does not , "keep the faith of the holy blessed God". (y) Zohar in Exod. fol. 51. 2.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:7 Paul had remained faithful to the trust that was committed to him (see study notes on 1:12; 1 Tim 6:20; cp. Acts 20:24). He had preserved the integrity of the Christian faith and wanted Timothy to follow his example (see 2 Tim 2:3-7; 1 Tim 1:18; 6:12; cp. Rom 15:30-31; 1 Cor 9:25-27; Heb 12:1; Jude 1:3).