Bible Study – II Timothy 1

/ Just Add Water. Chris Bonham

S – Therefore, I remind you to rekindle the gift of God that is in you through the laying on of my hands. 7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but one of power,, love, and sound judgment. 

2 Timothy 1:6–7 CSB

O – Commentary:

Why Timothy needed this reminder of his ordination, and the confidence in his own gifts he developed as a result of it, is not clear. In 1 Timothy the reference to Timothy’s ordination is associated with problems stemming from his youthfulness (cf. 1 Tim. 4:12). Perhaps he had become somewhat intimidated by the opposition to both Paul and the gospel, even in some ways threatened, defensive, and ashamed (cf. 2 Tim. 1:8) at having to defend a prisoner (cf. 2:9) and the “foolishness” which they both preached about a despised and crucified Jesus (cf. 1 Cor. 1:18–2:5). But such timidity (deilias, lit., “cowardice,” used only here in the NT) has no place in God’s service. Instead God gives a spirit of power (cf. 1 Cor. 2:4), of love (cf. 1 Tim. 1:5), and of self-discipline (cf. 1 Tim. 4:7). These three virtues, each supplied by the Holy Spirit, should characterize Timothy.

A. Duane Litfin, “2 Timothy,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, ed. J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 2 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985), 750.

A – We all have times when we are “intimidated” by things that are bigger than us.  We need to work through it and recognize that nothing is bigger than God and his ability to work a situation to his good.  Community is crucial in all of this.  I know how much I rely on my core circle in difficult times.  They see the raw emotions and they walk with me as I get back to a healthier place.

R – Heavenly Father, You are the Supreme God -there is none bigger than you.  We invite your Holy Spirit to encourage us today to lead as you have called us to.  The enemy wants to accuse, distract and intimidate but you are bigger than all of those.  You commision us to do the work of the ministry and will open the doors that need to be opened for us to do that.