2 Timothy 4:2 Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage – with great patience and careful instruction.
As a ministry leader, this is a verse that I often reminded volunteers to keep in mind, just as Paul gave these instructions to Timothy. It is a verse that you might think doesn’t apply to you, but after today’s devotion you may think differently. Let’s jump in!
Paul’s words wrap up his letter to Timothy and give him final reminders to live by. Though the letter was addressed to Timothy, much of what was said throughout the entire epistle applies to all believers. He told Timothy to preach the Word. The Greek word used for “preach” is kēryxon and is used in regard to a herald or messenger of the King. One could argue that we are all messengers of the King (we are ambassadors of Christ, according to 2 Corinthians 5:20) and have a duty to proclaim the Gospel. Others claim this verse refers only to those in an authority position, such as pastors and ministers who preach in a church.
The Greek word means to herald, proclaim openly, or act as a public crier. Pastors and ministers don’t typically preach publicly, though some do. Rather, they work within a church. But all believers are told to go into the world and make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19), which means each of us are “authorized” to carry the message of Christ to the lost and hurting.
And we are told to do this both in season and out of season. We are to be prepared to give an answer regardless of what is going on in our lives, whether it is convenient, favorable, or popular. As we give this answer, we are correcting, rebuking, and encouraging people with great patience.
If you have ever spent time sharing the Gospel you realize there are times when you have to correct behaviors, times to rebuke, and times to encourage and exhort. Regardless, you do it with patience, love, and compassion. Just because it makes sense in our head and heart doesn’t mean it makes sense to them yet. You might be planting seeds that someone else will water, harvested later by another. Don’t lose hope. Be patient and let God work in their lives.
A final reminder…. Preaching the Word with patience is only possible if we are IN the Word ourselves. We need to know the Message God wants us to share and we are to be prepared to give an answer when questions arise. If you are not in the Word, this is challenging.
Today let’s look for opportunities to share God’s Word with others. Whether in season or out, take time today to find one person you can share His Word with. Be patient with them and trust that God is in control of the outcome.
Prayer: Lord, Thank You for giving me the words to share with others. Help me to be patient with their questions or disbelief. Speak through me in a clear, concise manner. Amen
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