“Paul’s Second Letter to Timothy — Rightly Dividing the Word of Truth Demands That We Follow Paul — Part 1”

Today we begin what is anticipated to be a three part series on why those who Rightly Divide the Word of Truth should be dedicated to “follow Paul” as he exhorts in his several letters. Our focus this time is on how Paul describes that “following” or “imitating”.  He specifically mentions first of all in 2 Tim. 3:10-12 “doctrine” and then adds a number of very practical items relating to our walk.  He finishes the list with persecution and sufferings together with Christ.  In most of the other references we consider here Paul also teaches either directly or indirectly that doctrine provides the only solid foundation for life and that that doctrine is all about Christ Jesus.  On that basis he then adds the practical matter of enduring the burdens of this life that shall come upon all who would desire to live godly in Christ Jesus.  These teachings are amplified in 2 Cor. 4 where we spent much of our time in this lesson.  The power in these personal statements of the apostle are encouraging for us all, or should be, whatever our circumstances.  Amen.