SPREAD GOD’S TRUTH (2 Timothy – 5)
READ: 2 Timothy 2:2
I owe all I am and have to God’s grace working in my life (see previous blog on 2 Timothy 2:1). One of the ways He did this was by bringing Godly men into my life to train and mentor me. They passed their knowledge and experience on to me and now I am passing it on to others. In the future they will share these truths with the next generation of pastors. It’s like passing a baton from one runner to the next in a relay race. Each generation of pastors teaches those who will take over and replace them. Mentoring and training younger pastors is a duty God commands of all of us. Paul commanded it of Timothy as well: “And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others” (2 Timothy 2:2).
Notice Paul said Timothy is to pass what he has learned to “reliable” men. These are men who are faithful to learn and serve. God has chosen us because He sees us as trustworthy men. In my early years I was not always reliable, and I continue to fail many times even now. But He is merciful to forgive and restore me.
We are to “teach” these reliable men, as others have taught us. Paul taught Timothy who passed it on to “reliable men” who in turn trained “others.” This kept going for 2,000 years until it was passed to us. Now we must train younger men who can carry on His work. This is an important responsibility for all who are in Christian service. Jesus is our example. He trained the disciples so they could carry on the work when He left.
Many years ago God gave me a strong desire to mentor younger pastors. It is not always easy, but it has been a joy and blessing to encourage and help these men. God has patiently taught me much about serving Him and His church. It’s a privilege and an obligation to pass that knowledge on to others. Transmitting His truth is a serious but fulfilling responsibility.
The best way to do this is to follow Jesus’ example. He spent time with the disciples, took them with Him in His daily ministry, trained them and gave them opportunities to use their newly-developed skills in service. Paul did the same with Timothy, Titus and others. He patiently passed on truth, encouraged, corrected when necessary and prayed for them regularly. We must do the same.
PAUL’S ADVICE: Pass on Bible truth and ministry skills to the next generation of pastors so they can continue the work when we are no longer able.
Ephesians 4:11-12 It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God’s people for works of service
2 Timothy 2:1-2 You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others.
Who has mentored you in your life? What did you learn from them? Thank them and thank God for them.
Who are you currently mentoring?
Who do you know that would benefit from your encouragement and training?
cto Rev. Dr. JERRY SCHMOYER
Christian Training Organization
Jerry@ChristianTrainingOrganization.org
(India Outreach, Spiritual Warfare, Family Ministries, Counseling, World View)
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