II Timothy 1:8-12

There are a lot of important statements in these verses. Timothy was chosen by Paul to carry on much of the work that he started. These were also days in the Roman empire where Christianity was not the most popular thing to be in. It would be easy to sort of keep a low profile at a time like this. Paul therefore instructs Timothy to not be ashamed of the testimony of the Lord Jesus Christ. In our day we could feel that way too, so beware, lest we could also shrink back and not be open about belonging to Christ. He saved us and called us with a holy calling by His own purpose and grace. Notice that Christ by His own sacrifice abolished death. Does that mean believers don't die a natural death? No, but in this death we are transferred from earth to Heaven. We call it absent from the body and present with the Lord. In verse 12 Paul writes this wonderful statement, "I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep that which I have committed unto Him against that day." Paul knew God was in control and he would eventually come forth as the victor. The Lord Jesus Christ has everything in control.