“proclaim the word; be persistent whether it is convenient or inconvenient; convince, reprimand, encourage through all patience and teaching.” (2 Tim 4:2)
2 Timothy 3:14 - 4:2

 

Here we have the charge: “proclaim the word”, in other words, PREACH. Both Paul and Timothy were called to preach. Paul encourages Timothy throughout this book to persist in this ministry and not to give up. His command is to preach the word and to train others to do so.

To preach means to proclaim, explain, teach and share. As Christians, we are called to be preachers, maybe in front of a congregation or perhaps individually to family members and friends. No matter the place, we are called to be God's messengers. No matter the challenges, we are called to be God's messengers. No matter our qualifications or the Christian journey we are on, we are called to be God's messengers. So, be persistent and preach the word of God to as many as are willing to listen.

Paul tells Timothy that any time is a good time to preach and that he must always be ready to do so. However, there are no perfect conditions, times or places to preach God's word, and so, similar to the well-known slogan “just do it”, Timothy was told to “just preach it”.
“convince, reprimand, encourage through all patience and teaching” could be a somewhat overwhelming statement to accept, but Timothy was called to do so. His responsibility was to preach God's word to all and to make them “listen up” honestly and authentically. Paul told Timothy to preach with no frills and fancies, holding people accountable for their faith, knowing that God would do his work in their lives. Paul reminded Timothy to be patient and clear in his instructions. 

A good teacher displays patience with their students. They allow for mistakes, make room for repetition, accept that progress may be slower for some and know that each student learns differently. Each student may have a different experience, attitude or outlook on the learning material. Timothy was called to be patient but also to display patience.
Timothy was charged with a mammoth task. One, he could quickly have declined or ignored yet chose to “listen up” and follow his instructions even though this ultimately led to his death. He paid the price of preaching about and serving a loving God; his rewards in heaven have been great.

Reflect today on times when you have felt it difficult to preach or share God’s word. What helped you to  persevere and stay ready?
 

Lord,
It is an honour that you entrust us with your word and trust us 

to share our faith and knowledge of you with others. 

Therefore, please give us the grace to be patient but 

ready to witness at all times.

Amen.