With full confidence and faith that Jesus will come again to usher in his kingdom, Paul’s final words to his spiritual son Timothy could not be clearer: preach the word in and out of season; correct, rebuke, and encourage with great patience and careful instruction. The devil plays to people’s sinful desires to listen only to what their itching ears want to hear. Preaching God’s word combats false teaching. Timothy ought to be sober-minded, continue to endure hardship, evangelize, and carry out all his God-given duties as a servant of God.

Paul, himself, lived out his charge to Timothy. Paul had carried out his duties and knew that his life was near its end (6). He had fought the good fight of faith, finished his race, and kept his faith to the end (7). He was sure that our Lord Jesus would give him the crown of righteousness and to all who are longing for his appearing. Paul had experienced abandonment (9), opposition (14,15), and even trials for his faith in Jesus (16). But Jesus stood with him, strengthened him, and delivered him from evil. Because Jesus was with Paul, he could fully proclaim the gospel to Gentiles. As the Lord Jesus had rescued him, so Jesus would bring him safely to the heavenly kingdom.
Application: Lord Jesus, thank you for giving me the mission to proclaim the gospel. Help me to finish what you want me to do as I wait for your return.
One Word: Finish the race of faith