FROM PRISON TO PRAISE

 

From Prison to Praise – 1 Tim 4:6-8

 

This letter contains some of the last words, Paul would ever write.  Today’s message, I believe everyone should desire to say and live. 

 

Paul encourages Timothy in four areas.

 

1. To be encouraged and steadfast in the work of the Lord.
2. To combat false teaching, preach the word and pass on the message to the faithful.
3. Be willing to suffer for the truth.
4. Be a servant of Christ above reproach in a wicked world.

 

c.      In spite of his loneliness, Paul is praising the Lord.  He had learned to be content in whatever circumstances he was in.  Praise releases, peace, joy, contentment and the power of God.

 

 

Vs 6  - For I am being poured out like a drink offering and the time has come for my departure.

 

1. Paul knew he was going to die and he may have already been sentenced.  The time of my departure is at hand. 
2. He knew he was facing death so he was setting his affairs in order. 

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Vs 7 – I have the fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

 

1. Paul had fought the world, the flesh and the devil and won.  Souls had been saved, churches established and Gentiles had been converted
2. He had finished the race.  Paul knew it was not how you started that matter but how you finished. 
3. I have kept the faith.  This is an image of faithfulness in ones stewardship of Christian truth and life. 

 

Vs 8 – Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day and only to me but also all who have longed for his appearing.

 

1. There is in store for me a victor’s crown of righteousness.  The crown of Life which is given to those who faithful unto death (James 1:12.)
2. The Crown incorruptible. This is the crown given to those who finish the race.  (1 Cor 9:24-27)
3. The Crown of Rejoicing given to soul winners.  (1 Thess 2:19-20)
4. The Crown of Glory given to faithful and obedient pastors, church leaders and workers.  (1 Pet 5:2-4)
5. The crown of righteousness is a reward for righteous living.  This crown is given on the day of His appearing. 

 

Conclusion

 

               Paul has five exhortations I will close with.

 

1. Rekindle your faith, be willing to suffer and guard the truth.
2. Be, Strong, pass on this message to the faith, be a soldier and an athlete.
3. Let Jesus be your example of stability, faithfulness and steadfastness.
4. Avoid vain discussions, apostasy and continue in the faith.
5. Preach the word.