“Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage,” 2 Timothy 4:2

 In my quiet time, I read a timely word to teachers that are much needed in our day.  Too many teachers tell people what they want to hear and avoid difficult subjects.  I would like to share what I read with all who teach, whether it’s to children or adults or from the pulpit.  It’s taken from the New Living Translation in 2 Timothy 4:2-5.  “Preach the Word of God.  Be persistent, whether the time is favorable or not.  Patiently correct, rebuke and encourage your people with good teaching.”  Isn’t that good?  We need good teaching, folks!  “For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to right teaching.  They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever they want to hear.”  Aren’t we seeing a lot of that today?

Then this:  “Don’t be afraid of suffering for the Lord.  Work at bringing others to Christ.  Complete the ministry God has given you.”

 What needed exhortations these are for teachers!  Be faithful to the Word of God!  Be faithful to the Lord and the ministry God has given you!  I love the words, “work at bringing others to Christ!”  You have to work at it!  There must be intentionality associated with it!  It’s true that it is God who gives the increase, but He uses His people as ambassadors!  We are to represent Christ in all we say and do, so that we might win some to the Lord!  Are you looking for opportunities to share the good news?  I often pray that God will open the door and if He opens it, I will walk through.  He never kicks down the door.  He politely knocks.  (Revelation 3:20)

I want to encourage you!  The time is short!  God has promised our work for Him will never be in vain.  He sees it all and is keeping track, so we don’t have to.  Keep on preaching, teaching, sharing and if necessary use words!

Pastor Terry

 

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