Fighting the good fight Andy Nagahara
A. Why we thank God.. (12-15)
12 I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me faithful, appointing me to his service.
13 Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief.
14 The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.
15 Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners--of whom I am the worst.
1) Because we have been forgiven (13,15)
2) Because we have been given abundantly (12,14)
B. The way of the one who was forgiven and gifted by God (16-20)
1) The way for telling God's forgiveness and grace (16,17)
16 But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his unlimited patience as an example for those who would believe on him and receive eternal life.
17 Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen.
2) It is also the way of battle (18-20)
18 Timothy, my son, I give you this instruction in keeping with the prophecies once made about you, so that by following them you may fight the good fight,
19 holding on to faith and a good conscience. Some have rejected these and so have shipwrecked their faith.
20 Among them are Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom I have handed over to Satan to be taught not to blaspheme.
Summary
God does not judge you according to what you had done in the past. God forgives you, gives you grace and guides you to the new life. You can restart your life. Your new life is the way to let people know the forgiveness and gift of God that you have been given. At the same time, it is the serious fight too.
For Discussion
1) Why did God show mercy on us?
2) What kind of battle are we called out to fight?