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Read: 2 Timothy 4:1-2
Listen: 2 Timothy 4

Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction. 2 Timothy 4:2

Paul spends thirty years sharing the gospel message. Now, he charges Timothy to preach the same message. In another letter, Paul shares with the church at Corinth, “For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). The truth that Jesus took people’s place and came to rescue humanity from their sins requires a response. All who believe God raised Jesus from the dead and receive his gift of salvation by faith will be saved. It’s not about people reaching up to God but God coming down to reach people.

When we believe in and receive Jesus, we receive the call to be a gospel sharer. A faith that is alive is a faith shared with others. Timothy had a unique opportunity to preach the gospel as a pastor. We each have a unique sphere of influence to share this life-changing message, too. Wherever we are, we are called to share the gospel by how we live our lives and in our conversations with family, friends and acquaintances.

TODAY: Think through your circles of influence, including your immediate family, extended family, co-workers, neighbors, acquaintances and people you encounter in the community. Write down two or three names of people in those circles who don’t know Jesus. Pray for them to come to know Jesus and for God to give you opportunities to share the gospel with them.


JESUS IN THE OLD TESTAMENT:

Read 2 Samuel 7-8. Highlight anything that points to Jesus. Note David’s desire to build God’s house and God’s reply.