February 16, 2023

2 Timothy 4:9-22 (HCSB)
Final Instructions
9 Make every effort to come to me soon, 10 for Demas has deserted me, because he loved this present world, and has gone to Thessalonica. Crescens has gone to Galatia, Titus to Dalmatia. 11 Only Luke is with me. Bring Mark with you, for he is useful to me in the ministry. 12 I have sent Tychicus to Ephesus. 13 When you come, bring the cloak I left in Troas with Carpus, as well as the scrolls, especially the parchments. 14 Alexander the coppersmith did great harm to me. The Lord will repay him according to his works. 15 Watch out for him yourself because he strongly opposed our words. 16 At my first defense, no one stood by me, but everyone deserted me. May it not be counted against them. 17 But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that the proclamation might be fully made through me and all the Gentiles might hear. So I was rescued from the lion’s mouth. 18 The Lord will rescue me from every evil work and will bring me safely into His heavenly kingdom. To Him be the glory forever and ever! Amen. Benediction 19 Greet Prisca and Aquila, and the household of Onesiphorus. 20 Erastus has remained at Corinth; I left Trophimus sick at Miletus. 21 Make every effort to come before winter. Eubulus greets you, as do Pudens, Linus, Claudia, and all the brothers. 22 The Lord be with your spirit. Grace be with you.

Nathan Putty
Bottom of the ninth. Paul lays out the final instructions for Timothy. He wants his loyal teammate to be with him and makes a point to name those who have abandoned him. Paul is getting his ducks in a row, asking for supplies to aid him in his final days. There’s a lot going through this man’s mind. He’s trying to say goodbye to his friends. He’s trying to stay alive so to ensure Timothy, Mark, and Luke carry on the legacy, continuing with their teachings. What a heavy burden Paul must have felt. Not to mention Timothy, with everything he’d been tasked with. As lonely as Paul was, he of course always brings it back around to Jesus and gives Him the glory. Such a beautiful way to end this letter–asking the Lord to be with your spirit and grace be with you all. Coach Paul didn’t lose the game. He won!