Preach the Word

II Timothy 4:1–4
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In this last chapter we have Paul’s last words to Timothy and to the church, “Preach the Word” (vv. 1-2) is the main responsibility Paul gives. This preaching must contain these three elements (v. 2):

1. Bring conviction - “reprove”
2. Give warning - “rebuke”
3. Appeal to action - “exhort”

Paul’s charge to timothy was very emphatic. It was very important for Timothy to preach the gospel so that the Christian faith could spread throughout the world. The content of Paul’s charge represents the central theme of every minister’s task. Paul could hardly have emphasized the matter more strongly. Paul gave the responsibility, “preach the word” (v. 2) but he also gives the reason (vv. 3-4). He says that the time will come when men will seek out teachers who will tell them what they want to hear rather than face them with the truth (Rom. 1:18-32). It is only a small step from rejecting the truth to accepting man made doctrines. It has been said that good preaching should afflict the comfortable and comfort the afflicted. If there is conviction but no remedy we add to people’s burdens. If we encourage those who ought to be rebuked we only encourage them to sin.

Application

Over half the people who have ever lived are alive today, and most of them do not know Christ. Lord, help me to be a person who preaches and teaches the truth with conviction.