Young People's Group

“I Endure All Things”

by Mitchell Tan
August 11, 2017

THE EXAMPLE OF PAUL IN ENDURING SUFFERING

When it came to sharing faith in the gospel, Paul was totally committed to it. Even if it meant suffering along the way, he was undeterred. Paul had written to Timothy concerning being strong in the grace of the Lord and to apply it in enduring hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. Paul went on to write of how he learnt about being a good example of one who endured much suffering.

1. THE EXTENT OF HIS SUFFERING

“For which I suffer trouble as an evildoer, even to the point of chains”
2 Timothy 2:9

Paul was accused as an evildoer by the Jews as he shared the gospel (Acts 21:27-28). He had to suffer affliction and was even placed in chains. 2 Corinthians 11:23-29 gives us a list of the extent of things that Paul endured.

2. THE EXTENT OF HIS ENDURANCE

“I endure all things”
2 Timothy 2:10

The word “endure” in Greek has the idea of remaining and persevering even under severe circumstances. The grace of the Lord enabled Paul to endure all the sufferings that he had to go through. Young people, let’s also learn to endure whatever challenges we may have in life.

REASONS FOR ENDURING SUFFERING

1. FOR THE SAKE OF THE GOSPEL

“According to the gospel, for which I suffer trouble”
2 Timothy 2:8-9

It was for the sake of the gospel that he suffered much afflictions. He had written about how he was unashamed of the gospel and was willing to suffer much for it (2 Timothy 1:12). He was totally committed to preaching the gospel and was unafraid to do so.

2. FOR THE SAKE OF THE ELECT

“For the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.”
2 Timothy 2:10

Paul found much purpose in enduring all things for the sake of the elect. He knew that it was through his ministry that the elect would come to salvation in Christ. They would be won for all eternity. He was driven to persevere much for those who would come to faith in Him.

THE MANNER IN ENDURING SUFFERING

1. FOCUSING ON THE LORD JESUS

“Remember that Jesus Christ, of the seed of David, was raised from the dead”
2 Timothy 2:8

Paul’s focus as he shared the gospel was on the person of the Lord Jesus Christ. He wrote to Timothy that he was to remember the Lord concerning how He was raised from the dead and how He was the prophesied Messiah from the seed of David. Paul’s focus was on Jesus Christ and His resurrection as he endured suffering.

2. FAITH IN THE WORD OF GOD

“But the word of God is not chained.”
2 Timothy 2:9

Paul also saw how although he may be chained, the word of God was not. He had absolute faith that the word of God would still spread and have a powerful impact on people despite his being in jail. Young people, let’s be unafraid to share our faith and to go through whatever challenges we may have in life. Let’s exercise faith in His word as we press on.

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