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"In humility correcting those who are in opposition..."

Text: 2 Timothy 2:25

FACING OPPOSITION IN MINISTRY

The Lord Jesus Christ Himself faced much opposition in His life and ministry. He sought to prepare His disciples to expect that they will meet with opposition too. The apostle Paul found the same reality in his ministry. In wisdom he sought to help Timothy understand that serving the Lord is no walk in the park. There will be people who will stand in opposition!

“In humility correcting those who are in opposition,
if God perhaps will grant them repentance,
so that they may know the truth.”
2 Timothy 2:25

Three aspects may be highlighted as we study this text carefully.

1. The servant of the Lord

a) He must expect opposition

b) He must have the necessary virtues to serve effectively:-

i) He must be gentle   2 Timothy 2:24

ii) Able to teach   2 Timothy 2:24

iii) Patient   2 Timothy 2:24

iv) Humble   2 Timothy 2:25

2. Those in opposition

a) These are opponents.

b) They will come in different guises.

i) They may appear to be genuine and only time will tell.

ii) They may be outright in their opposition.

iii) They may be cunning and wicked.

c) But essentially they do not really know the truth.

i) Having some knowledge is not the same as knowing the truth.

ii) These are often trapped in their carnality.

3. The Lord

a) He knows those who are His.

b) He may or may not grant repentance to those who are in opposition.

c) He may or may not reveal the truth.

d) If He does not then those in opposition will spiritually perish.