Paul centered his final comments to Timothy around his final command. Timothy was to make it his priority to get to Paul as soon as possible. He asked for him to bring a couple others with him that they might encourage and support him as he finished his “course.”
The blessedness of likeminded friends and their companionship in ministry was, and is, a tremendous support the Lord has provided. They were all the more precious to Paul having been abandoned by several companions who had not only deserted him, but also the Lord and their ministry. The entrapment of loving the "now age" had become a greater love of theirs than the Gospel and ministry of it. Pressures of the ministry, the sacrifices called for, and difficulties to be endured became overwhelming. To be sure, if attempted by one's own strength, they will be. The means to persevere require dependence upon the Lord to sustain and supply what is needed to the very end if one is to run well, and finish well.
Paul's comments about the deserters become a startling reminder that not all finish well in the Lord's service. It is just as true that those who are finishing well will be a great comfort and encouragement for others to do the same. The bond of loving the Lord, and likemindedness toward His word, will be a source of strength, comfort, and support throughout the course of one's life and ministry.
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In the fall of 1969, Gil began a full-time teaching ministry as Senior Pastor of Indian Hills Community Church. He also earned his Ph.D. from the California Graduate School of Theology. The focus of Pastor Rugh’s ministry is systematic, verse-by-verse teaching of the Bible. As a...
