Read II Timothy 4 Pauls final words to Timothy

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing. (II Timothy 4:7-8 NKJV)

In encouraging Timothy to preach the word and diligence in serving, he gives his perspective of his own concluding journey in both life and ministry.

Paul has fought it well. A good fight as the Captain of Host is Christ; victory is assured and is promised. In midst of Demas forsaking (undermining him everything), persecuting, shipwrecked and his own condition. Focus in eternity rather than ministry. Thus, without self-pity. In ministry we will have difficulties within and without, distractions particularly to his training. Easy to look for accolades.

He has finished the race. All will complete regardless if they finished well or otherwise. For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand. (II Timothy 4:6) Paul took the analogy of the cup Romans do to pour out before their god after a great feast. For him, its bringing his life before the Lord and poured it out at His altar. The idea of a drink offering is first presented in Genesis 35:14, where Jacob poured out a drink offering before the Lord as a sacrifice. In the Mosaic Law, drink offerings could be a part of sacrifice to the Lord (Exodus 29:40-41 and Leviticus 23:13). He was prepared for death, to live is Christ and die is gain. What does it mean to finish well? Knowing what God wants us to do.

He has faithfully kept to his calling. Like a steward who had kept what's entrusted him. It's faithfulness rather than perfection like the heroes of faith recorded in Hebrews 11,

He focuses on the Rewarder, the righteous judge. He will receive the victors crown laid up for him the crown that was essentially a trophy, recognizing that one had competed according to the rules and had won the victory. This is the eternal reward, crown of righteousness for him in keeping his faith to the end. Righteousness that comes by faith and grace not merits and works. The crown of life if we will endure temptation (James 1:12)

He identifies with fellow believers who have loved Christs appearing. the Rewarder is the Lord who is just and righteous. He is the Umpire who makes no mistake and commit no injustice. Paul was confidence of himself and all who kept the faith and loved His appearing will be rewarded. This promise is for us if we will set our focus on heaven and on the Jesus who both walked the earth and now reigns in heaven, who is waiting to receive us.

Prayer: Lord I kept my focus on You as I fight to finish this race faithfully. You have taken care of the rest to ensuring my crown of righteousness awaits me and all who likewise loved your appearing.

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