What if They Wont Listen

These verses begin and end with the same picture - the blessed appearing of Christ our Lord to judge the living and the dead. And in between is an exhortation to preach the Word. Although the reason that Paul gives for committing to the preached Word of the Scriptures is a fascinating one! Paul says to faithfully preach the Word day in and day out because some WON'T listen! Because there is a day coming when they won't be satisfied with hearing the truth.... Because there is a day coming when they will surround themselves with false teachers who scratch their itching ears.... preach the Word all the more!

This is what Paul has done, and he is now at the end of his race. He is so close to the finish line that he can taste it. He can glimpse the crown that awaits him. And he deeply desires that Timothy will lay hold of that same crown. That he too will be able to see it just above the horizon. That he will follow in his footsteps and preach the Word again and again until he joins the great company of all those who have loved and longed for Christ's appearing and lays hold of the crown of righteousness! You might often be told that Christianity is about doing what is right and giving no thought for the reward - never asking, 'What's in it for me?" In some ways this is true. In others, we should give much thought to the reward! Paul knows what is in it for Timothy. He knows what is in it for him. He knows what is in it for all who have loved Christ's appearing. And wants us to all know it too! So that we might preach and press on and finish the race!