English
Scripture Summary
2 Timothy 1:1-2 NIV
1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, in keeping with the promise of life that is in Christ Jesus,
2 To Timothy, my dear son:
Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.
This Week's Memorize Scripture
1 Timothy 6:10-12 NIV
10 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.
11 But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. 12 Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses.
Reflection on the Scripture:
When writing letters, we often begin with greetings, polite expressions, and compliments to make the recipient more receptive to the message. The Apostle Paul followed this custom but added something profoundly significant: an introduction of himself. He stated, “I am an apostle,” identifying himself as God’s appointed spokesperson on earth. Like the prophets in the Old Testament, Paul’s life was no longer his own. His worth was determined by God, and his words and actions were not under his control.
For example, the names of Isaiah’s sons were chosen by God (Isaiah 8:1–3), and Isaiah walked barefoot and naked for three years to deliver God’s message of judgment (Isaiah 20:4). Paul's introduction served to redirect the recipient's focus onto God because the true author of the letter was God Himself. The content of the letter, therefore, was not a suggestion but a command—a matter of life (John 6:63).
I often pray for Sunday school teachers, asking God to help them understand their identity and responsibility. I also remind myself that every word I speak in a sermon must faithfully convey God’s will—neither more nor less. Based on this reality, Paul reminded Timothy that this letter was written to him because of God’s grace and mercy. He assured Timothy that as he obeyed the commands of the Triune God, God’s peace would continually be with him.
Paul emphasized that none of us are worthy and that we all live under God’s grace. God Himself will accomplish everything. His grace allows us to partner with Him in His work, and this calling is a blessing to those who obey (Ephesians 6:24). When I invite fellow believers to serve, I always remind them: God does not need us, but He has graciously given us the opportunity to serve Him. It is a privilege and a blessing for those who are faithful and obedient.
Paul deeply understood this truth. He reminded believers, “For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be the glory forever! Amen” (Romans 11:36). Similarly, Peter encouraged believers: “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light” (1 Peter 2:9).
Do you know your identity in Christ?
Do your words reflect the dignity of this identity? Why or why not?
What attitude do you bring when reading God’s Word?
Do you regularly express gratitude to God for His grace?
Response through Hymn:
Grace is greater than my sin
https://youtu.be/DzQRLuOLk2o?si=QCHWGrYkFRbm46Tu
荣耀都归祢
https://youtu.be/DP9gGohnSug
唯独耶稣
https://youtu.be/S9adjUKoDP4
To God be the glory
https://youtu.be/2CeBoSQsBR0?si=EMEBL1LDEKbi7iKJ