The Evangelist – Wage the Good Warfare
[By Peter Russom]
In recent studies of Old Testament books and in our current study in Isaiah, we are reminded of the many challenges the prophets faced in relaying God’s word. Their audiences were not always receptive to messages that required substantial change of heart and mind. They much preferred to hear positive messages than the truth they really needed.
“For this is a rebellious people, lying children, children who will not hear the law of the LORD: Who say to the seers, “Do not see,” and to the prophets, “Do not prophesy to us right things; Speak unto us smooth things, prophesy deceits. Get out of the way, turn aside from the path, Cause the Holy One of Israel to cease from before us” (Isaiah 30:9-11, NKJV).
Considering the prophets, and also in thinking about our theme of evangelism in 2023, it is helpful for us to recall the work of Timothy. Revisiting the text of 1 Timothy encourages us to recognize, respect, and be thankful for evangelists throughout the world who faithfully preach the gospel. It is good for us to reflect upon those who have worked and those who continue to preach in all kinds of circumstances.
Having labored with Paul in a variety of locations, Timothy had gained experience which prepared him for the work he faced in Ephesus. As we read in Paul’s letter to the Philippians, “But you know Timothy’s proven worth, how as a son with a father he served with me in the gospel” (Philippians 2:22, NKJV).
In turn, Paul demonstrated great confidence in leaving Timothy at Ephesus to address multiple issues which were negatively impacting that church. Paul directs Timothy to “charge some that they teach no other doctrine” (1 Timothy 1:4, NKJV). The weighty responsibility of exposing and addressing false teaching was not the only concern that Paul mentioned. Timothy, to be truly effective in his work at Ephesus, must conduct himself in an upright way, demonstrating faithfulness, godliness, and perseverance. His work there was multi-faceted as he was to also pursue appointing leadership positions in the church and to ensure proper worship. In the concluding passages of the letter, we can recognize the love Paul had for Timothy. We see his affection for him and also strong direction concerning the gravity of the work in Ephesus.
“O Timothy! Guard what was committed to your trust, avoiding the profane and idle babblings and contradictions of what is falsely called knowledge – by professing it some have strayed concerning the faith. Grace be with you. Amen” (1 Timothy 6:20-21, NKJV).
When we consider current and future efforts to teach those around us, it is good to reflect upon what we have received from the evangelists we have heard. We appreciate their generosity in sharing what they had learned through years of diligent study, prayer, and dedication in serving the Lord. We are to be grateful for the good work being done today as it helps us to sustain and grow in faith. Sound preaching aids us in our walk with the Lord and in turn, supports our efforts in teaching the lost.
“Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching” (2 Timothy 4:2, NKJV).