In the conclusion of his second letter to Timothy, Paul makes mention of team members supporting or hindering his Gospel work. Particular mention is made of useful Mark and enemy Alexander. In all the obstacles of imprisonment, loneliness, and courtroom drama, Paul is able to keep on going by the strength of the Lord at his side.

In these few verses is both an example of Paul, a devoted follower of Christ and a mandate to all followers of Christ, to finish "well." Being a Christian is not easy but perseverance is possible by the strength of the Holy Spirit. And the reward? Well, it's glorious!

In the opening verses of the book of Obadiah it is apparent that the Lord intends to send judgment upon Edom by a betrayal of their allies. Edom's problem, like so many of us, is their pride and their trust in other things or people. Pride, in this case, came before plunder.

Wise words to both the pastor and the flock! Are you looking to hear God's Word in preaching or something else? Preacher, are you consistently preaching the Word or are you doing something else?

For an introduction to the book of Obadiah, this text provides some background to the people of Edom. Descendants of Esau, this nation had the opportunity to form good "fraternal" relations with Israel but instead continued the historical dispute and contended with Israel throughout Old Testament history. It is this people that will be addressed in the book of Obadiah.

In the context, Paul has warned Timothy of the danger of false teachers and of the opposition even within the church not only to the Gospel but to the Godly lifestyle of believers. What is Timothy to do? Remain in the Word! It is the Word that is sufficient for hearing the words of salvation, for changing and transforming the believer and for preparing believers for service.

Timothy is encouraged by Paul in this text to consider and continue what he has followed from Paul's mission, fruit and experiences. Paul also gives a maxim about the true Christian facing persecution because of his connection to Jesus and his Godly lifestyle.

The last little section of the Kings narrative describes first the horror of the murder of Governor Gedaliah and then the surprising conclusion as the author refers to Jehoiachin's release from prison over twenty years later. The condition of even the poorest remnant in the land is pitiful and hopeless while a glimmer of hope and mercy is seen in Babylon after a 37 year imprisonment.

The burning of Jerusalem and exile of the people of Judah was a terrible event in the history of God's people? Tragic, though? Hardly. Scripture tells us it happened because of the people's recalcitrance and rebellion against God's Word and prophets.

What a difference it should make when we understand that opponents to the Gospel are intoxicated by the devil's traps. Truth with gentleness - not compromise nor harsh treatment - must win the day in the hope that God would grant repentance to His opponents.