2 Timothy 3:12-14

Everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution. But evil people and impostors will flourish. They will deceive others and will themselves be deceived. But you must remain faithful to the things you have been taught. You know they are true, for you know you can trust those who taught you.

Paul didn’t want Timothy to have any illusions. Following Christ was the most wonderful life that Paul could imagine, but it wasn’t easy for him, and he felt sure that it wouldn’t be for Timothy either. He would face challenges on all sides and would also have to cope with the sight of his opponents flourishing. It was going to be incredibly tough, but Paul was convinced that he would be fine just so long as he clung on to the things he had been taught.

Paul told Timothy that he could be confident of the teaching he had received because he knew the trustworthiness of those who had taught him. Timothy had a Jewish mother who had been largely responsible for his upbringing. The Old Testament has much to say about the teaching of children, and from their earliest days they were introduced to the law. It was claimed that the Jewish law was so firmly imprinted on a child’s mind that they would be more likely to forget their own name than God’s law. Timothy’s life as a Christian drew heavily upon the loving and faithful teaching that he had received from his earliest days.

As we thank God for the teaching we have received, it is good for us to reflect on the teachers themselves. I wonder whose influence has blessed you over the years. I think of my parents and of Sunday school and youth leaders who graciously introduced me to the Christian faith, and I think of lecturers and ministers whose love for God has shaped my understanding of Christian teaching. Following Christ is challenging but, strengthened by loving teaching from trustworthy people, we have been given every encouragement to remain faithful.

Question

Who have been the most influential teachers in your Christian life and why?

Prayer

Loving Father, thank you for those who have helped me to understand your truth. Help me to remain faithful to what I have learned. Amen