2 Timothy 4:1-8. Questions 1-2
1. How does 4:1-8 relate to what Paul has been saying in chapters 1-3? See the solemn way Paul introduces the charge to Timothy: " In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingdom" (v.1). cf. 1 Tim 5:21: " In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus and of the elect angels I charge you to keep these rules without prejudging, doing nothing from partiality." Paul is saying to Timothy. "You must do this" If we could compel obedience from someone - to have it so that our wishes were fulfilled by that person, what would we ask? For Paul, it was all about the gospel. What is the meaning of the charge? "in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus" - the ultimate witness, not man. It is a righteous request. "who is to judge the living and the dead" - the ultimate judge of Timothy's actions and worth. It alludes to the supreme authority of the One before whom ...