A Solemn Charge

We have Paul’s last words to Timothy. It marks the climax of the letter. This is a solemn charge as Paul is facing an imminent death. The importance of this call is seen in that Paul charges him in the presence of God and Christ Jesus. Can you feel the weight? In this last word, Paul calls Timothy to fulfill his ministry of preaching and shepherding a people. It would be a mistake to see this as only a personal letter to a pastor; rather, we need to see it as a public letter to the church. We will look at the nature of the charge and the motivations to walk in faithfulness.