Paul was in chains for spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ. His letters to Timothy are touching in their appeal to have Timothy continue to spread the gospel. Paul is driven, inspired, even eager to reach more and more people for Christ through Timothy’s efforts. So how can this happen while Paul is in chains? Paul says it best himself here:
Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, descended from David. This is my gospel, for which I am suffering even to the point of being chained like a criminal. But God’s word is not chained. 2 Timothy 2:8-9 NIV
God’s Word is not chained! It cannot be chained, contained or put in prison. It is living and active and enters and changes hearts and souls. The catch is, the gospel needs a spreader. Much like a farmer uses a spreader for seeds, we can be a spreader for seeds of God’s Word. Paul is a spreader! He is spreading what he calls, his gospel, through Timothy.
Not only is Paul a spreader, he is a leader-maker. He tells Timothy:
And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others. 2 Timothy 2:2 NIV
Paul is telling Timothy, a leader in the making, to copy Him, not for his own glory, but to make more spreaders and teachers. That is the Unchained Gospel on the move!
Some questions for us to think on…
Am I a spreader? How so? Who do I tell about our Savior?
Am I a leader-maker? What would that look like in my life? Who would I entrust with the gospel and encourage them to tell others, as Paul did?
Personally, I pray I can be a better spreader with the goal of encouraging others to tell others, who tell others. I humbly believe this can only happen if we desire all glory go to God and the glorious gospel and not ourselves. Let’s not chain the gospel but spread it everywhere. People need to hear the message of a loving Savior and God before it is too late to tell them.
The music in my ears this morning? I Serve a Savior by Josh Turner. The chorus reminds me of Paul’s goal…
I serve a Savior
It’s what I was made for
His grace and love I don’t deserve
I will be faithful
Humble and grateful
My life is greater ’cause I serve a Savior
With love from our wonderful Father, have a wonderful day!
Christina
Glory in the Morning 