It Starts Small

²⁴ The Lord’s servant must not quarrel, but must be gentle to everyone, able to teach, and patient, ²⁵ instructing his opponents with gentleness. Perhaps God will grant them repentance leading them to the knowledge of the truth. ²⁶ Then they may come to their senses and escape the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will.

2 Timothy 2:24-26

Here, Paul passionately encourages Timothy to embody the essential character qualities necessary for being a truly godly teacher to others. Christian leaders emerge first and foremost as devoted servants, shunning the worldly methods of leadership. We must reject intimidation and coercion; instead, Jesus cautioned His disciples against the temptation to lord over those they serve. Timothy was a young man with profound responsibilities. He stood as a pastor and teacher. He was likely appointing elders and overseeing numerous churches. Yet, he was called to lead with grace. He was called to lead with humility, not to wield his authority like a commander or a dictator.

Paul passionately urged him to avoid being quarrelsome, to reject the temptation of seeking out arguments. He admonished him not to place undue value on his own opinions or find pleasure in conflict. Instead, he implored him to embrace kindness for all, even those who seemed unworthy of such grace. This included those who sinned knowingly or out of ignorance. It included those who brought trouble into his life. It also included those who posed irritating questions or who stubbornly refused to hear him.

While Timothy was indeed called to teach, teaching was just one facet of his vibrant character that truly mattered. He needed to embody the right spirit. This essence would draw people to listen intently when he imparted knowledge. Simultaneously, Paul urged him to embrace patience when faced with wrongdoing. As a ministry leader, he would undoubtedly encounter those who would hurt him. Yet, he rose above this. He forgave them wholeheartedly. He served with unwavering dedication. In doing so, he exemplified the grace that could transform hearts.

 instructing his opponents with gentleness.

² to slander no one, to avoid fighting, and to be kind, always showing gentleness to all people.

Titus 3:2

The ultimate aim is for them to truly repent— to feel the weight of their actions and seek restitution! It takes more than just a passive acknowledgment. We must actively correct and guide them towards understanding. We should not simply brush their mistakes aside. And throughout this journey, we must embody gentleness. We should approach them with love and compassion. We must steer clear of harshness and nurture their growth with open hearts.

In verse 26, let us feel a deep, fervent compassion for these individuals. They are ensnared in the deceptions of Satan. They stand in a dire plight. We would face the same situation if not for God’s magnificent grace in our lives. We recognize that Satan holds them captive. We must rise to a bold, dual-pronged strategy of attack. We should be armed with earnest prayer and the courage to correct.

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Cross-References

• Philippians 2:3-10

Discussion Questions

• Who is the Lord’s bond-servant?
• What is he/she like?
• How should a Bible teacher treat those he/she is teaching?
• What should you do when someone has an unbiblical view?
• What kind of attitude should you have when you respond to them?
• What if you see them posting something anti-Christian online?
• Should you argue?
• What is the goal when correcting these people?

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