The Ultimate Goal

2 Timothy 4:5-7

Introduction:

The Preparation for the Conclusion

Training for people in marathons.

So, the Apostle Paul writing to the young Timothy talks about two major pieces I’ll call the preparation for a Conclusion.

1. The Preparation

1. [But watch thou in all things] It is possible to be overtaken in a fault, to neglect one’s duty, and to lose one’s soul. Watching unto prayer prevents all these evils.
   
   
2. [Endure afflictions] Let no sufferings affright thee, nor let the dread of them either cause thee to abandon the truth, or relax in thy zeal for the salvation of men.

• [Do the work of an evangelist] That is: Preach Christ crucified for the sins of the whole world; for this, and this alone, is doing the work of an evangelist, or preacher of the glad tidings of peace and salvation by Christ.

An angel from God was first sent to do the work of an evangelist, and how did he do it? ‘Behold said he, I bring you good tidings of great joy; Behold, I evangelize unto you great joy, which shall be to all people; to you is born a Savior’.

[Make full proof of thy ministry.] Push all thy principles to their utmost power of activity; carry them on to all their consequences; and try what God will do for thee, and by thee.

Neglect no part of thy sacred function;

perform faithfully all the duties of which it is composed, and do God’s work in his own way and in his own spirit.

2. The Conviction

2 Timothy 4:6 ‘As for me, my life has already been poured out as an offering to God. The time of my death is near. (NLT)

Application: The boldness and conviction of Paul is impressive.

Application: It is my goal to have this conviction when I am facing the end of my life and actually have this conviction every time, I wake up not knowing if that will ever happen again.

3. The Conclusion

Transition: What is the confidence/conviction that Paul has?

1. Fought a Good Fight.

Application:

Philippians 12:3,

1 Corinthians 9:26, ‘Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly; an I do not fight like a man beating the air’.^b (NIV)

• Finished my Course.
  

Heb. 12:1-3, ‘Run with endurance the race that is set before us’.

• 1 Corinthians 9:24-27
• Philippians 2:16

• 2. Kept the Faith.
  
• Not weary in well doing
• Philippians 3:12
• Matthew 24:13
• Parable of Seed and Sower – Mark 4:1-14

Obstacles for endurance training?

• Bad nutrition (what are we listening to? Eating – spiritually,
• Inconsistency
• Injuries (hurts, pains, etc.)
• Not enough rest

Conclusion: