Passing On the Deposit

Paul moves on in his counsel to Timothy using examples to reinforce what he has said. Those around Paul who were in a position to have helped and supported him had abandoned him. He cites the example of two men who had failed to step up with him, demonstrating that they were ashamed of the Gospel and unwilling to join him in suffering for it. He was also able to offer an example of someone who was unashamed, who did remain faithful, and stepped up alongside Paul. In doing so, this man greatly refreshed and encouraged Paul.

Helpful applications for believers today from this section include:

1. When in a position to help, support and encourage other believers we must step forward and do what we can.
2. We must be ready, willing and faithful everyday, in every situation. We may never know the impact our faithfulness has on observers.
3. Faithfulness is established by it being a pattern of everyday life.
4. Faithfulness is empowered by the strength and means the Lord supplies.
5. Being strong is a matter of the will.
6. The Gospel as the deposit is to be guarded and passed on intact as was received to others who will give it the same care in passing it on.