Protect & Preserve the Gospel

After summarizing some of the crucial components of the Gospel in the previous verses in this book, the Apostle Paul commands Timothy to "follow the pattern of sound words," i.e., by which he means the Gospel, the message of Christ's life, death, and resurrection. Timothy is also charged to "guard the good deposit." Again, Paul is referring to the Gospel message. But it is more than just a statement of propositions - it is accompanied by faith and love as two marks of a converted person. Paul has more to say: it is that Timothy should guard the Gospel by the power of the Holy Spirit. These same charges are laid also upon us by the Spirit. Therefore, we need to move forward continuously in our service to Christ and his kingdom.