B. Be Faithful to Christ (2:8-13)

These illustrations are followed by a capsule definition of the Gospel, which emphasizes Christ’s resurrection and Davidic lineage (v.8). The Resurrection is a central doctrine of the faith (see 1Co 15) without which there is no hope of eternal life, no power over sin, and, most distressingly, only a dead Jesus. The Davidic lineage affirms Jesus as Messiah, the Christ, and thus the fulfillment of the law and the prophets. My gospel means the message that Paul supports and proclaims, not that it is his exclusive property or his created Gospel. Paul’s chains are strongly contrasted with God’s lack of chains (v.9). Messengers may be imprisoned but God’s Word transcends chains. This encourages Paul’s faithfulness (v.10).

Faithfulness is also the theme of the hymn (vv.11-13). “A trustworthy saying” (Gk., “faithful word”) is frequently used in the Pastorals (1Ti 1:15; 3:1; 4:9; 2Ti 2:11; Tit 3:8) to designate something noteworthy. The hymn is composed of four conditional causes concerning our actions toward Christ followed by corresponding results. The first two results represent what we shall receive while the last two results are what Christ will do. He will remain faithful emphasizes Christ’s covenantal faithfulness in meting out judgment and/or in being true to his nature as Savior.