C. Present Yourself to God (2:14-26)

Faithfulness calls for continual reminding, especially concerning speech and conduct. The solemnity of the warning in 2:14 is indicated by the phrase before God. Do your best conveys accurately the intent of the command in v.15 and implies diligence and eagerness. Paul then compares Timothy to a master craftsman who correctly handles [Gk., cut straight] the word of truth. Then he can stand unashamed and approved before God. The command is still the same for interpreters of God’s Word.

In contrast with 2:15 is the v.16 discussion of ungodly chatter (Gk., “empty or foolish talk”; see 1Ti 4:7). Such speech only leads to further ungodliness and spreads like gangrene, a rotten, flesh-eating canker. What a vivid picture of the subtle destructive power of ungodly chatter! Unfortunately, two men already have incorrectly handled the word of truth (2Ti 2:17). Resurrection refers not to Jesus' resurrection but to the resurrection of the dead that will occur at the Lord’s appearing (1Th 4:13-18). Destroy the faith, is a solemn reminder that false doctrine can deceive and destroy.

The encouragement in 2:19 is that God’s foundation is solid and stays firm. Sealed is a sign of God’s ownership, security, and significance. God is not fooled—he knows his own; they confess him and turn from wickedness. In considering the believer’s responsibility, Paul uses a metaphor of household articles made of different materials. What is really important is their purpose, honor (niv noble) or dishonor (niv ignoble). Cleansing makes us an article (niv instrument) for honorable purposes.

We are then characterized as holy, useful, and prepared to do any good work. The perfect passive participle—made holy—indicates that we have been made holy at a point in time and are to continue in it. This is a major Wesleyan doctrine. We make ourselves available to receive God’s holiness by choosing not to be involved in dishonorable purposes. Prepared is also a perfect passive participle that indicates we have been prepared for good works at a point in time and are to continue in them.

Having affirmed the believer’s responsibility to be an article of honor for God, Paul swiftly commands Timothy to flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace (v.22; see 1Ti 6:11). Call on the Lord is similar to 2:19, who confesses the name of the Lord. In 2:23-26 Paul points out that the Lord’s servant is characterized as a shepherd of words, not a gladiator of words. The Lord’s servants focus on the opponent—not resentfully, but hopefully. These opponents are actually senseless captives of the Devil. The Lord’s servant = shepherd is on a rescue mission that requires the correct handling of the word of truth (v.15).