2 Timothy 1:8–12 | Resources
Intro
In 2 Timothy 1:8–12, Paul urges Timothy not to be ashamed of the gospel or of Paul’s imprisonment for it. Instead, he calls him to share in suffering for the gospel, relying on God’s power. Paul reminds Timothy that their calling is grounded not in human effort but in God’s purpose and grace, given through Christ Jesus before time began and revealed through His appearing. Jesus has defeated death and brought life and immortality through the gospel. Paul testifies that he has been appointed a preacher, apostle, and teacher of this good news. Though he suffers, he is not ashamed, because he knows whom he has believed and is confident that Christ will guard what has been entrusted to him until the end.
Pray: Use the truth of Scripture to refine me, Lord, so that your character is seen in me and your name is lifted high.
Passage: 2 Timothy 1:8–12
8 So don’t be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, or of me his prisoner. Instead, share in suffering for the gospel, relying on the power of God. 9 He has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began. 10 This has now been made evident through the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who has abolished death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel. 11 For this gospel I was appointed a herald, apostle, and teacher, 12 and that is why I suffer these things. But I am not ashamed, because I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that he is able to guard what has been entrusted to me until that day.
Prayer
“Lord, give me the courage to stand unashamed of the gospel, even when it’s hard or costly. Help me rely on Your power, not my strength. Thank You for saving me by Your grace and for calling me to a holy purpose. Remind me that Christ has defeated death and secured eternal life. Strengthen my trust in You, and help me believe, like Paul, that You are faithful to guard what I entrust to You.”
Memory Verse
“He has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began.” 2 Timothy 1:9
Supplemental Reading
Romans 1:16–17
Gospel Connection
In 2 Timothy 1:8–12, Paul clearly explains the gospel by reminding us that salvation is a gift from God, given not because of our good works, but because of His grace and eternal purpose. This grace was revealed through Jesus Christ, who defeated death and brought us life and immortality through His resurrection. Because of this, Paul urges believers not to be ashamed of the gospel or afraid to suffer for it, but to rely on God’s power. He models deep trust in Christ, confident that God will guard what we entrust to Him. This passage teaches us that the gospel is God’s powerful plan to save, sustain, and secure those who believe.
Discussion/Reflection Questions
1. What fears or pressures might cause me to be ashamed of the gospel, and how can I respond with boldness instead?
2. How does knowing that salvation is by God’s grace, not by my works, change the way I see myself and others?
3. What does it mean that Jesus “abolished death” and brought “life and immortality” through the gospel? How does that give me hope today?
4. In what ways might God be calling me to “share in suffering for the gospel” in this season of life?
5. Do I have the same confidence Paul had that God will guard what I entrust to Him? What do I need to surrender or trust Him with today?
Action Step: This week, identify one person in your life who needs to hear the gospel and take one step to share it with them, whether through a conversation, an invitation to church, or a note of encouragement. Ask God for boldness and rely on His power as you live unashamed of the gospel.