Monday Devotional: October 10, 2022

Scripture: 2 Timothy 3:14-4:5

But as for you, continue in what you have learned and firmly believed… 2 Timothy 3:14 (NRSVUE)

These are the words of the apostolic traditions, the charge to “presbyters” (or “elders), and teachers like Timothy.

Timothy, the son of a Greek father and a Jewish mother, was taught the scriptures by his mother, Eunice, and his grandmother Lois. He became the favorite disciple and the apostolic companion of Paul during his trips and incarcerations in prisons (Acts 16:1-3; 2 Timothy 1:5).

The subject here is the word of God, as mediated through the scriptures and through the witnessing community. The word comes to us not only through the writings but also through human preaching, witnessing, and teaching.

Today’s reading reminds us that it is not enough to be acquainted with the scriptures through our family and the church. It is the word of God that equips us to be witnesses for righteousness in a world that is not different from Timothy’s time.

There is an instructional quality to the word of God: “All scripture is inspired by God and it is useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness.” The word of God gets us ready to live a life of faith.

The charge is for all of us teachers, pastors, parents, and others in the faith community. It is our job to pass on the teachings of God, to encourage the study of the word, and to allow the word of God to equip us all for witness in this world.

Prayer

God, help us to hear your word and to learn from what it means to be a person of faith in this world. Amen

By Beatriz Ferrari, Upper Room Disciplines 2010, p. 297.