Remember the Resurrection
2 Timothy 2:1–13
Remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead. 2 Timothy 2:8

We are to remember the resurrection of Jesus Christ because, if we do remember it, we will always have a satisfying gospel. The truth of the resurrection of Jesus Christ satisfies.

There is much in life that is not satisfying. We may be satisfied for a time. But the pleasures soon pale and satisfaction fades. When we are young and life lies before us, the offerings of the world are not bad, it seems. There is an appeal to fame or wealth or companionship. The hunger of the imagination paints our goals in bright colors. We live on dreams. But what happens when the future doesn’t bring what we ask for? What happens in the face of suffering, death, or sorrow? What happens in old age? If there is nothing more to life than the things that time takes from us, life becomes misery. On the other hand, if we are united to the living Lord Jesus Christ, who has gone before to prepare for us a place in his presence, then life retains its meaning and is filled with joy.

We find an illustration of this later in the chapter. Paul is writing to Timothy. But where was Paul? Paul was in prison. There had been times of great liberty when he was free to preach the gospel wherever he wished and to whoever would listen. But now he was confined. Those days were over. Soon his life would be ended. Is there bitterness? Does he regret his commitment to Christ? Not at all! He rejoices! We find him declaring, “The saying is trustworthy, for: If we have died with him, we will also live with him; if we endure, we will also reign with him; if we deny him, he also will deny us; if we are faithless, he remains faithful— for he cannot deny himself ” (vv. 11–13).

Paul found that the gospel of the crucified and resurrected Lord was satisfying even at the end of life and in suffering.

Have you remembered the resurrection of Jesus Christ? If you have, you have a gospel that is simple, supernatural, scriptural, and satisfying. You have something that you will be able to communicate to those who need it desperately

Taken from Come to the Waters by James Boice ISBN 9798887790954 used with permission from P&R Publishing, Phillipsburg NJ 08865

Scripture quotations are from the ESV (the Holy Bible English Standard Version) copyright 2001 by Crossway a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. All rights reserved.