Make every effort to come to me soon; for Demas, having loved this present world, has deserted me and gone to Thessalonica; Crescens has gone to Galatia, Titus to Dalmatia Only Luke is with me. Pick up Mark and bring him with you, for he is useful to me for service. But Tychicus I have sent to Ephesus. When you come bring the cloak which I left at Troas with Carpus, and the books, especially the parchments Alexander the coppersmith did me much harm; the Lord will repay him according to his deeds. Be on guard against him yourself, for he vigorously opposed our teaching.
At my first defense no one supported me, but all deserted me; may it not be counted against them. But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that through me the proclamation might be fully accomplished, and that all the Gentiles might hear; and I was rescued out of the lion’s mouth. The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed, and will bring me safely to His heavenly kingdom; to Him be the glory forever and ever. Amen.
The concluding message echoes remarks made by Jesus in the gospels. In the gospels, Jesus proclaimed that even though his people who are Jewish reject him, his father in heaven testifies truly for him. In the same way, the Holy Spirit proclaims Jesus as Lord. Here Paul declares that most have abandoned him and he desires a personal visit from Timothy so as to testify that he is not ashamed of the gospel bearer. This is important for Paul, because Timothy is due to succeed him now that Paul's life is being poured out like a drink offering. He closes by declaing God's faithfulness to him.
Daily Prayer: Father, let your words be true, because every man is a liar. Testify for me Father, because I testify to You and the Son. I am not ashamed of the gospel because though the world believes it is foolish, I know it is the power of God. Amen.
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