6 For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands, 7 for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.

8 Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in suffering for the gospel by the power of God, 9 who saved us and called us to [1] a holy calling, not because of our works but because of his own purpose and grace, which he gave us in Christ Jesus before the ages began, [2] 10 and which now has been manifested through the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel, 11 for which I was appointed a preacher and apostle and teacher, 12 which is why I suffer as I do. But I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed, and I am convinced that he is able to guard until that Day what has been entrusted to me. [3]13 Follow the pattern of the sound [4] words that you have heard from me, in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. 14 By the Holy Spirit who dwells within us, guard the good deposit entrusted to you.

15 You are aware that all who are in Asia turned away from me, among whom are Phygelus and Hermogenes. 16 May the Lord grant mercy to the household of Onesiphorus, for he often refreshed me and was not ashamed of my chains, 17 but when he arrived in Rome he searched for me earnestly and found me— 18 may the Lord grant him to find mercy from the Lord on that Day!—and you well know all the service he rendered at Ephesus.

This sermon was not only for our faithful Pastor Erik, but also for all of us who are called God’s children in Christ. Here is a review of the points. Apply these to your own sanctification as well as a standard for your Pastor.

• Fan the flames of the gospel; stoking it, so that your heart might burn right for the gospel (constantly burning)
• Remember your commission. If your a Pastor, your were publicly affirmed by the laying on of hands. If your not a pastor, then at some time, remember your public confession. You are identified with Christ and with His message. The Good News.
• Pastor ~ You are called the Man Of God. Set apart for the public preaching and teaching of His word. God has not given you a “spirit” of Timidly. But of power. Act like a man; be a man.
• Love. The above declarations are not mutually exclusive! As somehow being loving is being timid. Love is in the preaching and defense of the truth. Remember if your a doctor, you would tell your patience if they had cancer. Or would you? Which one is more loving?
• Disciple, sound Judgment. Have good since, level headed-ness
• Refuse to be ashamed! Even when pressured with in the church. If your pressured to capitulate, then you are shamed and will be shamed when standing before the judgment seat~ Mark 8:38
• Join the fellowship of the suffering. What an honor it is to suffer for the sake of the Gospel. When it seems that everyone else wants a pat on the back. Be willing to walk on socially unacceptable land mines (plenty of them in the church). There’s plenty of room. Not many willing to join.

This is a message for us in the church and for those who are called for the special ministry of Preaching and Teaching the Gospel. Even though Paul wrote Timothy many years ago. How true is it for our day. When, like in the day when Timothy was pressured, we too, are being tempted to just get along. The Pastoral ministry is not for sissies. It is for 300 pound lineman. Who know what they are protecting. The precious treasure of the Gospel.