Paul began this section by using a word he used of himself in Rom. 1:16, when he declared, “I am not ashamed of the Gospel.”  Perhaps Timothy would remember that challenge as he used the same word here in challenging Timothy, “Do not be ashamed.”

• Paul used this word again in 1:12

The object about which Timothy was being instructed not to be ashamed was the testimony of our Lord.  The word used here, μαρτύριον, could refer to the preaching of the message of the Gospel (cf. 1 Tim. 2:6; 1 Cor. 1:6).  Though, in light of Paul’s addition of the phrase “nor of me, His prisoner,” the phrase likely refers to the sacrificial suffering of Christ as the basis of our faith and preaching.  For, it is that to which Paul is calling Timothy in the latter part of the verse.

Next, Paul challenged Timothy to “share with me in the suffering” (συγκακοπάθησον).  This word comes from three words in Greek: suffer (πασχειν), evil (κακος), and with (συν).  Paul was encouraging Timothy that rather than be ashamed of suffering, Timothy should embrace suffering as a co-laborer for the Gospel. Thus, by identifying with Paul and the Gospel, he could well be choosing to suffer for Christ.

Timothy was instructed not to be ashamed of the testimony of the Lord.  In other words, do not allow yourself to begin to lose confidence in Christ.

KEY – FOR THE GOSPEL

Suffering for the Gospel is not the same as suffering as a consequence of decisions you make.  Here, Paul is talking about suffering FOR the cause of Christ.

The empowerment will be “according to the power of God.”  We don’t try to endure suffering in our own strength.  Timothy has already been told (1:7) that he has been given the Spirit of Power.

So, God, in His power, has saved us and also sustains us by that same power.

In vs. 9, Paul explained that neither our salvation nor our calling are according to our works.  But are according to His purpose and by His grace.

Here, we find one of the clearest pictures of the Gospel in all Scripture.  This passage gives seven clear lessons of the Gospel (vs. 9):  our salvation, our calling, the impact (holy), the theology, the purpose, the grace, and the plan of the Gospel.

Grace given to us in Christ before time began.  So, obviously, it cannot be based on works.   Right!?  His plan was already established.  Christ’s crucifixion was not an afterthought

But it has now been revealed (vs. 10) by the appearing of Christ (God’s grace is revealed in Christ), who has abolished death.

Paul expresses his great confidence in the Lord

1. I am not ashamed (Rom 1:16; cf. vs. 8 – don’t be ashamed)
2. I know Him
3. I have believed in Him
4. I am confident He is able

Why? I know Him. He is the One in whom I have believed and I’m persuaded He is able to         keep what I’ve committed to Him until that Day

Paul just told Timothy God has not given us the spirit of fear.

• Why? – Because I know!

So, because I know Him, I am persuaded that He is able; whatever I’ve committed to Him, HE will keep whatever I give to Him.

You could title your message on this passage:  Don’t Be Ashamed!

We don’t have to be ashamed because of the:

The Conviction of our Confession

The Grace of our Calling

The Confidence of Our Confession