You then, my child, be strengthened by the grace that is in Christ Jesus, and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also.
2 Timothy 2:1-2
I want to imitate Jesus. He came, shared the Father’s love, chose a few faithful followers, taught them, and then sent them out to do the same (Luke 10:1). As I reflect on my life, I can see God’s amazing grace in the people who have been like Jesus to me. A youth leader shared the saving news of Jesus with me then invited me to Bible study to grow. Young Life leaders invited me to follow them around then help start a new club at another high school. A church staff member invited me to be on a youth ministry team. I wanted to be like those leaders, so I went a Bible school to learn more. As a newly married lady I attended a Bible study where mature homemakers taught the younger. A missions mobilizer invited me to learn from her. Each of these experiences taught me the word, trained me to serve, and discipled me.
Now it’s my turn. Following the examples extended to me in the past, I am mindful of who I am sharing Jesus with, asking to serve with me, and teaching. I became a teacher by watching, then student teaching with a master. Now I am a teacher looking for faithful “Timothys”. It is such a joy to share Jesus with others, a privilege to serve the Savior, and an honor to be counted worthy to bear his name.
Paul ‘s letter is giving instructions to “his child” Timothy (2:1-2). He wants him to repeat to others what he has heard from him, and then help them to do the same. To the Corinthians he instructs, “Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ” (I Corinthians 4:15, 11:1). Jesus chose men to learn from him and follow him for three years. They could see, hear, and touch everything he did (1 John 1:1-4). Discipleship takes intention.
Survey your life. Who shared the good news with you? Who taught you the Bible, and trained you to serve? Now, it’s your turn. Who are you sharing the good news with and discipling? Do you have a “Timothy”? Here is a prayer to listen to by Hillsong: All I Want is To Be Like You Lord.
By Donna Burns
