Identity and Commission

1 Timothy 1:18, “Timothy, my son, I am giving you this command in keeping with the prophecies once made about you, so that by recalling them you may fight the battle well”

Context: Paul has installed Timothy in the most important hub of early Christianity, Ephesus, with a command to stop the spread of bad doctrine and meaningless efforts being made within the church. Timothy is young and Paul is in prison without the ability to come intervene.

Along with this charge, Paul adds encouragement at the end of chapter 1 with the words, “I am giving you this command in keeping with the prophecies once made about you…” In other words, Paul’s command to Timothy is aligned with what God has already spoken about Timothy’s identity.

Difficult situations can tower over us and provoke negative thoughts relating to how we currently see ourselves. However, there is prophetic reassurance when we receive a word from the Lord that is much bigger than how we feel about ourselves. It is what God sees that counts. Seek God.

I am looking forward to all of the amazing things you will do in life for the Lord. When Jesus said believers will do greater things than Him, I am sure He meant it and I expect to see it in this lifetime.

Your brother in Christ,

Pastor Michael