Instruct Gently, 2 Timothy 2:25

Instruct Gently

2 Timothy 2:25 Those who oppose him, he must gently instruct,in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth.

How should we act when others disagree or oppose us? Jesus says we are to love our enemy. He says that we must not retaliate, but go the extra mile for them. In this verse, Paul is helping Timothy understand that opposition is not to be dealt with harshly. Instead Timothy was to instruct leaders to teach the truth gently in order that the opposition might repent and learn the truth. Certainly, there are times when evil is set destroy the church and must be dealt with firmly as Jesus spoke of in Matthew, but Christ is clear on how to respond to personal attacks - we must not fight back!

K and A, your service to God will come with times of opposition. Some will flee your presence, others will stand in opposition to your wisdom. Still, others will fight to destroy you and your reputation. Through all this, stand for the truth. Allow God to take vengeance, for he knows when and how tough to respond. You must be gentle and kind, loving and caring for believers and non-believers alike with the desire for God to lead them to the knowledge of the truth. This is the goal you must have for everyone you meet no matter who they might be.

~Dad