CTG 0041

Windows of opportunity 

Subsequent developments, continued from previous blog

After his house arrest in Rome (Acts 28) it appears Paul was released and allowed to travel again. His first letter to Timothy was probably written at this point in time. He encouraged his young co-worker to remain in Ephesus to help the expanding church that was experiencing various difficulties. And he gave him some helpful advice in that letter (1 Timothy). 

Paul sent him another useful letter (2 Timothy) from Rome after he was re-arrested. His circumstances had considerably worsened compared with his earlier confinement in the imperial capital. This time he didn't expect to be released. In fact he believed his execution was approaching and certain (2 Timothy 4:6-8). 

Understandably Paul felt the pain of being left in the lurch by those who he thought would have stood by him in his predicament. But he sought to respond graciously. And he was very grateful for those who were not ashamed of his being chained for the sake of the gospel. Above all, he was aware that the Lord was with him through it all, strengthening him. 

He not only used the time left to encourage the few he still had contact with, who would be able to progress with the work. By means of the Lord's strength he also continued to use the remaining windows of opportunity to boldly declare the gospel to others (2 Timothy 4:17), trusting God that he would multiply the spread of the message. 

Once again, these facts are not just of historical interest. The Holy Spirit has given these scriptures for our perusal to encourage and instruct us. May God help us by his grace and power to use the opportunities that he places before us ... however small they may appear to be ...  to spread the good news about our Lord Jesus Christ and his salvation. Eternity lies before us. 

Those who are reading this, who have not yet put their trust in Jesus, please don't put it off any longer. Turn to God in repentance, believe in Christ our Saviour and he will forgive your sins and gift you eternal life. I would encourage you to read, for example, John's account of the gospel. You will find it in the Bible, in the New Testament. God bless you!