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The Scriptorium

Dealing with Opponents

Be gentle, be patient, and ask questions. 2 Timothy 2.24-26

The Pastoral Epistles: 2 Timothy 2 (6)

Pray Psalm 126.1-3.

When the LORD brought back the captivity of Zion,
We were like those who dream.
Then our mouth was filled with laughter,
And our tongue with singing.
Then they said among the nations,
“The LORD has done great things for them.”
The LORD has done great things for us,
Andwe are glad.

Read and meditate on 2 Timothy 2.24-26.

Reflect.

1. What is the relationship between repentance and knowing the truth?

2. What can we know about those who oppose us and the Gospel? 

Meditate.
Arguments are of little value in the work of spreading the Gospel (v. 24). Others may argue with us, and even oppose us in one way or another. But that does not excuse us from continuing to relate to them with gentleness and patience. We must not fight fire with fire when others begin to argue and denounce us for our faith. If we will listen carefully, ask them to explain their views, and help them to compare what they believe with what the Gospel offers, we may find that God will use our humble and loving words to accomplish the purpose of repentance and conversion.

The Greek word translated “who are in opposition” (ἀντιδιατιθεμένους –antidiatithemenous) is in an interesting form. It can mean “who oppose” – oppose the Gospel, that is – or it can mean “who contradict themselves” (v. 25). Because all unbelievers are captive to “the snare of the devil”, which is the lie (Jn. 8.44; Rom. 1.18-25), their attempts to make sense of their lives, apart from God, will not withstand careful evaluation. As we listen patiently, ask lots of questions, and repeat their views back to them, we may be able to help some of our unbelieving friends see that their way of thinking can’t be made to make sense. And if we keep the Gospel in the mix – especially as we have experienced it – God may use our witness to help a lost one turn to Jesus.

But that will only happen when they “come to their senses” and realize they’ve been living a lie and need the truth that is in Jesus (v. 26). Only God can bring them to this place. He may use us in the process, especially as we maintain a humble, loving, patient demeanor – minus any argumentative tone – and demonstrate a true interest in helping our lost friends see the truth that is in Jesus.

Reflect.
1. Why do arguments produce little fruit for the Gospel? When someone wants to argue with us about what we believe, what should we do?

2. Can you think of some ways that people who do not believe in God contradict themselves? Do you think they’re aware of these contradictions? Should they be? Explain. 

3. Only God can bring people to their senses, lead them to repentance, free them from the devil, and give them the gift of salvation. Since that’s the case, what is our role in this process?

Therefore, let us not be provoked with these men, let us not use anger as an excuse, but let us talk with them gently and with kindness. Nothing is more forceful and effective than treatment which is gentle and kind. John Chrysostom (344-407), On the Incomprehensible Nature of God 1.7

Give me grace, Lord, to be a humble, patient, loving witness for Christ today, as I…

Pray Psalm 126.1-3.

What good things has God done in your life lately? Give Him thanks and praise, and seek someone to share His goodness with today.

Sing Psalm 126.1-3.
Psalm 126.1-3 (Truro: Shout, for the Blessed Jesus Reigns!)
When God restored our fortunes all, we were like those who sweetly dream.
Our mouths with joy and laughter filled, made Him our constant song and theme.

Then the astonished nations said, “The Lord has done great things for them!”
Indeed, great things our God has done, Whose Name we praise, Amen, Amen!

T. M. Moore

Whatever our calling in life, we are sent to bring the joy of Christ to the people around us. Our book, Joy to Your World!, can show you how to fill your Personal Mission Field with more of the Presence, promise, and power of Christ and His Kingdom. Order your copy, as a supplement to our study of 1 Timothy, by clicking here.

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Scriptorium as a free resource for your walk with the Lord, please consider supporting our work with your gifts and offerings. You can contribute to The Fellowship by clicking the Contribute button  at the website or by sending your gift to The Fellowship of Ailbe, 19 Tyler Drive, Essex Junction, VT 05452.

Except as indicated, Scripture taken from the New King James Version. © Copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved. All psalms for singing adapted from The Ailbe Psalter. All quotations from Church Fathers from Ancient Christian Commentary Series, General Editor Thomas C. Oden (Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 2006).All psalms for singing are from The Ailbe Psalter (available by clicking here).

T.M. Moore

T. M. Moore is principal of The Fellowship of Ailbe, a spiritual fellowship in the Celtic Christian tradition. He and his wife, Susie, make their home in the Champlain Valley of Vermont.
Books by T. M. Moore

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