6 For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. 7 For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of a sound mind. 8 So do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord, or ashamed of me his prisoner. But join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God, 9 who has saved us and called us to a holy life–not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, 10 but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel. 11 And of this gospel I was appointed a herald and an apostle and a teacher. 12 That is why I am suffering as I am. Yet I am not ashamed, because I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him for that day.
Why is it that Timothy needs to be reminded to fan into flame the gift of God? What has happened that has distracted or discouraged Timothy, requiring Paul to send this note. Is Timothy being derailed by watching Paul’s persecution, as the text might suggest? So instead Paul says that the persecution itself is a source of blessing. And not only that, but there is hope because of knowing God, and that God will safe-guard all that we entrust to Him. And part of the assurance of this future blessing is he current blessing of the Spirit given to us, with power, love and a sound mind. Who is my own ministry needs this kind of encouragement from me? Who are the Timothys around me, and how can I encourge and nurture them in ministry without coddling. How will this ministry express itself this fall, both in my private life, ministry at FGCC, and future ministry of coaching new church planters and others?