Paul wrote of this honor. “If I preach the gospel, I have nothing to boast of, for necessity is laid upon me; yes, woe is me if I do not preach the gospel!” (1 Cor 9:16). “We have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us” (2 Cor 4:7).

These are the last recorded words of Paul. “O, but they say the tongues of dying men enforce attention like a deep harmony: Where words are scarce they are seldom spent in vain, for they breathe their words in pain” (Richard II). You can learn much about a man by what he says in his last hours.

THE WEIGHT OF PREACHING v 1

Paul commissions Timothy “before God and the Lord Jesus Christ.” Preaching is important because Jesus will judge the living and the dead. Preaching is important because of Jesus’ appearing. Preaching is important because Jesus has a kingdom.

THE WORK OF PREACHING v 2

“Preach the word!” Great preachers through the ages have done this. God put His words in Jeremiah’s mouth (Jer 1:9). Micaiah said, “As the L ORD lives, whatever the L ORD says to me, that I will speak” (1 Ki 22:14). “I testify to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of all men. For I have not shunned to declare to you the whole counsel of God” (Acts 20:26-27).

He’s to do it “in season and out of season.” He’s to convince. He’s to rebuke (2 Tim 2:24-25). He’s to exhort, encourage. He’s not to fail in patience or teaching.

THE WHY OF PREACHING vv 3-4

The time is coming when men will not endure sound doctrine. People will turn from truth to fables.

THE WHO OF PREACHING v 5

One who is watchful in all things. One who will endure suffering. One who will do the work of an evangelist. One who will fulfill his ministry.