Instructions for Ministry, a Reflection on 2 Timothy 3:14-4:5

These instructions to Timothy could be titled "How to be a minister," as long as we remember that ministry is not restricted to those who have been ordained.

1. Read the Bible. He is told to remember his own formation including specifically the sacred writings that had been instructive. As Christians, we need to remember that Timothy would not yet have had access to what we call the New Testament since it wouldn't have yet been canonized--or, even completed at the time of Timothy. The scripture that is this passage is designated as inspired by God and useful for teaching, reproof, correction, and for training in righteousness, is what we call the Old Testament.

2. Proclaim the message. And keep proclaiming it. Convince, rebuke, and encourage, but always with patience.

3. Be prepared for people preferring teaching that seems easier on them or harder on others.
Allen & Williamson, in Preaching the Letters, say:

There will be a time, says Paul, when people "having itching ears...will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own desires" (v.3). Every pastor understands this point. Paul's counsel is that the gospel of God, the incredibly good news of God's grace lovingly offered to each and all and God's command that justice be done to each and all, is the one word that the church is given and called to make known. As for you, says Paul, "carry out your ministry fully" (5).

4. Be the kind of messenger that doesn't harm the message.