βThou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesusβ(2 Tim. 2:1).
As Paul prepared to leave this life, he longed to leave Timothy with a few parting instructions to encourage him in the faith. The apostle knew that his young friend was easily discouraged. Of course, some of the circumstances Timothy faced as he defended the faith would be enough to dishearten the most seasoned veteran of the Cross today (Acts 19:23-41 cf. 1 Tim. 1:2,3).
Paul affectionately refers to Timothy as βmy son.β Although Timothy was not Paulβs sonΒ in the flesh, the aged apostle had led him to the Lord; therefore, he was his sonΒ in the faith. As a result, there was a very special relationship between them. Thus, Paul challenges him to be strong in grace. Grace is Godβs unmerited favor toward those who are undeserving.
Timothy, βbe strong,β donβt let others rob you of the grace that youβve freely received. And legalism will do just this if we allow it. Itβs the enemy of grace. Like the Pharisees, the legalist wants to set the standard, which he decrees to be the measure of spirituality. Legalists love to develop an unspoken list of doβs and donβts for others to follow. You must conform to what they have established as acceptable behavior in regard to how you should dress or act, or what reference Bible you must carry, or how many church services you should attend throughout the week. Failure to conform is a sure indication that you are not very spiritually minded.
God has given us the standard we are to follow in His Word; itβs called GRACE! Today, we are not under the Law, nor are we to submit ourselves to those who believe they are the final authority as to how the Christian life should be lived. Grace teaches us how to live; it is patient, understanding, tolerant, always leaves room for differences, and never judgmental (1 Cor. 4:5). Consequently, Timothy was not to allow anyone to rob him of the liberty he enjoyed in Christ, nor should we. βBe strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.β source
