2 Timothy 1:6-12

We cannot feel ashamed of a stranger. We can see a stranger and feel embarrassed for them, but that is different than feeling ashamed of them. It was only possible for Timothy to feel ashamed of Paul because at the same time he felt a connection to him. Timothy was connected to Paul both through their common ministry, their common faith, and their friendship. Because of their close relationship, it seems surprising that Paul would feel the need to tell Timothy not to be ashamed of him. However it is not so surprising when we consider that shame of another is based on the belief that they have fallen short or missed the mark of what was expected of them.

Ministering in Ephesus, Timothy had been surrounded by false prophets who were constantly preaching that Christians only experienced success and never failure. They taught that a Christian could be judged by the outward signs of their life; they could be judged by their position, power and possessions. Paul had already warned Timothy against the false prophets, but he was worried that Timothy had been influenced by them if only in subtle ways. According to their false teaching, Paul was a complete and total failure as a Christian. He had no position, other than that of a prisoner facing death. He had no possessions, other than the clothes on his back, and the only power he had was the power to remain faithful to Christ. If Timothy was going to avoid being ashamed of Paul, he would have to totally and completely reject the teachings of the false prophets. He would have to recognize that a Christian is not measured the way the world measures.

A Christian is measured by God’s yardstick. By God’s yardstick, Paul measured up completely. In the face of death Paul remained courageous and stood proudly on the promises of God. Paul had complete faith in Jesus. What the world sees as embarrassing, with the eyes of Christ we see as inspiring.