Heralds Digest

  “If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work. Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.” 2 Timothy 2 : 21 - 22 KJV Privileged and powerful purposes in life, career and ministry are desirable by everyone, but not everyone believes and understands that privileges and opportunities start with purposeful preparation. And in God’s vineyard and kingdom purposes, vessels of honour derive their purposes from being purged portions. “ If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use “ throw out the challenge for self-purging on everyone who desires privileged and powerful purposes in life. It implies that the primary objective of any man in any challenging situation and circumstance is making himself a purged portion i...

  “ Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. That good thing which was committed unto thee keep by the Holy Ghost which dwelleth in us.” 2 Timothy 1 : 13 - 14 KJV Only sound or wondrous words can keep a man contented in a dark, dank dungeon with a hole in the ceiling for light and air. Apostle Paul was in ‘chains’ (2 Timothy 1:16), ‘like a criminal’ (2 Timothy 2:9). He was lonely, bored and cold (2 Timothy 4:9-13). Death was inevitable. According to tradition, he was condemned to die by beheading under Nero’s persecution. Yet, he kept the wondrous words which were committed unto him alive; and was more concerned about passing the same good thing unto Timothy. Obviously, we can argue that compromisers and those who cannot uphold the words of Jesus Christ amidst the challenges of life haven’t actually encountered the wondrous words. The wondrous words of Christ are quick, powerful and sharper than two-edged sword,...