Firm Foundation - 2 Timothy 2:19

2 Timothy 2:19 (ESV)

But God’s firm foundation stands, bearing this seal: “The Lord knows those who are his,” and, “Let everyone who names the name of the Lord depart from iniquity.”

Two men named by Paul in verse 17 have been undermining and upsetting the faith of some by teaching that the resurrection had already occurred. Despite their faith being shaken, they have a firm foundation upon which to stand. God’s firm foundation of assurance that “The Lord knows those who are his.” Notice that the call to depart from iniquity is not to assure their salvation. Rather the call to depart from iniquity is a response to the assurance that God knows those who are his. Our faith may waver. Our faith may be weak. But our assurance is not in the strength, potency, or intensity of our faith, but in the faithfulness of God. Six verses earlier Paul reminded Timothy that our faithlessness doesn’t change the fact that he remains faithful (see verse 13). Now he assures us that even if our faith wavers, God knows who belongs to him. The call to holiness is not a requirement for salvation, but a response to the faithfulness of God. That is why Hebrews 12:2 tells us to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, not on ourselves. There is a place for introspection, but holiness flows out of keeping our eyes on Jesus, not on the depth of self-evaluation. God’s firm foundation stands. Rest on that truth.

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