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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