2ti 01v09 The Doctrine of Grace
THE DOCTRINE OF GRACE
II Timothy 1:9
It may seem strange to
some, but Paul's method of establishing Timothy in confidence and boldness was
not to assure him of the rewards of the faithful, or the morality of suffering for
a noble cause. Instead, in order to excite Timothy to boldness and to keep him
constant in the faith, Paul instructs him in the great doctrine what the grace
of God reigns in the salvation of sinners. Many suggest that the doctrines of
grace will kill a church, destroying evangelistic zeal and the motive for
personal holiness. Paul was not of this opinion. When he was concerned for the
future life and ministry of his beloved friend, Timothy, he felt that the
surest way to secure his faithfulness was to instruct him in the doctrine of
God's free and sovereign grace.
Brethren, we should never doubt the power and
usefulness of truth. Usually men look upon doctrinal truth as nothing more than
unpractical theory. We sometimes think that legal precepts are more effectual
than gospel truth to produce obedience in the saints. I am persuaded that the
very root and vital energy of practical holiness is the truth of the gospel. To
teach people the truth that God has revealed in his Son is the surest way of
leading them to obedience and perseverance in love, faith, and holiness.
In
this verse we are plainly taught that salvation is of the Lord. Human merit has
nothing to do with it! God chose us in Christ, redeemed us in Christ,
regenerated us and called us in Christ. And the grace that we now enjoy was
given to us according to his own gloriously sovereign
purpose in Christ before the world began. There is no doctrine more practical
than this. It strips away human pride. It gives a sure ground of confidence and
assurance to our faith. It most highly exalts and honors the name, person, and
work of Christ. This doctrine alone gives hope to sinner and encourages
evangelism. This doctrine, when experienced in the heart, produces love,
devotion, and holiness of life.