A Believer's Farewell (2 Timothy 4:6-8)
Sermon Summary
Pastor David Yan
9 November 2025
Paul gives his farewell message to young Timothy.
Paul accepts the reality of death. He has no fear. Are we realistically facing death? Jesus accepted the reality of his death. He set his face steadfastly to go to Jerusalem to die. He has tasted death for everyone. Follow him without fear.
Paul saw his death as an offering to God --- an offering which would certainly be received. Jesus gave his life as an offering. “Into your hands I commit my spirit” he said. The offering of the Son was received. The offering of those in the Son will also be received.
Paul would die with a clear conscience in three areas of his life --- his fight, race and faith.
Concerning his fight, he had fought the good fight. He fought on two fronts. First, against the unbelief of his own people, and secondly, against the spiritual forces of darkness. He fought on both fronts like a good soldier.
Jesus also fought on these two fronts. His own people did not receive him. He had to fight their unbelief. The evil world of Satan and demons assailed him. Jesus fought them and prevailed.
Concerning the race, Paul finished the race set before him. Every race has a finishing line. Paul reached his finishing line. Jesus finished his race. “It is finished” he said. Jesus did not withdraw from his life’s-race. Neither did Paul. Let us run with endurance the life-race set before us.
Concerning the faith, Paul kept the faith delivered to him. Note it was “the” faith. There is only one true faith and that is the faith in the one true God and the one whom he sent into this world. Paul did not preach a general faith but a specific one — faith in Jesus Christ alone for reconciliation with God.
At the end of his life Paul would enter heaven where a crown awaited him. God rewards finishers not falterers.
This crown was not only for Paul but for all who follow him in the life of faith. There is a prize for perseverers.
Paul died without fear, without regrets, and without bitterness. Paul’s life emulated the life of Christ Jesus. Let us emulate Christ Jesus. Let us leave this world forgiven, fearless and fulfilled. To God be the glory. Amen.