The Gentle Servant of Jesus Christ The Gentle Servant of Jesus Christ

2 Timothy 2:24-26

Paul instructed Timothy to be a “gentle” servant of Jesus Christ (2 Tim 2:24) just as he himself had been one (1 Thess 2:7). To be “gentle” is to be compassionate and kind, to protect and preserve, and not to destroy. This gentleness is to be extended to all men (v 24). Note: This gentleness is to be shown to all NOT because of a fear of offending others. In contrast to the gentle servant is one who strives, is quarrelsome and enjoys engaging in meaningless debates. These are opposite to what Paul taught in 2 Timothy 2:15-16 and 23.

Ways to be a gentle servant of Jesus Christ:

1.   Apt to teach (v 24):  He is able to teach others. To be apt to teach, one must be diligent in studying God’s Word. The result of this will be a life lived for Christ. Such a person will surely display gentleness in his life.

2.   Patient (v 24): One who is patient will endure evil and put up with injustice. Jesus is the example of such patience as we see him being betrayed, being put on trial and being falsely accused. Jesus endured it all. Because He was patient, we can be saved. A gentle servant of Christ knows that truth will out, and that God will vindicate all his sufferings one day. Note: Being patient does not imply procrastination in serving. A patient person will faithfully and sincerely serve with all his might.

3.   Meek (v 25): A gentle servant of Christ has a spirit of humility. He gives God first place in his life. As such, he will be humble and will put others before self. In meekness, the gentle servant is to lead others to know the truth or to restore others to the right path. It is not about winning an argument, or putting others down. We must not become proud or quarrelsome just because we have some knowledge.

Verses 25 and 26 tell us the motives of Paul’s teachings:
•    He desires all to repent of their sins.
•    He desires all to come to know the truth (i.e. that salvation comes only through Christ).
•    He desires all to get out of the snare of the devil.

May we strive to be such a gentle servant of Jesus Christ.