2 Timothy 1:7-9 Partakers of the Afflictions of the Gospel

2 Timothy 1:7-9 (KJV) For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. 8 Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God; 9 Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began,

The Apostle Paul encouraged the heart of Timothy to press on with the gospel work. For him, the gospel work has brought him to imprisonment in Rome. But he was not bound for in Rome whilst, in prison, the gospel work continues unabated.

Philippians 1:13-14 (KJV)  So that my bonds in Christ are manifest in all the palace, and in all other places; And many of the brethren in the Lord, waxing confident by my bonds, are much more bold to speak the word without fear. 

Though persecution came, the gospel being endued with the power of God through His Spirit will go forth to accomplish His purpose of redemption. It is the holy calling of God that Timothy would fulfil the will of God as it did in the Apostle Paul’s life. The power of God, the prevailing of His love and the discipline of heart and mind to persevere in the work undergird him. Amen.