“Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in suffering for the gospel by the power of God, who saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of his own purpose and grace, which he gave us in Christ Jesus before the ages began,” 2 Timothy 1:8-9 (ESV)
This letter written by the Apostle Paul to Timothy was the last writing we have from Paul. We can assume many were attempting to shame Timothy for being a follower of Paul the prisoner in Rome. After all, anyone who ended up in a Roman prison had to be considered a failure was their basis. Paul encourages Timothy when shamed, to not be ashamed but to embrace the opportunity. Instead, he was to consider it a blessing to be part of the suffering that was experienced by all who boldly proclaimed the Gospel of Jesus Christ. This passage teaches the same means of our calling as Ephesians 1:3-6. Suffering for the His Name’s sake was part of what is appointed to us, taught and predicted by Jesus Himself. Suffering for the sake of God and His great name comes to believers in this world. It is coming to those who so far have known a comfortable and easier life. God chose all who believe before the ages began, according to his great love and by grace, has called us to share in these sufferings. It is promised to all who have believed and received Jesus as Lord and Savior
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