Paul's Call To Remembrance Series

INTRODUCTION

Outline.

1. The Faith That Dwelt in Thy Grandmother - Lois

2. The Faith That Dwelleth in Thy Mother - Eunice

3. The Faith That Dwelleth in Thee – Timothy

Remarks.

1. In our lesson today we will be discussing Paul’s call to remembrance regarding his son in the gospel. He discusses the faith that was instilled in him from an early age. Paul reminds Timothy that the faith that is now in him dwelt first in his grandmother, and then his mother, and now in him. Most children that have a godly mother – will first learn of God from her. So was it in this young man’s life – and I might add – so was it in your own life. Paul was reflecting on his son in the gospel as he awaits execution – as we discussed several weeks ago.

2. First of all, we want to notice the power of a faithful grandmother – that was passed on to her daughter; and then to her grandson. Most mothers learn of God and the love of Jesus because of their mothers. So is it in our lesson today! Eunice had a mother of faith. If you have one, you are truly blessed (whether you are a daughter or son). There is nothing more powerful than a godly grandmother that through her faith and wisdom guides and directs her family’s affairs – by providing a foundation of faith, first from the scriptures; and then from a good example. Nothing witnesses more to one's faith than a godly example.

3. Secondly, we will consider the example of a faithful mother to a son. Timothy was the product of both a faithful mother and grandmother. We don’t know completely whether one of both were alive when Paul wrote to his beloved son. We do know that Timothy’s grandmother was alive when Paul preached in the City of Lystra on his first missionary journey with Barnabas, Acts 14:6. Once hearing the gospel of Christ he and his mother became obedient to it as a result of Paul and Barnabas’ preaching, Acts 16:1-4. Paul would become the father image in Timothy’s life of faith. And it is to this end he finds himself alone, thinking of his beloved son, nearing the last days of his life; and with earnest desire to see Timothy again, before his death.

4. Lastly, we will note that Timothy up until this time had exhibited the same faith in God as seen in both his grandmother and mother. Paul wrote: “I am persuaded that in thee also,” “a faith unfeigned.” He further wrote: “I thank God, whom I serve from my forefathers with a pure conscience, that without ceasing I have remembrance of thee in my prayers night and day; Greatly desiring to see thee, being mindful of thy tears, that I may be filled with joy.” He no doubt alludes to his capture while in Timothy’s presence – and witnessing his tears as the Roman officials lead him off to prison, and later to his death. It is believed Paul was arrested in Troas and was sent again to Rome to appear before Caesar. Here’s why I say this, he later wrote: “The cloke that I left at Troas with Carpus, when thou comest, bring with thee, and the books, but especially the parchments,” 2 Timothy 4:13. With this introduction let's consider our first point in this lesson.

BODY OF LESSON

I THE FAITH THAT DWELT IN THY GRANDMOTHER - LOIS

A. Paul writes, “When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and then in thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that it is in thee also,” 2 Timothy 1:5. What a compliment to the family of this young preacher. His grandmother as well as his mother – educated and schooled him first in the scriptures. He was taught his ABCs; Time Tables and the scriptures.

B. Lois – means “agreeable.” The grandmother of Timothy, and his mother, Eunice were instrumental in teaching him the scriptures, 2 Timothy 1:5. This was without a doubt the Old Testament scriptures concerning the Messiah. It seems like Lois had resided also at Lystra; as well his mother, Eunice. Timothy had obtained a great knowledge of the Scriptures from an early age, 2 Timothy 3:15. A good bible education will last longer and sustain one’s walk in the faith; more so than any education one might receive from the most notable college or university. Mother’s should strive to provide their children with the knowledge of the scriptures and the love of God. Illustrate: Memory Lesson.

C. Lois was a woman of great faith. This is the only passage where Lois is mentioned; but by comparing, 2 Timothy 1:5; 3:15. Paul refers to Timothy's having "from a child known the holy scriptures,” it is clear he includes her as being a part of that learning.