“Do your best to come to me soon. … Luke alone is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you, for he is very useful to me for ministry.”
2 Timothy 4:9, 11
Paul winds down his letter with several personal details. He mentions Mark, almost certainly the same Mark who had deserted Paul during his first missionary journey (see Acts 15:36-41). When they planned a second trip, Paul’s partner Barnabas wanted to bring Mark with them, but Paul objected, not trusting in someone would might leave when the going got tough. Such disagreement arose over this that they decided to separate. Remarkably, God used even that quarrel to bring about more fruitful ministry.
Take note of one of the sweetest commentaries on God’s restoring grace when Paul tells Timothy, “Get Mark and bring him with you, for he is very useful to me.” Not only does there seem to have been reconciliation between Paul and Mark, but also Paul valued Mark’s partnership.
Friends, even godly men like Paul, Barnabas, and Mark can make messes of things. This brief reference to Mark in 2 Timothy reminds us that God is a God of restoration. He heals broken relationships and brings peace where there was discord, just as He did with these men.
Take note of one of the sweetest commentaries on God’s restoring grace when Paul tells Timothy, “Get Mark and bring him with you, for he is very useful to me.” Not only does there seem to have been reconciliation between Paul and Mark, but also Paul valued Mark’s partnership.
Friends, even godly men like Paul, Barnabas, and Mark can make messes of things. This brief reference to Mark in 2 Timothy reminds us that God is a God of restoration. He heals broken relationships and brings peace where there was discord, just as He did with these men.
Scripture Focus
2 Timothy 4:9-13
Insight
Father, give us the grace to reach out with humility and love, repenting where we should and forgiving as You have forgiven us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Bible In A Year
- Jeremiah 31-32
- Psalm 119:1-64
- 1 Corinthians 11
