The Firm Foundation of God
2 Timothy 2:19-21
“Nevertheless, the firm foundation of God stands, having this seal, ‘The Lord knows those who are His,’ and, ‘Let everyone who names the name of the Lord abstain from wickedness.'” (2 Timothy 2:19).
This is a statement of confidence and victory Beloved. It is important that every one of us understand the implications of this verse. No matter what circumstances one may be facing, however stressful or discouraging they may seem, we must remember that the foundation of our hope is God, and that foundation will never be destroyed.
Disappointments must not be allowed to embitter us. Nor should we allow them to deter us from being fully committed to exalting Jesus Christ in our lives. Our lights must continue to shine brightly. Our hope has a solid foundation that does not waver.
Paul wrote, “Remind them of these things, and solemnly charge them in the presence of God not to wrangle about words, which is useless, and leads to the ruin of the hearers. Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, handling accurately the word of truth. But avoid worldly and empty chatter, for it will lead to further ungodliness, and their talk will spread like gangrene. Among them are Hymenaeus and Philetus, men who have gone astray from the truth saying that the resurrection has already taken place, and thus they upset the faith of some.” (2 Timothy 2:14-18).
It is against the backdrop of these negative circumstances, and perhaps others, that Paul seeks to assure Timothy that “Nevertheless, the firm foundation of God stands.” When one seeks to do what is right, regardless of such disappointments, he or she should always be aware that everything God has promised still stands, including the special promise of eternal life in Jesus Christ.
The foundation of God is secure Beloved. The events of life do not change that. The words of the apostles and prophets are His revelation and they are all still true. The gospel plan of salvation is still valid. The hope of eternal life is still sure and steadfast. God’s plan for His people is still valid. None of this changes any at all.
Timothy seemed especially concerned about the work of Hymenaeus and Philetus, and how they had gone “astray from the truth” and “upset the faith of some.” (2 Timothy 2:18). He was concerned that others had followed them away from the truth. Were cracks beginning to appear in the foundation of God? Paul insists that despite these falling away, the foundation of God still stands. When brethren disappoint, we must remember that our faith rests in God, not in man.