Jesus abolished death.
What? People are still dying, Daniel. Have you noticed?
Yes, but are they?
Paul writing to his spiritual son, Timothy who was sent on an apostolic mission to one of the greatest idol worshiping cities of all times
, Ephesus, writes words of encouragement to him.
, Ephesus, writes words of encouragement to him.
For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
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;
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,
But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel: 2Ti 1:7-10
What is Paul saying and why?
Paul is encouraging his spiritual son, Timothy who appears to have been going through some difficult times and criticisms.
Paul is saying to Timothy be encouraged, stir up the Gift, the Spirit of God inside. Do not listen to the wrong spirit, the Spirit that instills fear. Listen to the One Who overwhelms you with love and power and make you think straight in line with Truth Himself.
Maybe some paraphrasing is required here ...
He says therefore don't be quiet on how good God is in Jesus, nor of those testifying about His goodness.
Partake of the endurance of the Good News by applying the power of your dominion as a son of God. This was the original plan of God, His calling for man from the beginning, to rule not by our own strength and might, but by the finished work of Jesus Christ given to us even before time was. This true Grace toward man was beautifully confirmed by Jesus, God manifest in flesh.
It is made tangible and within reach for all by our Saviour, Jesus, who had katargeō death. He brought only life and eternal living, face to face with man. He is the wondrous Gospel!
katargeō?
katargeō means to make entirely useless, to destroy, do away with entirely, to totally abolish, to finish off for good both literally or figuratively.
Case closed!
... only life and eternal living, face to face with man for man to receive!
Amen.
HalleluYAH, Amen!