"I know whom I have believed"

"But I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed, and I am convinced that he is able to guard until that day what has been entrusted to me." (2 Timothy 1:12 ESV)

“For I know whom I have believed.” Paul's transformation from Pharisee to apostle shows that change is possible, inspiring believers and seekers to trust in God's power to transform lives.

Paul was the Pharisee of Pharisees. He knew the Jewish laws and scripture better than the majority of His peers. Yet, on that road to Damascus, Paul was convinced that everything he believed as a Pharisee was wrong. That the Jewish people had missed the Messiah, and that he had persecuted the innocent. But what was Jesus guarding until “that day”? Could it be Paul’s eternal destiny, the day he stands before Christ in judgment? That is what many theologians believe. However, this understanding helps us grasp the importance of our own salvation and accountability.

All of the things entrusted to Paul are entrusted to us as believers. You see, the gospel has not changed. Despite the many who try to change who Jesus is and what Jesus did for us. The world that denies Him, a people bound in sin: Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). I know that when I met Jesus Christ, He changed my life forever and continues to do so every single day.

Some people say God loves you just the way you are, but God does not love sin, so this is false. In fact, Psalm 5:5 tells us just the opposite, “The boastful shall not stand before your eyes; you hate all evildoers.” When you come to faith in Christ, He gives you His righteousness; you are justified before God and made right with your sins. You will never be more justified than you were or are on that day. But we continue to change; God changes us. He molds us day by day into the image of Jesus. We are remade, a new creature in Christ, and we must change. Like the branches of a vine, we continue to grow towards the light, consuming the evil in us with that very light, the light of God. (John 15:5)

The light of God consumed Paul. On the road to Damascus, Paul was literally overwhelmed by God's light. He remained blind for three days until God sent Ananias to restore his sight. Like Paul, we are called to walk daily towards God's light through prayer, scripture, and obedience. This ongoing journey strengthens our faith amid life's hardships.

We, too, are consumed by the light of God, and like Paul, we continue to walk towards that light despite the hardships of the world, the trials, the attacks by the enemy; we stay the course of Christ. That is what Paul speaks of, and that is what Paul writes to Timothy about. We will all stand before the white throne of judgment. On that day, you will account for your life before God. What will you say?

If you do not believe in Christ, are you willing to wager your eternity on that? Are you willing to deny a historical figure, witnesses to miracles, and the resurrection of the dead? Are you willing to refute the findings of archaeologists, scientists, and historians? Is it because you believe there are no consequences for the life you lead? There are. My friend, do not wager your eternity on fleeting images of freedom. Those who practice sin are slaves to sin. (John 8:34). Free yourself from death and the bondage of sin, seek Christ, and find eternal life through His finished work on the cross.

Everyone makes New Year's resolutions and may fail. Make a resolution to seek Christ, seek Him in the Bible. Seek Him in your heart. Start a new year of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. He is calling you, open the door, and He will come in and dine with you this New Year's Day. (Revelation 3:20)

Questions? Contact In Messiah, and we can provide you with the scriptures that reveal salvation by grace through faith in the risen Son of God, Christ Jesus.

Grace and Peace.