In 2 Timothy 1:13, the apostle Paul exhorted Timothy, “Hold fast the pattern of sound words which you have heard from me, in faith and love which are in Christ Jesus.”
The words “hold fast” in the text (echo) means to have or hold fast, to adhere or cling to. Consider a small child who depends upon a blanket or stuffed toy for comfort.
The word “pattern” in the text (hupotuposis) indicates an outline, sketch, brief, example or pattern. Consider the idea of a pattern used by a seamstress, or a blueprint used by a contractor.
The word “sound” in the text (hugiaino) is used metaphorically to refer to something that is free of any mixture of error.
The exhortation to “hold fast the pattern of sound words” is modified by specifying the way that they are to be held, “in faith and love.” Adam Clarke well said, “Faith credits the Divine doctrines. Love reduces them all to practice.”
Much is said of faith and love. All are in agreement that these things are necessary. What is often denied is that we must “Hold fast the pattern of sound words.” Here Paul clearly shows this to be required by God.
Paul here emphasizes that God’s word is a pattern for us. He expected Timothy and us to properly respect and revere the Holy Spirit’s guidance in delivering to us “all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us” (2 Peter 1:3). Our respect for God’s word requires us to obey it, in so doing showing our love both to God (cf. John 14:15), and to others (1 John 2:10).
Are you holding fast “the pattern of sound words”?
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