We should be so ready to to share the gospel with those who do not know it. Still Paul here is not just speaking of those ignorant of the Good News. He is reminding Timothy to keep those in the Body of Christ on alert as well. How do we know that Paul is including those who have already been exposed to the Gospel Message? We can look at the next verse which says:
For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear. 2 Timothy 4:3
No longer means that they did listen to sound teaching at one point. We can see this now with "prosperity preachers" or the "name it claim it crowd". Paul said he knew how to be content no matter what his circumstances because he could do all things through Him who gave him strength. Why wasn't he preaching that God wants you to prosper and have material wealth? Well, probably because it wasn't part of the Good News! Instead Paul warned:
Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. 1 Timothy 6:17
Uncertain is right! Here today, gone today. If that is the sum and total of our lives then when we loose our possessions we may feel we have nothing to live for. Now tornadoes, floods and other disasters have taken more than people's property. It has cost hundreds of Americans their lives too. Yahshua said seek first the Kingdom of God all these other things will be added to you as well. Since he also said we can not serve both God and mammon or money at the same time, we have to make a choice as to what or who will have first place in our affections. The greatest command is to love Yahweh our Elohim with all our heart, mind and strength and our neighbors as ourselves.
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