Dr. Jim Tillotson addresses new college students with a message about spiritual warfare and endurance, using the theme "Soldier on, Train and Endure." He draws parallels between military service and Christian discipleship, emphasizing the qualities needed to be effective soldiers in God's army.
Scripture Text
2 Timothy 2:3-4
Main Points or Ideas:
1. Endure Hardship (Verse 3)
- Hardships are inevitable in the Christian life and ministry training
- The Greek word suggests enduring hardship "together" with others
- Specific hardships for college students include being away from home, adjusting to campus rules and restrictions, academic challenges and coursework, and roommate conflicts and differences
- Keys to enduring hardship include relying on Christ's strength (Philippians 4:13, Hebrews 13:5, Isaiah 40:31), maintaining daily devotions and prayer, and building friendships and community support (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12)
- Don't focus on long-term challenges; take it one day at a time
2. Avoid Entanglements (Verse 4a)
- Good soldiers don't get distracted by things that hinder their mission
- Potential entanglements include sin (pornography, bitterness, anger, laziness, lying, stealing, cheating) and excessive time spent on video games, movies, social media, or recreational activities
- The principle: if activities prevent daily Bible reading and spiritual growth, they become entanglements
3. Please Your Commanding Officer (Verse 4b)
- Christians are enlisted by God and should aim to please Him
- Training prepares soldiers to perform correctly under pressure
- College serves as training for effective ministry
- Students should actively serve in local churches while in school to make their academic training more meaningful
- The goal is not just good grades but pleasing God and helping others
Conclusion
Christians are called to be soldiers in God's army, which requires enduring hardship, avoiding distractions, and focusing on pleasing God who enlisted them. The training process, though difficult, prepares believers to serve effectively under pressure and accomplish God's mission.
