“I solemnly charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by His appearing and His kingdom; preach the word, be ready in season and out of season, reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction.”  2 Timothy 4:1-2  NASB

Be ready – I have often heard this verse offered as justification for theological study, in particular for those studies that lead someone to become a more effective apologist for the faith, a witness who brings in the harvest.  The Greek seems to support such a conclusion.  Ephistemi means “to set in place, to stand by, to press with interest,” so it only seems logical that Paul is instructing us to be sure we know what to say when someone asks about believing.  Laying emphasis on “preach the word,” we imagine that we must have a ready answer for every inquiry, or more importantly, we must be out there witnessing in order to “save souls.”

I wonder if we interpret this exhortation in its cultural context.  That raises some questions; questions that are uncomfortable in our contemporary exegesis.  How would you answer these?

If systematic theology is so important for the correct understanding of God, Man and faith, why is there no Jewish systematic theology?

If the proper worship of God is so important to honoring Him, why is there such variety among Christian denominations?  Is worship only a matter of the heart?

If celebrating the events of God’s interaction with men is so crucial for the cohesiveness of the community, why does Christianity ignore the required biblical festivals?

If following Jesus is important to a life of discipleship, why do Christians dismiss His Torah obedience, His Jewish cultural view and His Old Testament orientation?

If a closed canon is so critical, why was the Jewish canon still open until religious pressure from Christianity forced its closure in the fourth century?

If all of the Bible is the inspired word of God, why do Christian theologians dismiss God’s instructions found in the Old Testament?  How do they know which ones count?

If God created the heavens and the earth perfect at the beginning, why are we convinced that there must be a new heaven and a new earth?  Can perfection be improved upon?

Just a few questions rattling around today.  I am sure you have more.  I do.  “Be ready.”

Topical Index:  urgent, be ready, ephistemi, questions, 2 Timothy 4:1-2