Triumph without the Troubles

2 Timothy 2:1–13

The Triumph

1. The Soldier —   To please his leader and win the battle. 
2. The Athlete —  To keep the rules and win the race. 
3. The Farmer —  To reap and enjoy the harvest. 

The Troubles

1. We must endure hardship and discipline. 
2. We must keep the rules and compete. 
3. We must work hard and be patient. 

The Treasure without Tears

Psalm 126:5-6. 

God has given us an opportunity for success: the treasure. But this treasure requires tears.

God has given us “treasure” to complete the task: 

• The treasure is the seed (Luke 8:11) .
• The seed is the Word of God (Matt 7:23). 
• The seed is Jesus Christ (John 1:1-2, 14). 

Tears are required. The Christian's life is often tough. 

• Jesus cried in sympathy for his friends (John 11:35) 
• Jesus cried over a lost opportunity (Luke 19:41) 
• Jesus cried over suffering and death (Heb 5:5-11) 

The Trophy Without the Task (Psalm 125:5-6)

• Don't expect a crop when you didn't plant.
• Don't expect a paycheck when you didn't work.
• Don't expect a degree when you don't go to class.
• Don't expect a trophy when you didn't compete.

"An athlete is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules" (2 Timothy 2:5)

Don't expect Biblical knowledge if you do not study.

Do not expect salvation unless you become a child of God.