2 Timothy 4:8

2 Timothy 4:8  •  1 min. read  •  grade level: 10
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It is often asked, in reference to this scripture, whether the crown of righteousness is a reward for a special class; whether, that is, the words they “that love His appearing” describe those only who are really looking for and loving the appearing of our Lord and Saviour. The truth is rather that we have here the Holy Spirit’s estimate of all believers. The question is therefore not so much whether all, Christians answer to this description, as the fact that this is the light, because their true and proper attitude, in which they are regarded by God. Take another similar passage, “Unto them: that look for Him shall He appear the second time without sin unto salvation.” (Hebrews 9:2828So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation. (Hebrews 9:28)) Now it would be a great mistake to suppose, as some have contended, that those who look for Him designate a class—those only who are actually expecting Christ. If this were accepted, the false doctrine, rife in some quarters, would follow, that only those who are waiting for Christ will be blessed with full salvation on His return. Once again, it is the characteristic of all believers before God, showing that. Their only proper attitude is looking for the return of their Lord and Saviour. These scriptures thus gives us a standard by which we may ascertain whether we are in any measure answering to God’s thoughts of His people.