Page 50 - The Remnant Bride

win the prize unless he competes according to the rules. The hard-working farmer

ought to be the first to receive his share of the crops. Consider what I say, for the
Lord will give you understanding in everything.

Paul is speaking to Timothy of the necessity of embracing the hardship of a soldier,

the rigorous discipline of an athlete, and the patient work ethic of a farmer, always keeping
the goal in mind.

The soldier desires to please the one who enlisted him. This is the key to his
advancement. The athlete strives for a prize, and Timothy is reminded that there are rules

that must be observed to avoid disqualification. The farmer anticipates being the first to
receive a share of the crops that he has labored to bring forth. Each one focuses on his

individual reward and applies whatever discipline, rigor, and patience is necessary,
participating according to the guidelines set forth.

Paul is not speaking to Timothy of pursuing the salvation that is given freely to us by
God (the remission of sins and the gift of the Spirit). Paul is speaking of something beyond

this. He is speaking of that full salvation which is the reward of the overcomers in Christ.

Hebrews 9:28
Even so it is that Christ, having been offered to take upon Himself and bear as a

burden the sins of many once and once for all, will appear a second time, not to

carry any burden of sin nor to deal with sin, but to bring to full salvation those who
are [eagerly, constantly, and patiently] waiting for and expecting Him.
[The Amplified Bible]

What is this "full salvation" that Christ will appear a second time for? There is a full
salvation which must be worked out with fear and trembling. Christian man is comprised

of three parts, all of which need to experience the salvation of Christ.

I Thessalonians 5:23
Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and

soul and body be preserved complete, without blame at the coming of our Lord
Jesus Christ.