FG LESSON AND GUIDE FOR PERSONAL REFLECTION
Based on the message, “What Every Christian Must Pursue: Pursue Last”
By Ptr Eniong Hilario & Ptra Marilyn Antonio

Read 2 Timothy 4:6-8

As Christians, we are called to pursue the most important things in life. First and foremost, we must seek God's kingdom and His righteousness. Jesus Himself taught us to prioritize these above all else. Pursuing the Kingdom of God is submitting to His rule, dominion and authority. Pursuing God’s righteousness emphasizes a pursuit to keeping intact one’s relationship with God. This should be the foundation of everything we do, as it brings us into harmony with God and prepares us to serve His purposes.

In his second letter to Timothy, Paul offers valuable insight into what Christians should pursue in their final days. Paul, facing his death in a Roman prison, reflects on his life and the race he has run. He reminds Timothy and us of the importance of fighting the good fight, finishing the race, and keeping the faith. These three pursuits are essential for every believer, especially as we approach the end of our lives.

Paul encourages us to keep fighting the good fight of faith. This fight isn't physical; it's about staying strong in our belief in Jesus Christ. We must stand up for our faith all the way to the end. Throughout our lives, we should stay alert, avoid being complacent, and always be ready to defend what we believe. Even as we near the end, we must keep fighting, knowing that in this battle, the enemy is always trying to pull us away from the truth.

Secondly, Paul emphasizes finishing the race. The Christian life is like a race, and it is not enough to start strong; we must complete the race. Many may falter along the way, but Jesus calls us to stay focused on His will and finish the tasks He has given us. Just as Jesus completed His mission on earth, saying “It is finished,” we are also called to fulfill God’s plan for our lives and finish the work He has set before us.

Finally, Paul teaches us the importance of keeping the faith. Keeping the faith is like the protection a military fortress brings. This is a call to be watchful and careful to stay true to God’s Word. As we approach the end of our lives, we must remain faithful to the teachings of Scripture, even when others may stray or embrace false doctrines. Keeping the faith also calls for keeping Christian relationships. We must adhere to the words of Hebrews 10:24-25 so that we will be faithful to the end.

Paul uses his own life as an example to show us what we should focus on in our final days. We are called to fight the good fight, finish the race, and keep the faith. Every Christian, even at the end of their life, should strive for these things because a reward is waiting. As Paul mentions in 2 Timothy 4:8, he eagerly anticipates the crown of righteousness that the Lord, the righteous judge, will give him. This reward isn’t just for Paul, but for all who have longed for Christ’s return. The promise of this eternal reward encourages believers to stay faithful and committed to their spiritual journey until the very end.