What does Paul's request for "the parchments" teach about valuing God's Word? Setting the Scene in Paul’s Cell Paul writes 2 Timothy from a Roman dungeon, cold and near the end of his earthly race. His request is simple: “When you come, bring the cloak I left with Carpus at Troas, and my scrolls, especially the parchments” (2 Timothy 4:13). In the face of death, companionship and warmth matter—but the Word of God matters most. Why Ask for Parchments? • Parchments were costly, durable animal-skin documents—likely containing portions of the Old Testament and notes of Spirit-given revelation. • Paul’s body is chained, yet his mind and spirit crave the Scriptures he has loved and preached. • This desire underscores that even an apostle at the finish line still hungers for fresh engagement with God’s written voice. Lessons on Loving Scripture • Scripture is indispensable, not optional. – Paul longs for it more than personal comfort (compare Job 23:12, “I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my daily bread,”). • Scripture sustains to the very end. – Psalm 119:105: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path”. Lamps matter most when nights are darkest. • Scripture equips for faithful service. – Only a few lines earlier Paul reminded Timothy, “All Scripture is God-breathed and useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16). Paul practices what he preaches. • Scripture carries eternal weight. – Isaiah 40:8: “The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God stands forever”. Paul reaches for what lasts when everything else is fading. Practical Takeaways for Today • Prioritize daily time in the Word, even when schedules tighten or seasons grow hard. • Invest in quality, lasting copies of Scripture—digital tools help, but physical Bibles invite focused, distraction-free meditation. • Keep Scripture close during trials: hospital rooms, travel, late-night watches. • Memorize verses so that, like Paul, if the parchments are out of reach, the Word remains within. Supporting Scriptures • Joshua 1:8—meditation on the law day and night leads to success. • Psalm 1:2 – 3—delight in the law produces stability and fruitfulness. • 1 Peter 1:23—the living and enduring word of God brings new birth. |
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