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Throughout Paul's ministry he continually encountered adversaries to the message of Jesus Christ. Interestingly, most of those who opposed Paul could be characterized as people who were outwardly religious, having a form - an appearance - of godliness, but denied the power thereof. Hymenaeus. Philetus. Phygellus. Hermogenes. These names are infamous in scripture for being possessed by those known to the church, having professed faith in God, but seemed to work against the appointed messenger. How can you be faithful to God while impeding the word by which God is known? It is by the engrafted word that our souls are saved. The work of God is done not by reputation, or community standing, or by who's afraid of you. It can only be accomplished by receiving, carrying, and sharing the gospel. Some in the text are commended and we know that they were faithful. But in this passage there are two particularly serious denunciations - those for Demas and for Alexander.

Demas was a partner & protege of Paul. An earlier mention shows that Paul had confidence in him. But he forsook Paul, loving the world instead. Let me say this: If he did then, he did before! People can fool you.

Alexander? He did Paul much evil, a "spiritual" person, a coppersmith, probably of idols, the thorn in Paul's flesh, the messenger of Satan. Paul told his son in ministry, Timothy, to be very wary of him.

Paul was stuck in the Mamertine prison and knew that he would never be freed by man. But, like any who actually aspire to serve the Lord, he surely could have used help in adverse circumstances. Paul was on the Lord's side! Who else is?

1. Remember: God Chose You v16
- When it got tough, most chose to leave Paul. They couldn't take the heat. But Paul could. That's why God chose him to go through. And when your kitchen gets hot, don't run. God knows you can take it. He chose you.

2. Remember: God Is With You v17
- Inevitably, sooner or later, if you will serve God, it will seem like you're alone in this. You're not. When friends are few, God is still with you! Paul said that God stood. God strengthened. God stays!

3. Remember: God's Got You v18
- Always remember & never forget, that if you are on the Lord's side, the reality is that God is on your side. He will deliver you. He will preserve you!