Scripture Reading: Matthew 21:28–31
Introduction
A. On his three missionary journeys, Paul traveled more than 5,000 miles with a number of different companions.
B. Three of these men were Demas, Mark, and Luke (2 Timothy 4:10–11).
Discussion
I. Am I a disciple like Demas?
A. This man was once a fellow-laborer (Philemon 24).
B. By the time Paul wrote his second letter to Timothy, however, this disciple had forsaken him (2 Timothy 4:10).
C. Like so many, this brother had allowed the cares of the world to choke out God’s word (Matthew 13:22).
II. Am I a disciple like Mark?
A. This man was from a great family (Acts 12:12; Colossians 4:10).
B. In spite of this, he showed weakness in the flesh in his earlier years (Acts 13:13; 15:36–41).
C. Later, however, Paul found him “useful to me for ministry” (2 Timothy 4:11).
III. Am I a disciple like Luke?
A. This brother, the author of two New Testament books, is known as “the beloved physician” (Colossians 4:14).
B. Although he never mentions himself by name in his narratives, he was with Paul for much of his travels (Acts 16:8–10; 20:5–6).
C. He would stand with Paul to the end (2 Timothy 4:11).
Conclusion
A. Even when all forsake us, we know that there is One who never has and who never will (2 Timothy 4:16–18; Hebrews 13:5).
B. God has never forsaken us. May we never forsake Him!