13 Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. 14 That good thing which was committed unto thee keep by the Holy Ghost which dwelleth in us. (2 Timothy 1:13-14 KJV)
Be Loyal to the Faith
Paul next exhorts Timothy to “hold fast the pattern of sound words” (2 Timothy 1:13). This may mean a short summary of Christian doctrine—a form or outline drawn from Scripture—or the Scriptures themselves, which are divinely inspired and wholly trustworthy. He must retain and adhere to these sound teachings in opposition to false doctrines. This must be done “in faith and love which are in Christ Jesus”—believing their truth and loving their goodness, receiving them in a sincere heart (Psalm 119:11; Ephesians 4:15). It is not enough to believe sound words; we must also cherish and live by them.
Paul adds, “That good thing which was committed to you, keep by the Holy Spirit who dwells in us” (2 Timothy 1:14). This good thing is the Christian doctrine—the treasure of divine truth—entrusted to Timothy through his baptism, upbringing, and ordination. The gospel is a sacred trust, a priceless jewel revealing the unsearchable riches of Christ (Ephesians 3:8). It must be kept pure and transmitted faithfully to future generations.
No one can keep this truth by his own strength; we must rely on the indwelling Holy Spirit. The Spirit lives in all true believers, enabling them to guard the gospel from corruption. Yet divine help does not excuse human effort—we must actively keep the faith, even as the Holy Spirit empowers us to do so.