I am now ready to be offered. — 2 Tim 4:6
In this chapter we have the last words of Paul sent from his dungeon. But they are not the words of a defeated man; rather, they tell of victory and triumph.
He was lonely. He was suffering from the chill of his dungeon, and wanted his cloak. He tells of his standing before the emperor, when all forsook him, and no one took his part. Yet he was not alone in that trying hour, for the Lord stood by him and strengthened him. He knew he would soon meet death, but he knew where he was going – “The Lord will deliver me from every evil work, and will save me unto His heavenly kingdom.” He spoke of his life under three figures – a fight, a course, a trust. He looked backward with consciousness of approval – he had fought well in the battle; he had been faithful to the trust committed to him. He looked forward with joy and confidence; there was a crown waiting for him.