Daily Digest: Capstone Capsule

“Bring the cloak that I left with Carpus at Troas when you come – and the BOOKS, especially the PATCHMENTS” – 2 Timothy 4:13

Paul the apostle models IMPACT by the BOOK and the BOOKS: “Bring the cloak that I left with Carpus at Troas when you come – and the BOOKS, especially the PATCHMENTS” (2 Tim.4:13). Paul asked Timothy to bring his cloak and books, especially the parchments, when he comes. Paul was a Man of the BOOK – the Scriptures; but he also possessed cherished and highly prized books. The cloak denotes his physical necessities, while the books signify spiritual and intellectual resources.

The cloak was a practical item which might have been needed for warmth in the cold, harsh confinement of the Roman prison. The books were to give warmth to his spirit and soul. Even in this difficult setting, Paul hungered for learning and the written word. These might have been part of his writings that ultimately entered the canon of the New Testament. The parchments or scrolls were particularly valuable, and probably contained other crucial writings. All of these suggest the high regard Paul had for the written word – the Scripture and scriptural books, and their impact on his life and ministry, even in his imprisonment. 

What would I want by my side toward the end of life on earth? For many, its’s family and friends. And that’s proper. For the Apostle, even with imminence of death, his passion was for BOOKS. He continued to engage with learning, study and writing, even while in prison, and nearing the end of his life. Books were important for his spiritual life, ministry, and perhaps even for his ongoing work of writing letters and instructions. The mention of “parchments” however indicates that these were not just any books but potentially significant or sacred writings, possibly including Old Testament scriptures or early Christian writings. 

Charles Spurgeon wrote concerning Paul: “He is inspired, and yet he wants books! He has been preaching at least for thirty years, and yet he wants books! He had seen the Lord, and yet he wants books! He had had a wider experience than most men, and yet he wants books! He had been caught up into the third heaven and had heard things which it was unlawful for a man to utter, yet he wants books! He had written the major part of the New Testament, and yet he wants books!” No wonder, Paul was able to “fight the good fight of faith,” finish the race and keep the faith (v.7).

Paul wanted Timothy to continue to treasure the discipline of reading: “Till I come, give attention to READING” (1Tim.4:13a). God wants us to follow their footsteps. Yes, the Bible has no substitute! There is a however place for prized Christian Books for personal and spiritual nourishment and in the making of God-glorifying Impact! He who never reads will never be read!