In Paul's second letter to Timothy, in between his personal instructions to Timothy and his final greetings he writes down this statement:
"The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed and bring me safely into his heavenly kingdom. To him be the glory forever and ever. Amen." (2 Timothy 4:18)
Really? Does Paul really believe that he will be rescued from every evil deed? Does Paul really think his transfer to the heavenly kingdom will be a safe one? Is this 'polly-anna' naivete?
Not likely.
Paul's words do not reflect a gullible neophyte but rather a seasoned, veteran soldier of the cross. For him, safety does not involve freedom from suffering and pain. Safety, in Paul's estimation, is indifferent to whips and stones and fists. He's been there and done that. He is not concerned with these 'light and momentary afflictions'.
And being rescued does not mean removed from hardship unless by removed you mean in the ultimate sense; death. But what is death but 'rescue' to one who considers dying to be gain? Evil deeds that result in Paul's death, and this is indeed how he would die, are nothing more than safe passage to the presence of his King.
It's his perspective that makes rescue inevitable and safety ensured. His perspective of his sovereign and merciful Saviour.
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