1 Timothy 4
-Paul lets his spiritual son Timothy know exactly what the
latter days would be like as some will depart from the faith devoting
themselves to deceitful spirits (temporary pleasures, materialism, false teaching,
etc.) and teachings of demons (obsession with occultic phenomenon, etc.). This
happens through insincere liars whose consciences are seared (1 Timothy 4:1-2).
Remember how Paul earlier told Timothy that the goal of real Christian ministry
is love that comes from a pure heart, a good conscience, and a sincere faith (1
Timothy 1:5)? This is the contrast between the good and the evil. Notice it
here in the text. These unbelievers in the true God will do unbiblical things like
forbid marriage (Catholic church take notice), require abstinence from God
ordained foods (Vegans take notice, 1 Timothy 4:3-4). God created everything to
be received with thanksgiving and nothing is to be rejected if we know the
truth for it is made holy by the Word of God and prayer (1 Timothy 4:5).
*Application* This is good and sensible doctrine that Paul purports for the
young disciple of Jesus Christ. We need to have good training and be aware of
the false imposters who are out there in the world to deceive and lead astray.
Stay tuned into the Word of God and His righteousness and you will not be misled.
Have nothing to do with the irreverent and silly myths (new fangled fads). Rather
train yourself for godliness, which holds its value now and for the age to come
(1 Timothy 4:6-9). Hope in the Living God, who is the Savior of all people of
faith in Him (1 Timothy 4:10).
-Paul instructs Timothy to command and teach these things
(1 Timothy 4:11). Timothy is told to let
no one look down on (despise) his youthfulness, but instead set an example to
those who believe in the areas of speech, conduct, love, faith, purity,
devotion to reading Scripture publically, exhortation (challenges,
motivations), and teaching (1 Timothy 4:12-13). An imperative command is given
to not neglect the spiritual gift imparted to him by the laying on of hands and
prophesy by the elders (presbuterion).
Timothy is commanded to practice these things and immerse himself in them so
that his progress and spiritual growth would be evident to everyone. It was
imperative that he keep a close watch of himself and on his teaching with
persistence for the salvation of himself and his hearers (1 Timothy 4:14-16).
*Application* These are vital instructions for the minister of the gospel to
heed. Spiritual oversight of people is a serious business and few should really
choose it, unless God is absolutely calling and guiding. The responsibility for
souls is weighty and should be considered with extreme caution and diligence.
How do you think you are doing in this area? How do you think pastors and
overseers in the American church are doing? Where we are lacking, may the Lord
convict and challenge us to be more progressive in our spiritual earnest and
devotion. Eternity is truly at stake!
Verses to Memorize- 1
Timothy 4:12-16
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