Monday, Jan. 25th, 2010

Bible Thoughts – I Timothy 4:11-16

Recently, on Wednesday evenings, the adult class at Eastside has been walkthrough through the book of I Timothy. The Apostle Paul is nearing the last few years of his life; and he writes this letter to a young preacher in Ephesus about how to promote the Gospel and bring Christ honor in his work. As a young preacher, I draw invaluable aid from both the letters Paul wrote to his “beloved son.” However, the admonitions to Timothy are not limited to preachers and their work. The principles in these letters will give direction to men and women, young and old(er), both new and seasoned Christians. To illustrate that, I would like for all to consider the 6 instructions of our principle text. These ought to serve as a challenge to everyone and a template for service:

“Prescribe and teach these things. Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but rather in speech, conduct, love, faith and purity, show yourself an example of those who believe. Until I come, give attention to the reading, to exhortation and teaching. Do not neglect the spiritual gift within you, which was bestowed on you through prophetic utterance with the laying of hands and by the presbytery. Take pains with these things; be absorbed in them, so that your progress will be evident to all. Pay close attention to yourself and to your teaching; persevere in these things, for as you do this you will ensure salvation both for yourself and for those who hear you” (I Ti. 4:11-16).

1) “Prescribe and teach these things” – Paul is referring to the instruction in the letter, and specifically the need to refute false doctrine, as mention in the preceding verses. The message is clear: stand up for and share with others what you know to be true! All of us know things about God and His plan for us… and all of us have the opportunity to share that with someone… let’s embrace those chances.

2) “Let no one look down on your youthfulness” – Certainly as a young preacher, older folks may not have given his words the credibility they deserved. And people of all ages may go through this with reference to folks older than they are. But Paul didn’t want Timothy to just let it happen. Instead, in speech, conduct, attitude and purity, be an example of strength and dignity to others; and they will respect you. Let us all realize that the power of our teaching is directly connected to the purity of our living.

3) “Give attention to the reading” – Zeal without knowledge is without use. And none can teach, encourage, exhort or direct without the knowledge of the Truth. So, Paul reminds Timothy to keep reading the Scripture! Publically, privately, daily… give the Word the attention it deserves. What a great reminder for us. Don’t rest on what you’ve learned or used to know… keep reading.

4) “Do not neglect the spiritual gift within you” – Timothy’s situation was unique from ours. He had miraculous gifts from the Holy Spirit, given to him through the laying on of Paul’s hands. But he had to be reminded not to let those gifts die away or be suppressed by timidity. What a great thought for us. God has given you gifts… not miraculous, but still powerful. Abilities, understanding, opportunities to do the work He has created you to accomplish. Do neglect the gifts He’s given you.

5) “Take pains with these things” – One thing is for sure, commitment takes discipline, sacrifice and “pains” associated with great effort. Timothy had to be “absorbed” in the work of the Kingdom. And I think all of God’s people ought to look at what they are doing for the cause of Christ, and decide if they are “taking pains” or “taking it easy.” Absorbed in responsibility, or absolved of it.

6) “Pay close attention to yourself and to your teaching” – Timothy had to constantly be careful about how he behaved and what he taught. The text tells us why: “for as you do this you will ensure salvation both for yourself and for those who hear you.” Doesn’t that sound awesome? Helping yourself and others be saved from their sins! That is great motivation to persevere, and give daily attention to Christian work!

Kris Emerson