Sorry, today there are two reflections on 1 Timothy, to get us back on track with the schedule. I messed up…
SCRIPTURE: 1 Timothy 1
OBSERVATION/APPLICATION:
… To devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies. Such things promote controversial speculations rather than advancing God’s work—which is by faith. The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith [1 Timothy 1:4-5]
Apparently there were believers who were getting bogged down in minute and technical interpretations of scriptures, looking for deeper truths and mysteries and hidden meanings.
I have met these Christians too, often in regard to end time calculations but also with subtle and questionable interpretations of texts.
As Paul says, such things promote controversial speculations rather than advancing God’s work—which is by faith.
You diligently study the Scriptures because you think that by them you possess eternal life. These are the Scriptures that testify about me, yet you refuse to come to me to have life. [John 5:39-40]
We are not saved by our understanding of scripture, nor by our technical obedience to the Law, we are saved by our faith in Jesus Christ, and the life of humility and love that flows from that.
Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst. But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life [1 Timothy 1:15-16]
Paul was a master of Scripture interpretation and adherence [see Philippians 3:4-6], but he considered this as “a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord” [Philippians 3:8]
The work of God is knowing and believing and following Jesus – “The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent.” [John 6:29]
And the shape (or goal) of that work is love.
This is the mark of the Jesus-follower, that we love like Jesus loved.
It is not our fancy or technical interpretations of subtle scriptures that sets us apart; it is our faith, our hope and our love – especially our love.
There are times when I get so frustrated with the debates between believers about secondary (non) issues like the form of baptism, the details of Christ’s return, the style of worship, the Sabbath/Sunday controversy, and so on.
At one time I was a part of an ‘orthodox’ movement, but now I am ashamed of that association.
Such things promote controversial speculations rather than advancing God’s work—which is by faith. The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith [1 Timothy 1:4-5]
PRAYER:
Lord, forgive me for getting bogged down in non-issues, and neglecting the work you have called us to – faith, hope and love, especially love!
I remember a short song which stated that the gospel in one word is love. Love God and love your fellowman. That is also the loving out of His Word – faith in action. Knowing the will of God and doing the will of God enveloped by our love for Him. He is the focus and not our selfish desires which lead us astray on foolish controversies.
Paul gives Timothy a command – a charge – to remember the past, the prophecies. We all need to remember what God has done for us and still is doing. I need to tell of these God-instances to all those who will hear – what the Lord God has done for me, His child. Then I can also say – ‘now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen.
Love Him in the morning, when you see the sun arising,
Love Him in the evening ’cause He took you through the day,
And in the in-between time when you feel the pressure coming,
Remember that He loves you and He promises to stay.
When you think you have to worry,
‘Cause the things you have to do,
Remember He’s not in a hurry,
He’s always got time for You,
So… Love Him….