Sake

After some instruction on church leadership, Paul returns his focus to Timothy.

1 Timothy 4

6 If you explain these things to the brothers and sisters, Timothy, you will be a worthy servant of Christ Jesus, one who is nourished by the message of faith and the good teaching you have followed.

7 Do not waste time arguing over godless ideas and old wives’ tales. Instead, train yourself to be godly.

8 “Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come.”

9 This is a trustworthy saying, and everyone should accept it.

10 This is why we work hard and continue to struggle, for our hope is in the living God, who is the Savior of all people and particularly of all believers.

11 Teach these things and insist that everyone learn them.

12 Don’t let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity.

13 Until I get there, focus on reading the Scriptures to the church, encouraging the believers, and teaching them.

14 Do not neglect the spiritual gift you received through the prophecy spoken over you when the elders of the church laid their hands on you.

15 Give your complete attention to these matters. Throw yourself into your tasks so that everyone will see your progress.

16 Keep a close watch on how you live and on your teaching. Stay true to what is right for the sake of your own salvation and the salvation of those who hear you.

Sake. As I read this passage, I was struck by several phrases ... “train yourself” ... “work hard” ... “be an example” ... “focus on” ... “give your complete attention to” ... “throw yourself into” ... “keep a close watch on” ... “stay true” ... that all pointed toward one thought. Our example has the potential to impact the salvation of others. For their sake, we need to be mindful of the example our journey is setting.

*I will be out of town, attending a conference, the rest of the week so I will see you on Monday. Have a great week.

Everyone

Today, Paul reminds of God’s focus.

1 Timothy 2

1 I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them.

2 Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity.

3 This is good and pleases God our Savior,

4 who wants everyone to be saved and to understand the truth.

5 For there is only one God and one Mediator who can reconcile God and humanity - the man Christ Jesus.

6 He gave his life to purchase freedom for everyone. This is the message God gave to the world at just the right time.

7 And I have been chosen as a preacher and apostle to teach the Gentiles this message about faith and truth. I’m not exaggerating - just telling the truth.

Everyone. If you ever wonder what God is up to ... what He is passionate about ... what He is focused on, reread verses 3-5. One of the ways we can help is prayer. Pray that your friend comes to know and understand the truth about Jesus. Pray that your neighbor comes to know and understand the truth about Jesus. Pray that your coworker comes to know and understand the truth about Jesus. Pray that your “enemy” comes to know and understand the truth about Jesus. God wants everyone to be saved ... shouldn’t we?