Timothy was pout in charge of the Ephesian church at the young age of 35-40 years old. To be less then 40 years of age was considered young, and while Timothy had certainly earned the trust bestowed upon him by the apostle Paul, his young age needed to be addressed..
“12 Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity.” (1 Timothy 4:12)
Timothy had been converted at a young age, and left his home in Lystra, a small town located in south Galatia where Paul first preached during his first missionary journey around 44-46 A.D.
Paul called on the young overseer to lead by example, being an example of the Christian faith, living a blameless life by which all men wish they were judged. Abide by the word of God, walking in Yeshua’s footsteps as you work out your own salvation, and use Yahweh’s perfect plan as the roadmap to faith inspired righteousness.
“13 Till I come, give attention to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.” (1 Timothy 4:13)
Here Timothy is instructed to dwell in the word of God, and continue to study and teach the truth about Jesus Christ, the begotten son of Yahweh whom was sent to live and die on the cross for the sins of men, then resurrected to live eternally at the right of the Father in heaven.
The teaching of all leaders should be sound and present the only true road to heaven, which is through faith in Yeshua, the Christ, repentance of sin and surrender of control.
“14 Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you by prophecy with the laying on of the hands of the eldership.” (1 Timothy 4:14)
Paul calls on Timothy to rely on the Holy spirit that dwells within him, and to allow his spiritual gifts to be a lamp to his feet as he continues to walk the narrow path that leads to fulfillment of Yahweh’s plan for our lives, and eternal life in heaven.
The young leader was also to trust the elders and their blessing as they laid their hands on him before he endeavored to lead the Ephesian church around A.D. 61.
“15 Meditate on these things; give yourself entirely to them, that your progress may be evident to all.” (1 Timothy 4:15)
Through meditation, prayer and quiet time spent in reverence to the Lord, Timothy was to allow himself to grow in the word as he preaches the truth in the world. His character would become his testimony, because of this Christ like character was not an option, it was the only way.
“16 Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you.” (1 Timothy 4:16)
Timothy received instruction from the apostle Paul in that he should continue to look at himself first, before extending his gift of discernment onto others. This was good teaching, to be used as an example of the foundation of the Christian faith. Faithful believers continue to abide by this commandment this day. Let us pray!
Father God;
We thank you for your blessings in our lives and for your servant Paul,
We praise you Lord for his wisdom and for his works through this scripture,
We ask you Lord to inspire us to use these verses in our lives
As we grow in you through the teachings of your faithful apostle.
Lord we ask you to strengthen us each day as we endure through battles,
Allow us to praise and love each other through faith in you Jesus,
Shield us from evil through truth, the gospel, salvation and prayer,
Guide us to abide by your word as we spread your gospel to one and all
Becoming examples of faith through our character as we walk the narrow path.
God we pray that you will continue to bless us, to bless our lives and fill us with hope
We ask you Lord to guide our footsteps and lead us to the way everlasting,
Through faith in you Lord we seek salvation and a place with you in heaven
According to your word, your everlasting wisdom and strength.
May your will be done
In our lives, for your life.
We thank you for your love and all you bless us with each day.
Praise God,
Amen!
This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
Email: DanielStPierre@ThriveThroughChrist.com
