Paul continues his plea for Timothy, his spiritual son and appointed overseer of the churches in Ephesus, an important city under Rome’s authority. Present-day “Selçuk,” a city in Turkey, in A.D. 62 “Ephesus” was a thriving city located on the west coast of the Roman province of Asia Minor.
In his pastoral letter to Timothy, the apostle Paul calls it good to teach church leaders of the expectations bestowed upon them, so in turn the church itself could continue to thrive as a body, according to God’s will.
“6 If you instruct the brethren in these things, you will be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished in the words of faith and of the good doctrine which you have carefully followed.” (1 Timothy 4:6)
Paul calls on Timothy to rely and abide by the word of God, the gospel of the christ, Yeshua, rather than philosophy or gnosticism which appeared more popular in the days of the early church in Ephesus.
Because it is the truth, and written in love by anointed, chosen people, the bible should be at the root of all teachings within the church. Paul wanted to make it clear any teaching not stemmed deeply in the word of God was both foolish and sinful.
“7 But reject profane and old wives’ fables, and exercise yourself toward godliness.” (1 Timothy 4:7)
Timothy was to teach church leaders to reject any other gospel than the truth about the son of God, Jesus Christ, and to focus on walking in Yeshua’s footsteps, in love and humility, constantly seeking Yahweh’s glory through faith inspired deeds, an integral part of one’s sanctification as a disciple of Jesus Christ.
“8 For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come. 9 This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance.” (1 Timothy 4:8-9)
Paul calls it beneficial to exercise the body, but much more rewarding is the embodiment of Yeshua, of Jesus, exuding love, forgiveness and joy as we endeavor to advance the gospel to the four corners of the earth, and share the good news about salvation and the gift of eternal life.
“10 For to this end we both labor and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of those who believe. 11 These things command and teach.” (1 Timothy 4:10-11)
The advancement of the truth, combined with Paul’s desire to share the good news about Jesus Christ, His death on the cross and resurrection from the dead. This was good teaching glorifying to God and beneficial to men. By administering this truth and calling on church leaders to do the same, Timothy will fulfill his mission as appointed leader of the ephesian church. 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
