Take Hold of Endurance - 2 Timothy 3:1 - 4:8 - October 29, 2006

Sunday School Lesson – Take Hold of Endurance – October 29, 2006

This is lesson 5 in our series of study in our series “Equipped for Real Life.”

Our background scripture is 2 Timothy 3:1-4:8.

Our focus scripture is 2 Timothy 3:1, 10-17; 4:5-8.

Let’s examine the last verses in last Sunday’s lesson.

Let’s read 2 Timothy 2:25-26:

25 instructing his opponents with gentleness. Perhaps God will grant them repentance to know the truth. 26 Then they may come to their senses and escape the Devil’s trap, having been captured by him to do his will.

Paul is saying there is hope even for those who have been deceived and led astray by Satan. GOD is their only hope to “Grant then repentance to know the truth.” GOD is a Christian’s hope when he or she is deceived and is disappointed in GOD. GOD is mankind’s only source for knowledge and truth about HIM. The Bible contains HIS WORDS to all mankind for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training. The Bible is foundational for mankind to get to know GOD and seek a loving intimate relationship with HIM through CHRIST.

The words to “know” and “truth” are two (2) key words in establishing a Christian’s foundation. Christians and non-Christians alike can be misled. When a person is misled, he is to seek the truth. The Christian and non-Christian both can seek the truth from GOD through prayer and Bible study. The non-Christian is led first to CHRIST. When the non-Christian becomes a Christian, this places that person on a path to build a personal relationship with CHRIST and further revelation of the truth.
As Christians, we discover that having a loving intimate relationship with our LORD provides us the opportunity to get to truly know HIM. This in turn allows GOD to reveal more truth to us as we walk with HIM each moment.

When we “know” the truth, through an intimate relationship with CHRIST, this allows us to respond in service to HIM. Knowing the truth exposes the false. Satan’s greatest weapon against Christians and mankind alike is to mislead them with half-truths and lies. Often we form our Christian foundation based upon the teaching and life style of others. If we let our minds become clouded with false doctrine, when we rely upon GOD during difficult times, the result is disappointment. Rather than blaming GOD we need to lay our disappointment(s) on the table before our LORD and let HIM reveal the truth and error regarding a situation in our lives.

We can only embrace endurance when we are on a firm foundation of truth by knowing our LORD. I encourage each one to lay before HIM all their notions, moments of disappointment, times of confusion, doubts and those very personal times you have felt GOD has let you down. Ask HIM to reveal truth to you. Trust that over time HE will reveal truth to you. Seek the truth through the study of the Bible, prayer and the enlightenment which only the HOLY SPIRIT can reveal to you. A firm foundation is vital for a Christian to endure during difficult times. Sometimes the journey through difficult situations can bring us into a closer relationship with our LORD or it can cause us to doubt the LORD. Doubts are healthy when we seek the truth.

Let’s examine our scripture.

Let’s read 2 Timothy 3:1, 10-13:

1 But know this: difficult times will come in the last days.

10 But you have followed my teaching, conduct, purpose, faith, patience, love, and endurance, 11 along with the persecutions and sufferings that came to me in Antioch, Iconium, and Lystra. What persecutions I endured! Yet the Lord rescued me from them all. 12 In fact, all those who want to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted. 13 Evil people and imposters will become worse, deceiving and being deceived.

Paul’s message to Pastor Timothy is also the Christian’s today; difficult times are coming. Paul tells us about some of the things that will go on during these difficult times in the verses leading up to verse 10.

In verse 10, we see some of the building blocks for a firm foundation and why the foundation is important.

So let’s examine some of these building blocks in Paul’s ministry of the gospel:

Solid teaching - The gospel message of CHRIST is the foundation that must never be compromised.

Conduct – The guiding principles that guided his life are founded in his love and faith in CHRIST which in turn is expressed in his conduct.

Purpose – His passion to know and proclaim CHRIST without any hesitation under any conditions. He wanted others to know CHRIST because he knew CHRIST was mankind’s only hope.

Faith – His absolute confidence and trust in CHRIST as GOD’S ONLY SON, WHO died for the sins of mankind and was resurrected from the dead as proof that HE is GOD’S ONLY SON.

Patience – He knew that only GOD can change the lives of people and he waited upon the LORD to reveal Himself to the lost and he was confident CHRIST would change their lives. His calling was to present the gospel and GOD produced the results.

Love – He knew that GOD loved him beyond comprehension and therefore he, in turned, loved others with that same unconditional love.

Endurance – He had experienced the hand and the power of the LORD working in his life in many situations. His complete trust was in GOD’S ability to bring the best result out of a situation. We can endure a situation when we have confidence in GOD. This comes from knowing HIM and having a personal intimate relationship with HIM.

Paul reminds them that they know of the persecutions and sufferings he has encountered. The LORD has sustained him through them all. Paul was living proof of GOD’S sufficiency.

As we encounter these last days, things will get worse and we can only overcome bad times through the strength the LORD provides because we rest upon a firm foundation. When an earthquake hits an area, only the structures which are on a foundation engineered to withstand earthquakes will survive. Ask GOD to make sure your foundation is firm.

Paul makes us a promise that all who serve CHRIST will be persecuted one way or the other. Satan will be the earthquake in the lives of Christians. His onslaughts are directed to destroy the Christian. Only when we have the firm foundation of CHRIST can we stand. Ephesians 6 tells us about the battle we will fight. It is not a battle with flesh and blood but with the spirit world.

This leads Paul to remind all Christians that Satan has a cast of characters who will come out of the woodwork to deceive, confuse, mislead and attempt to destroy people in general but especially Christians. These are evil people and impostors. The most dangerous deceivers are the deceivers who really believe what they are saying. They are deceived and in turn deceive others.

So fellow Christian always verify what you hear with what the Bible has to say about the subject, issue, doctrine or your faith journey.

Let’s read 2 Timothy 3:14-17:

14 But as for you, continue in what you have learned and firmly believed, knowing those from whom you learned, 15 and that from childhood you have known the sacred Scriptures, which are able to instruct you for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 16 All Scripture is inspired by God[2] Lit breathed out by God; the Scripture is the product of God’s Spirit working through men; see 2 Pt 1:20–21. and is profitable for teaching, for rebuking, for correcting, for training in righteousness, 17 so that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.

Paul puts the role of the scriptures into perspective by telling Pastor Timothy to rely upon them. The scriptures foretold the coming of JESUS, to be born of a virgin, about HIS sinless life, HIS death and HIS resurrection. The scripture has been confirmed in JESUS and sealed by the HOLY SPIRIT.

Paul tells Pastor Timothy to think about the scripture and how reliable it has been. The scripture was written hundreds of years prior to the birth of JESUS by many earthly writers yet with pinpoint accuracy. The only explanation is that GOD is the author and it is a living document because GOD reveals Himself through HIS WORDS as HE directed it to be written.

Since GOD is the author the scripture, all scripture is profitable for:

Teaching – The scriptures are the source of truth for a person seeking the truth. Since they are inspired by GOD, GOD is alive in the scripture and HE will reveal the truth to those that earnestly seek the truth. The scripture can be read as any book. Or it can be read by one who seeks truth and it comes alive and reveals truth. The power is not in the words but in GOD, WHO gives power to understand the words.

Rebuking – The scripture can show us the error of our way or the error in false teaching. It can convict us of our sins whether they are sins of action, thought or attitude.

Correcting – Not only does the scripture show us the error but also shows us how to correct the error. It shows us how to get back on the right path and how to stay on the right path.

Training – Scripture convicts us and we repent. Then it provides the training for us to stay on the right path to live life as GOD directs us.

Scripture provides a system by which we can develop, mature and walk as GOD wants us to walk as a fully mature Christian. Scripture is critical in the life of every Christian. It helps us to cope with life’s situations and to be fully equipped to serve our LORD during difficult times and helps us to endure.

Let’s read 2 Timothy 4:5-8:

5 But as for you, keep a clear head about everything, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry. 6 For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time for my departure is close. 7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 8 In the future, there is reserved for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on that day, and not only to me, but to all those who have loved His appearing.

Paul tells Pastor Timothy that above all he must keep a clear head during these difficult times. His congregation will be looking to him for leadership and if he falters then so will some of them. Keeping a clear head also carries the meaning of staying on the alert or be on the lookout for false teachings.

All Christians were called into ministry when CHRIST gave the great commission. Christians are called into a wide variety of ministries. Paul instructed Timothy to fulfill his ministry.

Then Paul uses himself as an example of staying the course and fighting the good fight. Paul had endured. Soon he would be facing his final hearing before Nero. A drink offering was poured out as an accompaniment to the burnt offering when the sacrifice was made. Paul sees his days on earth drawing to a close and he will be poured out. Then he mentions his departure. Departure was used when one would unyoke an animal or loosen the ropes that tied a ship. This is not a sad moment but one of joy because Paul had (1) fought the fight, (2) had finished the race and (3) kept the faith. Paul knew he would receive a crown of righteousness from GOD.

Crowns were given in the Olympic Games and were considered the greatest honor possible. The Olympic crowns were laurel wreaths, which only lasted a few days.

Paul had served the LORD faithfully and Paul knew that the LORD has a crown of righteousness reserved for him on the day HE hands out rewards to all those who have been faithful to their calling. CHRIST will act as the righteous judge who will act not as a judge in a judicial sense but as an umpire for living our lives in accordance with our calling.

Christians are the light of the world and the salt of the earth. We are the only truth others may ever see. It is vital that we know the truth and live the truth. This is only possible with the power and presence of CHRIST in us as manifested by the HOLY SPIRIT.

This is a message to all Christians and especially to those who teach and preach the scriptures. All are included because all of us teach others by our example as a Christian. We must keep a clear head and present and live the truth. One way to expose false teachings is to present the truth by living the truth. This comes from experiencing our LORD in our daily lives as we study the scripture, walk with HIM each moment and seek to do HIS will.

Again to live as GOD wants us to live can only be accomplished when we have a loving intimate relationship with HIM. Such a relationship gives us the strength to endure when difficult times come into our lives. We have the joy of knowing when we faithfully serve our LORD there is a Crown of Righteousness waiting for us.

When we think about certain difficulties coming our way, it seems impossible to endure them. But when difficulties come, as Christians, there is an inner strength that GOD gives us, when we need it. We do not receive it until that moment comes in our lives.

Our five (5) lessons have been foundational. We began our study with taking hold of truth. Then based upon truth, we take hold of Godliness. As we become grounded in Godliness we take hold of contentment. As we take hold of contentment, we also take hold of usefulness. Then finally once we are on a firm foundation of knowing and experiencing the truth of CHRIST in us through obedient service, we take hold of endurance.

Difficult times are coming. They are not for us to worry about but to prepare for by being on the solid foundation of truth, which is CHRIST in us.

Take Hold of Usefulness - 2 Timothy 2:1-26 - October 22, 2006

Sunday School Lesson – Take Hold of Usefulness – October 22, 2006

This is lesson four (4) in our series of study “Equipped for Real Life.”

All of us want to be useful and serve our LORD. It is important for us to let the LORD lead us to the work HE wants us to do. This can be very difficult for those who are task oriented because it may mean waiting on the LORD. There is work that is obvious and needs to be accomplished. If the church has a function there is preparation, implementation and clean-up. We volunteer to assume a role in this effort, which is good. Helps is a gift of the spirit.

But regardless of our gift, we must not neglect building a loving intimate relationship with our LORD. In other words, we must not let our doing take the place of spending time with our LORD.

This lesson is a message to both teachers of the scripture, as well as the hearers.

Our background scripture is 2 Timothy 2:1-26.

Our focus scripture is 2 Timothy 2: 1-2, 14-26.

Let’s read 2 Timothy 2:1-2:

1 You, therefore, my child, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. 2 And what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, commit to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.

When we take hold of usefulness, we must also consider training others to help us. Often some of us would just rather do it ourselves. Then we know it will be done exactly like we want it done. But doing it ourselves limits what can be accomplished because getting others involved multiplies the effort. Doing tasks ourselves can result in great frustration for us.

One of the key points of being more useful is to train or involve others to help us. When we invest in others to help us, we have multiplied our effort many fold. When we involve or train others we are responsible to GOD. We must seek the guidance of our LORD in whatever we do and in involving and training others.

Let’s read 2 Timothy 2:14-19:
An Approved Worker
14 Remind them of these things, charging them before God[2] Other mss read before the Lord not to fight about words; this is in no way profitable and leads to the ruin of the hearers. 15 Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who doesn’t need to be ashamed, correctly teaching the word of truth. 16 But avoid irreverent, empty speech, for this will produce an even greater measure of godlessness. 17 And their word will spread like gangrene, among whom are Hymenaeus (high-meh-NEE-uhs) and Philetus (fih-LEE-tuhs). 18 They have deviated from the truth, saying that the resurrection has already taken place, and are overturning the faith of some. 19 Nevertheless, God’s solid foundation stands firm, having this inscription: The Lord knows those who are His,[3] Nm 16:5 and Everyone who names the name of the Lord must turn away from unrighteousness.[4]

There are two (2) kinds of workers (1) Approved (2) Not Approved.

We teachers must be very careful that we are not teaching for the wrong reason. A worker must also not work for the wrong reason. The wrong reason is to do a task for the approval of man. Our motivation is to work as unto the LORD. GOD is the ONE to whom we are accountable and HE knows our true motivation for the work we do. Empty speech leads to confusion and destruction.

A teacher’s responsibility is to correctly teach the truth. A teacher must never teach to please those he teaches to gain the approval of man. The authority for what a teacher teaches is the scripture, confirmed by the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT. If a person is uncomfortable with the teaching they are hearing. They should go to the scripture to test what you are hearing. If the scripture does not confirm what you are hearing, then you are encountering false doctrine being taught.

Paul tells Timothy to remind his congregation that fighting about words only turns a person’s focus away from the gospel. When we fight over words, the goal of the argument becomes to win the argument and not to seek the truth. So focus on the truth and not on empty words.

“Be diligent” is an interesting statement. It means to put all of your effort in gaining whatever you want to obtain.

“Approved” is a word used for testing metals to ensure they are fit for service.

Whatever we do, the LORD is the ONE WHO knows our hearts and the truth. HE wants us to present the truth. We are to strive to seek and know the truth of HIS WORD, the Gospel of CHRIST and to present both without compromise. Sometimes the truth is not pleasant but never-the-less we are to always present the truth.

In verse 16, the word “produce” is used. Produce relates to progress. It carries the meaning of cutting down or removing something that prevents progress. When irreverent, empty words are used, they are a barrier to Godliness. They are like gangrene. Gangrene is a disease that causes the tissue to die, cuts off the blood supply to the infected area and spreads to others parts of the body unless stopped. Godlessness is like gangrene. It only gets worse and spreads to other people, unless stopped. So it is vital that you deal with this issue, quickly.

Then Paul refers again to Hymenaeus, who was mentioned in 1Timothy 1:20 and Philetus. This is the first and only mention of Philetus. Paul uses these two (2) as examples of what can happen if you do not deal with this problem.

In verse 18, Paul tells us how they distorted the truth. They were saying the resurrection had already occurred. If the resurrection had already occurred, then why live a Godly life?

In that day there were the Gnostics who considered anything material or physical as being evil. This led to two (2) approaches.

1. Asceticism – depriving oneself because the physical body is evil.

2. Do whatever you want to do because the body doesn’t matter since you have already been resurrected spiritually.

This doctrine regarding resurrection resulted in Christians being confused and compromising their faith and lifestyle toward Godly living.

In verse 19, Paul talks about GOD’S solid foundation with this inscription, “The LORD knows those who are HIS.” When a building was built it carried a seal of genuineness and ownership. The architect would place his mark on the building to show he was responsible for the building. The building could also carry a seal to tell the purpose of the building.

GOD’S building is the church. It is the living church and HE has placed HIS seal upon each Christian and HIS desire is for us to become more Godly and to come closer to HIM. GOD knows HIS true children and we are sealed with the HOLY SPIRIT.

Let’s read 2 Timothy 2:20-21:

Lv 24:11, 16; Nm 16:26–27; Jos 23:7; Ps 6:9; 33:15; Pr 3:7; Isaiah 26:13; 52:11; Jr 20:9 20 Now in a large house there are not only gold and silver bowls, but also those of wood and earthenware, some for special[5] Or honorable use, some for ordinary. 21 So if anyone purifies himself from these things, he will be a special[6] Or an honorable instrument, set apart, useful to the Master, prepared for every good work.

Paul refers to items in a house which are used to serve guests. Some are for special use and others for ordinary use. Again, Paul refers to these items to distinguish between true and false teachers in the church. Timothy is the true teacher and Hymenaeus and Philetus are not true teachers.

In a house there are items for two (2) purposes. Paul uses three (3) conditions for serving the LORD:
1. We are set apart or we are sanctified for a holy purpose to serve the LORD.
2. Since we have been called or set apart we have choices. Since we are Holy we must choose that which is pure.
3. Understanding that we have been set apart and when we make choices that are pure then we are prepared to serve our LORD at the moment HE calls us into action.

How often do we encounter a situation and we have not chosen to act like a Christian should act or respond. Then there is an opportunity to witness to a person we have encountered but possibly have been rude or cut short. It is very difficult to tell them about the love of CHRIST, when we have not let them see CHRIST in us. Wow! This hurts me as I write this because it has happened to me.

We as Christians are to flee from the things that are not pure. GOD never violates our right to choose. We decide whether or not we will commit our lives to GOD and serve HIM. Paul tells us along with Pastor Timothy, when we dedicate our lives to HIM, we will be used as a special instrument in GOD’S symphony.

Recently I wrote a brief article for our Senior Scoop. I was listening to a beautiful symphony orchestra playing a piece. I was led to think about each instrument in the symphony. I could hear each instrument. Some of the instruments sounded as if they were making a limited, consistent sound and I thought how boring. Then the thought came to me to listen to the complete symphony not just the individual instruments. When I listened to all the instruments it was beautiful, inspiring music. Then the thought came to me, often our lives may seem boring and monotonous but when we follow the direction of our LORD, HE is using our lives according to HIS plan to create a masterpiece. Our part is to be obedient to HIM.

Let’s read 2 Timothy 2:22-26:

22 Flee from youthful passions, and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart. 23 But reject foolish and ignorant disputes, knowing that they breed quarrels. 24 The Lord’s slave must not quarrel, but must be gentle to everyone, able to teach,[7] Or everyone, skillful in teaching and patient, 25 instructing his opponents with gentleness. Perhaps God will grant them repentance to know the truth. 26 Then they may come to their senses and escape the Devil’s trap, having been captured by him to do his will.

Paul tells Timothy to flee from youthful passions. We likely think of lust but the word “passions” carries a broader definition which includes any cravings or passionate desires. Such passion is not necessarily wrong; it just needs to be properly directed. It is easy to be misdirected by the lure of many things but as a Christian, we are to use our drives toward right living and purity. We are not to compromise our lives.

Paul tells Timothy if he is to keep himself pure, he is to flee from youthful passions. Youthful passions can be a desire for recognition, desire to control, to obtain material things and includes the desire to satisfy the flesh – sex, food and pleasure.

Paul tells Timothy to pursue – righteousness, faith, love and peace.

Then Paul tells Timothy to reject foolish and ignorant disputes.

Timothy is to keep in mind that he is a salve of the LORD. He has been bought with a price and he is to serve his MASTER.

This message is just as fresh for us today as the day Paul wrote it to Timothy. Satan uses false doctrine to enslave and confuse.

The LORD’S slave knows it is GOD and only GOD WHO can bring salvation to an individual. It is not up to us to judge an individual and assume they are hopeless. We are to present the truth and GOD can reveal the truth to that person. That person can repent, which is to turn around and go in the opposite direction. Repentance is a gift from GOD.

Satan can use youthful energy to lure them away from the truth and explore their freedom of expression and thought. Youth may consider it mundane to agree with others around them. Often youth want to explore new ideas and concepts, which is good but also can result with them being misled. This is one danger when we explore new and un-chartered territory. We need to be on a firm spiritual foundation if we explore other territory or else there are traps that can ensnare us and lead to destruction.

Satan can cloud a person’s mind. It is GOD WHO will bring understanding and clear a mind to comprehend the truth and repent. Never forfeit the battle for a person’s eternal salvation based upon our human ability. GOD is sovereign and HIS hand reaches far enough to save the vilest sinners.

Our desire is to be useful to our LORD. However, let HIM lead us to the tasks HE chooses for us and let HIM be our guide though un-chartered territory. HE will give us the balance in our lives to manage the tasks. When HE leads us, HE leads us toward Godliness and a deeper relationship with HIM.

Take Hold of Contentment - 1Timothy 6:3-19 - October 15, 2006

Sunday School Lesson – Take Hold of Contentment – October 15, 2006

This is lesson three (3) in our series “Equipped for Real Life.”

As we journey through life, we encounter people with many different notions, philosophies, doctrines and ideas about spiritual matters. They can be very convincing, particularly if we are not on a firm spiritual foundation. Most of us recall Jim Jones and other charismatic leaders who have misled many people. They may have begun their ministry with good intentions but some where along the way they distorted the truth. They used the Bible, distorted the truth and before their followers knew it; they were in a bad situation.

In the story of the frog in the water, if the frog is placed in hot water he will jump out but if he is placed in cold water which is gradually heated he will be cooked. So when your spiritual antenna begin to alert you about a teaching, pay attention. Check out the doctrine or concern by praying and using the Bible as your authority.

Our lesson continues to focus on teachers teaching false doctrine.

Our background scripture is 1Timothy 6:3-19.

Our focus scripture is 1Timothy 6:3-12, 17-19.

Let’s read 1Timothy6:3-5:

Teach and encourage these things. 3 If anyone teaches other doctrine and does not agree with the sound teaching of our Lord Jesus Christ and with the teaching that promotes godliness, 4 he is conceited, understanding nothing, but having a sick interest in disputes and arguments over words. From these come envy, quarreling, slanders, evil suspicions, 5 and constant disagreement among men whose minds are depraved and deprived of the truth, who imagine that godliness[1] Referring to religion as a means of financial gain is a way to material gain.[2]

Paul tells Pastor Timothy that he or anyone else who teaches the doctrine of CHRIST must stick with the fundamentals of the gospel.

Those who teach a different doctrine are:

1. Conceited – This is not being stuck-up. This is a person whose mind is clouded with a mist. Or as we sometimes say, that person is in the fog. Their minds are in the fog because of pride and cannot see themselves as they are.

2. Understanding nothing – Because the person is empty of facts. They do not have a foundation to help them process spiritual or biblical information and come to right conclusions. Haven’t you seen or heard people that talk about a lot of things and you know they do not know what they are talking about? But to someone else ignorant of that subject may think the person is a genius.

3. Have a sick interest in disputes and arguments over words – These people love to engage in verbal disputes and arguments for the sake of arguing. I have known people that will argue a point to the very end. Then when you finally agree with them, you discover they do not really believe what they just convinced you of. They just like to argue and see if they can convince people of their point-of-view.

Paul tells Timothy if he does not take urgent action to correct this problem, it will create a world of problems in his church. Paul then listed those problems in verses 4b-5:

From these come envy, quarreling, slanders, evil suspicions, 5 and constant disagreement among men whose minds are depraved and deprived of the truth, who imagine that godliness[1] Referring to religion as a means of financial gain is a way to material gain.[2]

Notice verse 5 – How many times have we heard a preacher or pastor give a feel good message about GOD wanting all Christians to have money and things. This can be one of the most misleading and destructive doctrines a preacher or teacher can teach.

Often this message is coupled with faith. If you have enough faith, you can have whatever material things you want. This is why we must have a healthy relationship with our LORD. We must have faith in the LORD and HE is THE ONE WHO provides our needs.

We hear testimonies from people telling about how they gave their last dollar or last hundred dollars to the church and the next day the LORD provided them with some multiple of the amount they gave. Now stay with me. I am not putting down faith or being obedient to what GOD asks us to do. Just be careful not to get drawn into the emotion of the moment hoping that GOD will do a mighty work in your life that in turn, you can tell about. Then people will see how spiritual you are. Let GOD lead you in what you do.

The key is to make sure GOD is asking you to act in faith. Some times we hear stories of faith and we think that we need to have that kind of faith. Then the first opportunity we have to exercise our faith, we respond and we fall on our face. Then we either blame GOD or we struggle with, “What do we need to do to increase our faith?” The problem is we have tested GOD and not acted in faith. We think that acts of GOD, in our lives, show others how spiritual we are and therefore we seek the act rather than seeking HIM. We should seek the relationship and let HIM manifest Himself through us.

Why can I say this? Because, I have traveled this road. Paul tells us in the next scripture, what is important.

Let’s read 1Timothy 6:6-8:

Other mss add From such people withdraw yourself.

6 But godliness with contentment is a great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into the world, and[3] Other mss add it is clear that we can take nothing out. 8 But if we have food and clothing,[4] Or food and shelter we will be content with these.

If we really want to get gain, then we need to make Godliness our priority and that comes by focusing on our relationship with CHRIST. This is spending quality time with HIM, reading the Bible, praying and being obedient to what HE asks us to do. How do we build a relationship with our spouse? It is day to day living, loving, caring and interacting with each other.

Let’s read 1Timothy6:9-10:

9 But those who want to be rich fall into temptation, a trap, and many foolish and harmful desires, which plunge people into ruin and destruction. 10 For the love of money is a root[5] Or is the root of all kinds of evil, and by craving it, some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pains.

When we focus upon getting rich, we set ourselves up for numerous problems which can lead to our destruction.

Being rich is not a problem. What is the problem with money?

The problem is the “LOVE” of money. GOD wants first place in our lives. HE wants us to always look to HIM for our needs. HE wants to direct the use of our resources. HE wants nothing to come between us and HIM. HE is jealous.

Let’s read 1Timothy 6:11-12

Compete for the Faith
11 Now you, man of God, run from these things; but pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness. 12 Fight the good fight for the faith; take hold of eternal life, to which you were called and have made a good confession before many witnesses.

Paul sends a message to all of us. We as a Christian belong to GOD. We are men and women of GOD. But belonging to GOD does not exempt us from sin and being deceived.

Run from the things that will compromise our relationship with CHRIST. However, run to the things that are spiritually healthy. Pursue the things that will make our relationship with our LORD stronger and the things that prepare us for the battles that are sure to come. The enemy comes at us in many different forms and from many different directions. When our faith is challenged and we seek to know the truth, our faith is made stronger and results in a deeper relationship with our LORD.

Let’s read 1Timothy 6:17-19:

Instructions to the Rich
17 Instruct those who are rich in the present age not to be arrogant or to set their hope on the uncertainty of wealth, but on God,[7] Other mss read on the living God who richly provides us with all things to enjoy. 18 [Instruct them]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous, willing to share, 19 storing up for themselves a good foundation for the age to come, so that they may take hold of life that is real.

It is easy for those who are rich in material possessions to feel secure because of their possessions. They can have a certain air or arrogance. However, I have known many very wealthy people who are very Godly and use their wealth to serve the LORD.

Paul is encouraging Timothy to teach the rich in his congregation about the importance of being obedient to GOD and building up treasure in heaven. As the rich meet the needs of others and interact with the less fortunate in life, it will help them realize the value of life on earth and prepare them for life with GOD.

Take Hold of Godliness - 1 Timothy 3:14 - 1 Timothy 4

Sunday School Lesson – Take Hold of Godliness – October 8, 2006

This is lesson two (2) in our series of study.

The background scripture is 1 Timothy 3:14 – 1 Timothy 4:16.

The focus scripture is 1Timothy 4:6-16.

Christians are teaching false doctrine in the church where Timothy is pastor. The Apostle Paul tells him he has a serious problem that needs to be dealt with immediately. It seems that Pastor Timothy is timid and like most of us does not like confrontation. But Paul tells Timothy, “When you spot a problem in the church, do not ignore it and hope it will go away, but confront it.” First make sure you are on solid spiritual ground when dealing with an issue. Paul assured Timothy that he was equipped with the spiritual foundation to deal with the problem.

In the background scripture, Paul reviews the gospel of CHRIST, which is the foundation of the Christianity and in 1Timothy 4:1-5, reviews the false doctrine being taught.

Background 1 Timothy 3:14-16:
The Mystery of Godliness
14 I write these things to you, hoping to come to you soon. 15 But if I should be delayed, [I have written]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. so that you will know how people ought to act in God’s household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth. 16 And most certainly, the mystery of godliness is great: He[3] Other mss read God was manifested in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen by angels, preached among the Gentiles, believed on in the world, taken up in glory.

1Timothy 4:1-5:
Demonic Influence
1 Now the Spirit explicitly says that in the latter times some will depart from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and the teachings of demons, 2 through the hypocrisy of liars whose consciences are seared. 3 They forbid marriage and demand abstinence from foods that God created to be received with gratitude by those who believe and know the truth. 4 For everything created by God is good, and nothing should be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, 5 since it is sanctified by the word of God and by prayer.

Paul reveals the source of the false doctrine being taught, Satan.

We as humans like to do something to earn or work our way to heaven. The gospel of CHRIST is very simple. CHRIST in us makes us a Christian and not what we do physically or what church we attend or join.

When we ask CHRIST to forgive us of our sins, believe that HE died on the cross for our sins and ask HIM to come into our lives, we experience the miracle of rebirth. We are reborn spiritually into GOD’S family and we become children of GOD. Since we are born into GOD’S family, we will always be GOD’S child and nothing will ever change that fact. We may live to please GOD or we may live and not please GOD. It is our choice but the rewards HE gives out when we get to heaven will depend upon our obedience to HIM.

Let’s read 1 Corinthians 3:9-17:

9 For we are God’s co-workers. You are God’s field, God’s building. 10 According to God’s grace that was given to me, as a skilled master builder I have laid a foundation, and another builds on it. But each one must be careful how he builds on it, 11 because no one can lay any other foundation than what has been laid—that is, Jesus Christ. 12 If anyone builds on the foundation with gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay, or straw, 13 each one’s work will become obvious, for the day[4] The Day of Christ’s judgment of believers will disclose it, because it will be revealed by fire; the fire will test the quality of each one’s work. 14 If anyone’s work that he has built survives, he will receive a reward. 15 If anyone’s work is burned up, it will be lost, but he will be saved; yet it will be like an escape through fire.[5] Lit yet so as through fire 16 Don’t you know that you are God’s sanctuary and that the Spirit of God lives in you? 17 If anyone ruins God’s sanctuary, God will ruin him; for God’s sanctuary is holy, and that is what you are.

We are given the gift of grace and eternal life. JESUS takes all of our sin, past, present and future upon Himself and HE gives us HIS righteousness. The HOLY SPIRIT comes into our lives and dwells in us. We are GOD’S representatives to the world. Where ever we go GOD is present along with us, because HE is in us.

Let’s read 1Timothy 4:6-7a:

6 If you point these things out to the brothers, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, nourished by the words of the faith and of the good teaching that you have followed. 7 But have nothing to do with irreverent and silly myths.

Paul tells Pastor Timothy to point out the facts in the background verses, about the influence of evil and the power of the grace of GOD to those in his church. Put the all these facts into perspective and let the gospel nourish you.

Notice in verse 5 Paul says the authority is the Word of GOD. What we read in the Bible is confirmed through prayer. The HOLY SPIRIT reveals truth to us. We cannot get away from the authority of GOD and chase every wind of doctrine.

We need to identify the error in false doctrine but we do not need to dwell on it. Teach the truth of the gospel and it will expose the error in false doctrine.
Many of us, weak in our faith, want to study other religions. We need to study GOD’S Word and be enlightened by it, so that we will be properly trained to run the race of life.

Let’s read 1Timothy 4:7a – 10:

Rather, train yourself in godliness, 8 for, the training of the body has a limited benefit, but godliness is beneficial in every way, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. 9 This saying is trustworthy and deserves full acceptance. 10 In fact, we labor and strive[1] Other mss read and suffer reproach for this, because we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of everyone, especially of those who believe.

Paul often compared the Christian journey to an athlete either in training to participate in a competitive event or participating in the event such as running a race. He is saying it is important to have an intimate relationship with our LORD, through CHRIST. We should discipline ourselves to spend the time necessary to study the scriptures, meditate upon GOD’S Word, talk with HIM through prayer and then to be obedient to what GOD tells us.

In Paul’s day, as well as today, we know the importance of exercise. Being spiritually fit is no less important than being physically fit. In fact, Paul tells us being spiritually fit is of greater importance because one day our physically trained and well conditioned bodies will die but our born-again spirit will live on and will be with GOD for eternity.

1Timothy 4:11-16:

11 Command and teach these things. 12 No one should despise your youth; instead, you should be an example to the believers in speech, in conduct, in love,[2] Other mss add in spirit in faith, in purity. 13 Until I come, give your attention to public reading, exhortation, and teaching. 14 Do not neglect the gift that is in you; it was given to you through prophecy, with the laying on of hands by the council of elders. 15 Practice these things; be committed to them, so that your progress may be evident to all. 16 Be conscientious about yourself and your teaching; persevere in these things, for by doing this you will save both yourself and your hearers.

Paul instructs Timothy to be an example and to teach the truth of the gospel.

Paul tells Timothy not to be timid about being an example because of being considered young. Scholars believe that Timothy was between his twenties up to 40 years old. Reference to a youth generally referred to someone of military age.

There are several scripture references that lead us to think Timothy was timid. But Paul tells Timothy in essence that he knows the truth and he needs to be confident and live his life such that he will be an example to fellow Christians.

Timothy should stick to the scripture and the gospel and not try to explain these silly myths. He is to read the scriptures, then explain the scripture which has been read, and then teach how the scripture is to be applied in their lives.

Timothy has to be reminded of the gift he received when they laid hands upon him. There are times in many of our lives that we have to be reminded of special moments in our lives to keep us focused on our calling. We do not know what Timothy’s gift was but he needed to be reminded of that moment in his life.

Paul instructs Timothy to stick to the gospel of CHRIST. By doing so, he will stay focused on the truth of the gospel. He will be strengthened and in turn he will minister to the members of the church. Staying focused on the truth will save him and his members from being misled.

I know this happened to me during my college years. I went to a Bible study and there was a fellow student who asked some very good questions that our teacher could not answer. I focused on the fact that the teacher did not have an answer and the result, “I questioned the existence of GOD.”

Fortunately, I sought answers to some of these questions and over a period of years GOD revealed answers through HIS WORD and many of ways.

Many Christian people want to study other religions. We have to be careful because the study of other religions sometimes can be an indication that we are not firm in our Christian faith. If we are not firm in our Christian faith, then it is easy for us to be misled by other doctrines.

Trying to explain false doctrine takes our attention away from the truth and the result will be that we are not nourished by the truth. False doctrine must be exposed by presenting the truth and against the back drop of the truth false doctrine is exposed.

Godliness is a relationship with our LORD and SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST. CHRIST in us is the beginning of HIM, through the workings of the HOLY SPIRIT to make us more like our LORD.

We have to be willing for HIM to lead and direct our lives through our obedience to Him. The more we allow HIM to be manifested through our lives the more Godly we become. It is not us doing that makes us Godly but us allowing HIM to live and work through us. Our part is to focus upon HIM and get to know HIM more each day.