Bible Study - What Matters Most - The Reward of Endurance - 2 Timothy - February 24, 2013

Bible Study – What Matters Most – The Reward of Endurance – February 24, 2013


This is our final lesson in our series entitled “What Matters Most.”

Our scripture is 2 Timothy 2:1-13.

After the Apostle Paul was arrested the first time in Rome, he was released and during this time of freedom, he wrote 1Timothy and Titus. In 64 A.D. Nero decided to blame the Christians for setting the great fire of Rome. Speculation is that during this time, Paul was arrested for the second time when he returned to Rome. Paul sent word to Timothy that he wanted him to bring Mark with him along with scrolls and parchments. Paul was certain that he was going to be executed as we read the background scripture.

Let’s read 2 Timothy 4:6-15: (Background)

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 There is reserved for me in the future 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. Final Instructions 9 Make every effort to come to me soon, 10 for Demas has deserted me, because he loved this present world, and has gone to Thessalonica. Crescens has gone to Galatia, Titus to Dalmatia. 11 Only Luke is with me. Bring Mark with you, for he is useful to me in the ministry. 12 I have sent Tychicus to Ephesus. 13 When you come, bring the cloak I left in Troas with Carpus, as well as the scrolls, especially the parchments. 14 Alexander the coppersmith did great harm to me. The Lord will repay him according to his works. 15 Watch out for him yourself because he strongly opposed our words.

Let’s read 2 Timothy 2:1-2:

Be Strong in Grace

1 You, therefore, my son, 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.

These are the final words written by Paul to Timothy, his son in CHRIST, and to Christians everywhere. Paul has fought the good fight and he urged Timothy to be strong in the grace that is only provided through our relationship with CHRIST JESUS. Paul likely saw difficult times ahead for Christians.

The Greek word used for “strong” carries the idea of “keeping on being strong.” When tough times come into our lives and Christians face very difficult times in their lives, they must focus upon the grace and strength that GOD provides through CHRIST. Grace is unmerited favor. GOD’S grace cannot be earned, it is a free gift which GOD bestows upon all Christians to lift them out of the valley of despair. GOD’S grace and mercy carries Christians through the darkest times of their lives even when they may be kicking and screaming at GOD. Christians must keep in mind that GOD’S desire is for HIS children to worship HIM in Spirit and truth. Our true feelings may not be very pretty but that is okay. GOD wants us to let HIM know how we really feel, so that healing can take place with HIS help.

Paul urged Timothy to teach faithful brothers and sisters in CHRIST to train others in the fundamentals of the Christian walk. This principle is valuable for teaching today; each one, teach one. If Christians would apply this principle, every person in the world would be presented the gospel. Some may choose to reject it at that moment but they will know it and it will continue to work in their hearts to bring about salvation or final rejection. GOD’S Word is power and when combined with the Spirit of GOD, Who speaks to the heart of every person, is designed to produce either acceptance or rejection.

Paul knew that Timothy knew the truth and had the experience to instruct others. Timothy understood GOD’S Word and applied it as he obediently served GOD. This principle is just as vital today as it was then. Christianity is but one generation from extinction. Are you willing to share the Good News with others?

After I committed my life to CHRIST, the Christian Business Men’s Committee (CBMC) was formed in Spartanburg and they have a program for new Christians called “Operation Timothy.” We were searching for how to have an intimate relationship with CHRIST. Several of us had rededicated or recommitted our lives to CHRIST and used “Operation Timothy” to guide us as we sought truth and understanding. Several of us met each week and studied scripture, recited verses we had memorized, discussed various aspects of salvation, assurance of salvation and prayed. This was a special time in my Spiritual journey.

I believe this is an area where many churches fall short. When a new Christian accepts CHRIST as Savior or a Christian has rededicated his/her life to CHRIST and seeks a deeper walk with the LORD, most often does not receive the individualized instruction to help understand the fundamentals and application of the Christian faith. Some denominations have catechisms for new church members but often the missing link is those who teach only have head knowledge of the gospel and not heart knowledge.

Paul gives a clue in 2 Timothy 1:13-14 - 13 Hold on to the pattern of sound teaching that you have heard from me, in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. 14 Guard, through the Holy Spirit who lives in us, that good thing entrusted to you teaching.

Teachers need to have walked with the LORD and taught by the Holy Spirit. Teaching is not based upon the physical age of the teacher, but it is a calling. Teachers must keep in mind that they are more accountable to GOD because they are instructing based upon their knowledge of the truth. Teaching is not to be taken lightly. It is an awesome responsibility.

Let’s read 2 Timothy 2:3-10:

3 Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. 4 No one serving as a soldier gets entangled in the concerns of civilian life; he seeks to please the recruiter. 5 Also, if anyone competes as an athlete, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. 6 The hardworking farmer ought to be the first to get a share of the crops. 7 Consider what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything. 8 Keep your attention on Jesus Christ as risen from the dead and descended from David. This is according to my gospel. 9 I suffer for it to the point of being bound like a criminal, but God’s message is not bound. 10 This is why I endure all things for the elect: so that they also may obtain salvation, which is in Christ Jesus, with eternal glory.

Paul instructed Timothy and Christians today, to consider themselves as soldiers of CHRIST JESUS. As a soldier, you train and discipline yourself to be ready for whatever your commander tells you to do. The soldier is focused on obediently serving his/her commander and is not distracted from that goal. Paul referred to an athlete competing in a contest, he/she must be disciplined, trained and play by the rules. There are no short cuts to winning in this life and the race to eternity. He referred to the hardworking farmer who had to be disciplined to be diligent to take care of the crops in order to reap a harvest. The farmer was the first one to see the fruits of his/her labor.

Paul encouraged Timothy to stay focused on the fundamentals of the gospel, which is JESUS CHRIST as a descendant of King David as the scriptures prophesied. HE came in the flesh, lived upon earth without sin and was crucified on the cross. HIS shed blood paid in full the debt for sin, died. HE was buried and on the third day was raised from the dead by GOD, HIS Father. HE walked the earth after HIS resurrection where over 500 people witnessed HIS resurrection. HE ascended back into heaven to take HIS seat at the right hand of GOD and GOD sent the Holy Spirit to earth to indwell every person who accepts CHRIST as his/her Savior. Paul is at the end of his earthly journey and he had written all the letters that we read today. In his writings, we read the gospel as he presented it and lived it. All was embodied in his message to Timothy and to all Christians today.

Paul wanted Timothy and all Christians to know that just because he was bound (in prison) for preaching the gospel of CHRIST, the gospel would not be bound. Often, people look at the hardships of those who have been faithful, obedient followers of CHRIST and wonder why GOD allowed them to suffer. CHRIST has made it clear that those who love HIM will suffer. That is why all followers of CHRIST must think of themselves as soldiers in the army of CHRIST. CHRIST will never leave us or forsake us but HE stands alongside us in the fiercest of battles.

Paul knew that the gospel was for the salvation of all who GOD knew before HE created the world as captured by Paul in Ephesians 1:4 - For He chose us in Him, before the foundation of the world, to be holy and blameless in His sight. In love 5 He predestined us to be adopted through Jesus.

HIS foreknowledge did not override our freewill to choose. HIS foreknowledge allowed HIM to know how we would choose and then protect us from Satan preventing it from happening. These are the elect that Paul referred to. All people are considered GOD’S elect until they reject CHRIST. Salvation through CHRIST is open and available to all who will receive HIM as their Savior. Unfortunately, all people will not accept CHRIST as their Savior. But the calling of every Christian is to present the gospel when GOD gives the opportunity. GOD brings about the results.

Let’s read 2 Timothy 2:11-13:

11 This saying is trustworthy: For if we have died with Him, we will also live with Him; 12 if we endure, we will also reign with Him; if we deny Him, He will also deny us; 13 if we are faithless, He remains faithful, for He cannot deny Himself.

Paul gave his last trustworthy saying. When Christians accept CHRIST as their Savior, in essence, they died when CHRIST died and were resurrected when CHRIST was resurrected. Christians no longer live for themselves but live for CHRIST. They have died to self.

Paul went back to his analogy of Christians running in the race of life. He emphasized the importance of finishing the race by enduring the pain that comes from those last few steps before the runner crosses the finish line. CHRIST is faithful even when we do not think HE is still running with us. CHRIST is truth and can be embraced as genuine. The assurance and confirmation that CHRIST is genuine is the indwelling Holy Spirit. Paul wrote about this in 2 Corinthians 1:21-22:

21 Now it is God who strengthens us, with you, in Christ and has anointedz us.

22 He has also sealed us and given us the Spirit as a down paymenta in our hearts.b

CHRIST is the Savior of all who will place their faith in HIM. Paul was stating that was a fact and CHRIST cannot and will not deny that fact. Humans can argue whether or not CHRIST is truth but truth is truth and will be confirmed. Truth can always be counted upon. So Timothy and all Christians who tell others about CHRIST can do so with full confidence that CHRIST is truth and the Savior of all who place their faith in HIM. All who receive HIM, receive the indwelling Holy Spirit to confirm truth.

Have you placed your faith in CHRIST? If not, now is the time. Ask HIM to forgive you for your sins and to come into your life and help you to become an obedient follower of CHRIST. The indwelling Holy Spirit is your guarantee and down payment that your faith in CHRIST is genuine. It is not based upon feeling but is based upon fact. GOD said it; I believe it and that settles it. This is GOD’S plan for salvation. It was not created by man but by GOD. It is so simple that it is hard. It is free. It is up to you. If you asked CHRIST into your heart, then I rejoice with you and welcome into the family of GOD. Blessings!!!

Bible Study - What Matters Most - The Practice of Godliness - 1 Timothy 4 and Titus - February 17, 2013

Bible Study – What Matters Most – The Practice of Godliness – February 17, 2013


This is lesson three (3) in our series entitled “What Matters Most.”

Our scripture is 1Timothy 4:7-10 and Titus 3:1-9.

The practice of Godliness can raise a caution flag. Godliness must be a way of life. The term “practicing” bothers me because people can play the game of being a Christian. The Christian jargon can be repeated and we can act Christian but we have not given our hearts and lives to JESUS. Being a Christian is all about the heart and truth. Let’s explore.

Let’s read 1Timothy 4:7-10:

7 But have nothing to do with irreverent and silly myths. 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 for this, because we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of everyone, especially of those who believe.

Paul cautions Timothy not to entertain irreverent and silly myths. Often, we joke around with irreverent and silly things. We know they are false and silly but there are several dangers when we do. One is that what we say as a Christian and do is a witness to others. We may know something is false but others may not. Others may know that we are Christians and because we appear to embrace something irreverent or silly it misleads them. The other danger is that by dabbling in irreverent or silly myths, gives Satan and his demons an opportunity to oppress and mislead you as a Christian. Christians cannot be possessed by Satan but they can be oppressed.

Paul stated what Christians were to do. They are to train in Godliness. The word “train” in Greek is where the word gymnasium is derived. How do you train in Godliness? First, we must make a decision that this is something we want to do, just as we decide to work out and become more physically fit. Then we agree to make the time necessary to do the training that is necessary to achieve our desired goal. Our goal is Godliness. The Greek word “train” carries the idea “to keep on training.” It is a commitment to train until we meet JESUS in heaven. Training in Godliness is a lifetime commitment. We exercise by studying the scriptures, praying and building an intimate, honest relationship with CHRIST and yielding our lives to HIM and allowing the Holy Spirit to be our coach. We put what we learn into action as the Holy Spirit leads us. It is easy for humans to become self-righteous when they focus on their ability to become more God-like. That is why we must allow the Holy Spirit to lead us. GOD’S goal for all of HIS children is for them to be made into the image of HIS only Son, JESUS.

At the instant we receive CHRIST as our Savior, our sins are placed upon JESUS and we are cleansed to perfection by HIS shed blood and made righteous. So aren’t we Godly? Salvation is the beginning of our journey of faith. Salvation is the beginning process of sanctification or to Sainthood. We are still housed in our earth suits/bodies of flesh that connect us to this world. Since we know the truth, we are to build relationships with others and share this truth as we interact with fellow humans.

How is this helpful even for eternity? GOD honors faithfulness and obedience. What better and more exciting words could we hear when we meet JESUS and GOD in heaven and hear than “Well done good and faithful servant!”

Placing your trust in GOD builds Spiritual security as HE reveals HIS power and handiwork as you walk with HIM.

Now this is something for you to ponder. This is what ran through my mind when I was pondering the value of Godliness in relation to eternity. The scriptural basis is 2 Corinthians 5:1-9:

Our Future after Death (My inserts)

1 For we know that if our temporary, earthly dwelling (body) is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal dwelling (body) in the heavens, not made with hands. 2 Indeed, we groan in this body, desiring to put on our dwelling (body) from heaven, 3 since, when we are clothed, we will not be found naked. 4 Indeed, we groan while we are in this tent, burdened as we are, because we do not want to be unclothed but clothed, so that mortality may be swallowed up by life. 5 And the One who prepared us for this very purpose is God, who gave us the Spirit as a down payment. 6 So, we are always confident and know that while we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord. 7 For we •walk by faith, not by sight, 8 and we are confident and satisfied to be out of the body and at home with the Lord. 9 Therefore, whether we are at home or away, we make it our aim to be pleasing to Him. 10 For we must all appear before the tribunal of Christ, so that each may be repaid for what he has done in the body, whether good or worthless.

The thought that ran through my mind was, as we train for Godliness, GOD is completing the building (Spiritual clothing) for us when we arrive in heaven. Only HE knows what we are capable of becoming if we yield our lives completely to HIM and fully follow the leading and direction of the Holy Spirit. A Christian’s salvation is secure. This is only the perfecting of our Spiritual dwelling which will glorify our LORD. GOD is fashioning this dwelling for every Christian and it will fit perfectly because of the designer. Remember when Adam and Eve sinned and GOD made them clothes to wear because they were naked? Genesis 3:21 - The Lord God made clothing out of skins for Adam and his wife, and He clothed them. GOD is fashioning a Spiritual body for Christians that will be custom made by GOD. Who is your tailor the world or GOD? How about that!!!

Verse 10 can raise some questions. Was Paul saying that everyone would be Saved? I think, he was saying that GOD does not withhold salvation from anyone. GOD’S desire is for all people to receive salvation. But salvation comes by faith in JESUS CHRIST. Those who have received salvation through CHRIST are secure because they have been born-again into GOD’S family.

Our next scripture is taken from Titus. Titus was a pastor on the island of Crete. Paul and Titus had traveled to Crete after Paul was released from prison in Rome the first time. Paul left Titus in Crete. Paul wrote his letter to Titus asking him to continue in ministry. Paul encouraged him and reminded him of his responsibility as a pastor.

Let’s read Titus 3:1-8a:

Christian Living among Outsiders

1 Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work, 2 to slander no one, to avoid fighting, and to be kind, always showing gentleness to all people. 3 For we too were once foolish, disobedient, deceived, enslaved by various passions and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, detesting one another. 4 But when the kindness of God our Savior and His love for mankind appeared, 5 He saved us— not by works of righteousness that we had done, but according to His mercy, through the washing of regeneration and renewal by the Holy Spirit. 6 He poured out this Spirit on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior, 7 so that having been •justified by His grace, we may become heirs with the hope of eternal life. 8 This saying is trustworthy.

Paul urged Titus and the Christians in Crete to be law-abiding citizens. Fighting the government is a diversion from focusing on ministry and presenting the Gospel. Being in harmony with the government gives Christians the opportunity to spread the Good News. This is not harmony at any price.

Paul stated that Christians must consider their lifestyle:

- Slander no one by treating them with contempt or using abusive language.

- Avoid fighting. They were to be harmonious.

- Be kind.

- Show gentleness to all people.

Christians who manifest these attributes reveal that they are filled with and controlled by the indwelling Holy Spirit. Galatians 5:22-23 – “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, self-control. Against such things there is no law.”

Christians are not to ram the Gospel down people’s throats or to treat those who reject the Gospel with contempt. Paul urged Christians to recall their own attitude toward the Gospel before they became a Christian. Christians know the truth now but before receiving CHRIST as their Savior, they thought Christianity was foolish. Paul gives a list of seven (7) specific attributes about our life before we became Christians. Paul included himself in this list in verse 3 when he stated:

- “For we too were once foolish”

- Disobedient

- Deceived

- Enslaved by various passions and pleasures

- Living in malice and envy

- Hateful

- Detesting one another

When we saw the truth of the Gospel of CHRIST and asked CHRIST to forgive us for our sins and to come into our lives, HE saved us. Our salvation did not come by works of righteousness that we had done but according to HIS mercy. Mercy and grace go together. Grace is GOD’S unmerited favor and so is mercy. HE gave us the gift of the Holy Spirit Who enlightens us to Spiritual matters, reveals truth, teaches us truth and empowers us to apply truth.

Salvation leads a born-again Christian to desire the works of obedience as led and guided by the Holy Spirit. The born-again Christian has the confirming presence of the Holy Spirit in his/her life and the assurance of eternal life.

Look at verse 6 – GOD has poured out the Holy Spirit on us “abundantly” through JESUS CHRIST our Savior!!! Christians have been set free from the shackles and bondage of sin and death and been justified by GOD’S grace!!! Paul wanted Titus to focus on these things, which is the Good News of the Gospel, because what he had stated could be trusted and counted upon. It is fact and not based upon myths or fiction.

Have you asked JESUS to forgive you for your sins and to come into your life? If not, now is the time. Eternity is but one heartbeat away.

Let’s read Titus 3:8b-9:

I want you to insist on these things, so that those who have believed God might be careful to devote themselves to good works. These are good and profitable for everyone. 9 But avoid foolish debates, genealogies, quarrels, and disputes about the law, for they are unprofitable and worthless. 10 Reject a divisive person after a first and second warning, 11 knowing that such a person is perverted and sins, being self-condemned.

Paul urged Titus to concentrate on urging Christians to put their faith in CHRIST into action. Christians are not members of the secret service; they are the light of the world and the salt of the earth. Paul knew that obedient service, as led by the Holy Spirit, would mean that they would be receiving heavenly rewards.

Paul urged Titus to stay away from foolish debates because they are unproductive. He wanted Titus to stay focused upon presenting the Gospel of CHRIST, which is salvation that results in works of obedience and to avoid foolish debates, genealogies, quarrels and disputes about the law. Paul wanted Titus not to get tangled up in trying to get Jewish Christians to understand the Mosaic Law and its relationship to Christianity.

JESUS came to earth not to do away with the law but to fulfill the law and to nail it to the cross. Salvation is not in the law but through faith in JESUS CHRIST and HIS righteousness. CHRIST gave HIS life to pay in full the penalty for sin. HIS shed blood atoned for the sins of those who will accept HIM by faith. When we receive salvation, we are justified before GOD. What does that mean? Just-as-if-I-had-never-sinned!!! How can that be? Second Corinthians 5:21:

21 He (GOD) made the One (JESUS) who did not know sin to be sin for us, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

Christians have been justified and made righteous before GOD because of CHRIST. As Paul urged Timothy and all Christians, “Train yourself in Godliness.” Salvation is just the beginning of an awesome journey with GOD. Our part is to yield our will to HIM and allow the Holy Spirit to lead and direct our lives. Oh, our train may jump the track but GOD will help us get back on the track as we obediently serve HIM. Do not despair, JESUS came that you might have life more abundantly! Blessings!

Bible Study - What Matters Most - The Character of Leadership - 1 Timothy 3 - February 10, 2013

Bible Study – What Matters Most – The Character of Leadership – February 10, 2013


This is lesson two (2) in our series entitled “What Matters most.”

Our scripture is 1Timothy 3:1-15.

The character of the leadership is vital to any organization, including the family and the church. In the Spiritual community, Satan loves nothing better than to have a church split over various matters or leaders in the church to become involved in some scandal or infidelity. Satan targets the home to break up the unity of the home, which often ends up in divorce. The children are the ones who get hurt the most in divorce.

Being a leader in a church is a calling from GOD. Being a member of the family of GOD and living as led by the Holy Spirit is just as important. Christians are GOD’S representatives. They are the light of the world and the salt of the earth. They should live such that others would want what they have Spiritually, which is manifested physically.

In chapter two, the Apostle Paul focused on guidelines for public worship. In Chapter three, he focused upon the qualifications of the church leadership. Our study today focuses on Chapter 3.

Let’s read 1Timothy 3:1-7:

Qualifications of Church Leaders

1 This saying is trustworthy: “If anyone aspires to be an •overseer, he desires a noble work.” 2 An overseer, therefore, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, self-controlled, sensible, respectable, hospitable, an able teacher, 3 not addicted to wine, not a bully but gentle, not quarrelsome, not greedy— 4 one who manages his own household competently, having his children under control with all dignity. 5 (If anyone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he take care of God’s church?) 6 He must not be a new convert, or he might become conceited and fall into the condemnation of the Devil. 7 Furthermore, he must have a good reputation among outsiders, so that he does not fall into disgrace and the Devil’s trap.

Let’s consider some of the words Paul used to describe the qualifications for church leaders. Paul wrote that what he was about to write was trustworthy, which means you can count on it because GOD is the author.

First, leaders must be Christians who are called by GOD. GOD prepares those HE calls with the desire to “aspire” to the position of leadership. Aspire means or sets one heart on being an overseer. It is noble for a Christian to have this desire.

An overseer can be a pastor or elder but generally understood as pastor. The pastor is the very heart or backbone of the church. The pastor is accountable to GOD and the Spiritual leader of the true living church which is generally housed in a physical building. The living church must be in unity and function as one body as expressed through the many gifts of the Holy Spirit. Unity begins with the pastor being in unity and filled with the Holy Spirit. Unity flows from GOD to each leader and member of the living church because they are all in unity with CHRIST through the indwelling Holy Spirit. This same unity encompasses all who are in the living church even though they may call themselves Baptist, Catholic, Lutheran, Pentecostal, Community and the list goes on. It is all about the heart that has been made pure by the redeeming blood of CHRIST through faith in HIM.

Here are the ten (10) qualifications Paul states for pastors:

- First and foremost is that pastors must be above reproach. They must be spotless. What was Paul saying? Paul certainly had a past that would have prevented him from being spotless because he killed Christians. Many Christians have questionable past lives before they became Christians. Once a person becomes a Christian has he/she lived for CHRIST as empowered by the Holy Spirit? Christians sin but have they confessed their sin to GOD and received HIS cleansing power? Paul states fifteen (15) qualities to evaluate pastors.

- Husband of one wife – Paul raised a number of questions with this statement. Some think he was talking about a pastor not being a polygamist. Some think that he was talking about a pastor never being divorced. Some believe it was a man committed to the woman he married sexually, that is a one woman man. In Paul’s day, there were plenty of opportunities for men to have sex with other women. There were temple prostitutes in the pagan temples. Many churches hold to the requirement that the pastor must not be divorced.

- Self-control – Means sober-minded, clear headed and free of rash actions.

- Sensible – When a person has self-control they are in a position to carefully consider thoughtful action and judgment in crisis, tense moments or to normal matters requiring common sense and wisdom. A sensible person is sought for consultation.

- Respectable – The qualities already mentioned reveal the character of a person, which in turn leads to respect. Respectable means that a person is trustworthy and has a disciplined lifestyle. This is a person who is genuine and not a phony. This is a person filled and controlled by the indwelling Holy Spirit.

- Hospitable – This was a needed quality in Paul’s day because there were no Holiday Inn’s or Marriott’s on every corner. The pastor needed to open his house to others as led by the Holy Spirit. Opening your home can be a witness but in this day and time one has to be careful.

- An able teacher – This is especially true for a pastor. The pastor must know the scripture both from an intellectual point and an application point. Experience is the best teacher resulting from building an intimate, loving relationship with CHRIST through obedient service.

- Not addicted to wine – The pastor must not be drunk with wine but drunk or filled with and controlled by the indwelling Holy Spirit. This is true of all Christians. When Christians allow something else to control their minds and lives other than the Holy Spirit, it leads to Spiritual compromise. This includes anything that controls the person other than the Holy Spirit – alcohol, drugs, sex, gambling, pornography and the list goes on. When something else controls our ability to make good decisions, we often find ourselves in hot water. GOD’S desire is for every Christian to only be controlled by the Holy Spirit.

- Not a bully – A bully does not try to reason a matter; He/she demands his/her way period by harsh words or brute force. This leads to disharmony and disunity.

- Not quarrelsome – Some like to argue just to hear themselves argue and seem intelligent. Again, people often avoid such people and it does not build harmony and unity. This does not mean that you should not stand firm on truth.

- Gentle – A pastor must be gentle. In place of the negative things Paul has stated, a pastor must be gentle and open to others, willing to listen and offer sound guidance as he/she is led by the Holy Spirit and not led by their own agenda.

- Not greedy – Greed is a negative quality for a pastor. Greed is self-serving and often leads to disharmony and disunity. Agape love is self-giving love that demands nothing in return. CHRIST gave HIS life for all who would place their faith in HIM with no guarantee that anyone would.

- Manages his household competently.

- Keeps his children under control with all dignity – To manage with “dignity” embraces love, truth and reasonable discipline. It is tough being a parent, especially church leaders. This is delicate. The children of church leaders are often expected to fit a certain mold. Often, they do not want to fit that mold but are forced to for the sake of appearance. The children of church leaders must become Christians, grow and mature like any other Christians. It takes time and nurturing. Just as they must grow and mature physically over time, they also must grow and mature Spiritually naturally by the indwelling Holy Spirit. Yet, we try to force our children into being Spiritually mature, when they are not. Children must be taught by example, by sharing GOD’S Word with them and living according to what you are teaching them. It is tough being a church leader and walking the talk at home. This does not mean a parent cannot discipline but do so with wisdom that only the Holy Spirit can provide.

- Not be a new convert – A pastor must be seasoned and had time to grow and mature Spiritually. Everyday living presents circumstances which Christians have to deal with, which helps them to grow and mature Spiritually or reveal areas that need to brought under the authority of the Holy Spirit.

- Must have a good reputation among outsiders – so that he does not fall into disgrace and the Devil’s trap. It is important that the pastor has a good reputation because Satan is eager to compromise the pastor’s reputation and kill the ministry GOD has called him/her too.

These are fifteen (15) qualifications that stagger the mind when you consider measuring up to some of them in your strength. These qualifications can only be achieved by the power and strength of the indwelling Holy Spirit through the process of sanctification.

Let’s read 1Timothy 3:8-13:

8 Deacons, likewise, should be worthy of respect, not hypocritical, not drinking a lot of wine, not greedy for money, 9 holding the •mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. 10 And they must also be tested first; if they prove blameless, then they can serve as deacons. 11 Wives, too, must be worthy of respect, not slanderers, self-controlled, faithful in everything. 12 Deacons must be husbands of one wife, managing their children and their own households competently. 13 For those who have served well as deacons acquire a good standing for themselves, and great boldness in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.

Paul listed the qualifications for deacons. Deacon means “servant” and is very visible to fellow Christians and the community. Deacons represent the church and as such must have the same qualities as the pastor. These qualities include the Spiritual fundamentals, as well as, the physical qualifications. Paul considered both positions as leadership positions.

Paul used the word “likewise”, which means the deacon must have the same qualifications as the pastor. There were several modifications such as the deacon should not drink a lot of wine, no un-confessed sin and tested before they can serve as a deacon. The deacons wives must be worthy of respect, not slanderers, self-controlled, and faithful, in their lives. Some speculate that the reference to wives included female deacons.

The bar is set high for the deacon and rightfully so. They are not only to address the physical needs of the church but also the Spiritual needs of the church. The deacon must walk the talk and be accountable to the Spirit filled and led pastor.

In some churches, the office of deacon is a popularity contest. We like for the wealthy to be elected deacon so they will give generously to the church. Often, the wealthy person is elected to be the chairman. There are many wealthy people who are Godly servants, walk the talk and are good choices. They are wealthy both physically and Spiritually. It is when we overlook the lifestyles of those who do not measure up, according to Biblical standards that present concerns. It is those who compromise their walk with CHRIST and refuse to change. This leads us back to verse 8.

Deacons are to be “worthy of respect” because they have the right heart before GOD. Some of the attributes others can use to evaluate the worthiness of deacons are – Not hypocritical, their word can be trusted – Do not drink wine to excess, they are in control and remain clear headed to make sound judgments – Not greedy for money, their focus is on obediently serving the LORD and not serving material things. When deacons have their lives under control and guided by the indwelling Holy Spirit, others see CHRIST in them which makes them worthy of respect. A Christian’s reflection of CHRIST reflects his/her worthiness. The indwelling Holy Spirit reveals to them the mystery of the faith through the process of sanctification.

Deacons are to know the mystery of the faith, which means they need to have heart knowledge through relationship with CHRIST and not just head knowledge.

Let’s read 1Timothy 3:14-15:

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 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 was manifested in the flesh, vindicated in the Spirit, seen by angels, preached among the nations, believed on in the world, taken up in glory.

Paul made it clear that what he had written was sufficient for Timothy to select those to serve in leadership positions in the church. Paul also included Christians in these qualifications as members of GOD’S household. GOD’S household was the living church. The living church is those who had been born-again by accepting CHRIST as their Savior. In the living body there must be unity and harmony, which can only occur naturally through the connectivity of the living body by indwelling Holy Spirit.

There is only one gospel and that is JESUS CHRIST born of a virgin, crucified, buried and resurrected from the dead on the third day. HE appeared to over 500 people after HIS resurrection; HE ascended into heaven and sat down at the right hand of GOD. GOD placed all authority and judgment into HIS hands.

GOD revealed HIS love for mankind by allowing HIS only Son to come to earth and live as 100% human. JESUS willingly left HIS Glory in heaven to come to earth to live as 100% human, yet 100% divine. These are the fundamentals, pillar and foundation of truth. Timothy needed to keep them in mind as he ministered to the church leadership regarding false doctrine, false teachings and members of the church. Members of the living church must know the truth and be a self-governing body able to spot false teaching and doctrine. Christians are to know the truth, which comes only through faith in CHRIST and the indwelling Holy Spirit.

It is not clear whether or not Paul returned to Ephesus as he hoped he would in verse 14. We know when he wrote second Timothy he was in prison in Rome.

The title of this lesson is “What Matters Most.” What matters most is truth. People search for truth. When we search for Spiritual truth, we look for it intellectually. But Spiritual truth is revealed by faith in CHRIST. I know, I searched for truth for many years but it was only when I gave up and said, “LORD, here I am, as I am, take me like I am and help me to be all YOU want me to be” that truth was revealed. That was in 1971. It has been an awesome journey with many mountain tops and many valleys. Yield your life and will to JESUS right now and ask HIM to save you, lead you and guide you according to HIS plan for your life. Blessings!!!

Bible Study - What Matters Most - The Truth of the Gospel - 1 Timothy 1:1-20 - February 3, 2013

Bible Study – What Matters Most – The Truth of the Gospel – February 3, 2013

This is lesson one (1) in our series entitled “What Matters Most.”

Our scripture for this lesson is 1Timothy 1:1-20.

First and second Timothy were pastoral letters or Pastoral Epistles written by the Apostle Paul to Timothy. These letters were written to deal with matters affecting pastors and congregations.

Timothy was the son of a Gentile father. His mother, Eunice, was a Jewish-Christian. It is believed that Paul led Timothy to CHRIST and considered him his son in CHRIST. Much of the relationship and missionary activity between Paul and Timothy is recorded in the Book of Acts. Timothy went on Paul’s second missionary journey. He was with Paul during Paul’s first imprisonment in Rome. After Paul was released from prison, he went with Paul to Ephesus. Ephesus is located in the country we know today as Turkey.

While they were in Ephesus they discovered that the church was being influenced by false teachers. Paul received a vision from GOD to travel to Macedonia and left Timothy in Ephesus to deal with these false teachers. Paul wrote this first letter to Timothy from Macedonia to encourage Timothy as he dealt with these false teachers in an attempt to get them to focus on the true gospel.

Let’s explore as Paul reminded Timothy of some foundational matters he needed to recall. Timothy was discouraged and needed his mentor, Paul but it was time that Timothy relied upon GOD to help him get through these troubling times.

This is true today. As pastors or teachers, it can be discouraging when truth is presented and others either twist it or reject it. Yet, their position may be hard to refute but you know they are wrong. When we have allowed false teaching to enter into our lives, we have to come back to the basic fundamentals of our faith in the LORD JESUS. Paul was encouraging Timothy to stick to the fundamentals of the Gospel.

Let’s read 1Timothy 1:1-2:

Greeting

1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the command of God our Savior and of Christ Jesus our hope: 2 To Timothy, my true son in the faith. Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.

This is Paul’s introduction to his letter to Timothy. It was a letter commissioned by GOD, Who is our Savior and CHRIST, Who is our hope. Paul referred to Timothy as his true son in the faith. He gave him a blessing by stating the foundation of truth – Grace, mercy and peace that can only come from GOD, the Father and CHRIST our Lord. Grace is GOD’S unmerited favor that cannot be earned. It is a free gift that can only come through faith in CHRIST. Grace is the result of GOD’S mercy when we accept CHRIST as our Savior. Mercy replaces GOD’S wrath toward sin. When the consequence of sin, which is death, has been removed from a person’s life by his/her faith in CHRIST through HIS shed blood, the peace of reconciliation is the result. 

Timothy was facing false doctrine and the misuse of the law.

Let’s read 1Timothy 1:3-7:

False Doctrine and Misuse of the Law 

3 As I urged you when I went to Macedonia, remain in Ephesus so that you may instruct certain people not to teach different doctrine 4 or to pay attention to myths and endless genealogies. These promote empty speculations rather than God’s plan, which operates by faith.

The Apostle Paul’s letter to Timothy was written from Macedonia. There were a number of churches in Macedonia – Philippi, Thessalonica and Brea. Paul wrote to Timothy to encourage him to stand firm because he knew the truth of the gospel of CHRIST. The Christians in Ephesus needed to hear the truth and the false teachers needed instruction in truth.

Paul knew it would not be easy for Timothy but it was critical both for Timothy and fellow Christians. Paul charged Timothy with the responsibility to instruct those who were teaching, not to teach a different doctrine or focus on myths or endless genealogies. These so called teachers did not know what they were talking about as it related to the true gospel of CHRIST. Timothy may have felt intimidated and wanted leave Ephesus and come to Macedonia.   

Paul encouraged Timothy not to waiver because they both knew certain people who were caught up in this different doctrine and were chasing myths (fables) and endless genealogies. Chasing such nonsensical subjects was misleading, false, confusing and was a diversion to prevent the true gospel from being taught. The true gospel would lead a person to salvation and Spiritual growth, whereas these false teachings were empty and void of Spiritual value leading to salvation. The only way to deal with these false teachings was to teach the truth of the gospel of CHRIST and trust the Holy Spirit to reveal truth.

This introduction revealed Paul’s complete confidence in Timothy. Timothy was solid in his faith in CHRIST and he needed to stay the course. Doing so would serve those who were misled and would make him even stronger in the faith.

Verse 5 focuses on what was important. Timothy had faced many tough situations with Paul. Paul was reminding him of the Christian fundamentals he needed to recall and focus upon both for himself, in his teaching and instruction of these false teachers.

 5 Now the goal of our instruction is love that comes from a pure heart, a good conscience, and a sincere faith. 6 Some have deviated from these and turned aside to fruitless discussion. 7 They want to be teachers of the law, although they don’t understand what they are saying or what they are insisting on.

Paul, in essence, was telling Timothy, “Those certain people (Paul mentioned in verse 3), we both know who want to be teachers are not qualified. They do not understand how the scriptures reveal CHRIST. They just babble to hear themselves talk and sound intelligent. But Timothy, you and I know the truth and we know the purpose and intent of the law versus faith. Our goal is to focus on love, which comes from a changed heart that has been made pure by the shed blood of CHRIST. Love emanates from the core of our being as the result of the working of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit works internally on the hidden things within to produce a good conscience and a sincere faith. True faith results in action. When truth is taught, it brings about the right result which is true self-giving love that only comes from GOD working within. So Timothy, keep a careful eye on your attitude as you instruct these false teachers. Some of our brothers and sisters in CHRIST have deviated from these fundamentals to embrace fruitless discussion.”

8 But we know that the law is good, provided one uses it legitimately. 9 We know that the law is not meant for a righteous person, but for the lawless and rebellious, for the ungodly and sinful, for the unholy and irreverent, for those who kill their fathers and mothers, for murderers, 10 for the sexually immoral and homosexuals, for kidnappers, liars, perjurers, and for whatever else is contrary to the sound teaching 11 based on the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which was entrusted to me.

Paul made it clear that the law was good and had its place. Those who taught the law must put it into proper perspective and how it is not a substitute for faith in CHRIST. No one can obey the law to the extent he/she can achieve righteousness. Righteousness can only come through CHRIST and HIS shed, cleansing, redeeming blood. Those who had received CHRIST as their Savior were no longer under the law but under grace and mercy. So the law was not meant for the righteous. Those who have received CHRIST as their Savior have been washed clean of all sin and have been made righteous because of CHRIST’S shed blood. Remember 2 Corinthians 5:21:

21 He (GOD) made the One (JESUS) who did not know sin to be sin for us, so that we (Those who have faith in HIM) might become the righteousness of God in Him.

Let’s read 1Timothy 1:12-17:

Paul’s Testimony

12 I give thanks to Christ Jesus our Lord who has strengthened me, because He considered me faithful, appointing me to the ministry— 13 one who was formerly a blasphemer, a persecutor, and an arrogant man. But I received mercy because I acted out of ignorance in unbelief. 14 And the grace of our Lord overflowed, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. 15 This saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance: “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners”—and I am the worst of them. 16 But I received mercy for this reason, so that in me, the worst of them, Christ Jesus might demonstrate His extraordinary patience as an example to those who would believe in Him for eternal life. 17 Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. •Amen.

A personal testimony of faith in CHRIST is the most powerful evidence of GOD’S power and presence in a person’s life. The Apostle Paul reminded Timothy of his, Paul’s, past life before CHRIST. In his life, before CHRIST, he was a blasphemer, a persecutor, and an arrogant man. Paul was a Pharisee and prided himself in doing the will of GOD by neutralizing and destroying the followers of JESUS. On the road to Damascus, Paul encountered JESUS and his life was changed from a hater and persecutor of the followers of JESUS to a follower of JESUS. Only GOD, through CHRIST, can make such a change in a person’s life. Timothy knew very well Paul’s life since he received CHRIST as his Savior. Truth is revealed through our lives as we obediently serve CHRIST.

As we see in verses 13b-15, Paul was persecuting Christians out of ignorance of unbelief. When he encountered CHRIST his Spiritual eyes were opened to truth. He understood Who he had encountered and accepted HIM by faith and his life was changed in an instant. Did he understand all that being a Christian embraced? No! But he stated that “the grace of our Lord overflowed, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.” That precious moment of decision is overwhelming to many. Not everyone has that experience but they are just as born-again as those who have such an experience.

Paul stated in verse 15, “15 This saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance: “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners””. What Paul was stating was “trustworthy.” Trustworthy means you can count on it and fully embrace CHRIST as your Savior because of the internal witness of the Holy Spirit that confirms the overflowing presence of CHRIST in your life.  

In essence, he was telling Timothy not to get tangled up in trying to debunk the nonsense that these certain people were promoting because it wasted time and led to nothing of eternal importance. The most important matter was for him to stay focused upon salvation through CHRIST and to do it in love. Salvation is real and eternal. Salvation is confirmed within each Christian by the indwelling Holy Spirit. Just as CHRIST had patiently nurtured Paul, HE will nurture all who truly accept HIM as their Savior and reveal truth.

Paul considered himself the worst of all sinners and if CHRIST saved him, HE can save anyone who comes to HIM seeking salvation. This included those who were teaching false doctrine.

Paul ended by acknowledging CHRIST as the true King over all things – in heaven, earth and the universe. CHRIST is eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God worthy of honor and glory forever and ever. He told Timothy this was the truth that he needed to focus upon, depend upon and to teach.

Let’s read 1Timothy 18-20:

Engage in Battle

18 Timothy, my son, I am giving you this instruction in keeping with the prophecies previously made about you, so that by them you may strongly engage in battle, 19 having faith and a good conscience. Some have rejected these and have suffered the shipwreck of their faith. 20 Hymenaeus and Alexander are among them, and I have delivered them to Satan, so that they may be taught not to blaspheme.

Paul referred to Timothy as his son. They had a unique relationship. They had journey together. They knew each other. This is the relationship that CHRIST desires to have with each Christian. It is through the good times and the battles of life where we build trust and get to know GOD through our relationship with CHRIST. As we build our relationship with CHRIST, we will experience HIS care and ability to see us through both the best and worst of times. This builds trust and dispels the false notions and doctrines we have in our lives.

We have to speculate what the prophecies (V.18) were that both Paul and Timothy knew that were given about Timothy. Some Bible scholars speculate when hands were laid upon Timothy to commission him for service, GOD had revealed prophesy regarding Timothy. Paul reminded Timothy of the care and guidance GOD would give him as he obediently served HIM. Paul was convinced that Timothy was in the right place and the right time to obediently serve GOD. It would be good for both Timothy and those to whom he was ministering.

In ministry, often those serving under difficult circumstances need to be reassured that they are exactly where GOD desires for them to be. It may be very difficult but GOD will be their strength during these times.

Paul reminded Timothy that he would encounter (battle) Satan and he had to focus on truth. Faith and a good conscience are important when we battle Satan. Paul in Ephesians 6 emphasized that Christians must gird themselves with the belt of truth when they encounter Satan. We must confess all of our sins to the Lord and ask HIM to forgive us.

When a believer rejects faith and neutralizes his/her conscience, he/she will suffer. Paul compared it to being shipped wrecked and Paul knew what it was like being shipwrecked. It his day, there was no Coast Guard coming to your rescue.

Paul stated that, “Hymenaeus and Alexander are among them.” These two (2) men had lost their way and the only way for them to be restored to the faith was to let them encounter Satan.

Do you recall our study of Habakkuk? GOD told the prophet Habakkuk that HE was allowing Judah to be captured and carried into exile. HE did this for their good. GOD’S desire was for them to come back to HIM. 

Often, brothers and sisters in CHRIST must experience life away from the fellowship of GOD in order to be restored. This does not mean, if they are true Christians, that they are lost eternally. A true Christian cannot lose his/her salvation but he/she can lose his/her rewards. Let’s read 1 Corinthians 3:10-15:

10 Because of God’s grace to me (Paul), I have laid the foundation like an expert builder. Now others are building on it. But whoever is building on this foundation must be very careful.11 For no one can lay any foundation other than the one we already have—Jesus Christ.12 Anyone who builds on that foundation may use a variety of materials—gold, silver, jewels, wood, hay, or straw.13 But on the judgment day, fire will reveal what kind of work each builder has done. The fire will show if a person’s work has any value.14 If the work survives, that builder will receive a reward.15 But if the work is burned up, the builder will suffer great loss. The builder will be saved, but like someone barely escaping through a wall of flames.

As Christians, we are all building, using many different building materials, upon the foundation of CHRIST. The question is, “Are we building obediently with the materials that GOD provides which will withstand the test by fire – Gold, Silver and Precious Stones or building with the materials we want to use – wood, hay or straw – which will burn up?” Do we embrace truth or try to redefine truth according to our wants and desires?

Does GOD need to allow us to be turned over to Satan to get us to focus back upon HIM? Blessings!