“Tactics for Life and Ministry from First Timothy”: Tactical Relations for Life and Ministry - 1 Timothy 5

In chapter one of First Timothy we looked at some foundational issues the church faces. We saw Paul tell Timothy that as a pastor he needed to make sure not to stray from the doctrine he had been taught by Paul (1:3-4). We learned the purpose of God's commandment is to produce love from a pure heart, a good conscience and sincere faith (1:5). The Law of God is to expose sin (1:8-11) and to point the convicted sinner to God's gracious provision in Jesus (1:12-17).  Chapter two of First Timothy revealed the need to keep prayer as a priority because that is how sinners like Paul once was are won to the Lord (2:1-7). Prayer is communicating with God and declaring our dependence on Him. But also in chapter two we saw the need to communicate with one another in church in an orderly fashion (2:8-15). In chapter three we saw leadership qualifications as well as a creedal hymn defining the church that God's people can unite under (3:1-16). Lastly, in chapter four we looked at Paul's instruction to Timothy on how to prepare for the latter days (4:1-16).

 

Now in chapter five of First Timothy we will consider our relationships within the church. In the opening words of chapter four Paul warned Timothy that the Holy Spirit clearly states in the latter days "some will depart from the faith" (4:1). Paul spoke of instructing the brethren about this. But how does a pastor or any Christian interact with other Christians when they need to be corrected? Chapter five will consider this. It will tell us how to interact with fellow believers in the church.

 

 

1 Timothy 5 (NKJV)

 

The Overriding Relational Principle: Communicate in Love

Do not rebuke an older man, but exhort him as a father, younger men as brothers, ² older women as mothers, younger women as sisters, with all purity.

The term "rebuke" (Greek epiplesso) means to sharply, harshly rebuke. It literally means to strike or beat upon. A pastor or fellow believer is never to beat the sheep, either verbally or physically. Instead we are to "exhort" (Greek parakaleo) or call to someone, summon a friend to attend court together, call to witness, exhort to action, encourage, comfort or console. Contrasting these two terms results in the principle of communication.

When a person rebukes another communication is limited because the conversation is one way. The nature of a rebuke usually involves an accusation, maybe a pointed finger, often anger, even wrath. The Bible says human wrath doesn't achieve God's righteous purposes (James 1:19-20).

The word exhort implies two way communication. There is the calling one to your side as a friend to consider the facts of a circumstance like going to court and hearing both sides of an issue. There are questions asked, "These are the facts and reality. What do you think about that?" And the interaction is meant to spur the offender to resolve problems, make corrections, get right with the Lord and an offer to help to that end. There is more of a "Hey, I have something I want to discuss with you. The Bible says this. I've noticed something in your life that is out of step with what the Bible says. What do you think?" Communication is not compromise with sin, it is considering sin together and working through and processing God's word in life in a way that leads to resolution and restoration. That is what Paul encourages Timothy to practice.

Paul uses the imagery of family relationships as a backdrop on how to interact with those in the Family of God; the church. In family relationships there is love. Family members want to continue in their relationships. They don't want to be estranged from one another. There is a family bond of the highest value. Family members are treasured and valuable. Resolution of problems and restoration to loving peaceful relationships is mutually desired by family members. Families want to stick together, be close, love one another. There is a bond in family that is biological. There should be a bond in the Family of God that is spiritual.

Biological bonds are temporal. Spiritual bonds are eternal. That is why the Bible says, "There is a friend that sticks closer than a brother" (Proverbs 18:24). The "friend" that you will spend eternity with becomes  closer than the biological tie to an earthly family member that may only last this life. The ideal is biological family that are also spiritual family.

Jesus said, "'Who is My mother and who are My brothers?' And He stretched out His hand toward His disciples and said, 'Here are My mother and My brothers! For whoever does the will of My Father in heaven is My brother and sister and mother" (Matthew 12:48-50). But He also spoke of the conflict amongst family that would result from those who receive the gospel and those who do not. Jesus said that the gospel would at times split earthly families between those who accept it and those who do not accept the gospel (Matthew 10:34-39). When this happens our love for Jesus must be our overriding loyalty. We need to take up our cross and follow Jesus no matter what; even if it costs us family.

"A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity" (Proverbs 17:17). When we go through the trials of life or pain together it knits our hearts together. At the cross Jesus creates eternal family relationships. While on the cross Jesus looked down at His mother Mary and disciple John and said to them, "Woman, behold your son!' Then He said to the disciple, 'Behold your mother!'" (John 19:26-27). To be born again of the Spirit is to be adopted into the family of God (Romans 8:12-17). The cross of Christ and His resurrection united the 120 disciples in the Upper Room in prayer for their personal Pentecost and the birth of the church (Acts 1-2). The church needs to be the Family of God built in faith at the cross and continued in hope of the resurrection. Relationships in the church are treasured eternal relationships and should be treated as such.

We are to treat those in the body of Christ as family. We see this in his exhorting Timothy to treat the people of his flock as "fathers. . .  brothers. . . mothers. . . sisters." Family is the place where the love of Christ is learned. Family is where the sacrificial love of Christ is taught through discipleship. This is a love that takes the initiative and loves those who wrong them (Romans 5:8). This is a love that is from the Holy Spirit (Romans 5:5; Galatians 5:22-24). This is a love that is patient, kind, selfless, polite, humble, pure and rooted in the truth of God's word (1 Cor. 13:4-8).

In the family of God, like in our biological family older men are to be treated "as a father." That implies with loving respect and appreciation for their experience, knowledge and wisdom. Younger men are to be treated "as brothers." That implies with patience, camaraderie, and love. Older women are to be treated "as mothers." That means with tenderness, respect, appreciating what they have to say. And younger women are to be treated "as sisters, with all purity." Paul adds "with all purity" recognizing to Timothy the particular dangerous temptations between the sexes.

"Purity" (Greek hagneia) refers to sinlessness of life, sexual purity, chastity. As Paul speaks about relationships in the Family of God the church one of the things he emphasizes is purity. Sexual purity, not indulging in sexual contact or intimate physical arousal outside of the marriage covenant, is the standard for opposite sex relationships. (Homosexuality or lesbianism are sexual sins that go without saying here - cf. Romans 1; 1 Cor. 6:9-11, 18-20). Living a sanctified (separated and obedient to God) sexual life is God's will for those in the body of Christ (cf. 1 Thess. 4:1-8). Such purity is God's call and order for the single Christian as well as the re-singled Christian.

Family today is broken and divided. Sinful selfishness has infiltrated the family so that family members are easily discarded and separated from. A sinful worldly worldview has led to seeing family members as objects that are valued only as much as they can serve a purpose or meet need. Once they no longer serve a purpose or meet a need they are discarded.

Family members sometimes and even often show a lack of respect and harshness to one another. Familiarity breeds contempt. But that should not be. Christians are to be known by their love for one another (John 13:34-35) and this should be especially the case in Christian families. Paul instructs Timothy to treat those in the flock of God like family in the best of terms.

Paul now turns to discussing the role of the Family of God as it relates to those in need in the church.

Relations with those in Need in the Family of God the Church

³ Honor widows who are really widows.

Real widows are widows who have no children or family to turn to for support. These are to be held in "honor" (Greek timao) or value, regarded, respected. Those who were truly destitute were to be valued and assisted.

⁴ But if any widow has children or grandchildren, let them first learn to show piety at home and to repay their parents; for this is good and acceptable before God.

Children and grandchildren were responsible for caring for their parents. Children are to "show piety at home and repay their parents" for the years of care their parents provided. The Bible stipulates children are to honor their parents (Exodus 20:12). This honor is not dependant on whether or not parents have been "good." This honor is to be given in love which means even if the one being loved doesn't deserve such love. That is the way of Jesus. Such an arrangement was and is "good and acceptable before God." "Grandchildren" (Greek ekgonos) refers first to children's children but is broader than just grandchildren and extends to descendants or family relatives. Family relationships are the prime means for caring for family members in need.

⁵ Now she who is really a widow, and left alone, trusts in God and continues in supplications and prayers night and day.

The widow who is all alone without family to help her "trusts in God and continues in supplications and prayers night and day." The true widow is to be helped by the Family of God but her responsibility is to live a life of trust in God and prayer ministry. The true widow is to live by faith in God to provide for her. The church, the pastor, church leaders and church ministry is to be upheld in prayer by such widowed persons.

 ⁶ But she who lives in pleasure is dead while she lives. ⁷ And these things command, that they may be blameless.

"Pleasure"(Greek spatalao) refers to living for self gratification, living luxuriously, living wantonly, living in self-indulgence and sensual pleasures. Some background for Ephesus is helpful here. One commentary states:

                In Ephesus and elsewhere in the First Century, many single women resorted to immoral    living as a means of support. Paul might have had this kind of widow in mind when he         said, "But she that liveth in pleasure is dead while she liveth." Because these widows had   chosen to support themselves in this unchristian manner, they were outside the sphere of      the Church's responsibility and care. The phrase "is dead while she liveth" indicates a             condition when though the body's physical life is maintained, its spiritual life is dead.[1]

Sometimes people who suffer loss, like a widow, rather than turning to the Lord for comfort turns sinful or carnal things to fulfill her inner needs. That never works and as Paul comments such a person is "dead while she lives," Eating, sex, and any other thing is not going to meet the inner needs we have when we suffer loss. Jesus, prayer and His word and in particular the Family of God are the means for those in need, like real widows, to find help. This is what Paul means when he says, "And these things command, that they may be blameless."

⁸ But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.

Caring for family members is of utmost important. Paul says when we fail to care for our family members and abandon them "has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever." "Denied" (Greek arneomai) means deny, renounce, disown, refuse. If you don't care for family you demonstrate you've rejected "the faith," or all Jesus died and stands for. Children, grandchildren and extended family members are to support one another. That is true for the biological Christian family as well as for the biological unbelieving family; it is a universal principle. "Worse than an unbeliever" implies that even non-believing families share this universal responsibility to care for family  members in need. Family is responsible for its family members.

⁹ Do not let a widow under sixty years old be taken into the number, and not unless she has been the wife of one man, ¹⁰ well reported for good works: if she has brought up children, if she has lodged strangers, if she has washed the saints’ feet, if she has relieved the afflicted, if she has diligently followed every good work.

Apparently the church took in real widows (who had no other means of support) and cared for them. The qualifications for a real widow to be eligible for being taken in and supported by the church was that she was not "under sixty years old," and had been "the wife of one man." A wife of more than one man would likely have family to support her. She needed to be "well reported for good works." She had to have a good reputation as one who was diligent and involved in the "good works" ministry of the church. She had to be willing to be involved in ministry. She had to be mother who "has brought up children." Perhaps she would be helpful in the children's ministry. She furthermore needed to be described as one who "has lodged strangers, if she has washed the saints’ feet, if she has relieved the afflicted, if she has diligently followed every good work." She needed to be hospitable, have a servant's heart, have a heart of mercy for those "afflicted" in some way, and she just needed to be open to be used and work however the Lord chose to apply her. Such a "widow" would be supported but she would also serve as an important cog in the workings of the church.

¹¹ But refuse the younger widows; for when they have begun to grow wanton against Christ, they desire to marry, ¹² having condemnation because they have cast off their first faith.

Paul instructs Pastor Timothy to "refuse" (Greek paraiteomai) or decline, beg off, refuse, reject as eligible for support. Paul will now go on to explain and give reasons for why such younger widows are not to be accepted into the support program of the church. It bears repeating that what Paul says here is true not only for a re-singled person but for any single non-married person. There are principles for the single non-married person contained in these verses.

"Younger widows" would be those who were "under sixty years old." Those under sixty would be more likely to remarry. Paul points out such younger widows may "grow wanton against Christ," and "desire to marry." "Grow wanton against" (Greek katastreniao) means a lack of discipline particularly in controlling sensual lustful temptations which turns them against their relationship with Jesus. Paul is speaking of young widowed women who are carried away by temptation to fulfill sexual desires that were once fulfilled in their marriage.  If fulfilling sexual desires outside of marriage was true of "younger widows" it would also be true of anyone. Sexual intimacy in any form outside of a marriage covenant is sinful and "wanton."

Fulfilling sexual desires outside of marriage for  "younger widows" and for anyone results in "condemnation" (Greek krima) which means to separate or a sentence of condemnation that separates us from "their first faith" or saving faith in Jesus. Such "wanton" behavior is consequently  an act where a widow "cast off" (Greek atheteo) or nullifies, rejects, ignores, disregards or makes void "their first faith." The nature of sin is to separate the sinner from God (cf. Isaiah 59:1-2). While no one can snatch a Christian out of the grasp of Jesus (John 10:28), what Paul says here is that a person who had put their faith in Jesus can themselves choose to "cast off" such faith and turn from Jesus to follow instead their sinful lusts. No one can steal our faith; not the devil; not demons; not any person. But there is evidence that a person can willfully choose to forsake the Lord. Surely Jesus prays for us like He did for Peter who was being hotly pursued by Satan (cf. Luke 22:31-32). But the deciding factor is Peter's willful decision to reject or follow Jesus. Peter faltered, but Jesus was there to restore him. Judas faltered, but he chose to commit suicide and was eternally condemned as "the son of perdition" (John 17:12). God has sovereignly determined to include human free will decisions in His redemptive plan. Free will is part of His image in us. How we choose is integral to our eternal destiny.

Paul isn't saying its sinful for a young widow to remarry. He had taught elsewhere that when a spouse dies or an unbelieving spouse leaves the widow or one left is free to remarry (cf. 1 Cor. 7:9). What Paul is speaking of here is the danger that a young widow would remarry an unbeliever and in so doing betray their first love Jesus. Interestingly Jesus corrected the Ephesian church for having left her first love (Rev. 2:4).

¹³ And besides they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house, and not only idle but also gossips and busybodies, saying things which they ought not.

Such "younger widows" "learn to be idle" (Greek argos) or idle, lazy, useless, careless, inactive. They live a purposeless life like a lounging couch potato. When they do move they are "wandering from house to house," (Greek perierchomai) to stroll aimlessly, act like a vagabond, walk around. They then act as "gossips and busybodies, saying things which they ought not". Gossiping is one of the things the Lord hates (cf. Proverbs 6:16-19). "Gossips" (Greek phlyaros) are those who are tattlers, speaking silly or foolish things, talking without meaning. "Busybodies" (Greek periergos) are those who those neglectful of important matters, living in the superficial, prying into other people's affairs.

            William Barclay comments: "Because a woman had not enough to do, she might become   one of those creatures who drift from house to house in an empty social round. It was    almost inevitable that such a woman would become a gossip; because she had nothing      important to talk about, she would tend to talk scandal, repeating tales from house to house, each time with a little more embroidery and a little more malice.... She would be        very apt to be over-interested and over-interfering in the affairs of others" (The Daily        Study Bible, The Letters to Timothy, Titus, and Philemon, p. 114). A busybody pays   attention to affairs of others and is meddlesome. A tattler ("talebearer") betrays private            confidences.[2]

¹⁴ Therefore I desire that the younger widows marry, bear children, manage the house, give no opportunity to the adversary to speak reproachfully. ¹⁵ For some have already turned aside after Satan.

What is the solution for such scattered superficial living of the young widows? Paul says it would be best for them to remarry (and of course to remarry one in the faith). She should "bear children, manage the house." She should seek to be a mother and devote herself to family pursuits.

This would go far in preventing "the adversary to speak reproachfully." Paul isn't speaking of just any adversary. He is speaking of "the adversary," "Satan." Satan is the one preying on and using the gossipy busybodies to divide God's people. Paul says, "Some have already turned aside to Satan." Jesus said Satan is a deceiver who has no truth in himself. He is a murderer and a liar and the father of lies (John 8:44). He is the one behind gossip and the busybody lifestyle. That is one reason God our Father hates gossip and bearing false witness. When we lie or twist the truth or present it in a twisted way to fulfill our own desires against another we are doing the devil's bidding. Remember that. Our standard is to speak God's truth in love (Ephesians 4:15). Whenever we lie or even use the "truth" about someone in a way that harms them we are doing the devil's bidding. Watch out for that! Gossip and such divisive behavior divides the people of God and God hates such behavior. DON'T GOSSIP AND DON'T LIVE A PURPOSELESS BUSYBODY WAY OF LIFE.

¹⁶ If any believing man or woman has widows, let them relieve them, and do not let the church be burdened, that it may relieve those who are really widows.

Christian family members are to look out for one another. There should not be undue material burdens put on the church. Families need to look out for their members.

Relations with Pastors

¹⁷ Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in the word and doctrine.

Paul now speaks of the relationship between the church congregation and its "elder" (Greek prebyteros) or senior pastor. Those who "rule" (Greek proistemi) govern, rule, manage, attend to "well" (Greek kalos) or good, well, full well, excellently, rightly are "worthy" (Greek axioo) or are entitled to, fit for, deserving of, "double" (Greek diplous) two-fold "honor" (Greek time) or value, money paid, price, honor, seeing as precious. The pastor who is a good overseer of the church is deserving of being seen as and actually being remunerated double or twice as usually given. This is "especially" (Greek malista) or particularly, chiefly, mostly, especially true of the pastor who is devoted to "labor" (Greek kopiao) works hard, toils in, labors to the point of exhaustion, "in the word and doctrine" or in God's word and its teaching.

The Family of God is to support their pastor. The Flock of God is to support their shepherd and that is especially true if they have been blessed with a pastor or shepherd who is devoted to labor in the scriptures and teaching of God's word. This doesn't mean pastors should be living in the lap of luxury. It does mean the material needs of the pastor (which would include his family) would be met by the local congregation so that meeting such needs would not be a distraction from his labor in the word and teaching.

¹⁸ For the Scripture says, “You shall not muzzle an ox while it treads out the grain,” and, “The laborer is worthy of his wages.”

Paul substantiates his instruction to the local church to support her pastor by quoting Deuteronomy 25:4 (cf. also 1 Cor. 9:9). As a final piece of authority he quotes Jesus to substantiate his instruction "The laborer is worthy of his wages" (Luke 10:7; cf. also Matthew 10:10). What is interesting is that Paul is likely quoting from Luke's gospel account which had been written by the time of Paul's First epistle to Timothy. Therefore Paul, in quoting Jesus' words as written by Luke is showing already he viewed Luke's gospel account as having equal authority to "the Scripture" of the  Torah and Old Testament. Financial and monetary support of the local pastor by the church he oversees is established by the Old and New Testament.

¹⁹ Do not receive an accusation against an elder except from two or three witnesses.

Paul now speaks instruction to safeguard the reputation of the pastor. Paul instructs Timothy to not receive an "accusation" (Greek katagoria) or complaint, criminal charge, accusation against an "elder" or pastor unless there was the corroboration of "two or three witnesses." Deuteronomy 19:15 clearly states there needed to be a minimum of two or three witnesses who would corroborate charges made in court. Nothing less should be expected or accepted when brought against a pastor. People who gossip about the pastor or slander him as well as those who listen to such uncorroborated slander should take this verse to heart.

²⁰ Those who are sinning rebuke in the presence of all, that the rest also may fear.  

Paul speaks of church discipline. The context would be focused on how to discipline the pastor who is guilty of sin. Publically rebuking such a pastor would serve as a deterrent to others. When pastors see local pastors or media preachers fall into sin, it should serve as a wakeup call to guard against following in their same waywardly sinful ways.

There is an application for Christians in general here too. There is a deterrent effect of rebuking sinners publically in the church. When the rest of the congregation sees such rebuke it should give them an incentive to not follow in the sinful ways of the one rebuked. Acts 5 is probably the strongest example of public rebuke. In that case Ananias and Sapphire's hypocritical actions were publically rebuked and the Spirit sentenced them to death on the spot. There is a place for public rebuke when private attempts to correct have fallen on deaf ears (e.g. Matthew 18:15-17).

²¹ I charge you before God and the Lord Jesus Christ and the elect angels that you observe these things without prejudice, doing nothing with partiality.

Paul charges Timothy in the strongest terms; "before God and the Lord Jesus Christ and the elect angels that you observe these things." For Paul the greatest incentive and reason to abide obediently by ministerial instruction is that we are "before God and the Lord Jesus Christ and the elect angels." And observing these words of disciplinary instruction needed to be done "without prejudice" (Greek prokrima) or without prejudging. There should be no ulterior motives behind church discipline. What is decided needs to be based on evidence and sound unbiased judgment. And the standard is "doing nothing with partiality." "Partiality" (Greek proklisis) partiality, preinclination. The idea is Paul is saying when such discipline is imposed there should not be any  judging before the cases for both sides have been made. Carrying out such discipline was to be fairly and righteously done.

²² Do not lay hands on anyone hastily, nor share in other people’s sins; keep yourself pure.

In other words, before as pastor you symbolize your agreement on someone for a position, wait until there is ample evidence to warrant and justify such agreement. To lay hands on someone was a symbol of uniting and agreeing with God that they were called to ministry or a position. Paul warns against laying your hands on someone perhaps for expediency or because of a need and not also because there is evident fruit to show such a person is indeed called to ministry.

Paul warns, "nor share in other people's sins." If a pastor lays hands and joins in agreement with a person to go into ministry without seeing evidence of their call, then when time reveals sin or no evidentiary fruit of calling, the pastor ends up sharing in such sin by having prematurely approving it or glancing over it.

Instead, the pastor should not lay hands on anyone "hastily" (Greek tacheos) or quickly, shortly, or before the time needed to verify such a call. The pastor needs to "keep yourself pure" (Greek hagnos) holy, pure, chaste, pure from every fault in this regard.

²³ No longer drink only water, but use a little wine for your stomach’s sake and your frequent infirmities.

Timothy was apparently a water only drinker. In Biblical times and even today water in the Middle East is not purified and can cause stomach upset. This is true even today in some areas. Paul is producing a remedy. He tells Timothy to drink "a little wine for your stomach's sake." Observe Paul says, "a little" (Greek oligos) or  a small amount, short amount. And Paul's instruction is medicinal. There is no basis for justifying consumption of wine or alcoholic beverages based on this personal instruction of Paul to Timothy.

²⁴ Some men’s sins are clearly evident, preceding them to judgment, but those of some men follow later. ²⁵ Likewise, the good works of some are clearly evident, and those that are otherwise cannot be hidden.

 

Paul ends the chapter to Timothy with some words of wisdom as it pertains to choosing pastors and leaders. He comments that the sin of some people is clear to see and leads them to judgment. But some men's sins are hidden or not evident now but are nonetheless real. The same is true with the good works of some, they are clearly seen now, but others good works are not so readily apparent, yet they "cannot be hidden" in the end.

            The meaning of these contrasts is clear. Obvious sins lead the way to judgment. Hidden    sins follow men to judgment. Obvious good works are noticed, applauded, and            appreciated. Hidden good works are known to God and will be rewarded. God will deal      with men in a fair and equitable manner.

            "These parallel observations, viewing human potentialities both negatively and       positively, bring out forcibly the complexities involved in selecting suitable candidates   for God's work. Hasty action relies on first impressions, but these impressions are often deceptive. Unworthy men might be chosen, whose moral culpability lies deeper than the           surface; and worthy men, whose good actions are not in the limelight, might easily be             overlooked. The whole situation demands extreme caution" (Guthrie, Tyndale New            Testament Commentaries, 14:109).[3]

The church is a Family of God. Such a Family is networked with human relations that pose both blessing and potential problems. Such a network is to be held together by Christlike love. It is to be overseen by the local pastor. This is no small task and the local pastor needs the support of his flock both spiritually and materially. Choosing others to serve in ministry is not something to be done carelessly. It requires patience and an observing eye. The pastor who is worthy of double honor in such a calling is the one who labors with all his heart "in the word and doctrine." Such a pastor is worthy and deserving of double honor and practical support.

---

[1] Complete Biblical Library Commentary - The Complete Biblical Library – Galatians-Philemon.

 

[2] Complete Biblical Library Commentary - The Complete Biblical Library – Galatians-Philemon.

 

[3] Complete Biblical Library Commentary - The Complete Biblical Library – Galatians-Philemon.

 

“Tactics for Life and Ministry from First Timothy”: Tactical Preparations for Latter Days Life and Ministry - 1 Timothy 4

In His Olivet Discourse on Latter Days End Times events the one thing Jesus emphasized and repented throughout His message was "Take heed that no one deceives you" (cf. Matthew 24:3-5, 23-25; Mark 13:5-6, 22-23; Luke 21:8-9, 34-36). According to Jesus the latter times leading up to His return are going to be filled with a spirit of deception.

 

Paul frequently spoke of the "latter times." He exhorted the Roman church to wake up out of any lethargy they had allowed themselves to slip into (Romans 13:11-14). He told the Corinthians that everyone would face judgment and Christians would stand before the Judgment Seat of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:9-11). Paul also warned the Corinthians to beware of being deceived by the devil into departing "from the simplicity that is in Christ" and lured into following "another Jesus whom we have not preached, a different spirit which you have not received, or a different gospel which you have not accepted" (2 Corinthians 11:3-4). In his letter to the Thessalonians, which was composed of young Christians only a month old in the Lord, he ended each chapter with an exhortation to be ready and watchful for the End Times (1 Thessalonians 1:10; 2:19-20; 3:12-13; 4:16-18; 5:23-24). In his second letter to the relatively young in the Lord Thessalonians he is inspired to write about the circumstances of the Tribulation. Paul had the latter times and return of Jesus and culmination of all things on his mind and in his heart. That sense of the return of Jesus and latter times was from the Lord and a part of what made Paul great and able to endure great hardship.

 

James exhorted his readers to "be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord" (James 5:7-8). The Apostle Peter wrote of the End Times and that there would be those who are skeptical of prophecy (2 Peter 3:1-18). The Apostle John said "it is the last hour" and "Antichrist is coming" (1 John 2:18). He warned there would be a spirit of antichrist and deception in the latter days and we would have to rely on the truth revealed by the Holy Spirit (1 John 2:18-23; and 4:1-6). He warned against being deceived by false teachers and antichrist spirited people (2 John 7).

 

John also was inspired to write the most detailed book of the Bible on the End Times, Revelation. In Revelation John is inspired to record letters from Jesus to churches which include Jesus' words to the compromising Pergamos church, the corrupt Thyatira church, the dead Sardis church and the lukewarm Laodicean church. All of these shortcomings in the churches are linked to being deceived and diverted from God's truth in some way. About 27% of the Bible speaks of prophecy. A large proportion of this prophetic material speaks of the latter times and a large part of the material on the latter times warns against being deceived.

 

A lot more could be referenced to show the emphasis on preparing for the latter days by particularly guarding against being deceived. Suffice it to say that when Paul writes to his young protégé Pastor Timothy it's not surprising he includes chapter dealing with preparation for the "latter times" by stating "Now the Spirit expressly says that in the latter times some will depart from the faith." Throughout the New Testament unbelievers are warned to get right with God by repenting of their sin and receiving Jesus as Savior and Lord by faith. Believers are exhorted to walk in the Spirit by faith growing in their relationship with Jesus and becoming better prepared for His return. This is especially important for a shepherd of the hope of Jesus to be well schooled in.

 

This fourth chapter of 1 Timothy can be divided into three parts: The Expressed Conditions of the Latter Days - 4:1-5; The Exercise  Priority for Latter Days - 4:6-11; and The Effective Example for the Latter Days. Let's dig in.

 

The Expressed Conditions of the Latter Days

Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons, ² speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their own conscience seared with a hot iron, ³ forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from foods which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth. ⁴ For every creature of God is good, and nothing is to be refused if it is received with thanksgiving; ⁵ for it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.

The word of God is always relevant. It has something to say to every generation. Jesus said, "Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will be no means pass away" (Matthew 24:35; Mark 13:31; Luke 21:33). Keep in mind that while God used human instruments to write out His word, He is the Author of His Word. And God as Author is eternal; unlimited by time. Therefore it is said of God's word, "Forever, O LORD, Your word is settled in heaven" (Psalm 119:89). And when we look at passages such as we find in 1 Timothy we can be sure that it holds great relevance and value for us because when we look at what Jesus and His word says about the latter times we see that the predicted conditions of the latter days and the conditions of our days are very similar. We may be living in the latter days. Personally, I believe we are! What are the conditions of the latter times? Let's dissect and investigate what Paul says and see how it relates to us.

Now the Spirit expressly says

What Paul is about to share with Timothy (and us through the inspired word) is not something he concocted or dreamed up, it is something the Spirit "expressly" says. "Expressly" (Greek rhetos) is a word that means specifically, clearly, explicitly. It's as though Paul begins by saying, "Now the Spirit specifically, clearly, explicitly says this; there is no doubt about it." What Paul is about to share is not something based on speculation or human thinking alone. What Paul is going to state is from the Holy Spirit; from the heart of God.

These opening words of Paul also depict for us the nature of the inspiration of the New Testament. Paul wasn't offering his own human opinions, he was simply passing on what the Holy Spirit expressly and clearly said to Him as an inspired instrument of God. The Holy Spirit breathed these words into and through Paul to the pages of the Bible (cf. 2 Timothy 3:16-17). Because of this we should pay close attention and apply all that is said in God's word.

that in latter times some will depart from the faith,

"Latter times" refers to the times leading up to the culmination of earthly existence as we know it, the return of Jesus, establishment of His kingdom on earth and eventual transition to life in eternity in the New Heaven and New Earth (cf. Revelation 20-22).

The words "will depart from" (Greek apostesontai from aphistemi) means cause to revolt, mislead, lead away, withdraw from, abstain from, depart, desert, fall away. [1] This is a word that speaks of apostasy of a willful move away from and rejection of "the faith." This is something people will choose to do.

"The faith" refers to that which has been taught by Paul and all of the inspired New Testament writers (Hebrews 10:17). Generally, "the faith" would consist of the "doctrine" or teaching Paul has already mentioned to Timothy (1:3; 3:10). He will contrast such "doctrine" with the "doctrine of demons he mentions later in this verse.

But particularly "The faith" points to this scriptural teaching as it reveals the way to a faith relationship with God. It implies holding to the Gospel of God's gracious provision in Jesus Christ. It implies accepting this gospel by faith. And it implies an ongoing continuing life of faith with God through the Spirit as long as one is alive or until Christ's return. This is summed up in Paul's words, "For in it [the gospel] the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, 'The just shall live by faith'" (Romans 1:17).

No doubt in the latter times there will be a rebellion against and rejection of the truth of God's word. That is exactly what we see today as parts of the body of Christ either shy away from or outright reject stated truth of God's word that they feel is intolerant, offensive or out of sync with the trends and "likes" of the world. The world's mantra of tolerance and inclusion at the expense of truth and righteousness is being adopted into what is called the church today. However, as we saw at the end of the previous chapter the church as defined and as accepted by God as His church needs to be "the pillar and ground of truth" (1 Timothy 3:15). When the church departs from "the faith" it ceases to be His church.

giving heed to deceiving spirits

"Giving heed to" (Greek prosecho) describes an ongoing (Present tense verb) paying attention to, following, devotion to, interest in something. To give heed to something implies a change in attention. It implies a change of focus. It implies a change of devotion. Here it means people turn away from their devotion to "the faith" and instead devote themselves to "deceiving spirits."

"Deceiving" spirits (Greek planos) are spiritual entities that are misleading, imposters, counterfeits, deceiving. The nature of the devil is to deceive and lie until he can get people to die (John 8:43-44). The "spirits" (Greek pneumaasin) are entities from a spiritual dimension. Pneuma simply means breath or wind. Context determines whether or not pneuma refers to the Holy Spirit or spirits/demons. This chapter begins with a reference to "the Spirit" or Holy Spirit. The article to (i.e. The) indicates we are referring to the Holy Spirit. But "deceiving spirits" is referring to demonic entities; agents of the devil.

These "spirits" are unseen to us. They are able to influence people from their unseen advantageous position. Stealth is always an advantage in war. From their hidden condition they are able to whisper evil sinful thoughts and ideas to people and introduce as well as induce people to ungodly paths. The unsaved are totally vulnerable to such deceptions and attacks. The person who lives in sin and is uncommitted to Jesus, the unsaved, are under the influence of Satan and his demons (Eph. 2:1-4) who works to keep them blinded and in the dark separated from the truth of God and His salvation (2 Cor. 4:4). But the child of God indwelled by the Holy Spirit is able to discern the deceptions of the demonic by the exposing work of the Spirit in them. The Holy Spirit helps the believer to discern deception. This is the anointing of knowing spoken of by John (cf. 1 John 2:20, 26-27).

and doctrines of demons,

"Doctrines" (Greek didaskalia) are simply teachings or instructions. People will decide to turn away from "the faith" and in so doing they will actually be turning to teachings authored and supported by "demons." Whatever teaching you believe in needs to be based on God's Holy Word. Whenever we venture outside the parameters of God's word we make ourselves vulnerable to "doctrines of demons." Remember, demons, like their leader Satan, are by nature deceivers. What they use to lure people away from "the faith" may appear logical, reasonable, even truthful, but fit very well could be the first step in departing from the faith and truth of God. Beware!

"Demons" (Greek daimonion) is an interesting word. One commentary states of it:

            The etymology of this word is uncertain; possibly daiomai, “rip, split, tear apart”    underlies it. In Greek philosophy daimon would then be “one who devours,” that is, the   spirit of death that separates the body from the soul. Whatever the case, the term conveys     the same animistic views characteristic of heathen religion everywhere: the spirits of the          dead are able to “possess” or “take over” human or animal bodies.[2]

Demonic sources of doctrines are aimed at ripping up people spiritually. They want to tear people apart from God and His truth. They want to devour people. These demonic teachings are similar to that which has been seen throughout history in pagan religions. Such religious practices are characterized by immorality and debauchery and darkness of varying degrees. Anything and everything that can oppose and serve as an alternative to God's truth are the ambition of the doctrines of demons.

² speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their own conscience seared with a hot iron,

"Speaking lies" (Greek pseudologos) means they speak lies, speak untruth or half-truths. These are people who willfully speak things they know are not true. "Hypocrisy" (Greek hupokrisis) is pretense, insincerity, or hypocrisy. A hypocrite is someone who says one thing but does not themselves follow it in practice. They teach people to do things that they themselves aren't willing or committed to do (e.g. Matthew 23; Romans 2).

The "conscience" (Greek suneidesis) is the place of knowledge of right and wrong. The conscience of those teaching lies in hypocrisy are "seared with a hot iron" (Greek kauteridzo) refers to the branding, searing, burning that desensitizes and deadens the nerves. In other words, the people teaching lies in hypocrisy have no problem and think there's nothing wrong with whether or not what they teach is a lie or something they themselves don't live out. Those who are given over to demonic doctrinal teaching have no regrets or any misgivings about doing so. They are likely just out to make a profit off of those they are deceiving. They themselves have taken on the nature of the demons whose doctrines they teach.

³ forbidding to marry,

Marriage and the connected family will be particular targets of the doctrines of demons. We see this today with the acceptance of same-sex marriage. Some may think this is an acceptance of marriage not a forbidding of marriage. Some might say it is the Christian who wants to forbid marriage to those of same-sex unions. But the reality is that as the definition of marriage is broadened beyond God's definition to accept unions other than between one man and one woman and beyond, to define marriage to accept any and all (which is the direction the world is going) is to in reality dissipate and degrade marriage to nothingness.

Satan and his demons want to destroy the covenant of marriage because it is a picture of the relationship of Christ to the church (Ephesians 5:21-33). If they can desecrate marriage so that such a holy picture is dismissed as irrelevant they will have deadened the world a little bit more to the gospel of grace in Jesus Christ.

Family flows out of marriage; or at least it should. In our world today we marriage has frequently become an afterthought to cohabitation and starting a family. The cart is now normally put before the horse. So in desecrating the covenant of marriage Satan is in reality disrupting and destroying family. Family is essential to the order and structure of society. Without family societal chaos results. And chaos and anarchy is exactly the environment best suited for the devil and his minions.

and commanding to abstain from foods which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth. ⁴ For every creature of God is good, and nothing is to be refused if it is received with thanksgiving; ⁵ for it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.

Diets, dietary restrictions against certain foods are a part of the latter days deception. A short viewing of  television and surfing the web reveals a preoccupation with foods, diets, infomercials about food, diets, tools to prepare foods and a proliferation of food related products. It would appear the world is consumed with food more than consuming food. It would appear food has taken the place of the eternal importance of "the faith."

Some might argue that processed foods are a creation of humanity and a departure from "foods which God created to be received with thanksgiving." And there is significant truth in that. Some who hold to vegetarianism do so because of the way beefs and chickens are filled with steroids and other processed nutritional additives. And there is truth in that as well. I would only caution that here Paul says, "nothing is to be refused if it is received with thanksgiving." Those who are strict with their diet should not look down on those who are not and vice versa. Diet and what we do and do not eat can become a great time consuming and expensive distraction. Such views can become obsessions that divert our attention from "the faith." Watch out for this.

Paul says the important thing is to receive your food and be thankful to God for it. Then he substantiates this statement by saying, "for it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer." One commentary explains, "The "word of God" is 'divinely inspired utterance' and primarily refers to the Scriptures. Genesis 1:31 states that everything God made "was very good." Genesis 9:3 points out that God has given mankind both meat and plant life for sustenance."[3] When we eat we should express our thanks to God for what is set before us and eat on with a thankful heart. Let your Spirit guided conscience be your guide (cf. Romans 14).

The Exercise Priority for Latter Days

⁶ If you instruct the brethren in these things, you will be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished in the words of faith and of the good doctrine which you have carefully followed.

Paul points out the end product that Timothy can look forward to, the purpose and reason he should follow Paul's advice. "If you instruct the brethren in these things," Timothy will fulfill his mission of being "a good minister of Jesus Christ." "Instruct" (Greek hupotithemi) means literally laying before, to make known, to place under one's feet as a foundation.  

What Paul has shared with Timothy is foundational and should be laid before "the brethren" he oversees. The product or spiritual fruit of laying out these foundational words to his flock is twofold. First, "the brethren" will be "nourished in the words of faith and of good doctrine which you have carefully followed." This is a ministry objective and would glorify God in the spiritual fruitfulness that would be produced in those Timothy instructed. Secondly, by laying these foundational teachings before the brethren "you [Timothy] will be a good minister of Jesus Christ."  This is the standard for those seeking to be "a good minister of Jesus Christ." This is a healthy exhortation from Paul that all of us should take to heart in our day. If Pastors or servants of the Lord want to be "a good minister of Jesus Christ" then what the Spirit has shared through Paul in the preceding five verses should be passed on to the flock of God.

To summarize the delectable meal cooked by "a good minister of Jesus Christ" that will spiritually nourish his flock, such a meal will include:

1.      A warning and reminder that the Spirit says in the latter times some will willfully depart from "the faith" (4:1a).

2.      A warning and reminder that the Spirit says we need to stick with "the faith" which is revealed in the Word of God (Romans 10:17).

3.      A warning and reminder that that the Spirit says in the latter times some will willfully give heed to the doctrines of demons pushed by deceiving spirits (4:1b)

4.      A warning and reminder that the Spirit says to watch out for those who lie not basing their teaching on God's word (4:2a).

5.      A warning and reminder that the Spirit says to watch out for hypocrites who teach one thing but live another and think nothing of their inconsistencies (4:2b).

6.      A warning and reminder that the Spirit says to watch out for efforts to undermine marriage and the family (4:3a).

7.      A warning and reminder that the Spirit says to beware being more concerned with the kind of physical food you eat than being thankful for having food to eat (4:3b-5).

⁷ But reject profane and old wives’ fables, and exercise yourself toward godliness.

There are things we need to "reject" if we are to be prepared for the latter days. "Reject" (Greek paraiteomai) means to reject, refuse, avoid. The things we are to reject and avoid are "profane" (Greek bebelos) or worldly rooted, common, things unsanctified by being based on God's word. Paul also speaks of "old wives fables" ("fables" - Greek muthos) or stories, myths, legends, fictitious things not based on God's word. Such "fables" were concocted by "old wives" who sat around doing nothing but coming up with stories based on their own imaginations rather than God's word. There are a lot of theories about the end times floating around on the internet and various discussion circles in the world. It's easy to get caught up in them. Some are worth our attention. Others are not. We need to be discerning. We need to "exercise yourself toward godliness."

"Exercise" (Greek gumnadzo) means to exercise, train, do that which prepares one to compete. We get the English word gymnasium from this Greek word. The history of this word is:

            This verb is related to the term gumnos (1125), “naked,” or “not covered.” It is used in      secular Greek literature to refer to an athlete training in the nude, as was done in the         Greek games, and to refer to training in general. New Testament usage is both positive          and negative in connotation, referring to those who by continual practice had trained    themselves to a particular way of life (1 Timothy 4:7; Hebrews 5:14; 12:11; 2 Peter             2:14).[4]

Rather than getting caught up in unscriptural sound ficticious legends and myths we should train ourselves "toward godliness" (Greek pros eusebian) or toward the things that make you more godly in your character and more mindful and closer to God. Rather than getting caught up in ungodly empty and fictitious prefabrications we should seek to train ourselves to walk closer with God.

⁸ For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come.

There is benefit to physical bodily exercise, BUT IT SHOULD NEVER BE A PRIORITY OVER ANYTHING YOU MIGHT DO TO CULTIVATE YOUR WALK WITH GOD. This is so important in our age of self benefit. Our world and some in the church are consumed and addicted to the way they look and feel. Nearly every other commercial on television and online are in some way related to a person's physical condition. And if you are going to maintain a healthy physical condition it does require a certain amount of regular working out or exercise.

Physical exercise is beneficial because physical health, mental health and spiritual health are all related. If you are sick physically it is going to affect your thinking and may hinder your stamina to train spiritually, e.g. to fear and study God's word and pray and serve Him. But there is something very wrong and out of kilter for the one who can get up at sunrise to run or workout and train but has little to no time to meet with God and study His word and pray. That situation is one where priorities are out of alignment with Paul's stated scriptural priorities in this verse. Beware of this! It is very easy to be lured away from exercises to godliness by physical exercise.

As far as Paul is concerned bodily exercise profits "a little" (Greek oligos) or a short time, a small amount, a little bit. Exercising toward godliness on the other hand is "is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come." A healthy godliness is "profitable" (Greek ophelimos) is useful, and beneficial "for all things." When you are healthy in a godly way there is a trickledown effect in every area of your life. If you are godly you will feel better physically, think better psychologically and be strong spiritually for whatever comes your way. Plus being in good godly health prepares you for eternal life with the Lord. You may have pumped up Pecs and bulging biceps now, you may have strong thighs and can squat press 400 pounds now, but when you meet Jesus will you know Him, will you be familiar and excited to build on your relationship with Him?

⁹ This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance.

The statement that physical exercise is worth a little where healthy godliness has eternal worth is a "faithful saying" (Greek pistos) or saying that is full of faith, reliable, credible, trustworthy, dripping and oozing with faith saying. It's a statement that is "worthy" (Greek axios) or fit, deserving, good and worthy of  "all acceptance" (Greek apodoche) or is good and approved for everyone. In other words that training to be godly is more beneficial than merely training for physical health is a sure fire trustworthy and reliable truth. You can count on it.

¹⁰ For to this end we both labor and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of those who believe. ¹¹ These things command and teach.

Paul punctuates his statement on how to exercise to prepare for the latter times by refer to his own example of how he and Timothy live their lives. He says "we both" which draws Timothy next to him as though he were putting his arm around the shoulder of Timothy as he says these words. They both "labor" (Greek kopiao) or continuously (Present tense verb) labor, become weary, work hard, fatigue, work to exhaustion pointing out to people and emphasizing the need to train up to be godly in preparation for the times that lay ahead. Paul and Timothy are the ultimate spiritual trainers who work to exhaustion to help people be in good godly health.

But more than their exertion to train Paul and Timothy "suffer reproach" for what they do. "Suffer" (Greek agonidzomai) means agonize, contend, strive and this they did continually (due to the Present Tense verbal form). "Reproach" (Greek oneidizo) means scold, reproach , revile and this they did continually (due to the Present Tense verbal form). These trainers seeking to help people to be more godly and grow in their faith strained to the max and did so while being continually scolded, reviled and reproached for their efforts. Paul said it was agonizing labor.

How was Paul and Timothy able to sustain such arduous labor? How could they stay the course in spite of such opposition? How could they keep training and training others to godliness? Paul's simple yet profound basis and sustaining truth was, "because we trust in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of those who believe." They trusted in Jesus. The word "trust" (Greek elpikamen from elpidzo) means hope for, trust in, expect. It is faith for the future; faith for a good outcome. They loved the "living God." God was alive for them. They weren't a part of a dead religion or dead religious system. They had a relationship with a living God who was always there for them. They lived for Jesus. They knew Jesus and wanted to make Him known. It was the faith found in the faith Paul mentioned earlier that sustained them and enabled them to press on.

And so Paul simply but profoundly comments to Timothy - "These things command and teach." "Command" (Greek parengello) is a military term to command, give orders, instruct. "Teach" (Greek didasko) means to instruct and explain. Paul tells Timothy that what he has laid out for him here about the priority of training for godliness is something he needs, as the leader of the church, to command and explain clearly to his troops in the church.

The Effective Example for the Latter Days

¹² Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity.

Paul begins the final paragraph in this chapter about the effective example of one's life for the latter days by exhorting Timothy to not allow anyone to "despise" (Greek kataphroneo) or think against based on his "youth" (Greek neotes) or his relative youthfulness to those around him. Paul is particularly speaking to Timothy who is a pastor. And Paul states, age alone should not be the basis for discrimination in ministry whether it is toward youthfulness or agedness. Age and the experience that comes with it is important and should be taken into consideration. But discrimination only because of age is shortsighted and unspiritual. It is not based on scripture.

What does matter and is most important is one's "example" (Greek tupos) or pattern, model, example, form, figure, presentation like a statue. Speaking against someone simply because of age is very superficial. The measure of a man is the way they live their life. And that godly example is described by Paul as having six areas of measure.

First, a pastor, leader or person of Christ should be measured "in word." "Word" (Greek logos) can mean words spoken, subject matter, statements, messages, or proclamation. This would include the way a person speaks in terms of whether or not they use foul language or speak in an edifying way (e.g. Eph. 4:29). And it would include whether or not a person is a man or woman of God's word. The first and foremost measure of a minister or man is whether they are a man of the word of God. Everyone is first and foremost measured by their words and the word of God they speak and share.   

Second, a pastor, leader or person of Christ should be measured "in conduct." "Conduct"(Greek anastrophe) refers to manner of living, behavior, lifestyle. We are measured by our Christ likeness (Romans 8:29; 1 Peter 2:21; 1 John 2:6). Are we living a godly lifestyle characterized by living within the parameters of God's word? A person is measured by the degree to which they personally apply the word of God in their life. Is a person only a hearer of the word or are they also a faithful doer of God's word in their life? (cf. James 1;21-25).

Third, a pastor, leader or person of Christ should be measured "in love." "Love" (Greek agape) refers to the sacrificial Christ like love that His disciples are to be known by (John 13:34-35). Such love is a product of being born again by the Spirit (Romans 5:5). Such love is a fruit of the Holy Spirit in a life (Galatians 5:22-24). The greatest measure of a person is the love of Christ in them. The standard of living for God's people is not only to speak and live the truth of God, it is to speak and live that truth in the love of the Spirit (e.g. Ephesians 4:15).

Fourth, a pastor, leader or person of Christ should be measured "in spirit." "Spirit" (Greek pneuma) refers here to whether or not a person is living in the Spirit. Do they have a spirit of the Spirit. Are they living in their own strength; the flesh or are they living in the power of the Holy Spirit (e.g. Zechariah 4:6; Romans 8). If we live or try to minister in our own strength the result is frustration, futility and failure. It is only through the empowering of the Holy Spirit that we can effectively serve Him (Acts 1:8 and its fulfillment in the book of Acts).

Fifth, a pastor, leader or person of Christ should be measured "in faith." "Faith" (Greek pistis) would include whether or not a person has put their faith in Jesus as Savior and whether or not they are walking with Jesus by faith in life (e.g. 2 Cor. 5:7). Timothy would need to be a man of faith, someone who trusted in Jesus when difficulties arose. He would have to be one who exhorted others to live by faith and set the example for them in how that is panned out in life.

Sixth, a pastor, leader or person of Christ should be measured "in purity." "Purity" (Greek hadneia) means literally sinlessness of life, purity. Timothy needed to be a good of example of someone who sought to live a holy life not one of indulging in the things of the world or sinful practices. He was to live unstained from the world and sin as much as he could do so in the power of the Spirit. His ambition and lifestyle would need to set the example in pursuing holiness and refraining from sin and worldliness.

These are the six aspects of an exemplary lifestyle and what should be the measure of one in ministry and really in life. If those in and out of ministry sought to set the example in these six areas the church and the world would be better for it.

¹³ Till I come, give attention to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.

Paul's instruction to Timothy is to "give attention to" (Greek prosecho) or focus on, devote yourself to, follow three things as a minister of God. The first thing is "reading" (Greek anagnosis) which would refer to Timothy's own personal reading as well as perhaps the reading of the word of God in the congregation publically. The word implies a love for reading. In 1 Timothy 3 and the qualification of an bishop as one "able to teach" (3:2) Paul's words to Timothy to be devoted to reading hear emphasizes the importance of one called to ministry being one willing to and even learning a love for reading. There is just no way of getting around the necessity of reading for the one called to pastor the flock of God. Read God's word for yourself and with an eye to share it with others. But read!

The second thing Paul exhorts Timothy to be devoted and give attention to is "exhortation" (Greek paraklesis) which is encouragement, exhortation, comforting others. Timothy as a good minister of God should be one known for and devoted to encouraging people. Do you encourage those around you or do you tear them down with criticism? Those who represent God should be known as encouragers. And they should be known as those who will exhort or encourage people not only to continue but to aspire to be all God would have them to be. Are you only concerned about how you are doing, or do you encourage others to grow in their faith?

The third focus Paul says Timothy should have is in "doctrine" (Greek didaskalia) which refers to instruction, teaching, it would include Timothy's efforts to be a good teacher and to be able to teach the word of God to the flock of God. Timothy was to invest in knowing the truth of doctrine in God's word as well as being able to apply and share with others in life.

¹⁴ Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you by prophecy with the laying on of the hands of the eldership.

Paul reminded Timothy that accompanying his calling was God's gifting. God's callings are always accompanied by His enablings. If God calls you to a task He will equip and empower you to do the task. If you are frustrated and unable to do certain things it is likely evidence that you have misread the calling of God.

Timothy was exhorted by Paul not to "neglect" (Greek amelio) or not care for, disregard, neglect the "gift" (Greek charismatos) or spiritual gift that was in him. The Holy Spirit gives spiritual gifts to believers to serve in the church (Romans 12; 1 Corinthians 12 and 14). He also gives ministry gifts to those called to ministry (Ephesians 4:11-12).  To receive such a gift is not enough, one must cultivate it and tend to it. If you have a spiritual gift of teaching you need to cultivate and work it out in your life and ministry. If you don't use it its likely you will lose it.

The spiritual gifting Timothy had was "given" (Greek edothe Passive tense of didomi) to him. Spiritual gifts are not things or take. Spiritual gifts are given to each person as the Holy Spirit determines (1 Cor. 12:1-11). Spiritual gifts are received by faith and implemented by faith in the empowering of the Holy Spirit.

The means by which Timothy received his spiritual gift was "by prophecy." Prophecy is not only forth telling but also includes speaking edification, exhortation, and comfort (1 Cor. 14:3). We can picture young Timothy being prayed over and someone receiving a prophetic word from the Lord that he was to be a Pastor/Teacher. And such a word would have been administered with words of edification, exhortation and comfort to Timothy. 

Timothy was also one on whom the "laying on of the hands of eldership" was made. The elders would not have laid hands on someone who did not fulfill the qualifications laid out by Paul in this letter. So we can trust Timothy was laid hands upon as a symbol of approval and acceptance in ministry by those who were already in ministry.

Paul reminded Timothy of all this as a way to encourage the young pastor in his calling.

 ¹⁵ Meditate on these things; give yourself entirely to them, that your progress may be evident to all.

Paul then says, "meditate" on what he has said to Timothy. "Meditate" (Greek melatao) means to practice, take care of, think about, mediate on. In other words Paul told Timothy to take what he told him to heart and apply them thoughtfully to his life "that your progress may be evident to all." If Timothy did meditate and think about these things and put them into practice his growth and progress in his walk with the Lord would be evident to all. When God is real in your life it can't be hidden. that is an important truth.

¹⁶ Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you.

 

Again Paul exhorts Timothy to "take heed" (Greek epecho) take hold of, don't let go, retain, apply to life to "yourself and to the doctrine." Timothy should get hold of himself and his walk with the Lord and to his doctrine. For the minister the most important things are their personal spiritual condition and the teaching which they have received and are to pass on to others. There needs to be consistency between what is taught and what is lived in the ministers life.

 

Consistency in the Christian life and ministry is essential. No one should ever put themselves in a position where they need say, "Do as I say not as I do." That is hypocrisy and Paul has already warned against such in the latter times. No, we want to be consistent; we want to practice what we preach. That is so important as one commentary indicates:

            Here is a twofold challenge: "Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine." The Greek   for this clause is literally: "Give attention to yourself and to the teaching." No matter how    correct Timothy's doctrine might be, if there was a flaw in his life, his ministry would be      ineffective.

            Donald Guthrie comments: "The danger of neglecting one's own salvation is greater in      the Christian minister than in others, and even the apostle Paul himself could fear lest he             became a castaway after preaching to others (1 Corinthians 9:27). Calvin suggestively           comments that although salvation is God's gift alone, yet human ministry is needed, as is      here implied" (Tyndale New Testament Commentaries, 14:99). Too often the minister        expends all his energies toward others and neglects his own pursuit of spiritual vitality      and daily communion with God. . . .

            A.M. Stibbs supplies this comment: "Note how the minister not only fulfils his ministry     by what he says (those he serves are described as your hearers), but also necessarily             completes it, or spoils its effectiveness, by how he himself lives" (p. 1173). Often our            character and conduct shout so loudly those listening cannot hear a thing we say. A godly character is a more important possession than great abilities or special talent.[5]

Paul exhorts Timothy to "continue" (Greek epimeno) or persist, persevere, continue in Paul's instructions. "Stay the course and don't give up Timothy!" we can hear Paul say. And if Timothy does this Paul says, "you will save both yourself and those who hear you."  This isn't salvation by works but an exhortation to "work out your salvation with fear and trembling" like Paul made to the Philippians who he also reminded "for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure" (Philippians 2:12-13).

 

In this chapter we have seen what to expect in the latter times as well as the exercise regimen to follow to be ready for what lays ahead. And lastly we have seen the importance of being and setting a good example; to practice what we preach and teach. Now the question to us is, do we see that the latter days are upon us and if so, are we in good spiritual shape to face what lays ahead; are we setting a good example for all? How you answer that question will go a long way in helping you be prepared not only for the future, but for today.

 

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[1] Complete Biblical Library Greek-English Dictionary, The - The Complete Biblical Library Greek-English Dictionary – Alpha-Gamma.

 

[2] Complete Biblical Library Greek-English Dictionary, The - The Complete Biblical Library Greek-English Dictionary – Delta-Epsilon.

 

[3] Complete Biblical Library Commentary - The Complete Biblical Library – Galatians-Philemon.

 

[4] Complete Biblical Library Greek-English Dictionary, The - The Complete Biblical Library Greek-English Dictionary – Alpha-Gamma.

 

[5] Complete Biblical Library Commentary - The Complete Biblical Library – Galatians-Philemon.