Day 339

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Scripture

December 4—1 Timothy 4-6: Leaders of the Body of Christ

Observation

In addition to the conduct of the church, Paul talks pointedly to Timothy about the conduct of the church pastor. Timothy must be on guard lest his youthfulness become a liability rather than an asset to the gospel. He must be careful to avoid false teachers and greedy motives, pursuing instead righteousness and godliness. Paul's "forecast for the future" is sobering: Things will go from bad to worse! But for the man of God, there is strength to "fight on for God" (6:12) and emerge victorious, despite the ever-present inner adversaries of pride, greed and indifference.

Application

Read the following quotation by a commentator slowly and thoughtfully twice: "One of the values of Scripture is that it has an answer to every human problem, of whatever kind, era, dimension or significance." Do you agree?

It is true that not all the church problems of the first century are identical to the problems of the church in the twenty-first century. But even though the problems change, God's principles stand sure—timeless statements of biblical truth that are just as applicable today as they were in Timothy's day nearly two thousand years ago!

Prove that to yourself. What Biblical insight have you gained from today's reading about . . .
. . . the church's obligation to needy members?
. . . how to call a pastor?
. . . how to respond as a Christian employee?
. . . the proper conduct of women?
. . . the attitude you should have toward money?

Prayer

Father God, thank you for the great privilege of prayer. We pray for our church, our pastor and all the leaders of the church that they heed to your instructions according to your Word. But we also know that as Christians it is our duty to also pray for unbelievers to seek you while you may be found and while you are near for you will have mercy on them and freely pardon their sins. We want to always live according to your Word amongst the saints as well as unbelievers and by doing so we know that we are welcome to approach the throne of grace with all our wants and needs; with all our sins and burdens. Thank you for your mercy and grace. In Jesus' name we pray! Amen! 






© Odessa Mathis about my Father's business! 2020

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