Elders and Younger Men 1 Timothy 5:1

After giving Timothy, Paul the apostle's young “son in the faith”, instructions concerning “reading, exhortation and doctrine”, Paul told him to “neglect not the gift” that was within him, “meditate upon these things” and “take heed” to himself because “in doing this” he would “both save” himself, “and them that” heard him. As Paul began with the first verse of what we know as the fifth chapter of his letter to Timothy, Paul gave directives concerning specific people within the church. He began with “elder” and “younger men” where we read:

Rebuke not an elder, but intreat him as a father; and the younger men as brethren;

The verse begins, “Rebuke not an elder, but intreat him as a father;” Paul directed Timothy's attention toward men who were older in the church as he wrote, “Rebuke” which means “to strike upon, beat upon or to chastise with words, to chide and upbraid” “not an elder” or “man of age, the older of two people, men more advanced in life, a senior man or forefather” “but” which is the disassociation conjunction that means what is about to be stated takes priority over what was previously said, “intreat him as” which means “call to one's side, call for, summon, beg, beseech, encourage, comfort and strengthen” “a father” or “male ancestor and founder of a family”. Rather than “strike, beat upon or chastise” men who were older than he, Timothy was to “call them” to his side and seek to encourage and comfort them as he would his own father.

The verse continues, “and the younger men as brethren;” Paul went on to add, “and the younger men” who were “those who were more recently born, youthful” and not as old as Timothy “as brethren” or “brothers who were born to the same parents”. These “younger men” tended to be at or younger than Timothy, and when he oversaw them as a pastor, he was to act towards them as though they were his physical brothers.

While we meditate upon Paul's words, let us allow ourselves to consider Pau and inspirationally the “Holy Spirit's” concern over relationships within the church. Often older people resent a younger person giving them instructions and telling them what to do, so Paul directed Timothy in how to manage them. Also, when young people have someone who is the “overseer” within the church who is not much older than they, they too resent being instructed by their comrade. The wisdom in Paul's words transfers to us as well. We are much more effective in the kingdom of God if we “intreat” older men, and we also excel with “younger men” if we do not act superior to them and treat them as equals. Let us allow the Lord to show us at least two things in this verse: Relationships matter, and there is a wise way to manage those relationships with elder and younger men.

Next time Paul shares about “elder” and “younger” women , so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at http://www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Take Heed to Yourself 1 Timothy 4:16

As Paul the apostle continued instructing Timothy his “son in the faith”, he told him not to “neglect” the gift that was in him, and to “meditate upon these things” which included “reading, exhortation and doctrine”. If Timothy was to be an effective pastor and overseer of the church in Ephesus, it was important that he follow Paul's directives. In chapter four and verse sixteen, Paul concluded this chapter of his letter to Timothy by telling him, “Take heed to yourself” where we read:

Take heed unto yourself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them:

for in doing this you shall both save yourself, and them that hear you.

The verse begins, “Take heed unto yourself, and unto the doctrine;” Paul began with the phrase, “Take heed” which means “to have or hold upon, apply, to observe, attend to and check” “unto yourself” or “your own self and that which pertains to you”. Timothy was to “check” himself or “examine” himself “and to unto the doctrine” which means “teachings, instruction and precepts”. If Timothy was to be an effective minister, he needed to begin with looking at himself to be sure he aligned with the teachings he not only knew but also was to keep.

The verse goes on to say, “ continue in them:” Paul went on to add, “continue” which means “to stay at or with, to tarry still, to abide, remain and persevere” “in them” or “in it or the same”. Timothy was not only to recall and recognize the disciplines of himself and the doctrine he kept, but he was also to be sure he consistently remained in the following of them.

Finally the verse says, “for in doing this you shall both save yourself, and them that hear you.” As a final note Paul gave the reason for emphasizing that Timothy keep these things, “for” which means “because, since and on account of” “in doing this” or “making, producing, constructing, forming and fashioning this pattern” “you shall both save” which is the Greek phrase “sozo kai sozo” and means “keep safe and sound, to rescue from danger or destruction also, indeed and even” “yourself” or “your own self and that which pertains to you” “and them that hear you” which refers to those who “attend to, consider, understand and perceive what you have to say”. Timothy was to be an example to others, and the best way to reflect the way they were to live was to live in a godly manner himself.

When we think about Paul's words in this verse, we should be challenged with Timothy to examine our own lives. Do we live according to the “doctrine” we pontificate? Do we “continue in” that which we have previously learned and often reviewed? Have we considered that our attitudes, actions and activities reflect what we truly believe, and others are watching us as we live and speak before them every day? May the Lord put it upon our hearts to “Take heed to” ourselves, and should we find areas that need His help, may we call upon the Lord Jesus for strength and guidance to live before others according to His words.

Next time we begin a new chapter and see what Paul has to say about “elders” and “younger men”, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at http://www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Meditate upon these Things 1 Timothy 4:15

Paul the apostle gave Timothy his “son in the faith” many instructions concerning being the pastor and overseer of the church located in Ephesus. Among these instructions were: “give attendance to reading, to exhortation and to doctrine” and not to “Neglect” “the gift that” was in him, “which was given” to him “by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery”. In chapter four and verse fifteen of his letter to him, Paul told Timothy to “meditate upon these things” where we read:

Meditate upon these things; give yourself wholly to them; that your profiting may appear to all.

The verse begins, “Meditate upon these things; give yourself wholly to them;” Paul began this directive with “Meditate upon” which means “to care for, attend to carefully and practice” and carries the idea of “meditative pondering upon” “these things” which is a reference to the things Paul just wrote to him. Not only was Timothy to “care for” and “ponder” Paul's instructions, but Paul told him to “give yourself” or “fully be persuaded and agreeing with” “wholly to” or “in, by and with” “them”. Paul desired for Timothy not only to know and follow his instructions, but to fully engage them in his entire life.

The verse continues, “that your profiting may appear to all.” Paul went on to add the reason Timothy was to “meditate” and be given “wholly to” these directives, “that your profiting” or “so that your advancement and progress” “may appear” which means “apparent, manifest, evident, known and easily recognized” “to all” which refers to “each, every, any, all, the whole and everyone” both individually and collectively. Since Timothy was young, his maturing in the faith was to be seen and recognized by anyone he was around. His maturity was to be gained by “meditating” upon and giving himself “wholly” to the instructions of Paul.

While we “meditate” upon the words of Paul, let us examine our own lives and discover whether we take the time to “care for, attend to carefully and practice” the word of God. Do we read God's word effortlessly and so nonchalantly that we have forgotten what we read by the end of a chapter? There is great benefit for us personally when we allow God's word to penetrate our minds and think upon it over and over again, and our maturity in the faith will be demonstrated to others as they watch us. For a moment, let us allow ourselves to be in the place of Timothy, and be instructed by Paul the apostle and the Holy Spirit of God to “care for, practice and meditatively ponder” what His word has to say to us today.

Next time Paul tells Timothy to “take heed to” himself, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at http://www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Neglect Not the Gift 1 Timothy 4:14

Paul the apostle desired for Timothy his “son in the faith” to be fully equipped to be the pastor and overseer of the church located in Ephesus. Part of his equipping was that he “give attendance to reading, exhortation and doctrine”. In chapter four and verse fourteen of his letter, Paul told Timothy to “neglect not the gift that is in you” where we read:

Neglect not the gift that is in you, which was given to you by prophecy,

with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery.

The verse begins, “Neglect not the gift that is in you, which was given to you by prophecy,...” As Paul continued his exhortation to Timothy, he told him, “Neglect not” or “do not make light of, be careless with or negligent toward” “the gift” which is the Greek word “charisma” and means “a favor with which one receives without any merit of his own, the gift of divine grace, the gift of faith, knowledge, holiness and virtue” “that is in you” or “by, with, among and through you”. Paul continued, “which was given” or “bestowed, granted, supplied and furnished” “to you by prophecy” which means “a discourse emanating from divine inspiration and declaring the purposes of God, whether by reproving and admonishing the wicked, or comforting the afflicted, or revealing things hidden”. Paul knew there was a gift within Timothy to share “Divine” purposes of God, and he did not want Timothy to take lightly the “charisma” which was within him.

The verse continues, “...with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery.” After instructing Timothy not to neglect his gift, Paul continues with how his gift was received, “with the laying on” or “after the imposition” “of the hands” which literally means “by the help or agency of any one or by means of any one” and refers to literally the putting and placing of hands upon another person to transfer the “might, activity and power of God” “of the presbytery” which is the Greek word “presbyterion” from which we get the English word “Presbyterian” and refers to “body of elders, presbytery, senate, council of the Jewish elders and the elders of any body (assembly) of Christians”. In other words, the elders who were over Timothy laid their hands upon him and in a sense transferred to him the gift or “charisma” that was within him.

While we meditate upon these words from Paul, we may wonder why Timothy would be inclined to “neglect” his gift in the first place. Paul obviously felt it necessary to encourage and remind Timothy concerning his gift and even have him recall where he received it in the first place. Perhaps we have some “gift” or “charisma” the Lord Jesus has given to us, and we need to be reminded of when and by whom that gift was given. Let us allow Paul's challenge to Timothy be ours as well that we not “neglect” our “gift” or “charisma” which the Lord has given to us to use in His kingdom.Let us pray, “Lord Jesus, we make ourselves available for your use, and help us not to make light of the “gifts” you have given to us”.

Next time Paul tells Timothy to “meditate upon these things”, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at http://www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Reading, Exhortation and Doctrine 1 Timothy 4:13

As Paul the apostle continued conveying his instructions to Timothy concerning the church in Ephesus, he told him not to “Let no man despise” his “youth; but” to “be an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.” In chapter four and verse thirteen of his letter to him, Paul gave Timothy three areas in which he should concentrate: “Reading, Exhortation” and “Doctrine” where we read:

Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.

The verse begins, “Till I come, give attendance to reading,...” Let us notice first Paul's optimism of coming to visit Timothy, “Till I come” or “until I make my appearance before you” “give attendance” which literally means “to bring to or bring near” and implies “turning the mind toward, giving heed to and applying one's self “to reading” which in Greek is the word “anagnōsis” from which we get the English word “agony” and means “knowing and knowing again or owning”. Paul knew it was important that Timothy be well read and take ownership of the scriptures if he was going to be a good minister to the people there in Ephesus.

The verse goes on to say, “...to exhortation, to doctrine.” Paul added, “to exhortation” which is a “a calling near, summons especially for help”. It is “importation, supplication, entreaty, admonition, encouragement, consolation, comfort, solace and that which affords comfort or refreshment”. If Timothy was to be the pastor and overseer of the church in Ephesus, it was necessary that he be “persuasive in discourse, stirring in his addresses, and instructive, admonitory, conciliatory and powerful in his hortatory discourse”. Paul also wrote, “to doctrine” which is “teaching and instructing in Biblical precepts”. One of the primary responsibilities for Timothy was to teach and instruct the church members in the word of God and the manner of living that corresponds to it.

As we think through these directives from Paul, we may ask ourselves if they are prominent within our own lives. Do we read, exhort and apply ourselves to the “doctrine” found within the scriptures? Are we so focused upon other things that we have little or no time for the word of God? It is one thing to require these three dictums from pastors and teachers and quite another to expect them from ourselves. Perhaps as we meditate upon these things, the Lord will speak to our hearts to attend to “reading, exhortation and doctrine”, and when those who do not know Jesus Christ as their Savior look upon and listen to us, they will find that we are thoroughly filled with the word of God.

Next time Paul tells Timothy not to “neglect the gift that is” in him, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at http://www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

An Example of the Believers 1 Timothy 4:12

Paul the apostle's desire for Timothy his “son in the faith” was that he be “nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine” that he might be a “good minister of Jesus Christ”. Timothy was to “refuse profane and old wives' fables” and rather “exercise” himself “unto godliness”. Paul told Timothy that doing so was “a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptation”, and it was for that reason he and others “labored and suffered reproach” because Jesus Christ is “the Savior of all men, especially of those that believe”. In chapter four and verse twelve of his letter to Timothy, Paul shares the importance of being “an example of the believers” where we read:

Let no man despise your youth; but be an example of the believers,

in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.

The verse begins, “Let no man despise your youth; but be an example of the believers,...” Paul began this verse with the word “Let” which means “allow, permit or give permission to” “no man” which is also included in the Greek phrase “kataphroneō medies kataphroneō which means “do not allow anyone to contemn, despise, disdain, think little or nothing of” “your youth” or “youthful age”. Paul continued, “But” which is the disassociation conjunction meaning what is about to be stated takes precedence over what was previously said, “be” or “become, to come into existence, begin to be, receive being, come upon the stage, of men appearing in public and to be made and finished” “an example” which literally means “the mark of a stroke or blow, a print or a figure formed by a blow or impression” and carries the idea of “pattern in conformity to which a thing must be made” “of the believers” or “believing, confiding and trusting people who are convinced that Jesus has been raised from the dead and is the Messiah and author of salvation”. Timothy was to live his life in such a manner that people would desire to “imitate” him as he followed after Christ.

The verse continues, “...in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.” After giving Timothy the instruction to be “an example of the believer”, Paul listed six ways he was to fulfill this charge. Paul told him, “in word” or “what he said and the doctrine and teachings he promoted”; “in conversation” or in his “manner of life, conduct, behavior and deportment”; “in charity” which is the Greek word “agape” and means “affection, good will, love, benevolence, brotherly love and is an unconditional love”; “in spirit” which literally is “the vital principal by which the body is animated” and refers to “the soul or the disposition or influence which fills and governs the soul of any one”; “in faith” or “conviction of the truth of anything and in particular the conviction that God exists and is the creator and ruler of all things, the provider and bestower of eternal salvation through Christ”; and finally “in purity” which means “sinlessness of life”. Timothy was not to simply acknowledge the idea of being “an example of the believer” but was to live his life in such a manner that everyone around him would know in every area of his life he had committed himself to God Almighty the one and true God, and Jesus Christ His Son.

While we think about these words from Paul, perhaps we have been challenged in our walk with the Lord. If someone were to examine our lives would they find us fulfilling the six areas Paul mentioned?

Paul knew there was a tendency to disdain and treat with contempt someone who was younger in age who was a pastor, so he instructed Timothy how to avoid it and guided him to being “an example” of how to live. We can also examine ourselves and discover whether we are living as a “stamp or impression” that others would desire to follow, and should we find ourselves lacking in any area, may the Lord Jesus attend to weaknesses and help us to be more like Him.

Next time Paul tells Timothy what to pay attention to before he comes, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at http://www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Command and Teach 1 Timothy 4:11

Paul the apostle told Timothy that he labored and suffered “reproach”, “because” he trusted “in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, specially of those that believe”. “Godliness” rather than “profane and old wives fables” was to be promoted among the church in Ephesus by Timothy who was the pastor of the church there. In chapter four and verse eleven of his letter to Timothy, Paul directed tells Timothy to “command and teach” these things where we read:

These things command and teach.

The verse begins, “These things command...” Paul is brief and direct as he wrote, “These things” which are “the same or as directed” “command” which means “to transmit a message along from one to another, to declare, announce, order and charge”. Timothy was to not only examine himself with the idea of “Godliness”, but he was also to declare “Godliness” to those within the church.

The verse continues, “...and teach.” In addition to commanding the truth of “Godliness”, Paul added, “and teach” which means “to hold discourse with others in order to instruct them, deliver didactic discourses, to impart instruction, instill doctrine into one, the thing taught or enjoined, and to explain or expound a thing”. Timothy was to not only “command” the things of “Godliness”, but he was also give instructions and explain what “Godliness” is and looks like.

As we ponder these two short directives from Paul, we may be inclined to think this was only for Timothy because he was to be the pastor of the church in Ephesus. However, when we think about them for a while, we might see ourselves instructed by Paul as well. Could we “command and teach” “Godliness” to others? Have we examined ourselves enough to understand the importance of “Godliness” in our own lives in order to know what to “teach” others about it? Though we may or may not be a “pastor” who is to oversee a group of people, “Godliness” is important because it is very simply put “being like God”. Rather than following the “profane” words and ideas of men, let us follow after “Godliness” in such a manner that others will not only hear us “command and teach” it, but observe it being demonstrated in our lives.

Next time Paul tells Timothy to not allow anyone to “despise” his “youth”, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at http://www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Savior of All Men 1 Timothy 4:10

As Paul continued his instructions to Timothy concerning the church in Ephesus where Timothy would be the pastor and overseer, he told him it is “a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptation” because “godliness is profitable unto all things” and it has the “promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come.” In chapter four and verse ten of his letter to Timothy, Paul shares that this is the reason for his laboring and suffering “reproach” because he trusts “in the living God” whom he calls “the Savior of all men” where we read:

For therefore we both labour and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, specially of those that believe.

The verse begins, “For therefore we both labour and suffer reproach,...” Paul began this verse with the word “For” which means “because, since or on account of” “therefore” or “into, unto, to, towards and among” “we both labor” which is the Greek phrase “kopiaō kai kopiaō” and means “to grow weary, tired, exhausted and toil with burdens and griefs” “and suffer reproach” or “reviling, upbraiding and undeserved casting into one's teeth”. The cause for which Paul grew exhausted and toiled with burdens and griefs as well as being reviled and upbraided was the truth of the good doctrine of the salvation of man through Jesus Christ. As he made this stand, those promoting their “profane and old wives' fables” would often be against him.

The verse goes on to say, “...because we trust in the living God,...” The reason Paul could suffer so much and labor as he did was “because we trust” which means “since he hoped and waited for salvation with joy and full confidence” “in the living God” or the “not lifeless, not dead, enjoying real life, having true life and worthy of the name, active, blessed and endless God who reigns and rules in His kingdom.” Paul's confidence and trust within “the living God” allowed him to continue sharing the gospel no matter what adverse consequences he suffered from them.

Finally the verse says, “...who is the Savior of all men, specially of those that believe.” As a final note to this verse, Paul added, “who is the Savior” or “deliverer and preserver” “of all men” which includes “each, every, any, all, the whole and everyone whether male or female”. Jesus Christ was sent to the world as “Savior” or deliverer and preserver of every person, and Paul adds a special qualifier, “specially” or “chiefly, most of all and above all” “of those that believe” which refers to “of persons who show themselves faithful in the transaction of business, the execution of commands or the discharge of official duties.” These people are “worthy of trust and can be relied upon” when it comes to their total commitment to Jesus. In other words, Jesus Christ came in a general sense as “Savior of all men”, however, to those who fully trust in, rely upon and cling to Him, He is their “Savior” in a personal way.

As we think upon Paul's words, it is important that we realize the difference between Jesus being known in title as “Savior of all men” and having a personal relationship with Him. He is the “Savior of all men” whether people believe in Him or not. In other words, whether people do or do not believe in Him doesn't change His position and title. The difference in a personal relationship with Jesus Christ is whether a person believes in Him or not. This belief is more than mental assent and intellectual postulating. It is a belief which trusts in, relies upon and clings to Jesus in such a manner that it is faithful in the transactions of business and commands of Jesus' kingdom. Let us be sure to understand, God the Father would have everyone, everywhere believe and trust in His Son Jesus Christ as their Savior, however, some do not, and therefore they have not applied the provision for their salvation by God. Those who believe however, have the personal realization that Jesus Christ not only desires to be man's Savior, but also to be his Lord.

Next time Paul tells Timothy to “command and teach” these things, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at http://www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

A Faithful Saying 1 Timothy 4:9

Paul the apostle knew false teachings and heresies would be promoted among the church members in Ephesus. He warned Timothy his “son in the faith” who was to be pastor and overseer of the church there of their presence, and told him to “refuse profane and old wives' fables” and to “exercise” himself “rather unto godliness”. Paul said, “bodily exercise profits little: but godliness is profitable unto all things” because he knew that “godliness” would not only benefit the “promise of the life that now is”, but also “of that which is to come”. In chapter four and verse nine of his letter, Paul confirms his statement by declaring it to be “faithful” were we read:

This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptation.

The verse begins, “This is a faithful saying...”. Paul confirms and validates his previous statement by declaring, “This is a faithful” which means “reliable, trustworthy, certain and true” “saying” or “uttering, discourse or speech”. As though he needed to emphasize his point a second time to Timothy, Paul declared his conclusion concerning “godliness” to be certain, true and worthy of trust.

The verse goes on to say, “... and worthy of all acceptation.” Paul added to the confirmation of his statement concerning “godliness” by adding, “and worthy” which means “weighing, having weight, having the weight of another thing of like value, worth as much, befitting, congruous and corresponding to a thing” “of all” which refers to “each, every, any, all, the whole, everyone, all things and everything both individually and collectively” “acceptation” or “reception, admission, acceptance and approbation”. According to Paul, everyone, everywhere would benefit from receiving, admitting, accepting and appropriating “godliness” into their lives.

While we meditate upon Paul's words, can we declare that we have “godliness” or “being like God” as a major component of our lives? Do we count “godliness” as being “profitable” in this life, and do we think about the benefits of it in “the life to come”? Perhaps our thoughts and prayers today should be upon the idea of having “godliness” such an integral part of our being that we too are able to declare unto others the faithfulness and worthiness of the “saying” Paul wrote to Timothy. May the Lord Jesus help us to be “godly” in this world, and may we find the idea of “godliness” both faithful and worthy in our lives every day.

Next time Paul shares concerning those of whom the Lord is the Savior, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at http://www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Bodily Exercise and Godliness 1 Timothy 4:8

As Paul the apostle is giving instructions to Timothy, his “son in the faith”, he told him to remind the church members in Ephesus of “the words of faith and of good doctrine” which he had “attained”. Paul instructed him to “refuse profane and old wives' fables”, and that he should “exercise” himself “rather unto godliness”. In chapter four and verse eight of his letter to Timothy, Paul continued the idea of “exercise” as he shared with Timothy the benefits of both “bodily exercise” and “godliness” where we read:

For bodily exercise profits little: but godliness is profitable unto all things,

having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come.

The verse begins, “For bodily exercise profits little: but godliness is profitable unto all things,...” Paul began with the word, “For” which means “because, indeed, no doubt or seeing” “bodily” or “pertaining to the body” “exercise” which is the Greek word “gymnasia” and means “the training of the body whether through physical exertion or restraint” “profits little” or “has a small, tiny, light or slight benefit, advantage or payment”. In other words, there is a small advantage or benefit to exercising the physical body, “but” which is the disassociation conjunction that means what is about to be stated takes precedence over what was previously shared, “godliness” which is “reverence, respect and piety towards God” “is profitable” or “helpful, serviceable and advantageous” “unto all things” which means “each, every and all things both individually and collectively”. “Godliness” supersedes and trumps any exercising of the physical body we may do because it applies to every area of our lives rather than just physical ones.

The verse continues, “...having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come.” Paul went on to add, “having promise” or “holding on and possessing an announcement or declaration” “of the life” which refers to “life real and genuine, active and vigorous, devoted to God, blessed, in the portion even in this world of those who put their trust in Christ, but after the resurrection to be consummated by new accessions” “that now is” or “at this present time” “and of that which is to come” which refers to the life “that is about to be, intended and in mind”. “Godliness” not only benefits us in the life which we are living now, but it will be our great advantage in the life that is planned and intended for us as well.

As we take the time to think about Paul's words, let us realize the value he placed on being “godly” or “reverent, respectful and pious towards God”. We may be inclined to “exercise” our physical bodies, but do we ever think about taking our “godliness” to the gym? “Godliness” is basically “being like God”, and each of us have the ability to examine ourselves in the mirror of His word to determine whether we need a little exercise or not. While we meditate upon the idea of “godliness”, let us allow the Lord Jesus to reveal through His Holy Spirit any areas in our “godly” lives that need some “exercise”, and as He exposes our weaknesses, may we be found strong in our relationship with Him.

Next time Paul talks about a “faithful saying”, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at http://www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Godliness verses Profane and Old Wives' Fables 1 Timothy 4:7

As Paul the apostle continued to instruct his young protege' Timothy concerning overseeing the church in Ephesus, he told him, “If you put the brethren in remembrance of these things, you shall be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto you have attained”. Paul knew the importance of sharing the truth with the church members because false teachers and doctrine were going to manifest themselves within the church. In chapter four and verse seven of his letter to Timothy, Paul tells Timothy to “refuse profane and old wives fables” and to “exercise” himself to “godliness” where we read:

But refuse profane and old wives' fables, and exercise yourself rather unto godliness.

The verse begins, “But refuse profane and old wives' fables,...” Paul began this verse with the word, “But” which is a disassociation conjunction that means what is about to be stated takes precedence over what was previously stated. In this case Paul is referring to putting the “brethren in remembrance” of the ideas of truth, and he adds, “refuse” or “avert by entreaty or deprecate” “profane” which means “unhallowed, common and ungodly” “and old wives'” or “old womanish” “fables” which is the Greek word “mythos” and means “narratives, stories, fictions, inventions and falsehoods”. Timothy was to avoid and avert aligning himself with “old wives' tales” and continue in the truth.

The verse continues, “...and exercise yourself rather unto godliness.” Paul continued, “and exercise” which is the Greek word “gymnazo” and means “to work out vigorously, in any way, either the body or the mind; to train” “yourself” or “your own self” “rather unto” which means “to the advantage of, at, near, by, to, towards, with and with regard to” “godliness” which is “reverence, respect and piety towards God”. Rather than involve himself in “profane and old wive's” tales, Timothy was to train himself in “reverence, respect and piety” for the things of God.

When we meditate upon Paul's words, we can see the strong advantage of aligning with these words. “Ungodly and common wives' tales” have been around for millenniums, and accepting them is quite common behavior among people. Timothy was to “refuse” or “avert” these “fables” and train himself to pay attention to “godliness”. We too can benefit by rejecting the profane “fables” pontificated by others as though it is the truth, and “exercise” ourselves in “Godly” things. Perhaps we would be best served by going to the “gym of godliness”, “exercise” our spirits in the things of Jesus Christ, and allow all those who follow after “profane and old wives' fables” to keep their stories to themselves.

Next time Paul shares about “bodily exercise” and “godliness”, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at http://www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

A Good Minister of Jesus Christ 1 Timothy 4:6

After dealing with the idea that “in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;” who would bring in such heresy and lies such as “forbidding to marry” and “to abstain from meats” which were created by God and not to be refused if “it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer”, Paul went on to write to Timothy his “son in the faith” concerning being “a good minister of Jesus Christ”. We read Paul's words in chapter four and verse six of his letter to Timothy:

If you put the brethren in remembrance of these things, you shall be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto you have attained.

The verse begins, “If you put the brethren in remembrance of these things, you shall be a good minister of Jesus Christ,...” Let us notice the conditional word “If” which begins this Greek phrase “hypotithēmi adelphos hypotithēmi” that is interpreted “you put the brethren in remembrance” which means “to place underneath or supply brothers and fellow man with these instructions” “of these things” or “these words”. Should Timothy remind the brothers and sisters within the church in Ephesus of these words, Paul proclaimed “you shall be” or “it shall follow and come to pass” “a good” which means “beautiful, handsome, excellent, eminent, choice, surpassing, precious, useful, suitable, commendable and admirable” “minister” or “one who executes the commands of another especially of a master or one who is a servant and attendant like unto a waiter”. Timothy would be a good “servant” “of Jesus Christ” whose name and title means “Jehovah is Salvation the anointed Messiah”. As Timothy reminded the brethren within the church of the doctrines of Jesus Christ, he would be serving Jesus in a good, beautiful, commendable and admirable manner.

The verse goes on to say, “...nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine,...” Paul added that Timothy's words would make the people “nourished up” which literally means “to fill or feed” and metaphorically means “to educate or form in the mind” “in the words” or “speech, discourse, doctrine and teaching” “of faith” or “conviction that God exists and is the creator and ruler of all things and the provider and bestower of eternal salvation through Christ Jesus who is the Messiah” “and of good” or “beautiful, handsome, excellent, eminent, choice, surpassing, precious, useful, suitable, commendable and admirable” “doctrine” which means “teaching and instruction”. When Timothy reminded the brethren in Ephesus of the instructions of Paul, he would be feeding them with surpassing faith and precious doctrine of Jesus Christ.

Finally the verse says, “...whereunto you have attained.” As an admirable footnote and encouragement to Timothy, Paul added, “whereunto” which means “which or that” “you have attained” or “followed closely, accompanied, fully known and have understanding towards”. In other words, the doctrine and teachings of which Timothy was to remind others were those which he had fully known and understood himself.

When we ponder Paul's words to Timothy, we should put ourselves in Timothy's place. If Paul were writing these things to us, which in effect he is, would we be found to be “a good minister” to others? Have we followed after and understood the teachings and doctrines of Christ that others would deem us “good servants of Jesus Christ” for not only sharing these doctrines but living according to them as well? Perhaps we are new in the faith, and the teachings of Jesus are unfamiliar to us. If so, let this be an encouragement to discover more of His truths, and if we are well seasoned in the Lord Jesus' words, let us examine ourselves to be sure we are teaching and demonstrating them as “good ministers” before others. May the Lord help us in our service and ministering to Him is our prayer.

Next time Paul tells Timothy to refuse “profane and old wives' fables”, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at http://www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.