Words To Live By

(8-28-05)

1Tim.4:1-16

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In this chapter Paul is about as pointed and intense in giving directives to Timothy as it gets:

• "If you point these things out…" (Verse 6)
• "Have nothing to do with…" (Verse 7)
• "This is a trustworthy saying that…" (Verse 9)
• "Command and teach these things.." (Verse 11)
• "Do not let anyone look down on.." (Verse 12)
• "..set an example for…" (Verse 12)
• "…devote yourself to…" (Verse 13)
• "Do not neglect the.." (Verse 14)
• "Be diligent in…" (Verse 15)
• "..Give yourself wholly to.." (Verse 15"
• "Watch your life and doctrine closely." (Verse 16)
• "Persevere in them, because…" (Verse 16)

What we have here is an awesome example of Christian conduct portrayed for us in the life of Timothy. From Paul’s words we gain a picture of what Timothy was raised to trust and believe in. The foundational life training we give our children and grand children (all children that we have opportunity to instruct) is so important.

We can see that the origin of bad information is deceiving spirits and demons and from them filters down through the deceived. Paul’s solution is the truth of God’s word sets the standard for faith and practice. If we are ignorant of the content of God’s word what can we expect to gain from its existence?

God designed marriage and it is good. The family unit is the foundation of society. (any and all) Many want to use this passage against the Roman Catholic Church and its forbidding their priests to be married and it likely does include that but I think it points more strongly towards the teachings of more recent years that say the divorced are not aloud to ever marry again. This fits better as a doctrine who’s source is from demonic in these later times.

The key to healthy eating is – "with thanks giving" and "consecrated by the word of God and prayer." What God has declared fit is fit, what He has declared wholesome is wholesome, what He has spoken of as clean is clean and therefore consecrated. In Prayer the food is recognized as good and God is duly praised for His gift and mercies and blessings and graciously thanked for the bounty of.

Many good intentions have ruined countless lives because the teachings were tainted from the source. Paul says to avoid godless (profane) myths and old wives tales [profane - 1Tim.1:9, 6:20; 2Tim.2:16; Heb.12:16] Don’t pay them any attention, refuse to let them have a place in your mind and actions and teachings.

What is the trust worthy saying that deserves full acceptance? ⁸ For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. Dieting may have its usage, exercise may give some sought after result but neither is a substitute of any real value for godliness. Solomon is right in saying that extremes should be avoided. Paul also speaks of moderation in all things. (Ecle.7:15-18; Gal.5:22-26) [self-control]