It seems to me Chapter 3 ends abruptly and flows nicely into Chapter 4, so let’s reflect on the overlapped passages. This happens frequently in the Bible where a thought continues from one chapter to the next. The chapter divisions commonly used today were developed by Stephen Langton, an Archbishop of Canterbury in the 1200s. But let’s set that observation aside, there are much greater insights to explore here today.
The last couple of days we’ve been looking at the conduct Paul was prescribing for leaders and deacons. Today it encompasses everyone. That is, “how people” must conduct themselves. It is the responsibility of the church then to nurture and feed the people with truth, self-discipline to resist evil, and education to know right from wrong.
This passage goes on to further warn us of false teachers and to be careful what we believe. My heart is overcome by these words cautioning us to stay true. It always strikes me how words written centuries ago can still hold so much truth and power today.
Our society is riddled with false teacher, wouldn’t you agree? What comes to mind when you think on this? Where do you see the biggest influence of untruth and diversion from Scripture?
What scares me is our society’s lack of a moral compass to help us know right from wrong. The evil one is crafty and continues to disillusion us into stepping away from our faith. For those who never had a faith or trust in Jesus in the first place, the wedge is driven deeper.
Does this passage frighten you? Does this passage ignite a passion in you to make a difference? For me, it’s a little of both.
Let’s pray. Lord I seek to have Jesus as the center of my life. May I cling to your truth and promise to be with me forever. Help me to see right from wrong and not be swayed by the evil one’s tactics. Protect those I love from the same dangers that surround us. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
