1 & 2 Timothy – Be Still…

2 Timothy 3:14-17 – Inspired by God

This is such a great Bible text talking about itself. What a great way to focus on God’s Word, seeing it as the great resource it is for our lives! Who can you thank for introducing you to the Bible? Hopefully, they are a trusted friend who shares your desire to know God more.

The teachers referred to here are those Christian guides who have come alongside us during our lives, pointing toward the truth. For me, I remember many Sunday School teachers who shared Bible stories with the class. I can’t imagine not having them in my life, but I recognize that other people have had entirely different upbringings. I thank God for you, that we are now on the same path toward God. Continue reading “2 Timothy 3:14-17 – Inspired by God”

2 Timothy 3:16-17 – What a Gift!

“All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17)

I always use these verses when I’m teaching children about the beautiful gift we have in the Bible. It’s helpful for all believers to be reminded of the importance of God’s word. It’s not just a book that sits on the shelf. Don’t you love how the Bible points to itself to explain exactly what a treasure we have in our hands?

Context (2 Timothy 3): Paul’s warning to Timothy about the last days is critical to understanding how important the Bible is for our future. Paul knew that standing on the truth of Scripture was going to help Timothy and us stand strong when opposition comes. In the surrounding verses, Paul describes what those end times are going to look like. Arming ourselves with the word of God is not a new concept for Paul. He talked about the armor of God to the Ephesians, and the Bible was the sword of truth, a weapon. Continue reading “2 Timothy 3:16-17 – What a Gift!”

2 Timothy 3:5 – Watch Out!

“They will act religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly. Stay away from people like that!” (2 Timothy 3:5)

There are times when God uses Scripture to educate us. This is one of those times. This world is not without dangers. What a blessing we have these warnings! We may encounter people like this who act religious and all high and mighty. God looks at their hearts, their motivation. So should we.

Context: In this section, Paul warns us about the dangers of the end times. Lately, I’ve heard many people discussing their opinion that we are in the “end times.” As I’ve cautioned before, we have been in the end times since Jesus returned to heaven as we await his return. However, these warnings are not to be ignored. Paul is talking about the regular, everyday kind of people we are likely to encounter. Continue reading “2 Timothy 3:5 – Watch Out!”

1 Timothy 6:17-21 – Guard What God Entrusts

Read 1 Timothy 6:17-21

Paul’s parting words to close out his first letter to Timothy share great wisdom. While he is using the example of a rich person, I realize not everybody has great riches. In fact, there is more poverty in this world than wealth. If you have healthy bank accounts, Paul’s message should surely resonate with you!

Several readings ago, Paul spoke of being careful of the evil money can evoke. It’s not the money that is evil, it can be used for good. So, Paul encourages Timothy, “Tell them to use their money to do good. They should be rich in good works and generous to those in need, always being ready to share with others.” We have all known very generous people, but also seen those who keep all their wealth to themselves.

1 Timothy 6:11-16 – Take Action!

Read 1 Timothy 6:11-16

Paul’s first letter to Timothy has cautioned his young friend about relationships and leadership roles as well as certain things to be careful of in starting a new church. Now Paul encourages action. Our faith needs to move! I love how Paul recognizes Timothy as a man of God. Isn’t that how we’d like to be seen by our mentors and friends?

It would be easy to sit back and reap the benefits of having a relationship with Jesus. But we are called to move as well. Jesus gave us our marching papers when he told us to make disciples!