SOUL FOOD

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A Ministry of Timonium Presbyterian Church, www.timpca.org

SOUL FOOD APRIL 12, 2017

I TIMOTHY 1:3-7

THE GOAL OF BIBLICAL TEACHING

Ideas have consequences. If we believe things that are false they will have a direct effect upon our hearts, minds, and lives. So, it is imperative that we walk in line with the truth. Paul instructs Timothy in this passage to deal with false teaching that was having a very negative spiritual effect upon the followers of Christ. Look at how Paul describes the effects of the false teaching. He uses such words as "speculations, vain discussion, without understanding," to describe the nature of what was being said by these false teachers. In contrast, what are the effects of believing and walking in the truth? Paul uses such words as "stewardship, love, pure heart, good conscience, sincere faith," to describe the effects of biblical, doctrinal teaching. It is essential that we do not allow ourselves to be sidetracked by speculations. Speculations are rooted in presumption, which leads to strife. We are not called to speculate; we are called to believe. We must not waste our time in vain discussions, which are focused on talking about things that really don't matter. One vain discussion we should refrain from is speculating about the return of Christ in terms of the timing of it. It naturally follows that such things cannot lead to wisdom or understanding. As followers of Christ we have been entrusted with a treasure to which we are to exhibit faithfulness as good stewards and guardians. We must treat God's truth as precious and eternally valuable. We must also focus on the true goal of biblical knowledge and instruction. The goal is LOVE. If our study of God's Word does not result in a deeper love for God and our neighbors then we are on the wrong path. In John 5 Jesus confronted some searchers of Scripture that they did not have the love of God within them because they did not come to him. Such mere accumulation of knowledge puffs up while love truly edifices. Lastly, Paul powerfully relates the truth that God's Word, through the ministry of the Holy Spirit, penetrates to our very consciences, to our hearts, and leads to a faith that is sincere, without guile. In contrast, all other supposed sources of truth lead to arrogance, pride, and darkened minds. Praise God for the light of His Word!