“Willing to Share” (1 Tim 6:17-19)

We're to share what God gives us for the cause of Christ and glory of God:

“Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. Let them do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share, storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.” (1 Tim 6:17-19)

God is gracious and has given to you. So give to others from knowledge. Share with them because salvation is God's GIFT to you. Share because of thanksgiving and love at the grace of God.

The gospel is pure grace. It produces GRACIOUSNESS by REMINDING us of the gifts we freely receive as sinners, often. We are showered with grace, pardoned miraculously, and strengthened while others fall around us. Ps 91:7 says, “A thousand shall fall at your side, and ten thousand at your right hand; but it shall not come near you”. 1 Tim 6:8-10 says, “And having food and raiment, we will be therewith contented. But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have been seduced from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows”. It is GRACE alone that keeps us and has made us choice servants of God.

The gospel isn't an inferior motive than law; it is THE power of God to good works. Here, the rich are to GIVE and share, not being proud but useful (1 Tim 6:17).

He says, secondly, “That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share”, so that good works are mandatory, wise, and joyful to believers (vs18). To be GODLY isn't a task of burden; it is a highway of joy empowering you by the continued and eternal favor of Christ in the gospel. We are rich, so we are wise to secure ourselves the enjoyment of these riches by honoring and devoting ourselves to Christ. His cause, the gospel – (vs11-16) “(vs11-16) “But you, O man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness.   Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.  I urge you in the sight of God who gives life to all things, and before Christ Jesus who witnessed the good confession before Pontius Pilate,   that you keep this commandment without spot, blameless until our Lord Jesus Christ’s appearing,   which He will manifest in His own time, He who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings and Lord of lords,   who alone has immortality, dwelling in unapproachable light, whom no man has seen or can see, to whom be honor and everlasting power”!

We are sharing with others what God gave us, nothing more. We are honored to be able to give, as executors and managers of the Lord's money.

Thirdly, this wisdom of life PREPARES you to meet God - “storing up for themselves the treasure of a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is life indeed” (vs19). Lay hold on the riches of Christ and use your life for Him, and you'll gain EVERYTHING the world will envy forever (1 Tim 6:20-21).

"SHIPWRECK" (copied)

Some have strayed concerning the faith. - 1Timothy 6:21

In the early part of this century, an American ship was wrecked off the Scilly Isles near the coast of England. The sea had been calm and the weather clear, but the vessel was caught in a treacherous current that slowly lured it off its course. Before the captain and the crew realized what had happened, the ship had crashed into the rocks.

In life too, powerful currents of compromise can catch the soul and carry it to shipwreck. Spiritual drifting is usually a slow and imperceptible process. We know it has occurred when we have lost the strong resistance to evil and the passionate desire for truth that we once knew.

The apostle Paul wanted to make sure this wouldn't happen to those to whom Timothy ministered. He encouraged him to be faithful in telling others what they needed to know so they wouldn't stray from their devotion to Christ and cause their faith to be shipwrecked.

In our day, for every professing believer who is lost to the Christian cause by a savage assault of evil, a hundred more slowly drift away from God's truth, regular worship, and a life of faith.

We must give careful attention to what we know about Christ so that we don't get caught in a drift. - HWR

Lord, help us from Your blessed Word
All error to discern,
And by Your Spirit's truth and light
From satan's snares to turn. - Henry G. Bosch

“Withdraw Yourself” (1 Tim 5:17-6:7)

“If anyone teaches otherwise and does not consent to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which accords with godliness... who suppose that godliness is a means of gain. From such withdraw yourself.” (1 Tim 6:3-5).

Withdraw from every false prophet who doesn't preach godliness from a sincere heart. If he uses the bible to self-promote, get money, or is unfaithful to God's grace, then reject and stay away from him, lest you fall into the same pit.

The gospel is SERIOUS business. It is not something where we go by how we feel or what we think, but we SCRUPULOUSLY and devotedly follow the Son, as is.

If the pastor is faithful, then he is to be paid and honored for his service, even as the laboring ox that pulls the cart is allowed to eat of the grain while working. We support these faithful men, receive not accusations against them, and we OPENLY reprove those who won't repent, so that others may fear - (1 Tim 5:17-22) “Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in the word and doctrine. For the Scripture says, 'You shall not muzzle an ox while it treads out the grain," and, "The laborer is worthy of his wages.' Do not receive an accusation against an elder except from two or three witnesses. Those who are sinning rebuke in the presence of all, that the rest also may fear. I charge you before God and the Lord Jesus Christ and the elect angels that you observe these things without prejudice, doing nothing with partiality. Do not lay hands on anyone hastily, nor share in other people’s sins; keep yourself pure.”

All men are not called to the pastorate, and there are clear qualifications for those who are. You and I are not to ordain or call men who haven't been proved, who haven't shown their devotion to Christ. We are to wait to see if good or bad works adorn them, and we're to act upon such. We cannot see everything, but as far as we can, judge righteously, refusing the self-serving and receiving God sent men who labor for the glory of God in thankfulness to Christ and not to take or acquire gain from men - (1 Tim 5:23-25) “Drink no longer water, but use a little wine for thy stomach’s sake and thine often infirmities. Some men’s sins are open beforehand, going before to judgment; and some men they follow after. Likewise also the good works of some are manifest beforehand; and they that are otherwise cannot be hid”.

If you're a servant, then serve the boss wholeheartedly, doing him good. If he is a believer, then he benefits from your labors as one loved of God - “Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honor, so that the name of God and His doctrine may not be blasphemed” (1 Tim 6:1-2).

But, anyone who denies godliness, who doesn't teach you how to follow Christ unto good works, is to be shunned and rejected. The gospel is a lifestyle, and all who refuse to honor Christ in conduct are lost. All who appear holy but do so to please men, earn favor, and fatten their bellies are FALSE prophets and not to be heard, supported, or helped in any spiritual way - (1 Tim 6:4-5)“he is proud, knowing nothing, but is obsessed with disputes and arguments over words, from which come envy, strife, reviling, evil suspicions, useless wranglings of men of corrupt minds and destitute of the truth, who suppose that godliness is a means of gain. From such withdraw yourself.”

Choose which team you're on. Christ's team will fare well at the Judgment, and He will say, “Well done, you good and faithful servant” (Matt 24:21). Everyone else will regret their birth and will regret their rebellion forever (Matt 26:24).

The gospel takes men from sinfulness to holiness by GIVING us eternal life FREELY, and then motivating us, like Paul, by this matchless grace, so that what we do is “thank you” for heaven earned, hell payed for already, and GRACE freely and without human provocation, given.

“That Others Also May Fear” (1 Tim 5:1-20)

We are to live godly as proof that we know God, and no godliness, no benefits of Christ.

“Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in the word and doctrine.  For the Scripture says, ‘You shall not muzzle an ox while it treads out the grain,’ and, ‘The laborer is worthy of his wages.’   Do not receive an accusation against an elder except from two or three witnesses.  Those who are sinning rebuke in the presence of all, that the rest also may fear” (vs17-20)

The Lord Jesus shed His blood so that we can be like God: gracious and pure.  He who is holy has given us holiness as the fruit of His sufferings, earning heaven, happiness, and holiness for us.

This godliness manifests itself in how we treat people. The pastor isn’t to reprove the aged in harshness and pride, but in gentleness and love.  Paul constantly uses the word “beseech” or “entreat” in the King James Version, which means to put your arm around and call someone to a task.  A husband may say, “Fix me a plate” in harsh and hateful tones, or he may make the same request in tenderness and love.  We are loving people to repentance, knowing that God uses meekness and gentleness. Thus, we minister His way in obedience - “Rebuke not an elder, but entreat him as a father; and the younger men as brothers; the elder women as mothers; the younger as sisters, with all purity” (vs1-2).

Widows are not cared for simply because they have no husband, but they must meet the qualifications of scripture. Thus, we tell women ahead of time, so they can prepare - “Honor widows who are really widows.  But if any widow has children or grandchildren, let them first learn to show piety at home and to repay their parents; for this is good and acceptable before God.  Now she who is really a widow, and left alone, trusts in God and continues in supplications and prayers night and day.  But she who lives in pleasure is dead while she lives.  And these things command, that they may be blameless.  But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever” (vs3-8).

When Paul was coming to see Timothy, he laid out instructions, so that he’d know how to behave in the house of God and what to instruct the people (1 Tim 3:14-15).  Likewise, women are told what obedience they need to be WORTHY of the churches financial support in their widowhood, even as Christ lays out the good works MANDATORY of believers, if we’ll meet Him in peace.  We come to Him depraved daily, and He gives us grace to obey His command and do good works - “Do not let a widow under sixty years old be taken into the number, and not unless she has been the wife of one man,  well reported for good works: if she has brought up children, if she has lodged strangers, if she has washed the saints’ feet, if she has relieved the afflicted, if she has diligently followed every good work“ (vs9-10).

Some say, “Believers CAN’T do good works. Our righteousness is filthy rags”, but they deny the apostle’s doctrine who repeatedly says that good works are necessary and accompany salvation.  Our works of merit and whatever is done to EARN God’s approval are blasphemous and vile. Grace is given FREELY because Christ died and not because of you.  But, everyone who has grace, who believes God, gets grace to obey in conduct, and this pleases God.  He’s pleased that we take care of our believing mothers and grandmothers, that women prove themselves by good works, and that we follow EVERY good deed.

The unbelieving, when the husband dies, will use the time to talk foolishly, idly stir up trouble in other people’s business, and they will marry unbelievers as proof that they don’t know God and have gone back to the world - “But refuse the younger widows; for when they have begun to grow wanton against Christ, they desire to marry,   having condemnation because they have cast off their first faith.  And besides they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house, and not only idle but also gossips and busybodies, saying things which they ought not” (vs11-13). These young widows should marry when occasion presents itself, even as ALL believers should marry, if you’re given romantic and mutual interest with another believer. Don’t think marriage is bad, subjection is a hindrance, or loving a woman faithfully is bondage. Don’t hope for something better.  God will meet you in peace as the marriage is done His way, and He sanctifies the bed to express your sexual desires - “Therefore I desire that the younger widows marry, bear children, manage the house, give no opportunity to the adversary to speak reproachfully.  For some have already turned aside after Satan.  If any believing man or woman has widows, let them relieve them, and do not let the church be burdened, that it may relieve those who are really widows” (vs14-16).

Beware. Christianity isn’t talk. Be ready by good works.

The Pastor’s Work (1 Tim 4:13-16) - Don Fortner

1 Timothy 4:13-16

What is a pastor supposed to do? What is the work of the ministry? What is involved in the work of preaching the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ? Those questions should be of great concern to us all, because, to a greater or lesser degree, they affect us all. The church of the Lord Jesus Christ today is suffering greatly because very few pastors are performing that work which is plainly described in the New Testament as the work of the ministry. Most churches place so many demands on a pastor that he cannot effectively give himself to the work of the ministry, if he does what his congregation expects him to do. The pastor is expected to make regular, daily rounds at the hospital to visit the sick. He is supposed to visit the members of his congregation, especially the elderly, on a regular basis. And he is expected to visit people in the community, trying to persuade them to come to his church. Some churches even expect the pastor to be the custodian of the church property.

If you read the sixth chapter of Acts, you will see that all of these things are works which should be performed by the church deacons. Deacons are men whose work it is to serve God’s church by serving their pastor, relieving him of every responsibility and care except the preaching of the gospel of Christ. In reality the New Testament tells us three things that every pastor is supposed to do. He must give himself constantly to these three things.

Pray

The pastor must give himself to prayer. In order to minister to the hearts of men, the pastor must prepare his own heart before God. In prayer he makes intercession to God for his congregation and seeks the conversion of sinners. In prayer the pastor seeks a message from God to deliver to the people of God. Prayer is the key which God’s servant uses to unlock the treasury chest of Holy Scripture. No man can preach well who does not pray well. The power of the pulpit is prayer.

Study

The pastor must give himself continually to study. He must “give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.” The pastor’s place is in his study. Every man who is called of God to the work of the gospel ministry will be a diligent and faithful student of Holy Scripture. It is not needful that a pastor be a seminary graduate. But it is absolutely essential that he be a student. It is not possible for a pastor to preach well unless he is a good, diligent student. Every sermon should be fresh, full of instruction for the people of God, and edifying to the souls of men.

Today, as a general rule, sermons are shallow and empty. They are mere repetitions of the same empty words from week to week. The people of God come to the house of God hungry for a word from God; but they go away empty. There is a reason for this: — The pastor does not study. In particular the pastor is to study the Word of God, meditating upon the doctrine revealed in it, so that he can proclaim those old gospel truths in a plain, fresh, and appealing way.

Preach

The pastor must be a preacher. First and foremost, the work of the gospel ministry is preaching, preaching the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. If a man is called of God to the work of the gospel ministry, he is gifted by God to preach the gospel. Pastoral work is not done in counselling sessions, hospital rooms, and community socials. Pastoral work is done in the closet, in the study, and in the pulpit.

If the pastor spends his week preparing his heart by prayer and preparing his mind by study, when it comes time to preach he will have something to say. He will feed the Lord’s sheep with knowledge and understanding. And those who hear him will profit by what he says.

If you desire to know more about the work of the ministry and how you can best assist God’s servant as he ministers to you, read and carefully study the books of 1^st and 2^nd Timothy and Titus. Those three books were written by the inspiration of God the Holy Spirit for the specific purpose of helping God’s people to understand the work of the ministry.

“Take Heed Unto Yourself” (1 Tim 4:8-16)

If you want to help others, help yourself first: 

“Take heed unto yourself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this, you will both save yourself and them that hear you” (1 Tim 4:16).

The Lord gives us godliness, and thereby, we receive the life that now is - love, joy, and peace - and we receive heaven sure to come.  Continue in these things, abide in this truth, and fight every foe by the gospel. God is your Savior, and He’s worth believing in a world filled with sin - “For bodily exercise profits for a little time: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come” (vs8).

We are commanded, exhorted, and taught to be godly. It isn’t an option, like I can have Christ and not worry about my behavior. Godliness is the believer’s EVIDENCE that his faith is real, that he sacrifices for Christ and endures unto the end.  Godliness will be rewarded, and we’re to command and teach people how to do it by faith in Christ - “This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, for therefore we both labor and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially [specifically] of those that believe. ” (vs9-10).

It isn’t enough to say “do”, we must point them to Christ and faith.  It isn’t enough to say “believe”, but we unfold the risen Christ as successful in accomplishing everything needful to save the sheep. He laid down His life for us, and He gives us EVERYTHING necessary freely.  Keep on believing this truth unto obedience, and you’re safe and blessed - “These things command and teach” (vs11).

We are not to be babyish in our thinking, as if being babes in Christ is an excuse to indifference or sin: everyone is to be an example of godliness to others.  Paul says, “Let no man despise your youth; but be you an example of the believers in word”, what you say, “in conduct”, how you behave, “in love“, how your respond to people, “in spirit”, in your attitude amidst difficulty and loss, “in faith”, in believing great and precious promises, “in purity”, in holiness before men and in your heart (vs12).

Be these things without fail.  He says, “Till I come, give ATTENDANCE to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine”, so that salvation makes us diligent rather than slothful (vs13). We don’t say, “I’m saved” and shift to neutral, but we keep the peddle to the floor, believing unto a flaming life.

Don’t neglect God’s gifts to you.  You heard the gospel, believed, and by faith in the gospel preached, you received gifts that are noticeable. - “Neglect not the gift that is in you, which was given you by prophecy [preaching], with the laying on of the hands [approval] of the elders.  Meditate upon these things; give yourself completely to them; that your profiting may appear in all things” (vs14-15).  Don’t sit around and waste your gifts, and don’t count on someone else to serve. Use what you have, wholeheartedly, for Christ’s cause, and get the most out of safe and holy living.

We are to be zealous, hot, diligent, and utterly concerned with our conduct.  We can’t teach others what we have not learned, and before I can heal my neighbor, I need my own spirit put in peace.  I can’t preach my way to heaven, but I must LIVE my gospel, too. And, I can’t preach “any old thing” and expect to make it.  The New Living Translation says, “Keep a close watch on how you live and on your teaching. Stay true to what is right for the sake of your own salvation and the salvation of those who hear you“ (vs16).

Examine yourself diligently, carefully, and consistently, repenting, confessing, and obtaining mercy to do it right.  Take heed to what you say and how you live, and you’ll save yourself and those that hear you.

There is no other way.

“The Mystery of Godliness” (1 Tim 3:14-4:8)

“And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifested in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory”  (vs16).

The Lord Jesus shall return, so we prepare ourselves, even as Paul comes to assist and examine Timothy. At that Day, it will matter if we’ve worshiped God rightly, even as Timothy must prepare himself and his ministry for the eye of Paul, who said, “These things write I unto you, hoping to come unto you shortly: but if I delay, that you may know how you ought to behave yourself in the house of god, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and support of the truth“ (1 Tim 3:14-15). We must behave ourselves as commanded: we have no choice.  We have help to obey and pardon for sins, but we CAN’T live our way and be Christian, even as Timothy must minister as commanded, if he’ll have Paul’s embrace.

The motive of godliness is God Himself in the flesh saving us (vs16).  He laid down His life, so that we could live eternally (2 Cor 5:15). Now, in praise and thanks, we tell God by our lives that we are His and appreciate His work.  We live godly not to earn favor but to express joy and the only proper thanksgiving.  We live godly because God has revealed beauty to us worthy of our devotion.

We are not slaves of man’s religion, and we mustn’t succumb to their lies. We are not interested in human holiness or the commands of men; we want GOD-taught obedience, and it has nothing to do with abstaining from things that He has created and things of which He approves - “Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons, speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their own conscience seared with a hot iron,  forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from foods which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth“ (1 Tim 4:1-3).

Some say marriage is wrong, so they can devote themselves to God, but God says marriage is pure and singleness is better.  There is nothing wrong with a wife.  Express love to God by treating her properly (1 Cor 7:25-40).

Others say, “Touch not, taste not, handle not” as if meat and drink were holiness (Col 2:21-22). God says temperance in food and drink… and thankfulness for blessings makes them acceptable - “For every creature of God is good, and nothing is to be refused if it is received with thanksgiving;  for it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer” (1 Tim 4:4-5). They are pure before God, and by thanksgiving and prayer, we receive them purely and honor God in our freedom.  Human religion is outward show and denial. God’s gospel is love, not whether you eat or drink something legal.

Beware.  False doctrine and demon worship goes hand in hand. If we don’t worship Him correctly, then we don’t worship Him at all - “If you instruct the brethren in these things, you will be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished in the words of faith and of the good doctrine which you have carefully followed.  But reject profane and old wives’ fables, and exercise yourself toward godliness.  For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come“ (vs6-8). We are not to concern ourselves with what others say but only with God’s word to us.  Exercising the body helps for a short period of time, but exercising the soul in godliness HAS the promise of peace and joy now, and it leads to heaven eternal.

www.thegospelchurch.com

1 Tim 2:7-3:13 “Good Works”

"In like manner, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with braided hair, and gold or pearls or costly raiment;  but (which becomes women professing godliness) through good works." (1 Tim 2:9-10)

The Lord Jesus commands obedience in behavior for those who have sound doctrine. We manifest with life conduct the reality of our confession. God’s gospel is to be PREACHED, and the preaching produces good works as the test of God (1 Tim 1:5).

Paul, being ordained an apostle, sets forth doctrine in faith and truth. He knows that he’s called of God, so he speaks the honor of Jesus Christ in confidence sincerely.  He declares that men are to pray everywhere, all over the world, out of every nation, but they are to pray a certain way; not in wrath and hate, but in love to Christ and my neighbor. Go to Christ for the power to love your neighbor before multiplying your prayer list, and He will hear you, pardon you, and give you love, so that He can hear your prayer - “whereunto I was appointed a preacher and an apostle (I speak the truth, I lie not), a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth.  I desire therefore that the men pray in every place, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and disputing” (vs7-8).

Our ladies, no matter what others say, distinguish yourself by your behavior and not your fashion and wardrobe.  People draw attention to themselves in wicked ways, and one way is for a woman to play the whore in her attire, to draw attention to herself sinfully and away from Christ.  Let the ladies adorn themselves in “shamefacedness” or that meek and lowly mind state of, “I’ve obtained mercy. I’m nobody. Look at Him”. 1 Tim 2:9-10 says, “- “In like manner, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with braided hair, and gold or pearls or costly raiment;  but (which becomes women professing godliness) through good works“.

The women are to be quiet in the public worship, never teaching the men.  It isn’t because you’re less than holy or accepted, but in the order of All-Wise God, He made Adam first, and the woman was first in transgression - “Let a woman learn in quietness with all subjection.  But I permit not a woman to teach, nor to have dominion over a man, but to be in quietness.   For Adam was first formed, then Eve;  and Adam was not beguiled, but the woman being beguiled has fallen into transgression” (vs11-14). But, even though submission can be difficult and you bear the curse of Eve’s sin, you will be saved to suffer no more, so long as you trust Christ amidst your tears and live obediently. He will reward you, bring you to heaven, and there will be no more male or female forever - “but she shall be saved through her child–bearing, if they continue in faith and love and sanctification with sobriety” (vs15).

Let pastors be desirous of the job.  Don’t be forced into it half-heartedly, but if you can do nothing else and desire to preach Christ for His glory, then check to see if you qualify.  You’re to be blameless, meeting all requirements of scripture.  Not a polygamist, but the husband of one wife only.  Not a brawler or covetous, not a man after gain in the pulpit, but SOMEONE who preaches Christ as a thankful response to unlimited mercies in God.  You are not after your name, and you rule in your own home with saving grace directing your authority. You are kind, firm, and you show by example what you want the wife and children to practice. You have God’s gift to teach, but here in 1 Tim 3, the main thing is the character. Our message is declared in 1 Tim 1, but the messenger bears the message as one that has obtained its mercy, not merely as one who’s head is big - (1 Tim 3:1-7) “Faithful is the saying, If a man seeks the office of a bishop, he desires a good work.  The bishop therefore must be without reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, sober–minded, orderly, given to hospitality, apt to teach;  no brawler, no striker; but gentle, not contentious, no lover of money; one that rules well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity;  (but if a man knows not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?)  not a novice, lest being puffed up he fall into the condemnation of the devil.  Moreover he must have good testimony from them that are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.”

Beware that deacons aren’t in it for gain. They should serve the church in thankfulness of blood redemption, mercies received, and the sureness of covenant promises.  They must serve from a clean conscience, doing God’s will from their heart for the good of others, rather than to impress, make names for themselves, etc.  Let the CHARACTER, not the personality (big smiles and charm) dictate who is honored with Christian offices. Don’t trust mere talent or schooling.  No where does Paul demand seminary or university. These things are not needed, so long as character is abundant.  Good works evidence the call of God, for whom He calls to serve, He makes them do it from the heart in newness of life - “Deacons in like manner must be grave, not double–tongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre;  holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience.  And let these also first be proved; then let them serve as deacons, if they be blameless.   … Let deacons be husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well.  For they that have served well as deacons gain to themselves a good standing, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus“ (vs8-10, 12-13).

I believe 1 Tim 3:11 deals with deaconesses, or those women ordained of God with deacon gifts.  They are not to teach, but perhaps like Phoebe, they have been gifted to serve, help the church, etc (Rom 16:1-2).  Maybe they deal specifically with the ladies or the care of the young, but they have the same requirements as men. They must carry themselves respectfully, submissively to God, and they must show by their behavior that they are real by their deeds - “Women in like manner must be grave, not slanderers, temperate, faithful in all things“ (vs11).

Don’t let good works be lacking. See here how everything is judged by works?  The women are to PROVE their doctrine by submission. The men PROVE it and their prayers are heard only as they are unwrathful and believing. The pastor isn’t the most eloquent or educated man, but he has God-given character which is infinitely more valuable than degrees at college. And, the deacons have the same character of the pastor, except they don’t teach.

Blessed is the church that evidences by behavior the end of the gospel or the purpose behind preaching, which is to enable people to serve God in the forgiveness of sins, free from bondage, and helped by God to live uprightly according to Him.

“Who Will Have All Men to Be Saved” (1 Tim 1:12-2:6)

“Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth” (vs4).

The Lord Jesus gave Himself a ransom for many, laying down His life an atoning substitute for sin, paying for sins from every nation, kindred, tribe, and tongue (Rev 5:9).

He sets forth Paul as an example of His patient longsuffering and willingness to be slighted by those He gives mercy, saving the most notorious and clearly wicked of sinners - “And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry; who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and hurtful: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief.  And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.  Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me preeminently, Jesus Christ might show forth all longsuffering, for a example to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting.  Now unto the King eternal, incorruptible, invisible, the only wise God, be [value] and glory forever and ever. Amen.” (1 Tim 1:12-16).

Paul was a monster… blasphemous, persecuting, and harmful to others.  He had hate for grace, hate for the gracious, and only pride and hurtfulness in his heart for others. He was the chief of sinners, and yet Christ showed him mercy, giving him faith and love - things needful - and calling him to service. He who had opposed Christ in unbelieving ignorance would be GRACED to preach the gospel he now loved.

Secondly, the Lord DEMANDS we fight the battle His way in sound doctrine, not giving up on faith as the lone means of assurance with God, without works (Rom 4:5-8). We are just before God by faith only, and the conscience is purged by Christ’s obedience, rather than our own - “This charge I commit unto you, son Timothy, according to the prophecies which went before on you, that you by them might war a good warfare; holding faith and a good conscience; which some having put away concerning faith have made shipwreck: of whom is Hymenaeus and Alexander; whom I have delivered unto Satan, that they may learn not the blaspheme” (vs18-20). It is here we find peace, and any destruction of “faith alone” is a destruction of Christ’s gospel, and those who oppose Him must be marked.  If repentance is refused, they must be shunned for their good and the good of His church.

Thirdly, we pray for all kinds of people because God saves all kinds and is willing to save ANY who come to Him - “I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications (needs), prayers (devotion), and intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; for kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a calm and quiet life in all godliness and devotion” (1 Tim 2:1-2)  We are to be thankful that we have peace enough to honor God, and thereby we give ourselves to reconciling sinners to His majesty.  This is honorable - “For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior; who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.  For there is one God, and one Mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; who gave himself a ransom for all, a testimony in his time” (vs3-6).

The gospel is God’s declaration of a people He has saved and will save, and it is the open armed call of the Savior to all men everywhere to repent (Acts 17:30-31). Receive as Boss the One we put to death.  Receive grace FREELY and savingly given, and become peacemakers and examples to others.

Love is the End of the Gospel (1 Tim 1:1-11)

The Lord Jesus commands us to love as the result of the gospel: we’re to believe we’re loved and love others in return - “Now the end result of  the commandment [to preach Christ] is love out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and faith unfeigned” (vs5).

This isn’t a feeling, but it is the purpose of the gospel that MUST be preached - “As I besought you to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that you might charge some that they teach no other doctrine, neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly edifying, which is in faith” (vs3-4). We are not to ponder, doubt, and debate our salvation; receive it FULLY and freely, even as God gives, and love others because you’re saved.

Paul was an apostle, sent by God, according to God’s command.  Each of us is COMMMANDED to serve the Savior, and He gives GRACE, mercy, and peace to all who preach in truth - “Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the commandment of God our Savior, and Lord Jesus Christ, which is our hope; unto Timothy, my own son in the faith: grace, mercy, and peace, from God our Father and Jesus Christ our Lord” (vs1-2).  We are not only graciously (freely) saved, but mercifully also, so that our misery and failures are relieved.  We are peaceful with God because He’s reconciled us, ever to be at peace with us, by the cross.  He punished the Savior, so He’ll never forsake us for any reason.

We who preach are preachers of the gospel!  The law is good to condemn, but it serves no purpose in producing holiness - “From which [gospel] some having swerved have turned aside unto vain talk; desiring to be teachers of the law; understanding neither what they say, nor whereof they affirm (vs6-7). The gospel is God’s ONLY message to stir up faith, so make sure you hear it and your pastor is DEVOTED to the cause. Don’t be swayed by untruths, stories, and moral fables.  Hear the saving message of Christ - a God whom you must believe, who FREELY saves by faith alone.

This gospel PRODUCES the required love.  Just go out and love people as forgiven, even if sin stains your mind and you’ve fallen, again.  Love people as blessed of God, and know that your loving obedience will be blessed also.

Many preachers think they’re smart and talk loudly about keeping the law, but they have no clue. The law is for UNBELIEVERS who’re under the curse - “But we know that the law is good, if a man use it lawfully; knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and those that profane holiness, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers, for whoremongers, for homosexuals, for men stealers, for liars, for oath breakers, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine; according to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which was committed to my trust” (vs8-11).  The righteous man lives by faith in the Son of God, receiving GRACE, mercy, and peace.  Our HOPE before God is real, so we live, not by rules that measure our merit, but by grace that reveals God’s infinite heart.

"The Pillar and Ground of the Truth" (1 Tim 3:15-16) - Darvin Pruitt, Pastor

The church of the living God as she is seen in her local assemblies is the pillar and ground of the truth. Though these assemblies are few and far between they alone have the light of the gospel of Jesus Christ. They stand wherever God has gathered them as a light in a world filled with darkness and ignorance. We are not here to reform the world, take up its issues, or influence its politics. We are here to preach the gospel of God’s sovereign grace in Christ to as many as will give us a hearing. There are four things concerning the church of which I am being made more aware of every day. 1)The gospel is the only thing left in this world that can do sinners any good at all. 2)To change or reform the habits and practices of men by laws and punishments only leave men in self righteousness and false hope. 3)The gospel of Christ regenerates, creates anew, and 3) is sufficient in the power of God’s Holy Spirit to do what all else is doomed to fail. -

Wisdom and Denying the Faith (Todd Nibert)

IF ANY LACK WISDOM

“If any of you lack wisdom.” And what wisdom is James revering to? He calls it in James 3:17, “The wisdom that is from above.” James then proceeds to describe and define this wisdom to us. “It is first pure.” It is without the contamination of error. It is true to the word of God. If it is not pure, it is not from above. But James does not stop there. “It is then peaceable.” It is not looking for a fight. “Then gentle.” The word means moderate, not insisting on the letter of the law, not insisting on holding someone’s feet to the fire. It is then “Easy to be entreated.” That means compliant and approachable. “Full of mercy and good fruits.” Those who possess the wisdom that is from above are always merciful. “Without partiality”…the word here means uncertainty. While the wisdom that is from above is not arrogant, it is still certain with regard to God’s truth. “Without hypocrisy”…the wisdom that is from above does not pretend!

James says… “If any of you lack wisdom.” If this seems to be something you do not seem to have much of… “Let him ask of God.” This is not something we can ever attain to. It is the gift of God. “Who giveth to all men liberally and upbraideth not.” He will not withhold this wisdom from the one who desires it, nor will He upbraid you for asking. What an encouragement this is! I certainly feel as though I have a deficiency in wisdom. But He has promised to give this wisdom to those who ask for it. It sounds to me like it is time to start asking!

WORSE THAN AN INFIDEL

“If any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.”

In the context, Paul was speaking of the church providing for destitute widows. He said their children should take care of them. And if a man shirks his responsibility to provide for his mother, aunt, children, or anyone in his house, by that action he has denied the faith and is worse than an infidel. This one who claims to be a follower of Christ denies the faith. Not by embracing false doctrine. But by his life. And in doing so, he is worse, more evil than the man who makes no profession of faith. While our character and conduct have nothing to do with our justification before God, our character and conduct have everything to do with the reality of our relationship with God. It would be better to not believe than to have a faith that does not effect my actions.

http://www.sermonaudio.com/source_detail.asp?sourceid=trgc

What are your thoughts on the legalization of marijuana? (John Piper)

By John Piper December 5, 2009

The following is an edited transcript of the audio.

What are your thoughts on the legalization of marijuana?

I'm glad you asked that question, because I've got thoughts on it. And I wouldn't have any thoughts on it—I mean I'd probably have different thoughts on it—if I hadn't had a lunch with a dad.

I know this dad really well, and he has a son who had an injury. And he found, after years of therapy, that the slightest incremental dosage of marijuana that had nothing to do with getting high gave him relief. And it was the only thing that gave him relief in the injured part of his body.

This guy was as far from an addict, or wanting to be an addict, or wanting to be high on marijuana as imaginable. So that lunch really opened me to the possible medicinal functions of this.

The person may be asking a different question than I'm answering right now. I'm trying to think of a way to make it possible for there to be medicinal usages, like a prescription of marijuana, knowing that it, of course, can be abused like most other over the counter drugs can be abused.

So I think I probably would move in that direction. I would like for those who could get real relief from careful usage of this God-created thing to have access to it.

If you're asking the question, What about the legalization of marijuana period, so that tons of it can go anywhere anytime, and as many 13-year-olds can have it as much as they want so that they can get strung out on the drug, then I would say, "We don't do that with alcohol! We don't let 16-year-olds go into a bar and get whatever they want." I would guess that, as a society, we would see that we love our children and we want to be careful.

I don't know exactly the extent of those restraints, but in principle a society would probably want to put restraints on a drug that could not only addict people terribly but also damage them in their minds long term.

I hope that is a balanced answer.