We need to be on guard for invasive teaching threatening the health of Christ's church. As church members, we need to 1) recognize false teaching and then 2) respond to false teaching. False teaching distorts the truth, it sounds good but destroys our souls and is fueled by wrong motives. We need to know and believe sound doctrine, speak up when we hear false teaching and keep the goal in view.

Paul is writing to Timothy, desiring to help him in his ministry to the church at Ephesus. Paul establishes his authority by proclaiming that he was appointed an apostle by God. He shares how close he is with Timothy. He is as a father is to a son. He then gives a prayer of blessing to Timothy, praying that he would experience God's grace, God's mercy and God's peace.

God's mission is about people. People matter to God. Here is the priority of people from three different angles:

1) Ministry is to People, 2) Ministry is through People and 3) Ministry is with People. Ministry is to people, through people and with people.

The message of the Gospel is important. Today we will look at: 1) The Centrality of the Gospel in Salvation, 2) The Centrality of the Gospel in Christian Growth and 3) The Centrality of the Gospel in the Church.

Why does God do what He does? Many times it is to bring glory to Himself. God deserves our praise because He is the only one who is worthy to receive that praise. God shows His glory in His creation, in history, in salvation and in the church. We need to show God's glory in our motivation, in our message and in our goals.

The Bible is our supreme absolute authority. How does that apply to our church? There are six ways: 1) The Word Creates the Church, 2) The Word Directs the Church, 3) The Word Fills the Church, 4) The Word Guards the Church, 5) The Word Matures the Church, 6) The Word Multiplies the Church. The Bible should lead what we say and what we do.

Wisdom is designed for children and parents. The home should be the center of our lives. A child's relationship with his or her parents matters to God. A child's parents are their God-given teachers. Parents are to value their children appropriately, teach their children faithfully and discipline their children diligently.

Sex is good within marriage. Sex outside of marriage can cause all kinds of harm. If you turn to God he will forgive you of sin and give you the power over sin.

How do we know God's will for our lives. Proverbs has much to say about discerning God's direction for your life. We need to 1) Listen to God's Word, 2) Seek Wise Counsel, 3) Plan Carefully, 4) Check for self-deception and 5) Believe in God's sovereignty.

People need the Gospel. Are you able to share the Gospel with those in need around you? God wants to change and renew you. The cross gives you the power over sin. We can walk away from sin because Jesus died for us. God wants us to be renewed in knowledge, not just education. We can comfort others because God has comforted us.