TEXT: 1 Timothy 4:1-5
In our last message, we began looking at how the false teachers were leading many into a false faith with their legalistic commands. Let’s continue looking at some background information surrounding this passage as stated in the Bible Knowledge Commentary: “Those who believe and who know the truth can gratefully receive and use the things God created, which were designed to be received. Contrary to the teaching of the errorists, everything God created is good. Here Paul echoed God’s own verdict. Whereas the false teachers were intent on “forbidding” and “abstaining”, Paul said that nothing is to be rejected—nothing, that is, that God created. Man can abuse what God has created, as adultery is an abuse of the marital sexual relationship, and gluttony is an abuse of a normal appetite for food. Such abuses should certainly be rejected. But God’s creations themselves are all good and should be received with thanksgiving, not with taboos.” All the seemingly “ordinary” things of life can then become extraordinary as they are consecrated by the Word of God and prayer. In the light of the Scriptures a Christian recognizes God’s good hand behind the things provided, and offers thanksgiving to the Lord. In this way the ordinary things so easily taken for granted become sanctified as occasions for worship and praise.”