ReGeneration Church

In the second half of chapter 2, we see a contrast between approved workers who keep the focus on the main things and accurately handle the word of truth entrusted to them; and disapproved workers who indulge in false teachings and worthless disputes which result in bad behavior by these teachers and those they infect. We live in a time where the Church sometimes becomes embroiled in specious and controversial issues. We must keep our teachings, church, and behavior from this life-sucking baggage.

If we are to be faithful in preparing servant-leaders for the future, we must realize we are producing “like kind” of ourselves. If we forget why we are doing what we are doing, we lose inspiration, motivation and can do more harm than good. We must keep Christ at the forefront of our minds, hearts, message and methods.

Paul encourages Timothy to be unashamed–of Jesus and Paul, of the Gospel, and of his ministry. Paul appeals to Timothy to keep the pattern of faith he has seen in Paul himself, in contrast to the pattern of faithlessness of Phygellus and Hermogenes. Then Paul tells Timothy to uphold the faithfulness of Onesiphorus as an encouragement. This reminds us that we must be faithful to the beautiful Gospel of Christ through suffering, the discouragement of deserters, and hardship.

At the beginning of chapter 1, Paul reminds Timothy he is a beloved son, with a heritage of faith and a stewardship he must keep with faith that overcomes his fears. As followers of Christ, we should not have a spirit of fear that focuses on our own shortcomings. Instead, we are given a spirit of power, love and sound mind.

In verses 11-21, Paul exhorts Timothy to pursue godliness, righteousness, faith, and love. He should encourage the wealthy to use their gifts for generosity and good deeds. Lastly, he reminds Timothy that his ministry is a stewardship that has been entrusted to him and must turn away from distraction and false knowledge that will lead him astray. We all have a battle to fight!

In the first 10 verses of chapter 6, we find a lesson in "godliness with contentment." We shouldn't desire greater riches or wealth for our own selfish gain. Instead, we must recognize that everything we already do have a blessing from God.

Verses 17-25 focus on church leaders. Leaders who labor in the Word to serve the church should be treated well, but we should not show favoritism to anyone. There should be a process for people who have grievances in the church to bring concerns about a leader. Leaders should be chosen with wisdom and patience.

In chapter 5 of 1 Timothy, we see the appropriate way younger and older generations are to treat each other, as well as the importance of caring for widows. In this way, our love for one another reflects God's love for us.

In the conclusion of chapter 4, we see the importance of keeping our behavior consistent with our beliefs. In order to minister to others, we must first minister to ourselves, giving attention to our spiritual and emotional needs. In being a living example, we're able to help others live an authentic and vibrant faith.

Whereas chapter 3 ended with the "great mystery" of the Gospel, chapter 4 begins with the "great apostasy" of man believing in false doctrines. These lies led religious leaders to become overly self-righteous, forbidding marriage and certain foods. Paul reminds us of the liberty we have in Christ, and exhorts followers to remember who we serve–the living God.