We must understand that Jesus is merciful and full of grace.

Too often in life we view things from an earthly perspective instead of viewing things the way God wants us to see them. We must understand the brevity of life, and the eternality of God's Word.

Paul is giving instructions to young Timothy concerning the church. In verses 12-17, we will be reminded of the ministry , mercy, and majesty of Christ. Our focus in this message will be on verse 12. We must have a heart of gratitude.

When a person accepts Jesus Christ as their personal Savior, things are to be different. We must understand things are truly to be different after salvation.

Paul is instructing Timothy to ensure sound doctrine is taught in the church. Judaizers have crept in telling Gentile Christians that they must keep the law in order to be a Christian. While these legalists were abusing the law, Paul reminds Timothy and us that the law is good when used lawfully. We must understand how to use the law lawfully.

We must understand why Jesus came to earth.

The slightest deviation in course can lead to disaster for a ship or airplane. So it is with our lives, we must be diligent to continue to die to self and live in Christ daily. We must not swerve from the truth.

What does it mean to be redeemed? We must realize that we must be redeemed by the blood of the Lamb.

In Philippians 3:29, Paul tells us, "For our conversation is in heaven, from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ." The word conversation in this verse has the idea of citizenship. We as Christians are pilgrims here on earth. Our true citizenship is in Heaven. Although we have never yet seen our homeland, we are still none the less citizens of there and are to conduct ourselves as such here in Earth. We must learn to live as a citizens of Heaven.

As Paul continues to instruct young Timothy on ensuring sound doctrine in the church, he talks about love. Love is a misunderstood word today. I have heard it said and have repeated many times, "It not only matter that you have the right position, but also the right disposition." You may have the right position on issues, but if you do not demonstrate love with your position, you will be very abrasive. We must have both the right position and disposition.