1 Timothy 4-6 Secrets of Godliness, Contentment, and Great Gain

TMS Romans 8:32 God's Provision
Romans 8:32 “He who did not spare His own Son,
but delivered Him up for us all,
how shall He not with Him
also freely give us all things?”

Observations: 8:32 The fact that God provided Jesus for us, should clue us into the degree to which He wants us to be saved and succeed in the Christian life. This verse is in the context of how much God wants us to experience His plan to bless us (for that's His purpose in creating us, and glorifying Himself -See observations on Romans 8). “Freely give” is the verbal form of grace, so it could be translated as “grace us with all” we need for fulfilling His desire that we go from forgiven, to free/sanctified, to glorified.

Application: God will give us all we need, all we need to do is ask and accept.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I'm so grateful You sent Jesus to die for my sins; thanks too, for Your willingness to make realization of Your perfect will possible by Your grace; may I not receive it in vain. Amen.


1 Timothy 4-6 These chapters describe the behavior of believers who will be blessed when Christ returns. As in the previous chapter, there are a few verses that indicate salvation and eternal life are the result of works done in faith. These are not what secure our justification/forgiveness (which is only by faith in God's provision of Christ), but they are what secure our eternal reward/glorification. Paul warns Timothy against the things and people that might keep him from his faithful service and future reward as well. The secrets of godliness, contentment, and a secure eternal happily ever after are also revealed.


1 Timothy 4 Godliness is Doubly Profitable
4:1 But the Spirit says expressly that in later times some will depart from the faith, paying attention to deceiving/seducing spirits and doctrines/teachings of demons, 2 speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their own conscience seared as with a hot iron; 3 forbidding marriage and commanding to abstain from foods which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth. 4 For every creature of God is good, and nothing is to be rejected, if it is received with thanksgiving. 5 For it is sanctified through the word of God and prayer.
6 If you instruct the brothers of these things, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, nourished in the words of the faith, and of the good doctrine which you have followed. 7 But refuse profane and old wives’ fables. Exercise/discipline yourself toward godliness. 8 For bodily exercise has some value, but godliness has value in all things, having the promise of the life which is now, and of that which is to come. 9 This saying is faithful and worthy of all acceptance. 10 For to this end we both labor and suffer reproach, because we have set our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of those who believe.
11 Command and teach these things. 12 Let no man despise your youth; but be an example to those who believe, in word, in your way of life, in love, in spirit, in faith, and in purity. 13 Until I come, pay attention to reading, to exhortation, and to teaching. 14 Don’t neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the elders. 15 Be diligent in these things. Give yourself wholly to them, that your progress may be evident to all. 16 Pay attention to yourself, and to your teaching. Continue in these things, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you.

Observations: 4:1-5 Paul warns Timothy that some believers will depart from the faith, and teach others to do the same. “Depart” is used in 6:5 of withdrawing from false teachers, and in 2Tim 2:19 of departing from iniquity. The use in Hebrews 3:12 is instructive “Beware, brothers, lest perhaps there be in any one of you an evil heart of unfaithfulness, in departing from the living God.” He's not talking about folks no longer believing that Jesus died for their sins, but of those who no longer believe that Christ is returning to reward those who diligently seek Him (Heb 11:6).
Those who depart from the faith (who no longer believe the revelation of the Spirit of God) will follow evil spirits and the doctrines of demons (lies that sound pleasing and plausible, but are wickedly calculated to cause people to miss the will and glory of God -Gen 3). Those who abandon truth speak lies insincerely (hypocritically making an outward show of piety to impress, but inwardly are corrupt), and have their consciences seared so as to be totally insensitive to the Spirit. A calloused conscience develops over time by ignoring the truth to do one's own will rather than God's will. A seared conscience, like a brand, occurs more rapidly, when one is seduced by the dark side, and embraces it for the benefits. Those who teach out of a concern for themselves, rather than the eternal benefit of their hearers, are doing the devil's work. Some of the teaching of the devil's agents involved abstaining from certain foods, and forbidding marriage. As God revealed to Peter in Acts 10, no food created by God is unclean, but is made holy (sanctified) by thankful prayer and the revelation of God. Asceticism and Judaizing are just two expressions of demonic doctrine.
4:6-10 God prophesied false teaching would occur (cf Acts 20:29-31), and the planned corrective is Biblical teaching, which Paul exhorts Timothy to do. In teaching and reminding believers of the truth, Timothy will be a good servant of Christ, who nourishes himself on the truth he had learned from Paul and followed. Paul warns him to avoid unprofitable theology, and instead to discipline/train himself for the objective of godliness (knowing and doing all God requires, used of the even pagan priests, who knew and did what the gods wanted -cf Titus 1:1). Godliness is not automatic, but requires blood, sweat and prayers. Bodily exercise has some temporal profit, but godliness has both temporal and eternal profit, resulting in a fulfilled, content life now, and dominion/glory in the future. This promise of life, abundant life, and a glorified life as a result of disciplining oneself for the purpose of knowing and doing all God requires is a faithful saying worthy of all acceptance, but it is amazing how few accept and teach it. Those who don't are teaching the devil's doctrine, for he wants to deprive people of glory (see under Digging Deeper in 2Cor 4-5),
Those who teach the truth about godliness and glory, will suffer opposition, for this is not yet our Father's world (1Pt 5:8 -see outline on Satan is Alive and Well on Planet Earth). However, those who have set their hope on the promises of the living God, know that He is not only the Savior of all men who come to Him, but saves to the uttermost (Heb 7:25), as in glorification, those who continue to believe His promises.
4:11-16 Paul exhorts Timothy to command and teach this truth, because many will oppose it. Some will attempt to discredit the truth by despising the youth of the teacher. Paul tells him not to be affected by their attacks, but instead be an example to the believers in six areas:
  • word/speech – convincingly speaking the truth in love so that it edifies others;
  • way of life – living the truth;
  • love – sacrificing his comfort and ambitions for the eternal benefit of others;
  • spirit – zeal and passion for the glory of God;
  • faith – confidence in the character and promises of God, including dependent daily trust;
  • purity – abstaining from every appearance of evil;
  • ministry - public reading, exhortation and teaching of Scripture.
Paul also told him not to neglect the gracething (gift) that was supernaturally bestowed upon him by the elders. We're not told what it was in this letter, but in 2Timothy 1:6 he reminds him of it again, and in 4:5 Paul exhorts him to do the work of an evangelist. This is not the norm for people being equipped for service today (see comments on Ephesians 4 for the limited duration of gifted men). The modern equivalent would be to be a good steward of all that God has entrusted to us. (See the Faithfulness series at the end of the TOYL booklet on Truthbase.net if you're serious about hearing the words “Well done, good and faithful servant:”)
If Timothy is diligent to wholeheartedly give himself to what Paul outlined, his progress/profiting would be obvious to all. We should be different than we were a year ago at this time, and we should be more like Christ a year from now. If not, something isn't working correctly. Paul reminds him to pay attention to (consider and evaluate) his own physical and spiritual needs, as well as his teaching and stick with it, so that he will save both himself and those who hear him. This is another (cf 2:15-16) obvious use of the glorification aspect of salvation. Those who fail to acknowledge that salvation has three aspects (justification/forgiveness, sanctification/holiness, and glorification/reward) would have to interpret this verse as works that are necessary to pay the debt of our sin (rather than justification by faith).
Application: How do you exercise yourself for the purpose of developing godliness in your life? If you don't already have such an exercise program in place, you can develop one from the instructions Paul gave Timothy.
Prayer: God, thanks that You guide and glorify Your godly servants; may my conscience be sensitive to Your Spirit, my life embody Your truth, and my teaching transform lives, for Your glory's sake. Amen.


1Timothy 5 Honoring the Honorable
5:1 Don’t rebuke an older man, but exhort him as a father; the younger men as brothers; 2 the elder women as mothers; the younger as sisters, in all purity.
3 Honor widows who are widows indeed. 4 But if any widow has children or grandchildren, let them learn first to show piety towards their own family, and to repay/requite their parents, for this is acceptable in the sight of God. 5 Now she who is a widow indeed, and desolate, has her hope set on God, and continues in petitions and prayers night and day. 6 But she who gives herself to pleasure is dead while she lives. 7 Also command these things, that they may be without reproach. 8 But if anyone doesn’t provide for his own, and especially his own household, he has denied the faith, and is worse than an unbeliever. 9 Let no one be enrolled as a widow under sixty years old, having been the wife of one man, 10 being approved by good works, if she has brought up children, if she has been hospitable to strangers, if she has washed the saints’ feet, if she has relieved the afflicted, and if she has diligently followed every good work. 11 But refuse younger widows, for when they have grown wanton against Christ, they desire to marry; 12 having condemnation, because they have rejected their first pledge/faith. 13 Besides, they also learn to be idle, going about from house to house. Not only idle, but also gossips and busybodies, saying things which they ought not. 14 I desire therefore that the younger widows marry, bear children, manage the household, and give no occasion to the adversary for insulting. 15 For already some have turned aside after Satan. 16 If any man or woman who believes has widows, let them relieve them, and don’t let the assembly be burdened; that it might relieve those who are widows indeed.
17 Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in the word and in teaching. 18 For the Scripture says, "You shall not muzzle the ox when it treads out the grain." And, "The laborer is worthy of his wages." 19 Don’t receive an accusation against an elder, except at the word of two or three witnesses. 20 Those who sin, reprove in the sight of all, that the rest also may be in fear. 21 I command you in the sight of God, and Christ Jesus, and the chosen/elect angels, that you observe these things without prejudice, doing nothing by partiality. 22 Lay hands hastily on no one, neither be a participant in other men’s sins. Keep yourself pure. 23 Be no longer a drinker of water only, but use a little wine for your stomach’s sake and your frequent infirmities. 24 Some men’s sins are evident, preceding them to judgment, and some also follow later. 25 In the same way also there are good works that are obvious, and those that are otherwise can’t be hidden.

Observations: 5:1-2 Paul reminds Timothy that his ministry is to the family of God, and thus should relate to others as family (in a good, not dysfunctional way).
5:3-16 Speaking of family matters, Paul gives direction regarding the care of widows, distinguishing between those whom the church should support, and those they shouldn't. Believers have the responsibility to care for and requite (pay back; it is justice, not charity) their parents for the care they bestowed upon them. This is one of the two major NT commands directed at children (cf Eph 6). This is right in the sight of God (and thus our righteousness). Those who don't have denied the faith (here put for the teaching one professes to believe) and are worse in the sight of others than an unbeliever/infidel (who care for their own).
Widows who serve God rather than their pleasures should be supported by the church if they have no family. The characteristics of a godly woman are noted in the text, and worth emulating, and the characteristics of an ungodly woman are worth eschewing (if one hopes for eternal reward). Younger widows should remarry and raise children. Otherwise they risk the judgment they would receive from either violating a “pledge” to remain single and serve Christ (although there is no clear historical record of such a practice), or perhaps they fulfill their desire for marriage by marrying an unbeliever (since verse 15 indicates that some have turned aside from their faith/pledge in following Satan, this latter option has merit, but not explicitly stated). There might be better third option.
5:17-25 Paul now gives instruction regarding elders (presbuteros, from which we get our word Presbyterian; these are the overseers/bishops of 3:1, episkopos, from which we get Episcopal, the designations of demonstrations based upon polity or structure of church leadership). Those elders (see comments on Acts 20:17,28) who rule well (1Thess 5:12) should be worthy of double honor. “Honor” is a word that means both “price”, and “deference or respect.” The concept of double honor implies both. The verb “honor” was used of meeting the needs of widows in 5:3, and compensation is seen in verse 18 (cf. 1Cor 9:7-14). The giving of monetary gifts is a form of honor (as in honorarium). There are elders who focus on overseeing and shepherding the flock, and some who especially labor in teaching and preaching (cf Acts 6:2). All elders should do both (see qualifications in 3:2; Titus 1:9). Those who do their job well (which implies there are some who don't) should be worthy of both kinds of honor. One thousand five hundred pastors leave the ministry in the USA every month. Half of those who remain would leave if they could! There are numerous reasons for leaving (see study), but failure to be honorable and be honored would encompass many of them. See the Catacomb Church Blog (later this year) for hopefully helpful suggestions.
Those elders who are missing the mark (as in sinning -5:20) should be reproved publicly. This is a specific instruction to Timothy (cf. 5:21). It would probably be prudent (and Biblical) for modern believers to follow the principles of Matthew 18, and Galatians 6 first; however, if the sin of the elder is public, the lack of toleration for it should be public as well, so people don't get complacent about sin, but rather fear it. Paul commands that Timothy follow this command without showing partiality (his future reward depends upon it – 5:23). The elect or choice angels is a better translation than chosen, referring to the group of angels that remained faithful to God rather than siding with Satan. This should have some bearing on how people understand “elect/choice” as it refers to humans who show themselves to be loyal to Christ. Verse 21 consists of three imperatives, the first two contrastive, and the last one a conclusion. It is highly unlikely that the laying on of hands refers to some kind of “ordination” since that would have been mentioned in chapter 3 when Paul instructed Timothy to appoint elders and deacons who were proven. The more obvious reference is to the two previous commands in verses 19 and 20. Timothy should not be hasty to receive an accusation nor slow to carry out the rebuke when warranted. Laying on of hands can be used for attacking someone, especially when combined with “hastily.” Sharing/fellowshipping in one's sin is a function of condoning and enabling it (Rom 1:32). The final imperative to keep himself holy is enabled by judging rightly the cases of erring elders.
Paul commands Timothy to drink a little wine for his health. This is a permissive statement to shield him for those who would accuse him of being a drunkard (cf. Mt 11:19). Rounding out the section on sin, Paul states that some people's sins, which will result in judgment and loss of reward (not forgiveness), are obvious (to everyone but the sinner). Others are hidden, but will be revealed before the bema of Christ (2Cor 5:10). Similarly, some good works are obvious, those that aren't seen in the present, will one day be revealed and rewarded (1Cor 3:13).
Application: Strive to be honorable, and to honor those to whom honor is due.
Prayer: Lord thanks that You use Your people to meet the needs of Your people so Your love and care can be reflected to others; help me be honorable, as I mirror Your character. Amen.


1 Timothy 6 Rich and Riches
6:1 Let as many as are bondservants under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honor, that the name of God and the doctrine/teaching not be blasphemed. 2 Those who have believing masters, let them not despise them, because they are brothers, but rather let them serve them, because those who partake of the benefit are believing and beloved. Teach and exhort these things. 3 If anyone teaches a different doctrine, and doesn’t consent to sound words, the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness, 4 he is conceited, knowing nothing, but obsessed with arguments, disputes, and word battles, from which come envy, strife, insulting, evil suspicions, 5 constant friction of people of corrupt minds and destitute of the truth, who suppose that godliness is a means of gain. Withdraw yourself from such.
6 But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into the world, and we certainly can’t carry anything out. 8 But having food and clothing, we will be content with that. 9 But those who are determined to be rich fall into a temptation and a snare and many foolish and harmful lusts, such as drown men in ruin and destruction. 10 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some have been led astray from the faith in their greed, and have pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
11 But you, man of God, flee these things, and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, and gentleness. 12 Fight the good fight of faith. Lay hold of the eternal life to which you were called, and you confessed the good confession in the sight of many witnesses. 13 I command you before God, who gives life to all things, and before Christ Jesus, who before Pontius Pilate testified the good confession, 14 that you keep the commandment without spot, blameless, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ; 15 which in its own times he will show, who is the blessed and only Ruler, the King of kings, and Lord of lords; 16 who alone has immortality, dwelling in unapproachable light; whom no man has seen, nor can see: to whom be honor and eternal power. Amen.
17 Charge those who are rich in this present world that they not be haughty, nor have their hope set on the uncertainty of riches, but on the living God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy; 18 that they do good, that they be rich in good works, that they be ready to distribute, willing to share; 19 laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold of eternal life. 20 Timothy, guard that which is committed to you, turning away from the empty chatter and oppositions of the knowledge which is falsely so called; 21 which some professing have erred concerning the faith. Grace be with you. Amen.

Observations: 6:1-5 Servants/workers are to consider their masters/employers worthy of all honor so the Christian God and teaching/faith not be viewed unfavorably by others. Lazy Christian workers do not reflect well on God (Col 3:22-25). Those who have Christian bosses, should not diminish the respect and fear that is due them (despise means to treat lightly), because they are fellow-believers. Instead they should serve them and honor their authority so much the more, because they are brothers in Christ. Paul says some pretty unflattering things about those who don't agree with his teaching, which was designed to produce godliness (see 4:8). Those who think otherwise don't know the truth, nor understand godliness, and are only teaching for financial gain (“keep those card$ and letter$ coming in folk$”). From such Timothy was to withdraw (arguing with fools isn't worth it, they don't have the mental nor spiritual equipment to process change -Pr 14:7).
6:6-11 Godliness (knowing and doing what God requires) with contentment (an awareness that God gives what's best when it's best, and will not withhold anything good from those who walk uprightly -Ps 84:11), is great gain. See sermons on Contentment and Lord of the Ringless on Truthbase.net, as well as comments on Philippians 4. God is the one who meets our needs (Mt 6:11, 24-34), therefore we can concern ourselves with His agenda rather than our own. Wanting to be rich is a root of all kinds of evil, which choke the word, and make it unfruitful (Mk 4:19). Love of money competes with our love of God. Which will be your Master?
6:11-16 Men and women of God need to flee the pursuit of temporal value, and chase after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience and gentleness. These don't become part of our lives automatically, we have to go for them with the same gusto worldlings go for wealth (2Pt 1:5-11). What's your plan to get them? How's your progress? Paul also tells Timothy to wage the good fight of faith, against the dark forces that would seek to derail him. In doing so, he will lay hold of the dominion of the Age (glory) to which he was called/invited by Christ (as we all are) when he believed. Paul charges him to keep the commandment/charge blamelessly until the return of Christ, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, (and ruler of the Age to come). The charge would consist of all that Paul just told him.
6:17-21 Timothy is to charge (command) those who are rich in this present age to not be arrogant, nor set their hope for the future on the vagaries of riches, but on the living God. He provides us with all things that we enjoy (see comments on Ecclesiastes 2:24-26). Wealth is a tool, to be used to accomplish God's purposes. Note that the rich are not told to get rid of their wealth, but to use it for the good of others, and their own eternal good as well. They are to do good (which presumes being good -6:11), be rich in good deeds, ready to impart, and willing to share. Then they can lay hold of the dominion/glory of the Age. This is another place where eternal life is not a given, but is given as a result of our works (the glorification aspect of salvation). Paul gives a final reminder to Timothy to guard the truth from distortion and dilution, and avoid those who are only interested in debate, and have departed from the faith as revealed in Christ. He wishes him the covenantal blessing of grace.
Application: God richly provides what we need so we can richly meet the needs of others.
Prayer: God, thanks that You protect and prosper Your people so they can bring You glory though the blessing of others; help me use what You've given me to accomplish all Your intended purposes. Amen.


Digging Deeper

God in a nutshell: God gives us all things to enjoy and use to serve, bless and honor others.

Build-a-Jesus: The Lord Jesus Christ is the blessed and only Ruler, the King of kings, and Lord of lords; who alone has immortality; who dwells in unapproachable light; whom no man has seen, nor can see: to whom belongs all honor and eternal power.

Us in a nutshell: We can be content in God's provision as we seek to do what is right in His sight.


Where to Go for More:
Truthbase.net

1 Timothy 1-3 God Wants All Saved and True

1 Timothy 1-3 God Wants All Saved and True


TMS 1 Peter 5:7 Put Your Whole World in His Hands
1 Peter 5:7 “Likewise you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders. Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for " God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble." 6 Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time,

7 casting all your care upon Him,
for He cares for you.

8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour."

Observations: 5:7 This is an easy verse to memorize, and not that difficult to start doing. The difficulty lies in refraining from taking back your cares and concerns from God's hand. The word for casting is used only one other time in the NT (Lk 19:35) of the disciples tossing their cloaks upon the Psalm Sunday colt. “Cares” are the concerns for things of this world which choke the word and make it unfruitful (Mt 13:22; Mk 4:19; Lk 8:14). In the context of 1Peter 5 (see comments there), it describes the concern for one's status and reputation, and what will happen if one actually does submit. Whatever makes you anxious is legitimate from the broader context of the gospels and other passages (i.e., Phil 4:6-7). Failure to obey this admonition, particularly as it relates to pride and humility, is an open invitation for the devil to devour you (5:8).

Application: Step one: Know that God is far better able to care for us, and the things that concern us, than we are. Express that conviction to God in prayer.
Step two: Tell God that you are trusting Him to take care of each specific item that concerns you, and visualize yourself placing it in His hands.
Step three: Ask God what He wants you to do, this day, about any of the items.
Step four: Do whatever He reveals, and leave all the cares in His capable hands.
Step five: Enjoy His peace, and thank Him.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I praise You that You are so mighty and capable of taking care of all that concerns me; I trust that You will take care of X, Y, Z, and work it out for good; please show me whatever You want me to do about these things; thanks for Your promises of peace. Amen.


1 Timothy 1-3 The letters to Timothy and Titus comprise the Pastoral Epistles, giving advice on issues of church life. Each letter gives qualifications for church leadership (elders) and there is a practical guide to those marks of godliness under Digging Deeper. Paul writes to encourage and empower Timothy in his task of building up the churches so they function as God desires. Both corporate and individual applications appear, as well as truth designed to encourage those who serve God.



1 Timothy 1 The Goal of Instruction
1:1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus according to the authoritative order of God our Savior, and Christ Jesus our hope; 2 to Timothy, my true son in the faith: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God our Father and Christ Jesus our Lord. 3 As I urged you when I was going into Macedonia, stay at Ephesus that you might command certain men not to teach a different doctrine, 4 neither to pay attention to myths and endless genealogies, which cause disputes, rather than godly edification, which is in/by faith
5 but the goal of this command is love, out of a pure heart and a good conscience and sincere faith; 6 from which things some, having missed the mark, have turned aside to vain talking; 7 desiring to be teachers of the law, though they understand neither what they say, nor about what they strongly affirm. 8 But we know that the law is good, if a man uses it lawfully, 9 as knowing this, that law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and insubordinate, for the ungodly and sinners, for the unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers, 10 for the sexually immoral, for homosexuals, for slave-traders, for liars, for perjurers, and for any other thing contrary to the sound doctrine; 11 according to the Good News of the glory of the blessed God, which was committed to my trust.
12 And I thank him who enabled me, Christ Jesus our Lord, because he counted me faithful, appointing me to service; 13 although I was before a blasphemer, a persecutor, and insolent. However, I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. 14 The grace of our Lord abounded exceedingly with faith/trust and love which is in Christ Jesus. 15 The saying is faithful and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief. 16 However, for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first, Jesus Christ might display all his patience, for an example of those who were going to believe in him for eternal/of the Age life/dominion. 17 Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, to God who alone is wise, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.
18 This instruction I commit to you, my son Timothy, according to the prophecies made concerning you, that by them you may wage the good warfare; 19 holding faith and a good conscience; which some having cast away have suffered shipwreck concerning the faith; 20 of whom is Hymenaeus and Alexander; whom I delivered to Satan, that they might be taught not to blaspheme.

Observations: 1:1-4 Paul write to his “true born” son in the faith, Timothy, giving him written authority to set the Ephesian church plant in order. Like any growing plant, some pruning and structure is necessary for proper growth. Too much structure stifles growth, too little results in lack of fruit. Paul tells Timothy to ensure purity and priority of sound teaching, by confronting those who teach inaccurately or major on the minors. Biblical teaching builds faithful reproductive disciples. Anything less is not God's will. The edification of which Paul speaks is that which follows upon faith in the revelation of Christ (about Him and by Him), rather than the law (Judaizers are everywhere). Paul is an apostle by God's authoritative order/command Acts 26:17 I will deliver you from the Jewish people, as well as from the Gentiles, to whom I now send you, 18 to open their eyes, in order to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who are sanctified by faith in Me.'
Note God as Savior -Ps 24:5. He wishes Timothy the usual blessings of grace and peace, but adds mercy (which is the Greek translation of the Hebrew hesed), God's loyal covenantal love. As Timothy combats the enemies of truth, an awareness of God's loyalty to those who do His will would be energizing and encouraging.
1:5 The goal of the command to restrain false and frivolous teaching is for believers to be built up so they manifest agape (loyal Christlike love), which sums up the requirements of the law and obeys the great command given by Christ (John 13:34-35). If teaching doesn't equip believers to love biblically, it isn't biblical. Agape must come from a pure/cleansed heart (whose values reflect God's values, not the world's), a good conscience (a guilt-free consciousness of doing what is pleasing in God's sight, mentioned six times in the Pastorals; see comments on Acts 24:16), and a faith that is unfeigned (also used to modify love). A pure heart is a function of obeying the truth (1Pt 1:22). The faith necessary for agape love (sacrificing oneself to do what is in another's best interest) must be sincere, unfeigned, undisguised, and not hypocritical. This is not a reference to genuineness of belief in Christ's atonement (that is almost never an issue in the NT), nor even that of consistency between belief and behavior (although that is a frequent issue), but in this context is most probably a reference to an unreserved adherence to the revelation about and by Christ (rather than that of the law). Such faith would be consistent with Galatians 5:6 (faith working through love) and Hebrews 11:6 (faith that God rewards those who diligently seek Him).
1 Peter 1:22 Since you have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit for sincere love of the brethren, love one another fervently with a pure heart,
1:6-11 The people Timothy needed to shut up were those who had turned aside from love, obedience (conscience) and faith (as delivered by Jesus) to teach the law and its rituals. As many today, they don't understand what they are saying (parroting) and affirming (shouting about). Law (no article in the Greek) is not set in place for the righteous, but to restrain the wicked (see comments on the Law being a guardian until Christ in Gal 3:23). The list of lawless acts echos Paul's list of the deeds of the flesh (Gal 5:19) and the sins which cause believers to lose their inheritance/reward (1Cor 6:9; Eph 5:5). All these behaviors are contrary to sound teaching/doctrine, and not according to the good news/gospel of the glory that faithful believers will receive. Remember Paul's commission in Acts 26 is so that the Gentiles would obtain an inheritance among those sanctified by faith in Christ (not law-keeping).
1:12-17 Paul explains why God entrusted him with the gospel even though formerly he was chief of sinners: God had shown him mercy because he had acted in ignorance, and then considered him faithful with the grace God had shown him (1Cor 15:10), which abounded with the faith/trust and love in/by Christ. It is a trustworthy saying that Jesus came into the world to save sinners, so they might believe and eventually receive dominion in the Messianic Age. Paul considered himself a showcase for God's gracious patience with those who believe. Therefore Paul praises God the King of the Ages, who is incorruptible, and transcendent (beyond the physical realm, thus invisible), the only wise God, to whom belong glory and honor forever. If Paul was entrusted with his ministry because he was faithful with what God had given him, then Timothy must also be faithful (a word used sixteen times in the Pastorals).
1:18-20 Paul commits this instruction to his son in the faith, reminding him of the prophesies made concerning Timothy, (referred to 4:14 and 2Tim. 1:6) to which he too must be faithful. By recalling how God had put him in His service, Timothy could draw encouragement from God's placement of Timothy as Paul's deputy. Believer's today do not need any such prophecy or “call” to service since God has already given them a written invitation and commission (Mt 28:19-20, and all the one-another commands; see 2Tim 2:2). Even though God had specifically designated Timothy as He had Paul, Timothy needed to wage battle against Satan and his agents, holding on to his belief in the truth and a good conscience (obeying what he knows - Acts 24:16). If he abandoned those his faith would suffer shipwreck (as in not get him to his destination of glory -Heb 2:1 miss the destination). A shipwrecked faith doesn't cause one to be unborn again, but does cause one to miss out on inheritance/reward in the Kingdom. Two such shipwrecked saints were Hy and Al, whom Paul delivered to Satan for discipline, so they might not speak against the truth and Paul (1Cor 5:5).

Application: If we hold onto our belief in God's promises, and obey what we know (good conscience) we will sail safely through turbulent waters to future glory.

Prayer: God, thanks that You provide the truth and grace I need to do Your will, particularly in loving others; please help me use it to Your glory. Amen.


1 Timothy 2 Saved and True
2:1 I exhort therefore, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and givings of thanks, be made for all men: 2 for kings and all who are in high places; that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. 3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior; 4 who wills/desires all people to be saved and come to full knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, 6 who gave himself as a ransom for all; the testimony in its proper time; 7 to which I was appointed a preacher and an apostle (I am telling the truth in Christ, not lying), a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth. 8 I desire therefore that the men in every place pray, lifting up holy hands without anger and disputing.
9 In the same way, that women also adorn themselves in modest clothing, with honor and propriety; not just with braided hair, gold, pearls, or expensive clothing; 10 but (which becomes women professing godliness) with good works. 11 Let a woman learn in quietness with all submission. 12 But I don’t permit a woman to teach, nor to exercise authority over a man, but to be in quietness. 13 For Adam was first formed, then Eve. 14 Adam wasn’t deceived, but the woman, being deceived, has fallen into disobedience; 15 but she will be saved through her childbearing, if they continue in faith, love, and sanctification with soundmindedness.

Observations: 2:1-4 In light of the spiritual battle believers face, Paul emphasizes the priority of prayer for all, especially those in authority, so that believers may live in peace and dignity. This is good and right in the sight of God our Savior, who desires that all people be saved, and (wait there's more!) come to an experiential knowledge of the truth (see comments on Titus 1:1). God's desires/wills (Strong's #2309 thelo: resolve, determine, purpose) for all to be saved is based on the fact that Jesus was given as a ransom for all people (not just the Jews or a select few -2Pt 3:9). There is only one way to God (John 14:6; Acts 4:12) and that is through the one mediator (middle man) between God and men, Jesus, and only Him. This eliminates all other mediators or need for one. Those who don't have a relationship with Jesus will think that praying to someone else to intercede for them will help, but that's idolatry. Praying to anyone else but God, in the name of Jesus, is to ignore God's revelation, which is a guaranteed way to have God ignore you. The God-Man Jesus is the only provision/ransom (Mt 20:29; Lk 10:45) God has provided for man's sin, and the only death He'll accept in our place.
Don't miss the other desire/will of God, which is experiential knowledge of the truth, an intimate, sanctified relationship with Him, based upon the truth (rather than tradition). God's will is that people go beyond justification and walk in the revealed truth of the Spirit.
Lot's of deceived people miss these three truths, so here they are again:
  • There is only one Mediator, Jesus (that's you-Jesus-Father) no one else in-between;
  • God wills all people to be saved (not just a select few);
  • God wills for saved people experience and walk in the truth/light.
Anything other than the above is not God's will, although people are free to refuse His will and do their own thing, but they will suffer the sovereign consequences He's attached to their choices. Paul was appointed to give testimony to the Gentiles, teaching them the will of God in the sphere of faith and in the sphere of truth (corresponding to the will of God in verse 4). Paul indeed brought the Gentiles to both faith in Christ, and transformation in the truth (cf Titus 1:1). Therefore he asks for prayer for the fulfillment of his purpose. The admonition to pray without anger or disputing is a counter to the disunity in 1:5, and stresses the need for righteous relationships with others if we expect God to answer what we request (Mt 5:24). Men frequently seek worth and value by being better than other men, rather than being better than they used to be in God's sight.
2:9 Similarly, women frequently compete with other women, to get worth and value by being attractive from a human rather than Divine perspective. It's not mere appearance which is attractive in the sight of God (and a godly man), but an honorable character, engaged in good works (God's purpose in saving us -Eph 2:10). Braiding the bristles of a pig, and dressing it in jewels and silk, doesn't make it beautiful. Paul addresses the role of women in the church in a manner similar to 1Corinthians 14:34 (see observations there). It might be worth noting that both the OT and NT elevated the status of women far above cultural norms, and it was the Woman's Christian Temperance Unions that led to women's right to vote. As mentioned previously, function makes no comment about worth or value of a person (see Submission: The S Word on Truthbase.net). Paul says that women should learn in quietness and submission, should not teach, nor exercise authority over men (in the church is the context 3:15). According to the Holy Spirit inspired apostle, women are to be under authority (as are all believers). In they church they are not to teach, nor serve as authoritative leadership (as a governing board). The reason Paul gives is not cultural (see comments on 1Cor 11) but universal. Doing what is right in God's sight is far more important, than human recognition, and the source of eternal worth and value. In contrast to leadership roles in the church, the sphere in which a woman reaps rewards is in the family, through the raising of the next godly generation (not just having babies). Saved in this context is not justification, but glorification, dependent also upon continuance in faith, love, sanctification/holiness, with soundmindedness (a Greek term for a life governed by principled objectives). See more on this subject on Trustbase.net and the upcoming Catacomb Church. A woman can serve in “official” capacity, even on a church board, under the delegation of Biblically qualified men (see next chapter). She could be asked or given permission to share things that build up the Body, even from a public platform (such as a missionary or ministry experience), and still fit under Paul's injunction. Women encouraging men in the truth ( Aquila and Priscilla -Acts 18:26) would be a good idea, but publicly leading men in churches in matters of truth would not.

Application: God desires that all people not just be justified, but experience all His communicated truth in their lives.

Prayer: God, may I fulfill Your desire for me by walking today, and everyday in Your truth; show me where I'm missing it, and please guide me into it. Thanks. Amen.


1 Timothy 3 Models of Godliness.
3:1 This is a faithful saying: if a man seeks the office of an overseer/bishop, he desires a good work. 2 The overseer therefore must be without reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, sensible, modest, hospitable, apt to teaching; 3 not a drinker, not violent, not greedy for money, but gentle, not quarrelsome, not covetous; 4 one who rules his own house well, having children in subjection with all reverence; 5 (but if a man doesn’t know how to rule his own house, how will he take care of the assembly of God?) 6 not a new convert, lest being puffed up he fall into the same condemnation as the devil. 7 Moreover he must have good testimony from those who are outside, to avoid falling into reproach and the snare of the devil.
8 Servants/deacons, in the same way, must be reverent, not double-tongued, not addicted to much wine, not greedy for money; 9 holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience. 10 Let them also first be tested; then let them serve if they are blameless. 11 Their wives in the same way must be reverent, not slanderers, temperate, faithful in all things. 12 Let servants be husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well. 13 For those who have served well gain for themselves a good standing, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.
14 These things I write to you, hoping to come to you shortly; 15 but if I wait long, that you may know how men ought to behave themselves in the house of God, which is the assembly of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth. 16 Without controversy, the mystery of godliness is great: God was revealed in the flesh, justified in the spirit, seen by angels, preached among the nations, believed on in the world, and received up in glory.

Observations: 3:1-13 God's plan for church leadership are mature models of godliness, who have been receptive to the objective will of the Holy Spirit in their own lives, and thus able to discern His will in church matters. No gifting or calling is specified nor required. Paul gives Timothy this list (compare the similar list in Titus), so Timothy has the authority to recognize those people in whom the Holy Spirit has been working, and who he can appoint to lead the church. Eventually as the Body matures, they would be able to use this list to recognize the godly leaders without direct apostolic appointment. These are not just requirements for elders, but for all believers, hence the title “Models of Godliness.” All believers should strive to have these qualities in their lives (this is more obvious in Titus), because they form the basis of gaining eternal reward (3:13). The list below under Digging Deeper is written so any individual can evaluate their own life, and that of a prospective elder. You'll find a lot more on this topic in the Catacomb Church, since Biblical leadership is the defining mark of a Biblical church. There you'll also find out suggestions for what to do if there is no godly male leadership.
The general requirement for an elder is to be above reproach (un-indictable, not enough pattern of evidence of wrongdoing for a conviction), but not perfect. The “disqualifications” are explained in the list below, but a comment about marriage is worth noting. Church leaders should be married with godly kids (although the list below could be used for evaluating someone not in that position). The reason for godly kids, is one needs to manage one's household well (proof in the pudding) before one can manage God's household. Parenting is a team sport, and if a guy can't have a unified approach to parenting with his wife, he's not going to be capable of reaching consensus with other leaders about more subjective church issues. The secret to godly kids is vigilant, loving confrontation and correction of sin. (See Parenting resources on Truthbase.net, especially the Proverbial Parent.) This is the skill necessary to be a good shepherd of God's sheep. “Husband of one wife” translates “one woman man,” which means that a guy's sexual attention is directed solely toward his wife. The need for a good reputation with outsiders is so one doesn't try to get worth and value at the expense of others in the church. Anyone who wants the job for status is unqualified to do it.
Deacons (the Greek word is “servant”) are not necessarily a permanent office, but more ad hoc ministers to needs in the Body (see comments on Acts 6). Requirements for their wives are mentioned, because deacons are often involved in meeting personal needs and gossip could ruin the reputation of folks.
See comments on Leadership in Acts 20 for more on the tasks of shepherding/pastoring and overseeing/bishoping being entrusted solely to elders (also 1 Peter 5:1-5). See the evaluative compilation of this list and Titus 1 in Marks and Models of Godliness below under Digging Deeper.
3:14-16 Paul gives his purpose in writing, so that Timothy would have an authoritative basis for correcting the church. Paul describes the Body/assembly of believers (not the building) as the household of the living God, the supporting pillar of the truth. Paul then elaborates on that truth which the church upholds, calling it the mystery (previously unrevealed information) of godliness (knowing and doing what God requires -see Titus 1). The mystery consists of the incarnation, (death), resurrection, glorification, revelation to the nations, reception by the world, and enthronement of Jesus Christ, the Messiah. This the foundation on which every Biblical church rests.

Application: Go through the marks of godliness under Digging Deeper and honestly evaluate yourself (male or female, young or old) and see what kind of model you are for others. Take any corrective action necessary.

Prayer: God, thanks that You make possible all You expect me to do and be; may I draw upon Your grace to obey and serve You, for Your glory. Amen.

Digging Deeper
God in a nutshell: God wants all to be saved and come to an experiential knowledge of the truth.

Build-a-Jesus: Jesus is the only ransom and mediator between God and man (no intermediaries). He is God in the flesh, now enthroned in glory.

Us in a nutshell: Believers are the household of God, and must operate according to His organizational structure, in unity and harmony.

Models of Godliness - Elder Qualifications 


1Tim 4:7 train yourself to be godly 6:11 pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love... Titus1:1 apostle for faith...and experiential knowledge of the truth which leads to godliness, 2Pt 1:3  add to your faith...perseverance, godliness...not unfruitful...rich welcome

Titus 1:6  elder must be blameless, the husband of but one wife, a man whose children believe & are not open to the charge of being wild & disobedient.
I Timothy 3:2-5 Now the overseer must be above reproach, the husband of but one wife... 4 He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him with proper respect. 5 (If anyone doesn't know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God's church?)
I. BLAMELESS (Above reproach, Unindictable)
A. Is there anything in his life that has not been dealt with in a biblical manner? Could you charge him with any uncorrected wrongdoing? Is there any way in which he is not a model of godliness?
B. If so, follow the principle of Matthew 18.
C. Can he limit his natural desires to do what God desires or what is best for others?
D. Is he a model of godliness, in the sense that he is characterized by consistent experiential knowledge (application) of truth?
E. Does his behavior indicate that his actions are based upon a strong hope or expectation of eternal rewards? (Titus 1:2)
II. HUSBAND-OF ONE WIFE (One woman man)
A. Are his attentions and delights focused solely on his wife?
B. Do his interactions with other women indicate that he is a one-woman man?
C. Does his relationship with his wife indicate that he would not drift towards an actual or fantasized affair?
D .Do the observable parts of his life provide evidence that he has control of his desires?
E. Does he limit his desires, for the benefit of his wife?
III. BELIEVING CHILDREN (Passing on the faith)
A. Has he passed on his faith to his children (and others)?
B. Is his relationship with Jesus such that it is attractive to others?
C. Is he free from hypocrisy so that he's the same at church and at home?
IV. BEHAVING CHILDREN (Passing on the lifestyle)
A. Has he passed on the sound-minded control of his emotions and desires to his children?
B. Do his children (disciples) demonstrate the ability to limit their desires for a higher objective (wild = not saving)?
C. Has he passed on the lifestyle of submission to authority? Or are his children rebellious?
D. Do his children obey him with God-fearing respect?
E. Do his children honor their parents?
V. MANAGING FAMILY WELL
A. Does his family exhibit the Biblical pattern for families (Eph 5-6; Col 3) Is it a model for others?
B. Does his wife respond to his leadership with respect and submission?
C. Is he disciplining and training his children to fear the Lord?
D. Would you want the church to be like his family life?
E. Does he take the initiative in solving family difficulties or does he let things smolder until things explode?
F. Is his home in such an order that it can be used as a base for ministry?
Titus 1:7 Since an overseer is entrusted with God's work, he must be blameless--not overbearing, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not pursuing dishonest gain. I Timothy -3:3 not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money.
VI. STEWARD/ENTRUSTED WITH GOD'S WORK
A. If you were God. would you hire him and entrust him with your property or business?   B. Why or why not?
VII. NOT OVERBEARING (Self-willed, Self-pleasing)
A. Does he insist on having his own way?
B. Does he patiently persuade or force his opinion on others?
C. Is he open to new ideas?
D. Does he nit-pick the little things under the guise of being right?
E. Does he make decisions based on what's right or what pleases him?./
F. Is he sensitive to what is in another's best interest as well as their feelings and preferences?
IX. NOT QUICK-TEMPERED
A. Can he endure injustice and ill-treatment?
B. Does he insist on being right?
C. Does he have to tell you what he thinks or can he control his anger?
D. In the face of sheer stupidity can he channel his outrage constructively?
E. Does irritation quickly flare up into anger?
X. NOT BESIDE WINE (Escapism)
A. Does he avoid or escape his responsibilities through procrastination?
B. Does he comfort himself or alter his experience or reality through alcohol, food, TV, travel, computer games or other forms of amusement?
C. Can he face and do the unpleasant?
D. Does he avoid and run away from failure or overcome and learn from it?
XI. NOT VIOLENT (Hasty in striking an opponent)
A. When wronged, does he lash out or seek to get even or get revenge?
B. Can he attack a position without attacking the person?
C. Has he freed himself from unrighteous anger, hate or hostility?
D. Can he disagree without being disagreeable?
E. Would you call him a peacemaker who can reconcile relationships?
F. Does he seek to understand another's position and the reasoning (or lack thereof) behind it before attacking the position?
XII. NOT PURSUING DISHONEST GAIN
A. Is he free from the love of money? Is he a workaholic?
B. Would he compromise a principle to add to his principal?
C. Does he live within a budget?
D. Does he tithe, recognizing God's ownership of all he has?
E. Will he compromise (not forsake) the truth so others will like him?
F. Does he base his estimate of himself and others on their income?
*G. Does he place his job ahead of his family or spiritual responsibilities, or does he neglect spiritual service for work?
Titus 1:8 Rather he must be hospitable, one who loves what is good, who is self-controlled, upright, holy and disciplined 
I Timothy 3:2 temperate self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach
XIII. HOSPITABLE (Lover of strangers)
A. Does he seek out strangers and visitors and make them feel welcome?
B. Can he develop a relationship with a stranger to the point where he can discern & help accomplish God's purposes for that person?
C. Does he use his home as a base for ministering to other's needs?
D. Is he growing in his circle of acquaintances and friendships?
Rom 12:13 Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality  Heb 13:2 Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained strangers without knowing it. 1Pt 4:9 Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling.
XIV. LOVER OF GOOD
A. Is he attracted toward what is good?
B. What good works have you seen demonstrated in his life?
C. Does he have a disdain for what is not good?
2Tim 3:2 People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive. disobedient to their parents, ungrateful unholy, 3 without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of good, 4 treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God--5 having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with them. 7 always learning but never able to acknowledge the truth.
XV. SOUND MINDED (Self-controlled)
A. Does he govern his life by principles and objectives or by natural drives, appetites, and lusts. (i.e., sex or security)?
B. Is it obvious that he limits what he could be doing in order to do what God wants?
C. Can he explain the thinking behind his actions or does he just go with the flow?
D. Does his mind control his feelings and actions or does he react and then rationalize?
E. Does he think before he acts, making decisions based on accurate information?
F. Does he have grasp of the big picture so that he knows when he has enough information to make a decision that pleases God?
Mk 5:15 When they came to Jesus, they saw the man who had been possessed by the legion of demons, sitting there, dressed and in his right mind,- and they were afraid. (see also 2 Cor 5:13)  Ac 26:25 "I am not insane, most excellent Festus, ' Paul replied. "What I am sayingis true and reasonable. Rm 12:3 For by the grace given me I say to every one of you.- Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you. 2Tim 1 7 For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power and of love and of self-discipline. Titus 2:2 each the older men to be temperate, worthy of respect, self-controlled, and sound in faith, in love and in endurance. Titus 2:5 to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands so that no one will malign the word of God. 12 It teaches us to say "No " to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in this present age,
XVI. JUST (Upright)
A. Has he taught himself to automatically know what is right and just and fair in the common circumstances of life (through steeping his values in Proverbs)?
B. Does he exhibit justice and fairness in dealing even with his opponents?
C. Does he operate according to God's standards and principles in all spheres of his life'?
D. Does he make decisions based on God's perspectives and values?
XVII. HOLY
A. Does he know or seek out what God wants or desires when faced with a decision?
B. Could you say that he does what Jesus would do in any given situation?
C. Would he be known as devout or pious?
D. Does he exhibit a concern for pleasing God?
E. Is he a model of personal holiness?
F. Do his speech and values indicate that he is in the world but not of the world?
G. Doss he care more about what God thinks than what others think?
Eph 4:22 You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old desires; 23 to be made new in the attitude of your minds; 24 and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
]Tim 2:10 You are witnesses, and so is God, of how holy, righteous and blameless we were among you who believed.
I Tim 2:81 want men everywhere to lift up holy hands in prayer, without anger or disputing.
Heb 7:26 Such a high priest meets our need-one who is holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners, exalted above the heavens.
XVIII. DISCIPLINED (Power under control)
A. Does his will control his life so that he does what God wants even when his emotions and past experiences point in another direction?
B. Is there evidence that he can make or break a habit?
C. Does he consistently practice the disciplines of the Christian life: devotional time, Scripture memory, Bible study, and prayer?
D. Is self-control evident in his eating, exercise, and speech habits?
E. Can he inhibit or exhibit a desire at will?
F. Is it obvious that he is in training for the prize?
G. Is he controlling his life or are others or circumstances ruling it?
Ac 24:25 As Paul discoursed on righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and said 'that's enough for now! You may leave. When I find it convenient, I will send for you. "
1Co 7:9 But if they cannot control themselves, they should marry, for it is better to marry than to bum.
1Co 9:25 Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. 7hey do it to get a crown that will not last,- but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. Gal 5.-22 But the fruit of the Spirit is ..self-control.
2Pe 1:5 For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge, and to knowledge, self-control, and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness
I Timothy 3:2 ...able to teach…   Titus 1:9 He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it. 10 For there are many rebellious people, mere talkers and deceivers, especially those of the circumcision group. 11 They must be silenced, because they are ruining whole households by teaching things they ought not to teach--and that for the sake of dishonest gain.
XIX. ABLE TO TEACH
A. KNOWING THE WORD
1. Can he accurately represent what God has said?
2. Is he a diligent student of the Word of God?
3 . Is he on a path which over the course of a lifetime will lead to mastery of the Truth?
4. Is he mining fresh truth or recycling platitudes?
5. Does he know the whole counsel of God, or just ride hobbyhorses?
6. Does he emphasize what God emphasizes?
B. APPLYING THE WORD
1. IN EXAMPLE
a. Is his lifestyle such that he has credibility?
b. Does he practice what he preaches (model godliness)?
c. Is he an embodiment of sound doctrine? (hold firmly to the message)?
2. IN TEACHING
a. Is he able to limit his preferences and overcome obstacles to communicate so others understand?
b. Is his teaching geared to knowledge or obedience?
3. IN ENCOURAGING (calling alongside)
a. Does his teaching provide Biblical motivation for obedience?
b. Does he encourage others with the word (sound doctrine) or what they want to hear (pious platitudes)?
c. Does he encourage others in the Lord or build dependence on himself or other temporal props?
4. IN REPROVING
a. Does he love people enough to confront unbiblical thinking/actions even when he knows he won't be liked or
accepted (and may even be misunderstood and slandered)?
b. Is he more concerned about his reputation with God than with what others think of him?
c. Are his arguments based upon the Scriptures or his preferences?
d. Does he exhibit gentleness and long-suffering in his rebuking?
e. Does he bring things to light (reproof) before rebuke?
f. Does he allow time for repentance?
g. Does he follow up rebuke with encouragement if there's repentance or with initiating church discipline (Mt 18) if not?
h. Is his goal restoration or condemnation?
I Timothy 3:1 Here is a trustworthy saying: If anyone sets his heart on being an overseer, he desires a noble task.
XX. ASPIRE/DESIRE
A. Does he seek to be used by God in leading/serving others or does he act like he's doing God and others a favor?
B. Does he approach serving as worshipful service or a holy hobby?
I Timothy 3:6 He must not be a recent convert, or he may become conceited and fall under the same judgment as the devil.
XXI. MATURE/HUMBLE
A. Has he had time to develop mature fruit of the Spirit in his life?
B. Is he prone to conceit or does he have a proper view of himself'.?
C. Has he eagerly sought service in the shadows as well as in the spotlight?
I Timothy 3:7 He must also have a good reputation with outsiders, so that he will not fall into disgrace and into the devil's trap.
XXII GOOD REPUTATION
A. Does he present the same picture at work or at home as he does at church?
B. Are his business practices above reproach?
C. Does his non-church life draw others to church and Christ?
D. Can he handle responsibility without it going to his head?
E. Would his boss fill out a recommendation form for him?
1Tim 3:8 Deacons. likewise, are to be men worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain.
XXIII. RESPECTABLE
A. Is he worthy of respect due to his accomplishments and competence?
B. Has he done anything to undermine his respect?
XXIV. SINCERE (Not slanderers)
A. Does he keep his promises?
XXV. TEMPERATE
A. Can he restrain and control his appetites and desires?
B. See under "Escapism", "Sound-minded", and "Self-control".
XVI. NOT GREEDY FOR A QUICK BUCK
A. See under "Not Pursuing Dishonest Gain".
XXVII. KNOW THE TRUTH & APPLY THE TRUTH  A. See under "Able to Teach".
I Timothy 3. 1 0 They must first be tested, and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons.
XXVIII. TESTED
A. Has he demonstrated faithfulness in other "unofficial" tasks'?
XXIX. BLAMELESS See above #I.
ITim 3:11 Same way, their wives are to be women worthy of respect, not malicious talkers, but temperate & trustworthy in everything.
XXX. WIFE WASHERS (Ephesians 5)
A. Has he been a stimulus to his wife's Christlikeness by both example and word?
B. Has he helped her grow in her obedience to the word and service?
C. Does his wife exhibit order and respectability'?
D. Is his wife known for her gracious edifying speech rather than indiscreet gossip or critical talk?
E. Can his wife be trusted with a secret or a responsibility?

Questions for Reflection/Discussion/Response:

  1. Are all believers models of godliness?  Is godliness automatic or do we have to do something to achieve it? How do you get it?
  2. Why the emphasis on family? How does a woman reflect on her husband? What can you tell about a person from their spouse>
  3. What is “spiritual leadership”? Is it important? Should all men strive to become elders?  Should all believers strive to become godly?
  4. What can you do to increase your GQ (godliness quotient) and that of those around you? Are you a model of godliness?


Where to Go for More:

Romans 8 Holy Spirit Sanctification

Romans 8 Holy Spirit Sanctification © 2012 WF Cobb Truthbase.net DailyTruthbase.Blogspot.com
See sermon on Truthbase.net 
I. Righteous requirements must be fulfilled 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus,
who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit.
2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death.
3 For what the law could not do in that it was weak through the flesh, God did by sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, on account of sin: He condemned/deposed sin in the flesh,
4 that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.

II. Pleasing God 5 For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. 6 For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. 7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, nor indeed can be. 8 So then, those who are in the flesh cannot please God.

III. The Indwelling Spirit 9 But you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you. Now if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he is not His/of Him. 10 And if Christ is in you, the body is dead because of sin, but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. 11 But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you. (2Cor 4-5)

IV. Put to death the deeds of the flesh 12 Therefore, brethren, we are debtors --- not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh. 13 For if you live according to the flesh you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body (cf Gal 5 vs fruits of the HS), you will live. 14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God.

V. Dual Heirship 15 For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, "Abba, Father." 16 The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, 17 and if children, then heirs --- heirs of God but joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we co-suffer with Him, that we may also be co-glorified together.

VI. Suffering for glory 18 For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. 19 For the earnest expectation of the creation eagerly waits for the revealing of the sons of God. 20 For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of Him who subjected it in hope; 21 because the creation itself also will be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. 22 For we know that the whole creation groans and labors with birth pangs together until now. 23 Not only that, but we also who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, eagerly waiting for the adoption, the redemption of our body.

VII. Hope of Glory 24 For we were saved in this hope, but hope that is seen is not hope; for why does one still hope for what he sees? 25 But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with perseverance. 26 Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. 27 Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God. 28 And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. 29 For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren. 30 Moreover whom He predestined, these He also called; whom He called, these He also justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified.

VIII. Love of God 31 What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32 He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things? 33 Who shall bring a charge against God's elect? It is God who justifies. 34 Who is he who condemns? It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us.35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? 36 As it is written: " For Your sake we are killed all day long; We are accounted as sheep for the slaughter." 37 Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. 38 For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, 39 nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.



Questions for Reflection/Discussion/Response:
1. Why do some think that all one has to do is believe in Jesus' atonement for them, and there is nothing more to the Christian life?
2. Why would God want the righteous requirements of the law fulfilled in believers? Didn't Christ's death do this?
3. What is the believer's hope and how does one get it? How does someone put to death the deeds of the flesh? What's the role of the HS?
4. What should be the proper faith response to suffering? Why are we tempted to doubt God's love and sovereignty?
5. How will you walk according to the Spirit this week? How will you know if you're doing it or deceiving yourself?