Trustworthy Statements in 1 Timothy
Introduction:
Paul’s
message in 1 Timothy carries the tone of a younger preacher with experience
writing to a younger preacher who is in need of direction. In 1 Timothy, Paul’s
experience was shared in what he called “trustworthy statements.” These were
truths Timothy could bank upon. They are truths that benefit us all.
I. 1 Timothy 1:15
A.
Jesus did not
come for social reform or to execute social justice.
1.
Luke 19:10
B.
1:15b –
strengthens the statement by using himself as proof.
1.
If Jesus could save the foremost of sinners, He can save
anyone.
C.
Doesn’t matter where you have been/what you’ve done –
you can always come to the cross.
II. 1 Timothy 3:1
A.
Paul elevates
the work of an elder to one of great desirability & honor.
1.
It is assumed that a godly, qualified Christian man would
want this good work.
2.
Having righteous, wise men shepherding a flock helps the
church function, grown, and be the best it can be.
B.
So blessed
here. And we need to be working
now to be training younger men to be ready to step up and serve when the time
comes for them to lead.
C.
And we need to continue developing the culture of respect
& honor for elders. When we do
that, our congregation will reap the benefits.
D.
When we have
bold, decision, humble, and loving elders – a church can be set on fire
& travel to heights.
III. 1 Timothy 4:8
A.
Being healthy
& fit is a good thing.
1.
Paul often referred to athletics/exercise in his writing.
2.
1 Cor. 9; Gal. 2:2; 5:7; Phil. 2:16; 2 Timothy 2:5; 4:7
3.
Paul says here that bodily exercise does have value.
B.
But when
contrasted with godliness, exercise is of only little value.
1.
How much focus do we place on the spiritual?
2.
How many opportunities do we have to flex our spiritual
muscles here?
a.
Meetings; fall conference; VBS; personal bible studies;
etc.
3.
We always have a spiritual feast going on. Sadly, some never participate in these
things.
C.
Paul lauds godliness.
1.
It will benefit you in this world and the world to come.
2.
Leads to an eternal future. No death, sorrow, pain, crying
– Rev. 21:4
3.
Throughout 1 Timothy, Paul tells us how to produce
godliness.
a.
2:1 – prayer; 2:10 – good works
b.
4:7 – discipline
c.
6:3 – sound doctrine; 6:6 – contentment
d.
6:10 – avoiding love of money
Conclusion:
A.
Our hope is
built on nothing less than the things that we can be assured of in scripture.