Day 2: 1 Timothy 1:1–11 — Greeting and the Problem of False Teaching
Reading: Paul’s greeting and initial warnings about false doctrine
Study Questions:
1. Observation: What specific problems with false teaching does Paul identify?
Myths and endless genealogies that promote speculation. A misapplication of the law of God. These teachings distract saints from what truly matters in learning God’s truth and what He expects from those who follow Him, and they also lead people into a misguided view of the law that does not apply to believers.
2. Interpretation: How does Paul contrast false teaching with “sound doctrine”?
Sound doctrine accords with the gospel of Jesus Christ. That gospel promotes the primacy of Jesus and reminds us of what God desires.
3. Application: What modern equivalents of these false teachings might you encounter today?
Various teachings go against the gospel of Jesus Christ that people teach today. It may have something to do with the role of the Holy Spirit in the believer and the church. It could do with promises of health and prosperity that keep people more focused on what God does for them than on a real relationship with the Father through the Son.
4. Reflection: How can you better discern between helpful and harmful teaching?
The key to the difference between helpful and harmful teaching is whether it aligns with what matters to God and with the gospel of Jesus Christ. If it reflects the gospel and character of Christ, then it’s a helpful teaching. If it does not centre on Jesus as He reveals Himself through the gospel, then it is very harmful.
Questions for Day 3: 1 Timothy 1:12–20 — Paul’s Testimony and Charge to Timothy
1. Observation: How does Paul describe his own transformation and calling?
2. Interpretation: What does Paul mean by “fighting the good fight” and having “faith and a good conscience”?
3. Application: How does Paul’s example of God’s mercy encourage you in your own spiritual journey?
4. Reflection: What “good fight” is God calling you to fight in your current circumstances?
You can only give what you’ve got, so let’s get the Word In to get the Word Out!
For His Name’s Sake
C. L. J. Dryden
Shalom
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