Day 7: Run From That, Run To This
Read 2 Timothy 2:14-26
Memory verse: 2 Tim 2:22 – Flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart.
Context: What false ideas are troubling Timothy’s church?
The most troubling false idea in the church was the teaching that the resurrection had already taken place. This went against the truth of the gospel, which indicated that the return of Jesus and resurrection would be far more significant and glorious than whatever teaching was being spread. This was part of a phase of teaching that got people hung up on all kinds of speculations, which veered them away from focusing on the truth of the gospel.
Content: Contrast an “approved worker” with those who “quarrel about words.”
Approved workers can rightly handle the Word of truth. Indeed, what makes them approved is their commitment to only dealing with what God’s Word says. They seek the approval of God as they present themselves to Him, and they are not minded to behave as those who quarrel about words. Those who quarrel about words lead people into ungodliness, ruin those who hear them and have the kind of teaching that only brings about poisonous effects. As those approved by God contrast with those who quarrel about words, we can expect approved workers to be concerned about building peace and righteousness on the proper foundation of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Concept: Explain “vessel for honourable use” in plain language.
The vessel for honourable use is about a person working in pure ways according to God’s ways. This is about how they think, which shapes what they say and how they behave. They want to be like Jesus and are keen to return to His ways through repentance and receiving forgiveness.
As they have this approach to life, God takes pleasure in using and presenting them as ones that He wholeheartedly approves of.
Conclusions: Identify one “foolish controversy” you should avoid.
Denominationalism. Some argue that theirs is the “true” church because of their practices and doctrines. They can become tribal, territorial, and possessive about their denomination or church, adopting a condescending and isolationist approach towards other believers. I can continue to avoid this foolish controversy by having the eyes to see and the ears to hear what the Spirit is saying to believers and be far more concerned with developing great relationships with believers in a bid to show the true love of Christ in the way that encourages and builds rather than is boastful, divisive and arrogant.
Next Up – 2 Timothy – Day 8: Dealing with Fake Spirituality
Read 2 Timothy 3:1-9
Memory verse: 2 Tim 3:5
Context: List the “last days” behaviours Paul predicts.
Content: How do Jannes and Jambres illustrate counterfeit spirituality?
Concept: What heart posture helps you discern toxic influences?
Conclusions: How will you remain separate yet compassionate?
What you pursue matters – it’s so important to follow that which is pleasing to God rather than getting caught up in things that will distract. That’s another reason to get the Word In so we can get the Word Out!
For His Name’s Sake
C. L. J. Dryden
Shalom
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