Know It and Share It

Just a few thoughts here from my preparation for our men's Bible study.

In Paul's final letter, sent to Timothy, the apostle wanted to remind his protégé of the necessity to remain in sound doctrine with the idea of passing it along. Four passages are primary to this thought.

1:13 Follow the pattern of the sound words that you have heard from me, in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.

There are temptations brought about through the instruction of various teachers. One has a certain philosophy or emphasis, while another may promote a different view. Yet another brings something else. What is the base for truth? Paul says to heed his words because they are healthy for the soul, and do so through the enabling of the Holy Spirit.

2:1-2 You then, my child, be strengthened by the grace that is in Christ Jesus, and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.

Paul desired that the sound teaching should go on. He tells Timothy to give those instructions not to just any person, but to faithful men. Seek them out and instruct them in the things Paul taught publicly. This last point is a safeguard from a misstatement that might bring dishonor to the work of the gospel.

3:14-15 But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.

This command helps us see that Paul was not bringing something new to Timothy. Everything that the apostle brought forth was in full agreement with the Scriptures Timothy had previously been taught as a child. Any teacher's doctrine must be weighed accordingly.

4:1-2 I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingdom: preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching.

Finally, in view of the Lord's sure coming and judgment in the final day, pass on what has been learned. Always be prepared because the moment of need will come unexpectedly, but do so with great patience and desire to correctly teach.