1 Timothy 6:3–5 (ESV) — 3 If anyone teaches a different doctrine and does not
agree with the sound words of our Lord Jesus Christ and the teaching that
accords with godliness, 4 he is puffed up with conceit and understands
nothing. He has an unhealthy craving for controversy and for quarrels about
words, which produce envy, dissension, slander, evil suspicions, 5 and constant friction among people who are depraved in mind and
deprived of the truth, imagining that godliness is a means of gain.
NOTE: This is the
third time that Paul has addressed the issue of teaching. He introduced the
issue at the beginning of the letter. He addressed it at length in the middle.
And now at the end of the letter he repeats it. In the middle he added a
discussion of godliness from the perspective of Christian exercises /
discipline. Now he brings back that thought. Teaching needs to be sound and
should result in godliness -- becoming more like Jesus Christ. Previously, the
thought was that time in the word, prayer, fellowship, witnessing, and
application of truth is how godliness is produced. Good teaching needs to be
sound and result in application -- becoming more like Christ -- looking into
the mirror and not forgetting what you see but choosing to change.
PRAYER: Father, I
pray my teaching would always be characterized by specific application of the
word. May I never teach a lesson without mentioning application. I can't force
people to change but I can offer ideas for growth.
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