Bible Chapter: I Timothy 1

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
    A letter from the elder statesman, Paul, to the young pastor, Timothy.  He began with a strong warning about false teachers.  They devote themselves to myths and promote controversies rather than God’s work.  They have wandered from the truth to meaningless talk.  They don’t know what they are talking about.  That is a sad description of what was happening in the church.  I have heard some preaching and teaching like that - when I was all done I wasn’t sure what they said and wondered if they knew what they were talking about.  Preaching and teaching must be clear and tell what the Bible really says, not what someone wants it to say.  False teaching is very dangerous.  It can cause people to shipwreck their faith.
    The good news from the gospel is that God will take anyone and use them.  Paul said that he had been a blasphemer and was the cheif of sinners.  Yet, God forgave him and used him.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
    Keep being a student of the Bible.  Look for what is saying and for what God intends the reader to hear and learn.  I can study it and study it and continue to find helpful and practical truths for life.  So, I must keep on reading it and mining the gold God has placed there.
    I must also remember that anyone I meet is a potential believer in Jesus.  Even if they seem to have committed every sin possible, Jesus will save them if they ask.  I must not sort out who I think would be a believer and who wouldn’t.  Jesus wants them all.

3.  How can I help someone?
    As a pastor, I must be sure to study the Bible and then teach it as it was meant to be taught.  I must preach it with fervor and excitement and show how it will make life worth living. I must not make it boring. I must never compromise the truth.  I will never help someone by giving them any false hope through false doctrine.