A note from our Pastor:

“Neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly edifying which is in faith: so do.”

1 Timothy 1:4

Good Morning Dearly Beloved,

In our study verse last week the Apostle indicated why Timothy had been charged with remaining in Ephesus as he traveled on to Macedonia. The job left to Timothy was to mentor the pastors and teachers, providing them with a renewed charge, so they might avoid teaching other doctrines besides what the Apostle had taught them. Now in our study verse this week we get a glimpse into the false teachings and extra-doctrinal items being brought into the church.

Based on this verse, the pastors and teachers in Ephesus were bringing in elements of their Jewish heritage into the church. They were bringing in old fables and attempts to prove their lineage through genealogies. Of note, the Apostle does not indicate the pastors and teachers were bringing in idol worship, false gods, or other forms of blasphemy.

This verse, when carefully considered, teaches an important lesson to the New Testament church. Certainly, the members of a congregation should be careful to notice and challenge their pastor if he begins teaching false doctrines which lead to idol worship, false gods, and questioning the sovereignty of God. However, often the most dangerous “other doctrines” for the church are ones which on the surface seem harmless.

When the church starts bringing in social issues, political issues, and other aspects of the world whether they seem to be in alignment with Godly living or not, it is contrary to the instructions of the Apostle for the church. The scriptures, Old Testament, Gospels, and Epistles, contain more study for the church than can ever be accomplished in a lifetime. The church should remain focused on examining the word of God instead of the issues of the world around them.

Let us strive to keep God’s people focused on God’s word.

Our Prayers are with you daily,

Brother Jeremiah