A note from our Pastor:

”This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptation.”

1 Timothy 4:9

Good Morning Dearly Beloved,

It might seem odd to take such a small and seemingly straightforward verse as our study for this week. However, the construction of the chapter and the placement of the verse cause the need for more careful examination. Thus, this week we take a few moments to study 1 Timothy 4:9.

The main question around this verse is the point of reference. In other words, was the Apostle Paul following up on what he wrote in verse eight, or was he leading into what he was going to write in verse ten? We cannot know for certain what the Apostle meant because he is not here to tell us, but we can draw a solid conclusion. Verse ten begins with “for therefore” signaling the Apostle was drawing a conclusion. For the Apostle to say his conclusion is a faithful saying would not make sense because the term “faithful saying” indicates it has been often repeated. Therefore, the safest conclusion is the Apostle was referring to verse eight with this statement.

With that established, the faithful saying in verse eight is regarding godliness. The Apostle states godliness is profitable in all things because it is both beneficial for living life in service to God and for having a hope of eternal glory after this life.

This points to the very double portion which Christ paid to the elect and those who choose to become disciples. To the elect, he made the first payment — his death upon the cross covered the sins of all of the elect whether they ever believe on or in him in this life. To those among the elect who do believe he paid them a second portion which is the knowledge of their salvation, the knowledge of heaven after this life, and the knowledge of the resurrection. For those who investigate the teachings of Christ and reach a deeper understanding a third potion is paid which is the comfort of knowing nothing can revoke their salvation which provides the grace, space, and peace to grow in love.

All of this to say that godliness is profitable in all situations truly is a faithful saying and worthy of acceptation by all disciples.

Our Prayers are with you daily,

Brother Jeremiah