A note from our Pastor:

”Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.”

1 Timothy 4:16

Good Morning Dearly Beloved,

Our study verse this week brings us to the conclusion of the 4th chapter of 1 Timothy. When this document was written it was in letter form without chapter and verse, but the chapters have been added based on the grouping of topics. The 4th chapter is largely centered on the Apostle Paul helping Timothy to stand against false teachers and harmful practices. Our study verse concludes this discourse.

The Apostle closes this portion of his letter with the words “take heed” which simply means to be diligent and attentive. There was not a question in the Apostle’s mind as to whether or not Timothy knew the truth of Jesus Christ or if he knew the appropriate practices and behaviors of a minister and the congregation as a whole. The Apostle knew Timothy was strong in these things before he wrote this letter and now he has given him further instruction on certain details. Thus, the final instruction is not to learn them but to be diligent in applying them.

The first area Timothy is encouraged to be attentive to is himself. This might seem an odd instruction from the Apostle but it is filled with great wisdom. Since Timothy was well grounded in the faith, in the truth of Jesus Christ, his first line of defense against false teachings was to determine if they aligned with his own knowledge. This should be the goal of every disciple. To develop an understanding with the necessary depth to be able to evaluate and avoid false teachings.

The second area is translated as “the doctrine” but could also be translated as his preaching. In other words, the Apostle is telling Timothy to be attentive to his preaching to build the same depth of knowledge in the congregation. They need his teaching to avoid false teachings themselves. The Apostle further instructs Timothy to continue in them because it is not a one-time effort but a continuing practice.

Finally, the Apostle tells Timothy if he remains attentive to himself and his preaching he will both save himself and his congregation. This is clearly not a reference to saving in an eternal sense nor even a broad application of temporal salvation. Rather, in this instance the saving has a limited application. If Timothy remains diligent he will save himself and his congregation from harmful false teachings.

Our Prayers are with you daily,

Brother Jeremiah