A note from our Pastor:

”Drink no longer water, but use a little wine for thy stomach’s sake and thine often infirmities.”

1 Timothy 5:23

Good Morning Dearly Beloved,

In our study verse this week, the Apostle Paul continues to give Timothy some specific instructions for how he should conduct himself. It is important to remember the role Timothy was in when considering these instructions. The Apostle had left Timothy as the pastor of the church at Ephesus but he was also likely supporting other congregations in the area. Because of this much attention, and sometimes great criticism, was directed at Timothy.

The instructions contained in our study verse are a continuation from the prior verse even though the verse might seem quite random. The Apostle concluded the prior verse telling Timothy to keep himself pure. The intention of the instruction was focused on which ordinations Timothy participated in and who he gave his support to in the ministry.

At the time the Apostle was writing to Timothy there were a number of ascetic teachers and sects in the region around Ephesus. Among the Essene and other Jewish ascetic sects abstinence from wine was a common teaching. It was in response to these sects of teachers and the Apostle’s instruction to remain pure that the Apostle provided the instruction in our study verse.

Based on the information we have in scripture, it seems as though both the Apostle and Timothy suffered from a great many physical frailties and ailments. The Apostle, in providing this instruction, is telling Timothy that while his mind and heart for teaching are more important than his body, he must also take care of his body to continue his work in the ministry. Because of this, he should not be lured into the ascetic teachings prohibiting the consumption of wine.

In conclusion of this study, the instruction contained in our study verse was directly focused to Timothy. Nevertheless, that does not mean it lacks a broader application. The Apostle in numerous places in scripture warns about adopting a strict legalistic mindset about discipleship because it limits true discipleship. This includes prohibiting certain drink, food, or clothing that might make discipleship more difficult for your neighbor. Our focus should be on the spiritual aspects of discipleship not on oppressive physical requirements.

Our Prayers are with you daily,

Brother Jeremiah