SCRIPTURE: 1 Timothy 1-3
Such things promote controversial speculations rather than advancing God’s work—which is by faith. (1 Timothy 1:4)
We do not advance God’s work in the world by being arrogant or by being agitators.
It is not about asserting ourselves, but humbling ourselves.
The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith. (1 Timothy 1:5)
Love, serve and pray for others so they can be saved and come to a knowledge of the truth. (1 Timothy 2:4)
Each one, whatever their lot in life, is to be humble, loving, Christ-like… for the sake of the Gospel.
Paul’s advice to women needs to be seen in this light, for the sake of advancing God’s work in Ephesus.
** See here re. Paul’s reference to Adam and Eve, and the situation in Ephesus. **
The same can be said for his words regarding slaves elsewhere.
This is why church leaders need to be above reproach, with a good reputation among outsiders.
To not discredit the gospel because of bad character, arrogant ways, or rebellious behaviour.
Humility and submission are required of everyone, because these are traits of Jesus.
This submission is not degrading, it is a holy mission to go beneath (sub)… so that all may be lifted up!
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, it is hard being submissive, but it helps to see it as a mission for You, for the salvation of others. May my life not give You a bad reputation, but may it serve to advance Your work, Your message, Your glory!
Observations/Application
Love is central.
The letter of the law and the spirit of the law AND the difference between them is love. The law should point the way to live for Jesus – this is the way – walk in it.
Prayerfully.
Live the life that God has called you/me to. Be an example to all in all things. Living for Jesus is the goal. He is first in all things. Be a living letter to all. Live the truth is the challenge. Christ must be Lord of all areas of my life – my daily affairs. I need to ‘dress’ myself with the fruit of the Spirit each day anew as I live for Him.
Let all things now living a song of thanksgiving
To God the creator triumphantly raise.
Who fashioned and made us, protected and stayed us,
Who still guides us on to the end of our days.
God’s banners are o’er us, His light goes before us,
A pillar of fire shining forth in the night.
Till shadows have vanished and darkness is banished
As forward we travel from light into light.
His law he enforces, the stars in their courses
And sun in its orbit obediently shine;
The hills and the mountains, the rivers and fountains,
The deeps of the ocean proclaim him divine.
We too should be voicing our love and rejoicing;
With glad adoration a Song let us raise
Till all things now living unite in thanksgiving:
“To God in the highest, Hosanna and praise!”