Caution for a Pastor
BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY... “Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress. Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.” 1 Timothy 4:15,16 NIV
Paul writes to Timothy about his responsibility as a Christian leader. His duties were not just to teach, but to warn and caution as well.
Paul calls Timothy to be diligent about some specific issues. The first was to keep watch for false and misleading teachers that destroy the genuine faith of followers of Christ.
“The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron.” (1 Timothy 4:1,2 NIV)
Timothy was not only to be on guard, but to point out the error of others. “If you point these things out to the brothers and sisters, you will be a good minister of Christ Jesus, nourished on the truths of the faith and of the good teaching that you have followed.” (1 Timothy 4:6 NIV) This is challenge of ministers in our present day. There are few who are willing to “go there.” However, warning and pointing out false teaching can be as important as proclaiming the truth. This certainly calls for wisdom and a proper attitude.
Just as physical exercise keeps the body in shape, spiritual discipline keeps the Christian disciple in good spiritual “condition.” “Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales; rather, train yourself to be godly.” (1 Timothy 4:7 NIV)
Paul challenges Timothy to lead by example. Just as Paul was to Timothy, so Timothy was to be to others. Paul did not just “tell” but also “showed” Timothy how to honor Christ and be a faithful minster of the gospel. He wrote in his second letter to Timothy, “You, however, know all about my teaching, my way of life, my purpose, faith, patience, love, endurance, persecutions, sufferings…” (2 Timothy 3:10,11 NIV)
With this in mind Paul calls Timothy to, “…set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity. Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching.” (1 Timothy 4:12,13 NIV)
As Paul summarizes his challenge to Timothy he emphasizes the importance a personally being on guard “watching his life and doctrine.” While keeping “an eye” out for false teachers, teaching accurately God’s Word is of great importance. The work of the ministry results a disciplined life, and spiritual growth that becomes evident to all.
What is true for “Pastor Timothy” is true for all believers. Be on guard against those who will deceive with false teaching; train yourself in godliness; lead by example and stay focused on God’s Word.
Prayer for today… Lord, thank You for the instructions of Your Word that guides our lives in the direction that promotes spiritual life and stability. Keep us true to Your truth, help us to keep our spiritual life strong and allow our lives to be an example to others.