2 Timothy 3 - BE THOROUGHLY EQUIPPED

 

SCRIPTURE- 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NKJV)

All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.

OBSERVATION

The WORD of GOD stands apart from all other writings because it is not  a product of human wisdom or invention. It is God—Breathed, carrying divine authority that transcends time and culture (2Timothy 3:16). The divine inspiration means every part of Scripture is rooted in God’s character and purpose for His people.

God has given His Word with clear  purposes to shape us into who he calls to be. First it serves as a foundation for doctrine, teaching us the truth about God, His plan of salvation and how we are to live. Jesus Himself prayed that His followers would be sanctified by the truth, declaring “Your word is truth (John 17:17). Second, Scripture provides reproof, exposing error and falsehood that can lead us astray; the Word is described as living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword (Hebrews 4:12), cutting through deception to reveal what is right. Third it offers correction, gently restoring those who have fallen or wandered from the path of righteousness just as the apostle Paul urged the Galatians to restore those caught in sin with humility and gentleness (Galatians 6:1). Finally, it gives instruction in righteousness, training believers to walk in holiness and align their lives with God’s will: as Psalm 119:105 reminds us- Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path, guiding every step we take.

The ultimate outcome of engaging with Scripture is Transformation-equipping believers to be complete and fully prepared for every good work God has planned for them which aligns with Ephesians 2:10 which says we are “created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them. This Word empowers us to step into that purpose.

APPLICATION

For me, Scripture can not  be just an optional resource I turn to occasionally. It must be my daily nourishment, just as Jesus declared “ Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God” (Matthew 4:4) . Just as our bodies need food each day to stay strong, our spirits depend on the Word to grow in faith and maturity.

There will be times when I drift from what is right, whether through carelessness, temptation, or misunderstanding. In those moments, God’s word is the tool that brings me back to truth. I must learn to humbly accept its rebuke and correction, knowing that it comes from a place of love. James 1:22-25 encourages us not  just to hear the Word but to do what it says, warning that those who ignore its guidance deceive themselves.

Most importantly, applying Scripture to my life makes me a living testimony to Christ’s character. Colossians 3:16-17 calls us to let the Word dwell in us richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom- and as I do this, my actions will reflect His love, patience, and grace to those around me.

PRAYER

Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Your Word- divinely inspired and full of life. Teach me to love Scripture deeply to open my heart to its truth, and to accepts its correction with humility rather than pride. Help me walk in its ways daily, letting it shape my thoughts, words, and actions.

Bless the entire JCRC family as we journey together in faith. May your Word unite us, strengthen our bonds of fellowship, and equip each one of us to serve faithfully in every area of life. Help us to encourage and sharpen one another, to live righteously as reflections of Christ, and to support each other through every season.

May your Word equip me and my JCRC brothers and sisters to shine your light in every good work You have prepared for us. Strengthen us all to be doers of the Word, not just hearers, so that our collective witness may bring glory to Your name. All these I pray in the mighty name of Jesus and the inspiration of the Holy Spirit , AMEN.

Equipped by the Word: JCRC to Stand Firm in the Last Days

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PASTORA JEANNIE

2 TIMOTHY 2 - STAND STRONG, PASS IT ON

 

SCRIPTURE- 2 TIMOTHY 2:1-3

“You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others. Endure hardship with us like a good soldier of Christ Jesus.”

OBSERVATION

In these verses, Paul exhorts Timothy not just as a mentee,  but as family in Christ- reminding us that strength is not self-generated, but rooted in the grace of Jesus   (Philippians 4:13 ) This grace is not for us alone: we are called to entrust God’s truth to faithful brothers and sisters who will carry it forward, echoing the Great Commission to make disciples ( Matthew 28: 19-20). Like soldiers serving alongside their unit, we are called to endure trials together- with discipline, loyalty to Christ, and perseverance that fixes our gaze on Him ( Hebrews 12:1-2) . In the context of our JCRC family, for me it means we do not walk the faith journey in isolation; we strengthen and we equip one another.

APPLICATION

In my day to day life, I must rely on God’s grace , not my own wisdom or strength, especially in ministry and leadership. I am called to pass on what I learn—whether in school, church, or community—to others who can continue the mission. Teaching is not just about knowledge, but about forming faithful disciples. Like a soldier, I must expect challenges and hardships, but remain focused on the mission of Christ. My endurance is a testimony of faith. This reminds me that my role is not only to serve but also to equip others to serve, multiplying the work of the Kingdom.

In JCRC, let us be a community where we encourage each other, hold one another accountable and work side-by-side like good soldiers of Christ knowing that every act of service and every word of teaching strengthen our collective witness.

PRAYER

Heavenly Father thank you for the gift of your grace that sustains me, and for our JCRC family-our brothers and sisters who walk alongside us in faith. Forgive us when we rely on our own strength instead of leaning on You, or when we keep Your truth to ourselves instead of sharing it freely.

Help each of us to be strong in Your Grace, to be faithful stewards of what we have learned, and to raise up more laborers for Your harvest. Give us courage to endure hardships together, with unity and unwavering trust in You. Teach us Father to love one another as You love us, so that our lives may reflect Your Truth and draw others into Your kingdom. All these I pray in the mighty name of Jesus and the leadings of the Holy Spirit. AMEN

JCRC ARMIES OF GRACE: STAND STRONG, PASS IT ON

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PASTORA JEANNIE

2 Timothy 1 - LIVING BOLDLY IN FAITH

 Living boldly in faith

2 Timothy 1:7 TPT

[7] For God will never give you the spirit of fear, but the Holy Spirit who gives you mighty power, love, and self-control. 

To  live boldly in faith.

1. Know and Understand that God has not given us a spirit of fear but He gave us His Spirit - Holy Spirit- the same Holy Spirit who raised Him from the dead is the same Holy Spirit in us. 

2. Always remember what is given to us:

- Spirit of Power - that enables us to be His witnesses to proclaim the gospel and perform miracles.

1 John 4:13-14 NIV

[13] This is how we know that we live in him and he in us: He has given us His Spirit. [14] And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world. 

-Spirit of Love - it contrasts with fear

1 John 4:18 NIV

[18] There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.

- Spirit of Self-control/self discipline- to resist temptation, able to make wise decisions and live righteously 

3.  Walk in what He has given us(Spirit of power, of love, and of self discipline)

I praise God for this Verse.

Ito rin po ang dala ko kanina, unang beses ko po mag share sa ganoong okasyon(sa patay) and need lakasan ang boses, I used this verse sa prayer bago kami magsimula, nang mag simula na ang sharing kinakabahan sobra parang hindi ako makapagsalita hinayaan ko lang muna si Sis Mc magsalita and hanggang sa na grasp ko na itong verse na ito sa isip ko then I started speak with confidence kanina. 

Kaya sinabi din ni Paul na Verse 6 For this reason I remind you to fan into a flame the gift of God. 

The gift has already been given to us and it's in us, kailangan nating i-intensified pa lalo ito, kailangan ma saturate tlaga ang isip natin ng truth at  isagawa natin ito,   sa gayon lubusan nating maganap ang layunin ng Kanyang kaloob.

All Glory to God😇

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PASTORA CZAR

1 TIMOTHY 6 - "WE STAND, CONTEND TILL THE END"

1 TIMOTHY 6, THE LAST CHAPTER

In writing, the conclusion or last chapter holds a very crucial, intense, and deep content. It's the part that leaves an impact, recaps the main points, gives final thoughts, and recommends future actions.

In the same way, Paul's letter reiterates the main points about conduct in God's household, godliness, and against false teachers and doctrines.

A. "WE STAND, CONTEND TILL THE END"

Paul instructed us, as members of God's household, to give honor to our earthly masters, show full respect, work diligently, serve happily, and be honest at work. You may be a student, child, or employee - whatever you're doing, there's still someone above you. Let them see Jesus in your work and the way you work. In this way, they will glorify God's Name and won't criticize our teaching. People will judge who God is and what the Bible teaches based on how we believers conduct ourselves as workers. Remember, we labor for people, but serve the Lord.

Colossians 3:23-24

 In all the work you are given, do the best you can. Work as though you are working for the Lord, not any earthly master. Remember that you will receive your reward from the Lord, who will give you what he promised his people. Yes, you are serving Christ. He is your real Master.

At the place where we work, do they see Jesus in us? Are we leading them to Jesus?

B. WE STAND STRONG AGAINST FALSE TEACHERS AND DOCTRINES (Verses 3-5)

Paul warned Timothy, just like in the first chapter, about false teachers and doctrines that come and will come to create division, argument, and eventually destroy the church and the core message of the gospel. He warned him to flee from them, to withdraw from them, and to be on guard as they creep in, both privately and publicly.

False teachers with their false doctrines promote:

- Doctrines contrary to the teaching of Jesus

- They twist the Word of God and reduce its power to live a holy life for their own personal gain. They equate having more money/wealth with divine favor, spiritual maturity, and godliness. They see religion as a fast way to get money (2 Peter 2:3 also tells us about this).

- They remove Jesus as the ultimate authority to live a holy and saved life.

- And they lessen the doctrine of the FEAR OF GOD. To teach that there is no fear of God would be leading people away from the Holy Spirit.

"Satan is not against good morals; he's opposed to Jesus Christ. A man can have good morals his entire life, yet you and I know that he will go to hell when he dies. It is Jesus Christ that everyone needs, and the devil knows this." - Time Changer movie

Leaders must be vigilant about this, be ready to protect and defend the teaching of Christ, and ensure that the sheep are not led astray by false doctrines. BE EQUIPPED, BE FILLED WITH THE SPIRIT, SOAK IN THE WORD AND IN PRAYER. STAND YOUR GROUND IN CHRIST AND BE FAITHFUL.

To all believers, be rooted in truth, in the Word. Don't spend time on silly stories that don't agree with God's Truth; rather, pursue godly wisdom through prayer and study the Bible. 

Be discerning at all times, knowing what is of God. Train yourself to live a life that honors and pleases God.

C. WE STAND AGAINST TEMPTATION (Verses 6-10, 17-19)

Wealth and power create a false sense of security and protection. Godliness brings great gain when accompanied by contentment. Paul urges believers to find satisfaction in God's provision rather than in material wealth. Things on earth cannot be trusted and are temporary, so do not chase after them. Instead, pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness. Do good, be rich in good deeds, be generous, and willing to share, so we don't fall into the trap and be deceived.

"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal." - Matthew 6:19-20

Let's evaluate our motives for pursuing godliness: is it for spiritual growth or personal/financial gain? How's our heart when we don't have something we want? How's our heart when we have everything we want? 

D. WE STAND OUR GROUND & CONTEND TILL THE END (Verses 11-16; 20-21)

This is a battle. It involves struggle, effort, and perseverance. FIGHT THE GOOD FIGHT. Raise your banner high and take charge in the presence of God against all evil and its schemes. Don't be afraid, don't be discouraged. YOU KNOW WHO'S GOT YOUR BACK - JESUS.

God fights many battles but keeps no record of defeat. Even death could not hold Him down. Stand on SOLID GROUND, take hold of eternal life, and guard what was committed to our trust (THE GOSPEL).

When are we going to stop fighting the good fight? Is it when we reach 5 years, 10, 60 in service/ministry? No, we fight till the end, till our last breath, till the coming of Jesus Christ our King 👑. Maranatha, Lord Jesus 👑.

And when we fight, we don't fight to win; we fight to stand firm in the victory that's already ours through Jesus, His death, and resurrection. We are not trying to win the war; we are defending our ground as victors.

I pray that God's grace will be with us all. AMEN."

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PASTORA CZAR

1 Timothy 5 - THE FAMILY OF GOD

 

1 Timothy 5

Paul is giving special instructions to Timothy on how to take care/ to minister the family of God (Church). Kung paano siya makitungo sa kanila. Paul relates this to a family.

A family does respect, help and care for each other(V. 1-5; 7-8)

Iba man ang takbo ng mundo ngayon sa pakikitungo lalo na ang mga matatanda at bata, ang mga bata ay nawawalan na ng respeto at paggalang sa mga matatanda, pabalang sumagot at padabog kapag inuutusan. Kung ang matatanda naman ang magkamali itama natin sila ng may respeto huwag natin silang sigaw sigawan o maliitin. Huwag natin silang iwanan sa panahon ng kailangan nila ng tulong, maging handa tayong umagapay sa kanila, maging mata nila tayo sa panahong malabo na ang paningin nila, maging paa nila tayo sa sitwasyon na hindi sila makatayo, maging kamay nila tayo kapag hindi na nila kayang humawak pa, hawakan natin sila ng mahigpit. At sa tuwing nanlalamig sila maging mainit tayo na yakap na bumibigkis sa kanilang katawan. Alagaan at protektahan natin ang bawat isa sa atin. 

A family supports and appreciates each other.(17)

- let's appreciate one another for their service, effort, time and love na ibinigay sa bawat isa. Kahit simple thank you means a lot. Hindi man naghihintay ng papuri mula sa iba ngunit marapat lamang bigyan natin sila ng pakilala. Lalo ang mga nagtuturo sa atin ng tamang pamumuhay.

A family corrects each other and doesn't tolerate wrong doing(v. 11-15, V. 20)

- Love does not tolerate what is wrong if we do, there's no love at all.  

Sa pagmamahal kaakibat nito ang pagdidisiplina at ang katotohanan. Wala sa estado o edad ang pagdidisiplina at pagtatama hanggat nagkakamali tayo kailangan nating itong gawin ito ng sa gayon maging kalugod lugod tayo sa kapwa natin not to please them but to set  an example of  good living. And that is love binibigay natin ang katotohanan. At ang katotohanan ay na kay Cristo at si Cristo lamang. 

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PASTORA CZAR

1 TIMOTHY 4 - SPIRIT FITNESS

 

1 TIMOTHY 4

In this chapter, Paul warns the church to guard against false teachers and teachings, and to exercise godliness.

Guarding against false teachings (v1-5)

The threat of false teachings in the church is a reality that the body of Christ have to guard against in the early church and the same, even more so in modern times. In this context the believers in the church of Ephesus were influenced by pagan/traditional Greek beliefs of the community they lived in. Paul compares these teachers of false doctrines as hypocrites and liars, because they appear to be religious, but their consciences are dead. Does this sound familiar in the modern society we live in?

The antidote to succumbing to these false teachings are given in the following verses.

Exercise godliness (v6-16)

·       In verse 7 (ESV) it says that we should have nothing to do with irreverent, silly myths, BUT instead train yourself for godliness.

·       V8 continues to state that godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.

How then do we train ourselves in godliness?

·       We have our hope set in the living God, who is the Saviour of all people, especially those who believe (v10).

·       Be an example (worthy of representing Christ) to people in what you say, how you behave, acting in love, in faith and in purity (v12).

·       Devotions, continue to devote (commit and sacrifice your time) to reading of the Scriptures (your Bible), sharing the Word and teaching it to others (v13).

·       Do not neglect (in other words cherish) the spiritual gifts, given to you (v14).

·       Meditate (v15) on the word of God as given to us in the Bible, practice what you read, immerse, let yourself be washed in the word (Eph5:26). This way you will progress (be strengthened) in your faith and others will see it.

·       Most importantly we have to keep a close watch over ourselves and our teaching and persist in doing what is true and right, not only to save ourselves, but that others who hear us might also be saved (v16). We will be held accountable for what we teach others (James 3:1).

Let us reflect

·       Have I allowed and false teaching to take root in my heart and mind?

·       How do I guard against this, according to the Word of God?

·       What practical steps can I take in my daily life/habits to guard against false teaching and doctrine and persist in the truth of the Gospel (Godly doctrine)?

Let us pray

Abba Father, we thank you for Your Word that cut through flesh and bone. May you search our hearts and cut into our innermost being and show us any false beliefs that has taken root in our hearts and minds. We ask your forgiveness where we strayed from the truth and ask the Holy Spirit to heal us and lead us in all truth and pull us ever closer to You. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.

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PASTORA HESMA

1 TIMOTHY 3 - PILLARS OF TRUTH

 

1 TIMOTHY 3

GUIDELINES FOR CHURCH LEADERS

Background on the 1^st book of Timothy

The book of Timothy was written by the apostle Paul to Timothy who was serving at the church in Ephesus (Ref 1 Tim 1-3). In 1 Tim 1 Paul warned Timothy to guard against false teachers and false teachings. In 1 Tim 2 Paul started sharing instructions for the church, specifically about the right posture and attitude in worshipping God.

In Today’s passage of 1 Tim 3 Paul continues to share instructions for the church, specifically about the church leadership, i.e., elders and deacons.

1.    The conduct of elders (V1-7)

Paul starts with a statement that anyone who wants to be an elder has an honourable (noble) responsibility (v1) He then continues to give very practical advice and list the attributes a person must have to be an elder (V2-7) and similarly he also continues to list the attributes that deacons should have from (8-12).

Attributes for elders and deacons:

·       faithful to his/her spouse (v2, v12)

·       exhibits self-control (v2)

·       live wisely (v2)

·       have a good reputation (v2)

·       hospitable (v2)

·       be able to teach (v2)

·       gentle and peace loving (v3)

·       rule/manage his own household well (v4-5, v12)

·       have a good reputation, so that he will not fall into the devil’s trap and be disgraced (v7, v8)

·       they must be committed to the revealed truths of the Christian faith (v9)

In addition, deacons should also:

·       be given other smaller responsibilities in the church first to test their character and ability (v10). If they do well, they may serve as deacons.

·       Their spouses should also have respectable characters and live with integrity (v11)

And what are characteristics that is not acceptable for an elder or deacon:

·       shouldn’t’ be a drunkard (v3, v8)

·       nor be violent or be greedy for money (v3, v8)

·       he must not be a new Christian, so that devil cannot use that pride to make him fall (v6)

 

These are very simple and clear instructions of how church leaders should behave and conduct themselves.

2.    Why then, are these attributes important in our church leaders?

The answer follows in v14 & 15 that this is the household, the church of THE LIVING GOD, which is the pillar and support of THE TRUTH. As we are members of the household of God, we ought to live holy lives and be examples of respect and integrity in the world.

3.    The truth of our faith

In verse 9 Paul states that deacons must be committed to the revealed truths of the Christian faith and then elaborates on that in v16:

·       Christ appeared to us in flesh as a human being

·       He was fully righteous in Spirit

·       Seen by the Angels

·       Announced to the nations

·       Many believed in Him in the world

·       He was taken up into heaven

 

Let us reflect?

 Are our lives and example of integrity and respect towards others?

·       Do we recognise areas where we need to repent, ask God’s forgiveness and change some of our ways?

·       Are we committed to the truth of the gospel, that Jesus Christ is the only way to our salvation and was taken up in heaven where He remains until the time of his second coming?

Let us pray

Hallelujah, Lord Jesus, we thank you for this reminder that we should always strive to be a good example and live in integrity and holiness for Your name sake. We ask your forgiveness if we have failed in any area that displeases you. We ask that you help us by your Holy Spirit to live a life worthy and holy and acceptable to your calling, In Jesus name.

Amen

- PASTORA HESMA