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
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