3rd Week of February 2012 Adult Sunday School Lesson

1 Timothy Chapter 4

Paul understood directly from the Holy Ghost that in 'latter times' some shall fall away. Whether this be the latter times of this church, THE church, in that time or in this, the message does not change. People, and unfortunately some Christians will be pulled away by others teaching things contrary to the Gospel. Some will be pulled away by their own pride and greed. In 1 John it speaks of these things and it goes further and says that those that preach 'another gospel' are anti-christ.

Some will be led to say all manner of things that cannot be backed up by the Bible, God's Spirit, or even the law. Paul wanted Timothy to not only be aware of these things but to continually warn the other 'brethren' of such things. He warned him against old stories and fables that get passed around; to stick to what is true. Exercise was not to be a distraction either. We do have to keep in mind that the number one form of transportation at this time was shoe leather, and that people did not generally spend hours sitting. Anything though, that keeps us from putting God first place is a sin and a weight (Hebrews 12:1). To be healthy physically and lost spiritually is to lose everything in the end.

We never get an answer as to Timothy's age. He must have been fairly young, or at least young compared to those in the Church he was at. Paul wanted him to keep the utmost decorum around others so that older people would not be jealous and look down on his age.

Notice the three things that Paul tells him to do often until he returns. Reading (of God's word), exhortation (to be positive and encourage others), and doctrine (or teaching of the Gospel) are the things that Timothy is supposed to occupy with until Paul returns. This advice can be given to us as well that we are to read, exhort, and teach until our Savior  returns. Also remember, that any gift God has given us, we are to use it for Him and his will; just as the story of the talents in Matthew.

Why is Timothy encouraged to do these things? Paul repeats himself, but then adds that if Timothy will do them, souls will be saved, and not just his own!