As we begin the devotionals in 1 & 2 Timothy and Titus, we are reminded of the importance of sound doctrine in the church, godly behavior in both the leadership and congregation, and the need for all to stand firm in the faith and to be spiritual warriors for truth.
There are times to be quiet and blend in and there are times to stand firm. In our world today we are receiving so many contradictory messages in regard to politics, health issues, worship, large gatherings etc. The list could go on and on. The bottom line of everything that we do today and into the future is how does our behavior and words exemplify the truth found in the Scriptures. We must understand that the Word of the Lord is priority in all things and it is important that we know it and have it hidden in our hearts during these "unprecedented" times. We cannot dodge the battle for spiritual truth and must take a firm stand when called upon to do so!
At the beginning of 1 Timothy the Apostle Paul begins to address to Timothy the problem of false teachers creating doctrinal impurity and causing confusion in the church. Those who cause division in the church need to be challenged and charged to understand that the truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ is not to be distorted in any way. Verse 4 says "nor give heed to fables and endless genealogies which cause disputes rather than godly edification which is in faith."
It is vital for us to understand, as we read verse 3-5, that doctrinal purity and holding on to the integrity of the Scriptures are essential BUT they are not enough. As believers we must also demonstrate through our lives both obedience and allegiance to the truth of God's Word.
Quoting Dr. David Jeremiah, "A sincere faith is a substantive faith that is, above all, characterized by conformity to Christ and His call to love."
True doctrine builds people up rather than divide. Therefore let us continue to learn together so that our love comes from a pure heart based on the truth of God's Word.