Realistic Words About Ministry
As he is approaching the end of life, the apostle Paul writes his second letter to Timothy. In this opening chapter of 2 Timothy, he stresses the necessity of guarding the truth of the gospel and standing firm in it without shame or embarrassment.
Words of Wisdom
In the face of false teaching and the constant temptations of pride and greed, it is critical that we examine our motives, our walk with the Lord, and our ministry to others. Paul addresses these matters in his closing words in 1 Timothy.
Treating Everyone Like Family
Believers are God's children, and Christ's church is a family. All of us, and especially leaders in the church, need to treat one another as brothers and sisters in Christ who are worthy of our respect, love, and concern.
Membership in the Gymnasium of Godliness
The apostle Paul recognizes the ongoing threat of error and apostasy. But in this fourth chapter of 1 Timothy, he also instructs us on how to avoid false teaching and establish a life devoted to godliness.
Qualifications for Elders and Deacons
A church's effectiveness in serving Christ is tied to its leadership. This is why it is crucial that the church chooses leaders--overseers and deacons--who meet the qualifications set for them here in 1 Timothy 3.
Order in the Church
Public worship is an essential element of the Christian faith. In the second chapter of 1 Timothy, the apostle Paul gives us some timeless instructions regarding our worship together as believers.
Attracting a Crowd or Building a Church?
The one constant, irreplaceable characteristic of a true, Christ-honoring church is an unwavering commitment to the truth of God’s Word and all it teaches. The proclamation and preservation of sound doctrine are essential to fulfilling God's purpose for the church.
If You Don’t Work, You Don't Eat
In the closing section of 2 Thessalonians, Paul reminds us of the importance of encouraging others even when we must correct them. He also emphasizes how critical it is that Christians honor the Lord through diligent, honest work so they do not become a burden to others.
Rapture First--Then Tribulation
The only certain knowledge we have about the future comes from the Bible. We must not let human predictions shake us from the promises of God to bring justice, peace, hope, and deliverance for His children.
When Justice Arrives
God does not guarantee any of us a trouble-free life. However, by God's grace we can endure persecution and affliction, as we commit ourselves to growing in our faith and as we grasp the great truth that there is coming a time when God in righteousness will judge the wicked.