...command certain people not to teach false doctrines any longer...
The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart
and a good conscience and a sincere faith.
1 Timothy 1:3, 5
Paul gave Timothy a command: stop the teaching of false doctrine... in the name of love... stop them from teaching what isn't true.
Who likes confrontation? controversy? Not me.
But here is what's at the heart of Paul's command, as inspired by the Holy Spirit: It's just not loving to let people be deceived by lies. It's not loving to allow people to harden their own hearts by teaching lies. It is not love... to let people wander... from God's truth.
He says it clearly. The law is good when used properly. And the law isn't for the righteous --- those who know God, follow Jesus, walk with the Spirit --- they don't need the law because they walk with and in the Truth. They have His law written in their hearts.
The law is for those who are rebels... ungodly... sinful... unholy... irreligious...
Go ahead. Read the list of those for whom the law is for again. Verses 9-10.
Do you know someone teaching false doctrine in the church today? devoting themselves to lies? are they stirring up controversy?
Maybe it's time to step up and speak the truth in love, that we can all grow up and get about the work of God.
...speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way
into him who is the head, into Christ...
Ephesians 4:15 ESV
Lord, help me to remember, it's not loving to avoid confrontation
when it comes to Your truth. Bless me with the ability to speak the truth in love.
Love for You, for Your Kingdom, and for Your people.
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