DEC 1

1 Timothy 3:15
Memorise 1 Timothy 4:12
“Be thou an example…”

Young Timothy, ministering to the church at Ephesus as Paul’s repre- sentative, faced the challenging responsibility of correcting false doc- trine, ensuring correct public worship and appointing godly leaders. Paul wrote this first epistle so that Timothy would know he must behave in the house of God (1 Timothy 3:15) which is the main theme of this book.

The church is not just another secular body or organisation, or mere gathering of people with a common interest. The definition of ‘church’ is to be ‘called out’, and this is from the world. Moreover, the church belongs to our Living God. It is His house – He is the ever-present master. A pillar sustains and upholds a superstructure, whilst the ground is a firm and solid foundation. It is in the church that the truth is to be found and proclaimed, and so when it holds firm to sound doctrines, it functions as this pillar and ground of the truth. This is why how a pastor conducts himself is incredibly important. Paul’s instruction applies not just to Timothy’s public pastoral duties, be they administrative or teaching, but also personal – private conduct. His public and private testimony are inseparable, they are one and the same.

It is in the church that we can see the full revelation of God’s truth – through the preaching, teaching, and studying of the Bible, worship, and godly testimonies of believers that witness of the transforming power of God. Thus it is vital that the pastor be a blameless stalwart of truth in all that he does, according to the Word of God. It is not for a pastor to decide how he should conduct himself and the work of the church according to his secular knowledge, philosophies, personal fancies, personalities nor those of others.

However, the conclusion of the matter is not only with a pastor conducting himself according to God’s Word. This verse applies to believers as well, as it is individuals who collectively make up the local church. Principles for leadership and righteous living apply to us all. Do you know how to behave yourself in the church? Have you obeyed the instruction and teaching from your pastor and leaders? Are you strengthening the testimony of God’s church and contributing to the revelation of God in the world or are you damaging it?

Thought: What’s your attitude toward godliness? Is it subjective and optional?
Prayer: May I know how to behave myself in and outside the house of God for His glory.