1 Timothy Ch. 4

1 Timothy Ch. 4

The devil is by nature a deceiver, and what better occupation than deceiving men about himself!

William Still

1 Timothy 4:1–2 CSB

Now the Spirit explicitly says that in later times some will depart from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and the teachings of demons, through the hypocrisy of liars whose consciences are seared.

1 Timothy 4:3 CSB

They forbid marriage and demand abstinence from foods that God created to be received with gratitude by those who believe and know the truth.

U.S. marriage rate has fallen by more than 60% since 1970.

According to an Institute of Family Studies Article:

We have a Marriage Paradox

Cultural support for the values and virtues that sustain marriage have dropped in recent years.

Fewer Americans think marriage is important.

Fewer embrace virtues like fidelity and monogamy

The Value of Marriage

Children raised in stably married homes are markedly more likely to avoid poverty, flourish in school, and avoid incarceration.

Men and women who are married are markedly more financially secure, less lonely, and report greater happiness than their peers who are not married.

1 Timothy 4:4–5 (CSB)

For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, since it is sanctified by the word of God and by prayer.

Our Food

We are being told not to eat meat due to the impact on the environment, all while being blasted with advertisements of ultra-processed foods.

Approximately 73% of the food items available in U.S. grocery stores are ultra-processed

Ultra-processed foods are generally 52% cheaper than less processed alternatives.

A GOOD SERVANT

1 Timothy 4:6 CSB

If you point these things out to the brothers and sisters, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, nourished by the words of the faith and the good teaching that you have followed.

1 Timothy 4:7–8 CSB

But have nothing to do with pointless and silly myths. Rather, train yourself in godliness. For the training of the body has limited benefit, but godliness is beneficial in every way, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.

Earthly buff vs. Heavenly Buff

1 Timothy 4:9–10 CSB

This saying is trustworthy and deserves full acceptance. For this reason we labor and strive, because we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe.

Today’s Youth:

Truth and wisdom can come from anywhere regardless of age.

Anne Frank: “How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world.” Age 13-15

1 Timothy 4:11–12 CSB

Command and teach these things. Don’t let anyone despise your youth, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity.

Youth: Strive to gain the respect and confidence of the older generations.

1 Timothy 4:13–14 CSB

Until I come, give your attention to public reading, exhortation, and teaching. Don’t neglect the gift that is in you; it was given to you through prophecy, with the laying on of hands by the council of elders.

What are some of the gifts God has put in you?

do you communicate well or follow up with friends?

do you work with you hands and love to serve?

do you turn quickly to prayer?

are you a great listener?

1 Timothy 4:15–16 CSB

Practice these things; be committed to them, so that your progress may be evident to all. Pay close attention to your life and your teaching; persevere in these things, for in doing this you will save both yourself and your hearers.

Your Sphere of Influence:

People are looking for consistency

Does you Life match your words?

St. Francis of Assisi: “Preach the Gospel at all times. Use words if necessary.”