Seeking Truth

Sunscreen Example

It can be used sparingly and misapplied

When it happens, there are devastating effects

Sunburns, rashes, potentially skin cancer

When used effectively, it can give someone the ability to spend extended periods in the sun

2 Timothy 4:1-5

To Use God’s Word, We Must First Know His Word

Paul here encourages Timothy to be prepared to know what Scripture has to say

Be ready in and out of season (At All times)

to reprove (Expose/put to the test)

To rebuke (Warn)

To Exhort (Comfort/Encourage)

What Paul is encouraging Timothy here is to know God’s word so that it can be used at any time. To have such a rich grasp of scripture, you can understand and acknowledge what it communicates at any point

Is God’s word a collection of unique ideas? Or a mirror into our souls?

While these are important things to keep in mind for when we apply the word, do these same things reign true in our own readings?

Do you read the word as a mirror?

Does it inspire you? Convict you? Make you accountable for things you didn’t realize were sinful?

Ultimately what Paul encourages for Timothy is to use scripture the way it is intended: To push believers towards Christ

Example: Tik Tok Evangelists

God’s Word Won’t Always Fit Our Beliefs

Paul let’s Timothy know that there will come a time when people only desire to hear what suits them

Twisting of scripture so that it aligns with our own beliefs

Examples:

Homosexuality is a correct belief

You can not be a part of the body of christ and still be a believer

Our hope lies in our politics

Not explicitly stating, but by twisting the scripture to say what you desire to say, then you can make your own viewpoints

But there are complicated beliefs that we must address as well within the pages of scripture:

Is hell real?

What happens when natural evil occurs and there is no explanation for why?

If marriage and dating is so important, why will it not be in heaven?

What Gen Z often seeks, which is frequently different than their counterparts, is a desire to get to the core of what it is scripture is saying

Continue to seek people who seek what is true about scripture

God Empowers Us To Apply Scripture In Our Lives

When we seek ultimately what is true, we will follow what is asked of us

Not perfectly, but progressively

We have been given a plan for how we are can live a life honoring to the Lord

It speaks powerfully and authoritatively on almost every issue we will face

It speaks truthfully to what our hearts desire

It speakings lovingly to our souls when we need it

Paul gives Timothy a final charge that while he is to be ready to prepare and defend the gospel, he is also to be ready to evangelize and minister to those entrusted to him.