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Are you living a life shaped by the gospel? Why is that question so important to answer today? Many people in and outside of the church have a misconception about Christian living. This isn’t something new either. Since the times of the early church people have been living lives that are contrary to the gospel. Even worse people who teach God’s Word are living a life that is contrary to God’s Word. These same people are also teaching contrary to Gods Word. Why does this matter? Well if we are going to be faithful Christians we must live a life shaped by the gospel. Paul calls Timothy to rightly teach God’s Word while being an example for others. For us as church leaders and fellow Christians it is vital that we do the same. So, for us we must understand that a life shaped by the gospel transforms us to the image of Christ. Today I want us to discover how to live more like Christ. Also, I want us to understand that a life shaped by the gospel is one that can handle and defend scripture properly. These things should be our Goal. Once we have been called from death to life our goal should be like Christ. If you would open to 1 Timothy chapter 4. The study will come from verses 12-16. However, I want to start in verse 6 to lay the context. If you put these things before the brothers, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, being trained in the words of the faith and of the good doctrine that you have followed. Have nothing to do with irreverent, silly myths. Rather train yourself for godliness; for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance. For to this end we toil and strive, because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe. Command and teach these things. Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity. Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation, to teaching. Do not neglect the gift you have, which was given you by prophecy when the council of elders laid their hands on you. Practice these things, immerse yourself in them, so that all may see your progress. Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this, for by so doing you will save both yourself and your hearers.

12 Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.

Point 1: A Life Shaped by the Gospel will be an example to others.

This truth had great importance to Timothy. Timothy was young compared to many other leaders in that time. He was no doubt looked down upon because of his age. Most scholars believe, Timothy would probably have been less than forty years old.[1] One Commentator put it like this, “In a culture where “elders” were highly regarded, and in a church where the elders would have been older than he, this is not an insignificant encouragement. But for the same reasons, it is likewise a word to the community, to let them know that, despite his youth, he has Paul’s own authority to command and teach these things (v. 11).” [2] No doubt this was a powerful reminder to Timothy that he was called to lead the church despite his age. John Piper notes, “So Paul’s main point is that Timothy should not have low expectations of the impact of his life toward those who are older. He should look to God, believe in the gospel, do what God calls him to do, and in that way become an example to the rest.” [3] Young people take this statement to heart. People may deny you because you are young, but don’t let someone deny you because of your walk.

However, Paul wanted him to be an example to his people. This example would no doubt help defend his call to ministry. It is one thing to be a teacher, but it another thing to be an example to the church. Luckily Timothy had a great example in Paul. We see this in it says, “You however have followed my teaching, my conduct, my aim in life, my faith, my patience, my love, my steadfastness, my persecutions and sufferings that happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium and at Lystra which persecutions I endured; yet from them all the Lord rescued me.” Paul had been through a lot, and he remained faithful. He wanted young Timothy to be faithful as well. Timothy had a great example of Paul to look to. We too have the example of Paul and Timothy, and others who can help shape us to be more godly men and women.

So, Paul charged Timothy with five examples. They are speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity. One commentary says, “The virtues Timothy is to model for them are those that some scholars have felt to be missing in the list of qualifications for church leadership, but even here they stand in contrast to the conduct of the false teachers.” [4] These examples are not just for Timothy, but for Timothy it was to be part of his testimony. These truths are also for all believers. In terms of Speech all Christians are called to speak in a way that is pure. A great example is found in were Paul states, “let your speech be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.” A Christian’s speech is important when it comes to beings an example, because its impact on other individuals on so many different levels. Another example is conduct. says, “but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy, in your conduct.” Personal holiness is an important to those who are in Christ and right conduct shows that you are Holy. The next example is love. In the Greek agape means a strong non-sexual affection and regard for a person and their good as understood by Gods moral character; especially characterized by a willing forfeiture or rights or privileges in another person’s behalf. So really this kind of love is self-sacrificing love. This love was contrary to that of the false teachers of the day who were all about themselves. Christians know the greatest example of self-sacrificial love is Christ. As it says is , “but God shows his love for us in while we were still sinners Christ died for us. Paul commands Timothy and us to live a self-sacrificial life. Faith is our next example. What about faith? A faith that is believing? I don’t believe that is the kind of faith Paul is telling Timothy here. I believe Paul is telling Timothy to be faithful and committed to his call. At the beginning of this book Paul says in , “The aim of our charge is love that issues from a pure heart and a good conscience and sincere faith.” Like Timothy we to are to have a sincere faith one that is focused on others rather than ourselves. This was yet another quality that the false teachers did not possess. The Final example is purity. One commentator said this about purity. “Purity refers to sexual conduct and integrity of heart. Sexuality seems to be a mysterious picture of our relationship to God. God is very particular about how we treat our bodies and honor others. Sexual purity is a symbol of spiritual consecration. Misconduct in this area of life ruins fellowship with Christ and destroys a person’s influence and reputation with others.”[5] Many in the times of Paul and Timothy would not live a life of purity. They did not count that as important, but as Christians purity is so important, because Christ was pure.

Are we living out these examples in our own lives? Remember this a Christian is called to live out all the truths found in Scripture. If we are struggling with all or some of these issues it is time to repent and walk in the ways of Christ. Do not let your sin get in the way of becoming a better example to others. If you are young in the audience today don’t let your youth bring you down. God calls all believers to be an example. Remember this young people a Christian life that is led by example will offset anyone who is opposed to you based on your age.

13 Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation, to teaching.

Point 2. A life that is led by the Gospel will be devoted to the study of scripture.

The teaching in verse 13 was very important then and remains so today. Throughout the book a major theme has been false teaching. In Chapter 1:3-4 Paul notes, “As I urged you when I was going to Macedonia, remain at Ephesus so that you may charge certain persons not to teach any different doctrine, nor to devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies, which promote speculations rather than the stewardship from God that is by faith.” As well as in Chapter 4:1-3 which says, “Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits teachings of demons, through the insincerity of liars whose consciences are seared, who forbid marriage and require abstinence from food that God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe in the truth.” Paul knew that Timothy was going to have to deal with people who were wrongly handling the gospel. So, he wanted to give him some advice on how to deal with this problem. All three of these truths were fundamental in defending the faith. Why was reading scripture so important you might ask? Well I am sure that many if not all of us have a Bible in this room. I personally have many Bibles and I am sure that most people in this room do as well. This was not the case back in the days of the early church. Scripture was hard to come by. It was rare for anyone outside of the church to have scripture. Making it vitally important for scripture to be read. It was clear that many in the church would have been most likely exposed to false teaching. So, the reading of scripture was vital to in countering the teaching of false teachers. In the same way it is important for us to read scripture. So we to can know what is biblical and what is not biblical. How much do you read your Bible? Do you align the thoughts and ideas of many other pastors/teachers with scripture? One of best way to counter false teaching is reading your Bible.

Paul told Timothy was to also to exhort his people. This statement is more geared toward people who are preachers and teachers. To exhort means to call someone to a response. This is use of the Scriptures (or apostolic teaching) to bring instruction, to exhort, encourage or console, and generally has in mind the implementing or changing of behavior, on the basis of the Scripture’s sense or intent.[6] As fallen individuals we need instruction. With the church as young as it was it was it was important for others to be instructed and corrected for their sinful behavior. The same reigns true for us. As fallen people we need instruction. Are you allowing the preaching of God’s Word to instruct you?

Finally, Paul calls Timothy to Teach the Word of God. The previous two actions link together with the final one. This section of scripture starts really in verse 6 saying, “If you put these things before the brothers you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, being trained in the words of the faith and of good doctrine that you have followed. One commentary says, The agenda Paul spells out for Timothy emphasizes the centrality of the text for theological correctness and includes not just a basic reading but a fuller awareness of the text’s meaning that is gained through study, reflection, and devotion.” [7] This statement is so true. Look at how many people at this time did not have a rightful understanding of God’s Word. In order to defeat false teaching, we must fully apply the truth of this verse to our lives.

Put it this way we all know men myself being included do not like to use instructions. We think that we can build or fix anything, but somehow, we figure out a way to mess it up. Men you know this is true, and so do the women here in this room. Why do we try to fix what is wrong without instruction? Well I believe our sin causes us to want to do things on our own. Which in turn makes us very dangerous individuals. The sin of pride well never lead us to live a life that is led by the gospel. So, what are we to do? We need to devote ourselves to scripture. Jesus himself taught from scripture. says, “Early in the morning he came again to the temple. All the people came to him, and he sat down and taught them. If we want to defend the faith properly it will be done by using scripture. With the help of the Holy Spirit there is no greater tool than Scripture.

14 Do not neglect the gift you have, which was given you by prophecy when the council of elders laid their hands on you.

Point 3. A life shaped by the Gospel will not neglect the gifts God has given them.

Paul reminds Timothy of his gift and affirms him to his people. This is the second-time Paul has commissioned Timothy in this letter. The First saying in , “This charge I entrust to you, Timothy my child, in accordance with the prophecies previously made about you, that by them you may wage the good warfare.” This was no doubt to give him confidence for his life in ministry. There were two coexistent circumstances which entered into the ordination. The first was extraordinary in its nature,prophecy, or any inspired utterance. Apparently it amounted to an intimation to the assembled congregation that Timothy was really called, and there and then fully endowed. The second concomitant, or circumstance entering into the ordinaion, was the laying-on of the hands of the presbytery. This was ordinary, and therefore continues to be connected with ordination, prophecy being represented by the ordination prayer and address.[8] Paul wanted to make it known to everyone that he was called by God to do his work.

Though there is no evidence some believed timothy was the sort of person who would give up.[9] Leading some to say that’s why he needed encouragement. However, we all know everyone needs encouragement.

Timothy like all believers had a spiritual gift. Timothy gifts were to be used for the benefit of the Church. This is true for us as well. No matter what your gift you have use it for the benefit of the body. Peter explains this in , “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of Gods varied grace.” Do you know your gift is? If not the church can help you in this. If you know your gift are you using that gift for the benefit of the church? If your gift is not teaching don’t think that God can’t use you! The tiniest bone in the body is crucial to its make-up. So too is the gifts of all believers in the church. If you are to live a life shaped by the Gospel you will use your gifts to build up the church.

15 Practice these things, immerse yourself in them, so that all may see your progress

Point 4. A life shaped by the gospel will produce genuine change.

For Timothy, it was essential for him to practice the things of the faith. This word practice could also mean give your mind to or mediate upon. Looking back a few verses ago we see how we can do that. says, “Have nothing to do with silly myths. Rather train yourself for godliness; for whole bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life to come. The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance. For to this end we toil and strive, because our hope set on the living God, who is the savior of all people, especially of those who believe. Being a Christian does not come natural to people. It’s quite the opposite. So, like Paul was telling Timothy he was to practice his faith. One commentator said this must be a day-to-day activity; it must become habitual.[10] I couldn’t agree more. Being a Christian means there are no days off. We are to live as we are called for all of our days. Unless you are Allen Iverson you know the importance of practice, or proper training. A seasoned weight lifter knows how to build up his body. He knows the importance of not just a proper workout, but a proper diet, and rest. As a Christian, we must know the importance of proper training. The proper training of a Christian is rooted in scripture. How can we expect anyone to see progress if we do not train? It is only Christ who saves us, but because we are saved we could strive to be more like him.

Paul makes the statement all may see your progress. I love what John Macarthur says in his sermon over this verse. He says, “Now what does "progress" admit? It admits that you aren't what you should be yet, right? So don't run around trying to play God. Don't try to convince people that you have no flaws, just let them see you growing. Be that honest. Even with all of the high qualifications, there's the obvious fact that we're short of the standard.” [11] This statement is powerful and teachers of Gods Word and other Christians should take that great advice. The Christian life should be a constant progress towards Christ likeness. We can never hit that goal while we are here, but we can all strain towards it. Paul tells us this important truth in , “Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own. Brothers, I do not consider I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”

Are you pressing on, and progressing in the faith? Have you disciplined yourself in the faith? Are you immersing yourself in Scripture? Are you becoming more like Christ? Test yourself and keep pressing on to live a life shaped by the gospel.

16 Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this, for by so doing you will save both yourself and your hearers.

Point 5. A life shaped Gospel will persevere to the end.

Paul says two things in this verse. First Timothy should watch himself and his teaching. One Commenter said, “The first thing that every Christian worker must watch is himself, not only his outward life but also his inner thoughts and feelings. No matter how straight a person may be in his doctrine or how effective he may be in his teaching, if there is a flaw in his inner or outer life, it will ruin him.”[12] The importance of living out the gospel is crucial for not only leaders, but for other Christians. It is so easy to get caught up in others affairs and fail to see your own. I believe Paul wanted to make that clear to Timothy, and us as well.

Timothy no doubt had to be watchful to what he was teaching. The souls of the people he was teaching depended on it. Any Christian should be careful of the what he or she teaches others. One commenter said, “Ultimately, Timothy could effectively control only himself. We are the only person over whom we have immediate authority. My ability to lead and influence others is connected to my ability to manage and live my own life well. The Christian life hinges on conduct (life) as empowered by God’s Spirit and correct faith (doctrine).” [13] If we are to have influence on others we must live the right way.

Finally, what does Paul mean when he tells Timothy to persist in this, for by so doing you will save both yourself and the hearers. Is not salvation based on the Lords work? Why yes, it is. However how do we explain this text? Philip Towner explains this well by saying. “After the theological pause of 4:9–10, where Paul’s mission God’s salvation were linked, it is not surprising to find a similar connection made between Timothy’s responsiveness and salvation. Paul closes the subsection by explaining that doing what has just been commanded (persisting in attention to himself and his teaching) will make Timothy an instrument of divine salvation. Although this thought of human instrumentality in God’s salvation might seem at odds with (“God is the savior of all people”; the thought is thoroughly Pauline, echoing texts such as ; ; . The gospel ministry is the effective means by which God saves people, and it is in this sense that Timothy may “save” himself and others.” [14]

Are you a teacher of God’s word or have influence on others? Either way are you watching yourself? Is your teaching biblical? If not it is time to repent and come back to the Lord. The minister is to persevere in all these areas: in refutation of error, in personal discipline for godliness, in the modeling of the Christian life, and in the proclamation of the Word. The minister who faithfully fulfills these charges will “save both [himself] and [his] hearers”[15]

Conclusion.

The question remains are you living a life led by the gospel? Christ was and is the perfect example for us. All the principles taught about today testify to him. Christ had perfect speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity. Christ used scripture to teach about himself. Christ used his power for the church. Christ lived his life so we could progress in him. As well as Christ persevered and lived a perfect sinless life so we could have life in him.

I want you to ask yourself these questions How is your example? Are you in God’s Word consistently? Are you using your spiritual gifts you have to benefit the church? Do you have genuine change in your life? Do you know as a Christian you will preserve to the end? What is your answer today? You may be one who has seen change and know Christ, but are falling short in one or several of these areas. Today is the day you repent and seek him out in your life. You may have examined yourself today and honestly say you do not know Christ, but through his Word today I have seen why I need him. Today brothers and sisters in Christ should be day that you seek him. Pray that he changes your heart to want to be more like Christ. How will you respond.

Let us pray. Father I pray that this message produces fruit in our church. That we are able to conform to the image of your son. Lord I pray you call your people out of darkness. Lord help us see our need for Christ in every moment of every day. Father thank you for sending your son to die for all who believe in him on this day. In Jesus name, I pray amen.

[1]. Philip H. Towner, The Letters to Timothy and Titus, The New International Commentary on the New Testament (Grand Rapids, MI: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 2006), 314.

[2]. Gordon D. Fee, 1 and 2 Timothy, Titus, Understanding the Bible Commentary Series (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books, 2011), 107.

[3]. John Piper, Sermons from John Piper (2000–2014) (Minneapolis, MN: Desiring God, 2014).

[4]. Gordon D. Fee, 1 and 2 Timothy, Titus, Understanding the Bible Commentary Series (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books, 2011), 107.

[5]. Knute Larson, I & II Thessalonians, I & II Timothy, Titus, Philemon, vol. 9, Holman New Testament Commentary (Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers, 2000), 207.

[6]. Philip H. Towner, The Letters to Timothy and Titus, The New International Commentary on the New Testament (Grand Rapids, MI: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 2006), 320–321.

[7]. William D. Mounce, Pastoral Epistles, vol. 46, Word Biblical Commentary (Dallas: Word, Incorporated, 2000), 261.

[8]. H. D. M. Spence-Jones, ed., 1 Timothy, The Pulpit Commentary (London; New York: Funk & Wagnalls Company, 1909), 94.

[9]. William D. Mounce, Pastoral Epistles, vol. 46, Word Biblical Commentary (Dallas: Word, Incorporated, 2000), 262.

[10]. William D. Mounce, Pastoral Epistles, vol. 46, Word Biblical Commentary (Dallas: Word, Incorporated, 2000), 264.

[11]. Macarthur , John . "Qualities of an Excellent Servant, Part 5." Grace to You. October 19, 1986. Accessed April 08, 2017. https://www.gty.org/library/sermons-library/54-34/qualities-of-an-excellent-servant-part-5.

[12]. Ralph Earle, “1 Timothy,” in The Expositor’s Bible Commentary: Ephesians through Philemon, ed. Frank E. Gaebelein, vol. 11 (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, 1981), 375.

[13]. Knute Larson, I & II Thessalonians, I & II Timothy, Titus, Philemon, vol. 9, Holman New Testament Commentary (Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers, 2000), 209.

[14]. Philip H. Towner, The Letters to Timothy and Titus, The New International Commentary on the New Testament (Grand Rapids, MI: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 2006), 328.

[15]. John B. Polhill, Paul and His Letters (Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman, 1999), 413.