February 9, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – 1 Timothy Chapter 4

¹ Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;

² Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron;

³ Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth.

⁴ For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving:

⁵ For it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.

⁶ If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained.

⁷ But refuse profane and old wives’ fables, and exercise thyself rather unto godliness.

⁸ For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come.

⁹ This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptation.

¹⁰ For therefore we both labour and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Saviour of all men, specially of those that believe.

¹¹ These things command and teach.

¹² Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.

¹³ Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.

¹⁴ Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery.

¹⁵ Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all.

¹⁶ Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

In 1 Timothy 4, Paul strongly warns against false teachings and spiritual deception that will arise in the “last times.” He emphasizes that some people will fall away from the true faith and turn to seductive spirits. In doing so, he criticizes an exaggerated form of abstinence imposed by humans rather than relying on God’s grace and truth. Paul stresses that true godliness is not found in external prohibitions, but in steadfast faith in God and a life that is guided by His word.

In this chapter, he gives Timothy clear instructions for his ministry: he is to steer clear of useless and false teachings, practice godliness, and be an example for the believers. Particularly emphasized is the need for sound doctrine and a vigilant way of life that contributes not only to one’s own salvation but also to the salvation of others.

Commentary

Warning Against False Teachings (Verses 1-5):
Paul issues a prophetic warning: in the last days, some will fall away from the faith and turn to demonic doctrines. These false teachers will establish external prohibitions that contradict God’s will—for example, banning marriage or certain foods. Paul makes it clear that everything God created is good and should be received with thanksgiving.

True Service for God (Verses 6-11):
Timothy is admonished to pass on the correct doctrine to the believers. A healthy faith is not based on speculation or myths, but on God’s word. While physical exercise has some value, Paul emphasizes that spiritual exercise—namely, godliness—is far more valuable, as it holds promises for both this life and the life to come.

A Role Model in Faith (Verses 12-16):
Although still young, Timothy is to be a role model for the believers—in his speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity. He is encouraged to focus on reading, exhorting, and teaching, and not to neglect the gift that God has given him. Paul urges him to persist in these areas, for by doing so he will not only lead himself to salvation but also others.

Summary

1 Timothy 4 provides a serious warning against false teachings that will emerge in the last days. Paul shows that true godliness does not stem from human-imposed prohibitions, but from a life rooted in God’s word and truth. He calls on Timothy to avoid fruitless discussions and concentrate on what is essential: a life marked by faith, love, and purity.

The apostle makes it clear that a faithful servant of Christ can strengthen not only himself but also others through his teaching and example. This message remains as relevant today as it was then: true discipleship in Christ means holding fast to sound doctrine, living an exemplary life, and safeguarding God’s truth in a world full of deceptive teachings.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | Steps to Christ
Chapter 4—Confession
Read online here

 

Commentary

Introduction

The confession of sins is a fundamental component of the Christian faith. Without genuine repentance and humility, man remains separated from God. Proverbs 28:13 makes it clear that only those who confess their transgressions and forsake them will experience mercy. But what does true confession of sin really mean?

In this chapter, it is explained that genuine repentance is not achieved through external rituals or acts of penance, but through a sincere heart that humbles itself before God. It is not enough to confess our sins superficially or to make excuses—we must take responsibility for our actions. The Holy Scriptures show us that God is ready to forgive when our confession is accompanied by honesty and a commitment to change.

Commentary

The Conditions for Forgiveness (Proverbs 28:13):
God sets clear conditions for the forgiveness of sins: a sincere confession and a real turning away from sin. There are no shortcuts through human works or rituals—forgiveness comes solely from God’s grace when we are willing to submit to Him completely.

Confession before God and Men (James 5:16):
While sins must always be confessed before God, there are also instances where we should apologize to others. Whoever has wronged another should offer a direct apology before asking God for forgiveness. This demonstrates that confession is not only a spiritual matter but also has an interpersonal dimension.

The Problem of False Repentance:
Often, people try to justify or downplay their guilt. Even Adam and Eve shifted their blame onto others (Genesis 3:12-13). True repentance, however, requires that we openly and honestly acknowledge our sins without making excuses or engaging in self-justification.

Biblical Examples of Genuine Confession:
Paul serves as an example of sincere repentance. He did not hide his past misdeeds; instead, he openly confessed how he had persecuted Christians (Acts 26:10-11). This shows that true confession of sin is not just lip service, but a profound awareness of one’s own wrongdoing and a desire for transformation.

The Power of Forgiveness (1 John 1:9):
God is faithful and just. When we confess our sins, He forgives us and cleanses us from all unrighteousness. This assures us that no one has fallen so far that they cannot be restored through God’s grace.

Summary

The confession of sins is the key to forgiveness and the restoration of our relationship with God. Those who hide or justify their guilt remain in spiritual darkness. But those who come to God with a sincere heart will receive mercy.

This chapter shows us that true repentance is not about empty words or superficial confessions, but about a deep awareness of our own guilt and a desire for a transformed life. It encourages us not only to confess our sins to God but—if necessary—to also acknowledge them to our fellow human beings.

The Bible gives us a firm promise: God will forgive us when we come to Him honestly. This is the great hope and comfort for all who seek genuine reconciliation with God.

 *  *  *  *  *

Five Essential Principles for a Sincere Confession and the Acceptance of Divine Forgiveness:

1.Forgiveness Through Sincere Confession
Whoever sincerely confesses their sins and forsakes them receives God’s mercy (Proverbs 28:13).

2.Confession Before God and Men
Sins should be confessed before God, while interpersonal faults must also be acknowledged to those affected (James 5:16).

3.No Room for Excuses
True repentance means taking responsibility for one’s guilt without making excuses or shifting blame onto others (Genesis 3:12-13).

4.The Example of the Israelites and Paul
The Israelites acknowledged their sin and confessed it publicly (1 Samuel 12:19). Paul did not hide his past but spoke openly about his transgressions (Acts 26:10-11).

5.God’s Promise of Forgiveness
Whoever comes with a sincere heart will receive forgiveness and cleansing (1 John 1:9). God is faithful and just, and He forgives all who honestly confess their guilt.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/09-02-2025-1-timothy-chapter-4-believe-his-prophets/

1.Why is it very important to recognize that God’s glory is connected with His goodness? How does this correct a theology of glory that emphasizes sheer power without highlighting God’s love and nature?

It is of great importance to recognize that God’s glory is inseparably connected with His goodness because this reflects the true nature of God and corrects a one-sided view of divine power.

1. God’s Glory Reveals His Nature

   In the Bible, God’s glory is often associated with His love, faithfulness, and justice. In Exodus 33:18–19, Moses asks God to show him His glory, and God responds by passing His goodness before Moses. This demonstrates that God’s glory is not found solely in His omnipotence but primarily in His moral perfection, His grace, and faithfulness.

2. Correcting a Distorted Theology of Glory

   A theology that equates God’s glory solely with power and exaltation runs the risk of overlooking His love and mercy. A view of God based purely on power can lead to a distant, fear-inducing understanding that misrepresents God’s deepest intentions. However, the Bible shows that God’s glory is most clearly revealed in His self-giving (for example, on the Cross in John 1:14 and Philippians 2:6–8).

3. God’s Love as the Core of His Glory

   In John 17:24, Jesus asks the Father that His followers may see His glory—a glory that is manifested in the Father’s love for Him and for people. This underlines that God’s glory is not one of cold power but is rooted in the warmth of His love and His nature.

4. God’s Justice and Mercy as a Unified Whole

   Psalm 85:10 describes the perfect harmony between justice and love: “Mercy and truth have met together; righteousness and peace have kissed.” God never acts in power apart from His goodness. His glory is displayed in the way He unites justice with mercy.

Conclusion:
God’s glory must not be reduced to raw power or distant exaltation. True glory lies in the inseparable connection of power, love, justice, and goodness. This corrects a theology that emphasizes power alone without taking into account the loving nature of God. An understanding of God’s glory that includes His goodness leads to a deeper, more trusting relationship with Him and to an honest imitation of His love and justice in our own lives.

2.Have you ever questioned God’s goodness? Do you know someone who has questioned God’s goodness because of the way alleged followers of God sometimes behave, or simply because of all the evil in the world? How have you resolved this question for yourself, and how can you help someone who is struggling with the question of God’s goodness? See next week’s lesson.

Yes, many people—even believing Christians—have at some point in their lives questioned God’s goodness. It is an honest and understandable reaction to suffering, injustice, and the evil in the world. These doubts can be intensified by personal misfortunes, the pain of others, or the behavior of people who claim to be followers of God.

1. The Challenge: Why Does God Allow This?

   Often the question of God’s goodness arises from experiences of suffering or the observation of injustice. Perhaps we know people who have turned away from God because they experienced Christians acting unlovingly or hypocritically. Others question God’s goodness because they see wars, diseases, and natural disasters seemingly occurring without hindrance.

2. How Have I Resolved This Question for Myself?

   There is no simple answer, but several biblical truths have helped me:

   • God’s Goodness Is Revealed on the Cross: In Romans 5:8 it says, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Even if we do not always understand the evil, the Cross shows us that God is not indifferent to our suffering. He Himself suffered to redeem us.

   • God Often Acts Differently Than We Expect: In Isaiah 55:8–9, God states that His thoughts are higher than ours. Just because we do not immediately comprehend God’s actions does not mean that He is not good.

   • Evil Is Real, But Not Eternal: Revelation 21:4 promises that God will one day put an end to all suffering. Evil is a consequence of a fallen world, but God has a plan to ultimately defeat it.

3. How Can We Help Someone Who Struggles with God’s Goodness?

   • Listen Instead of Giving Hasty Answers: People who are suffering often need empathy rather than theological arguments.

   • Point Them to Jesus: He is the visible proof of God’s love.

   • Explain the Reality of a Fallen World: Evil is not God’s will but a consequence of sin. However, God acts even in the midst of evil.

   • Give Them Hope: God is faithful, even if we do not always feel it. His goodness often becomes evident only in hindsight.

Conclusion:
The question of God’s goodness is profound, but it can be answered through the Bible and personal experience. God is neither distant nor indifferent—His love is real, even if we do not always immediately see it.

3.Discuss the answer to the question in Monday’s session. How does the reality of the Great Battle help us understand all the evil that now exists?

The reality of the Great Battle helps us to better understand the evil in the world by providing a biblical perspective on suffering and injustice. The Great Battle is the cosmic struggle between God and Satan, between justice and sin, between light and darkness. This conflict began in heaven (Revelation 12:7–9) and continues on earth, where people must choose daily between good and evil.

1. The Origin of Evil

   One of the central questions many people ask is: “If God is good, why is there so much suffering?”

   The Great Battle explains that evil does not originate from God. Satan, originally an angel of light, chose to rebel against God (Isaiah 14:12–14; Ezekiel 28:12–17). He introduced doubt about God’s character and claimed that God was neither just nor loving. This rebellion spread so that even people in Genesis 3 succumbed to temptation and turned against God.

2. Why Does God Allow Evil?

   God could have immediately destroyed evil, but doing so would call His love and justice into question. Love requires freedom, and God does not force anyone to follow Him. Instead, He allows the Great Battle to be visible for a time so that the universe may come to see that God’s ways are just.

   Scripture:

   “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise… but is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” (2 Peter 3:9)

3. How Does the Great Battle Affect Our Lives?

   Every person is involved in this cosmic conflict. Our daily decisions—how we act, whether we stand for truth and justice or yield to evil—reflect this battle. Ephesians 6:12 reminds us that our struggle is not against flesh and blood but against the forces of darkness.

Everyday Examples:

• The Evil in the World: Wars, injustice, natural disasters—these are consequences of a fallen world, not God’s will.

• Attacks on Faith: Christians experience trials as Satan does everything he can to separate them from God.

• God’s Victory: Despite the ongoing battle, God’s victory is assured. Revelation 21:4 promises a new earth without suffering and death.

4. Hope in the Great Battle

   Although evil is present at the moment, we can know that Jesus has already won the victory. John 16:33 says, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” Through Jesus’ death and resurrection, the outcome of the battle is already decided. Our task is to hold fast to God’s truth and justice and to trust in His ultimate redemption.

Conclusion:
The Great Battle helps us understand why evil exists without calling God’s goodness into question. Satan fights against God and draws people along with him, but God will ultimately bring about justice. We are in the midst of this conflict, yet Jesus has already triumphed—and we can live in that victory by trusting God and standing up for love and truth.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-6-gods-love-of-justice-6-7-questions-the-god-of-love-and-justice-living-faith/