Bible Diary - 2 Timothy 2:14-19

March 12, 2008

How can we be sure that we are teaching the truth accurately, whether it be while leading a Bible study or just chatting with our friends? I think Paul’s answer is that we must present ourselves first to God, the ultimate judge of our actions, and trust him to guide us. If Timothy can teach unashamed and confident in his understanding of the truth, I don’t think it’s too much of a stretch to apply it closer to home. Like to me.

Dealing with profane chatter

2:14 Remind people of these things and solemnly charge them before the Lord not to wrangle over words. This is of no benefit; it just brings ruin on those who listen. 2:15 Make every effort to present yourself before God as a proven worker who does not need to be ashamed, teaching the message of truth accurately. 2:16 But avoid profane chatter, because those occupied with it will stray further and further into ungodliness, 2:17 and their message will spread its infection like gangrene. Hymenaeus and Philetus are in this group. 2:18 They have strayed from the truth by saying that the resurrection has already occurred, and they are undermining some people’s faith. 2:19 However, God’s solid foundation remains standing, bearing this seal: “The Lord knows those who are his,” and “Everyone who confesses the name of the Lord must turn away from evil.”

Today’s bookshelves are loaded with profane chatter. How am I to sift through the clutter and separate truth from nonsense? I doubt that the mind I was born with is up to the task. Maybe this is why Paul talks about being “transformed by the renewing of your mind” in Romans 12. Discerning spiritual wheat from chaff takes a renewed mind.

Dave, up for renewal.

-sdg-

Posted by Dave | Filed Under Bible