1 Timothy 6:11-21
Q.1. How was Timothy to maintain a faithful testimony to Christ? In what way is Christ our model? – (1 Tim.6:11-14)
He was to flee from useless distractions and the temptations of material comfort. Rather he was to grow in Christlikeness which included perseverance under trials (1 Tim.6:11-12). Christ was the supreme example of bearing a faithful testimony, against great odds and persecution (1 Tim.6:13). Paul urged Timothy to – keep the commandment without stain or reproach until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ, which He will bring about at the proper time – He who is the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords (1 Tim.6:14-15)
Q.2. How did Paul underscore the deity of Christ in his confession statement? What is its implication for us? – (1 Tim.6:15-16)
Jesus had suffered and died. Timothy was to keep to his mission – until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ (1 Tim.6:14), which will come at the fore-ordained time. Paul ascribed to Jesus, deity equivalent to the Father, because Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are one – 15 … He who is the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords, 16 who alone possesses immortality and dwells in unapproachable light, whom no man has seen or can see. To Him be honour and eternal dominion! (1 Tim.6:15-16). The final rebellion at the close of the millennial reign of Christ (Rev.20:7-10) will confirm that His glory will still be veiled since – 16 who alone possesses immortality and dwells in unapproachable light, whom no man has seen or can see (1 Tim.6:16). Jesus is sovereign Ruler Who will have everlasting control and dominion over all. That is how we are to regard Him.
Q.3. How should we apply the description of ‘rich’ today? What attitudes and actions are crucial for those who are rich? – (1 Tim.6:17-19)
Compared with the world at large, most of us live in Australia are rich. Paul said that God has given us gifts for us to enjoy and to share generously (1 Tim.6:17-18). We are warned not to be conceited or to place our reliance on things that God can quickly take away (1 Tim.6:17 c.f. Hag.1:3-9). Paul advised Timothy – 18 Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, 19 storing up for themselves the treasure of a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is life indeed (1 Tim.6:18-19 c.f. Mt.6:19-20).
Q.4. In what ways can words and arguments keep us from living out our faith? – (1 Tim.6:20-21)
It is possible that though Timothy was a little timid, he liked to discuss theology rather than live out the faith. Paul reminded him to protect and use the gifts that God had given him (1 Tim.6:20-21). Some people who formerly have professed faith in Christ, have drifted because of equating knowledge with service. It is not so much how much we know about faith, but our obedience and practice that proves the reality of our faith (1 Tim.6:21).