1 Timothy 4:1-8
Q.1. From where did the idea of End-time apostasy come? What distortions of the Gospel can we expect? – (1 Tim.4:1-3)
Some church spokesmen predict an ever-growing influence of the Gospel in the Last Days (c.f. 2 Thes.5:1-3). The opposite is true, as there will be an increased activity of Satan – knowing he has only a short time (Rev.12:12). This will be accompanied by a great falling away from the true faith (c.f. Mt.24:10-12; Lk.18:8). Paul was clear that – the Spirit explicitly says that in the later times some will fall away from the faith (1 Tim.4:1). This apostasy will be demon inspired and propagated by hypocrites and liars who have seared their own consciences. They will capture people with their religious dogmas and ascetic rules, thus substituting external observances for a relationship with the Lord (1 Tim.4:2-3).
Q.2. What attitude should we cultivate toward the advances of modern society? How are these things set apart for God? – (1 Tim.4:3-5)
We live in a day of abundance, when it comes to food and technology. Paul commented – For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with gratitude (1 Tim.4:4). Nothing in and of itself is inherently evil. Jesus underscored this truth, when He exposed the interpretations of Judaism – 14 After He called the crowd to Him again, He began saying to them, “Listen to Me, all of you, and understand: 15 there is nothing outside the man which can defile him if it goes into him; but the things which proceed out of the man are what defile the man (c.f. Mk.7:14-15). However, what we do concerning marriage, food, and technology must be governed and sanctified by the Word of God and prayer, namely, to observe and apply the principles such as purity, self-control, and mutual edification (1 Tim.4:5). Moreover, these things are to be – gratefully shared in by those who believe and know the truth (1 Tim.4:3). The liberty brought by the Gospel sets us free to glorify God and use these things to bless others.
Q.3. What place should godliness have in the life of a believer? How is Christlikeness developed? – (1 Tim.4:6-8)
Paul placed a high importance on sound doctrine and faith. (1 Tim.4:6). Many today are preoccupied with keeping physically fit and following worldly standards, rather than with pursuing godliness (1 Tim.4:7). We should strive for things that endure beyond time, and into eternity – for bodily discipline is only of little profit, but godliness is profitable for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come (1 Tim.4:8). The development of Christlikeness demands much more discipline than a daily workout. Paul went on to urge his readers and hearers – Pay close attention to yourself and to your teaching; persevere in these things, for as you do this you will ensure salvation both for yourself and for those who hear you (1 Tim.4:16). Such wholehearted pursuit of holiness will be worth it all when we see Jesus.+