In his first letter to Timothy, Paul wrote. . .
“(3) 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, (4) nor to devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies, which promote speculations rather than the stewardship from God that is by faith. (5) The aim of our charge is love that issues from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.” (1 Timothy 1:3-5 ESV)
Paul went on from there to note some who had wandered away into what he noted as “vain discussion”, desiring to be teachers of the law (which was apparently the basis for some of their teaching) while they actually had no understanding of what they were saying though they were confident in the assertions being made. (1 Timothy 1:6-7) The same is true today. We live in a world where people confidently make many assertions quite contrary to the Will of God and His design for life. There are those who go on and on with much speculation that is not in line with the teachings of Scripture. As Paul urged Timothy to direct away from such, it is clear it was taking place among the believers at Ephesus. It should be no surprise when the world teaches and urges a different direction than the way God has revealed, but it is sad when such arises among those claiming to believe in God and then distort or twist the Scriptures. (i.e. Galatians 1:7; 2 Peter 3:16)
Paul noted the aim of the charge he was giving was love; love issuing from a pure heart, good conscience, and sincere faith. Love is not teaching what others might like to hear, but what needs to be heard. Love rejoices with the truth. (1 Corinthians 13:6) Therefore, a pure heart will be undivided in its devotion to God and His Will. The good conscience will be trained in upholding God’s Will and so directing the life in what is pleasing to Him. And the sincere faith will trust unquestioningly the wisdom of God’s Way whether what is behind His Will is fully understood or not.
Our love for God and His Will is not merely a matter of “God said it, I believe it, and that settles it.”, but rather “God said it and that settles it whether I believe it or not!” His wisdom is infinitely higher than humanity’s (i.e. Isaiah 55:8-9; 1 Corinthians 1:25) and we ought to be thankful it is as we surrender to His Divine direction in our life! It is in surrendering to Him and His Will that continues leading toward the eternal blessings that are ours in Christ. May the issues of life be met with a resolve issuing from a love for pleasing God in all things!
Have a great day WITH THE AIM OF OUR AFFECTIONS TOWARD ALMIGHTY GOD!
Carl
