We will read only the First Epistle to Timothy to keep in line with our steps in the believer’s life. Ephesians has taught us our heavenly calling, and the warfare which will result from following the Lord in this heavenly position, while we’re still here on earth. 1st Timothy was written when everything was in order in the assemblies, and so it tells us that (v. 3) there is no room for private opinions; no other doctrine taught. Sad to say, today we see hundreds of denominations, all claiming the support of the Word of God for the doctrine which they hold on to. John 7:1717If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself. (John 7:17) says that if any person really wants to know God’s will, God will tell it to that person. The problem is that we let our will work. Even Jesus said “Not My will, but Thine be done,” when He was praying to His Father (Luke 22:4242Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done. (Luke 22:42)).
Ephesians and 1st Timothy show us God’s one church — God’s church is made up of every believer in the Lord Jesus Christ on earth — in its perfect condition as seen by God Himself.
V.3-4 Paul encourages Timothy to remain at Ephesus, because those at Ephesus had been given a wonderful revelation of truth, Epistle to the Ephesians, Timothy is told to be faithful in standing for the truth and in warning those who would oppose it. No opinions were to be allowed!
V.4 Our hearts can be taken up with “fables” rather than the truth, if we are not careful.
V.7 One way to turn believers from God’s truth is for them to go back to the law. It is easy to do, because it then gives us some credit, but the Lord Jesus must have all.
V.7-11 The law was never intended to bring salvation, but to show how very guilty man was before a holy God.