:
Time to take a stand!
There does come a time to take a stand for the truth. As learners, this always must be done in humility. We don't know everything - is it possible that there is some truth in what is being said? Could we be misunderstanding what is being taught? Could we *gasp* be wrong ourselves?!
In our humility we do not want the Word of God, which He has entrusted to us, to be misrepresented. To people who are willing to learn we continually correct and teach the truth.
"Convict, rebuke, encourage..." (4:2)
This is all part of the teaching we've been doing since step 2. But what about those who are actually opposing the Gospel?
"...and God's servants must not be troublemakers. They must be kind to everyone, and they must be good teachers and very patient. Be humble when you correct people who oppose you. Maybe God will lead them to turn to him and learn the truth..." (2:24-25 (CEV))
Paul warns Timothy not to quarrel, but to use the truth to wisely correct these people in love.
"...Keep away from worthless and useless talk..." (2:16 (CEV))
"Stay away from stupid and senseless arguments. These only lead to trouble..." (2:23 (CEV))
Use your time efficiently. Don't waste your energy getting upset about theories not found in God's Word. Get to the heart of the matter and stand up for the Truth.
This doesn't mean we should avoid discussing parts of Scripture that are hard to understand. All Scripture is profitable, Paul reminds Timothy. But if you claim to be teaching doctrine, the true Word of God, be careful not to mix in a few of your own ideas.
No one can correct the errors of the world. But everyone can constantly speak the truth, and point those who are getting off track in the right direction. But what about those who persist in false doctrine? What about those whose influence we feel but we know they won't listen to the truth?
» Step 5: The wrong crowd
Back to our home page
This article is ©2002 James Cottrill