December 8, 2015:  SOAP #2196:  

Scripture:  1Timothy (NIV) 4:13 Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching… 16 Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.

Observation:  Paul was writing to instruct and encourage Timothy who was leading the church in Ephesus.  The people needed to grow in their understanding; it was important for Timothy to teach them.  But the confidence of the people in the message is closely tied to the confidence of the people in the messenger.   So Timothy has two responsibilities.  First was to make sure he was teaching the truth.  Second was to make sure his life and actions did not distract from the message.

Application:  This truth applies to anyone who has the responsibility of leading/teaching others, such as elders in the church, parents in the home, and leaders in our communities.

Prayer:   Lord, help me live in a way that enhances your truth and does not detract from it.   Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!