1 Timothy 3:14–4:16
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Lesson
This paragraph is the heart of the letter, putting everything that Paul has been discussing into perspective and giving it context. The church is precious, and we should protect the gospel because of the truths it teaches.
Outline
Heart of the letter
Four images to describe the church
1. “Household of God”
2. “Church of the living God”
3. That building has pillars
4. That building has buttresses
Description of the truth, the gospel (3:16)
Stanza 1 — Marvel at Christ’s work
Marvel at the Incarnation
Resurrection — “Vindicated by the Spirit”
Ascension — “seen by angels” (universal proclamation)
Second stanza — Marvel at the Result of Christ’s work
Proclaimed
Believed
Result of widespread faith
This is why we take seriously the charge to leadership
1 Timothy 4:1-5
1 Timothy 4:6-10
4:6-7 — What does it take to be a “good servant of Christ Jesus”?
Teaching the right things
“Trained”
Not easy, so Paul motivates — 4:8
Motivation: Reminds Timothy what is at stake — 4:9-10
“Savior of all men”
1 Timothy 4:11-16
4:11
4:12
1. Don’t let people look down on you
2. Live in such a way that you are a positive example
4:13
Devoted to a biblically based ministry
Order is significant
All three are necessary
4:14 — Encouragement
Ends with a series of personal admonitions (15–16)
Duration
1 hour