HOLD ON TO SOUND TEACHING OF THE WORD - PART 1

MONDAY 27 MARCH 2023

Paul was given the appointment to preach the Gospel and the enduring testimony about our Lord Jesus in truth. However, in the context of this chapter, Paul gave Timothy a bold and clear exhortation to continue well in the Gospel, despite challenges.

Reference: 2 Timothy 1:14-15 New Living Translation (NLT) "Hold on to the pattern of wholesome teaching you learned from me—a pattern shaped by the faith and love that you have in Christ Jesus. Through the power of the Holy Spirit who lives within us, carefully guard the precious truth that has been entrusted to you."

To grant you an introductory understanding of this new topic, I will start by acknowledging the depth or quality of apostle Paul and Timothy's relationship. Timothy was a sincere and beloved son to Paul. Although, at the point of writing, Paul was in the prison, yet he heartily encouraged Timothy, calling to remembrance, his genuine faith in the Lord, and reminding him to stir up the gift of God which he (Paul) transferred into him when he laid his hands on him (Timothy). He went on to assure Timothy of his continued spiritual support, love and prayers, and of his great desire to see him in person.

Why did Paul encourage the young Pastor Timothy to hold on to his pattern of sound teaching, with faith and love in Christ Jesus? This was because false teaching is always deadly and should be cautiously dealt with, by standing firm in the Lord, and functioning with the accurate perspective of the gospel truth. Holding on to the sound teachings of the glorious gospel and an unyielding continuance in practising it, will definitely solidify our faith in the Lord and keep any Christian very far from false doctrines. Got it?

Candidly, here is my brief understanding of wholesome teachings of the Word of truth: It is enriched with significantly-packed spiritual nutrients, crystal clear and completely unclouded, with pure structural elements of lasting transformation. When we hold on to the accurate knowledge of the Word by faith, even if comes under attack by the cares of this world, by false doctrine, or by men who pervert the truth, it will stand the test of time. Of course, apart from unbelievers with ear-scratching attitude towards the gospel truth, there are some Christians who distort or misinterpret the original course, meaning, or state of the truth, as we teach them. So Paul encouraged Timothy in his second epistle to persevere in faith as a true minister and fortify himself with it, in the face of above-mentioned situations, growing opposition, as well as, radiant opportunities, while spreading the gospel.

More so, through the power of the Holy Spirit who lives within us, we can carefully guard the precious truth as a great treasure that has been entrusted to us. Always bear in mind that they provide spiritual nourishment essential for spiritual growth, and the sustenance and maintenance of a Spirit-led life. This is part of the reasons Paul was encouraging Timothy to stay on course, according to our referenced Scripture. Guard the good deposit entrusted to you, well regarded as the pattern of accurate teachings. Beloved, we must faithfully protect it from being snatched away, by acknowledging and walking in step with the Holy Spirit who dwells in us, because it is an eternal treasure that has been entrusted to us. Stay tuned for part 2. Shalom!

Scripture Reading - Philippians 4:8-9; Romans 6:16-17; 2 Timothy 3:14; Philemon 1:4-6.

Guided Prayer: Thank you Lord for your exhortation in today's article which is designed to strengthen my faith in your Word. I heartily declare that the precious Word of grace which I have received into my spirit can never be influenced by false doctrines. My faith in your Word is the instrument that guarantees the firm condition of my salvation. Therefore, by holding on to the pattern of wholesome gospel teachings, I cannot be lured away by the vain expectation of finding satisfaction in unhealthy spiritual diets. Through the power of the Holy Spirit who lives within me, I carefully guard the precious truth that has been entrusted to me, in Jesus' Name, Amen.