There were teachers of false doctrine in Ephesus. Paul warns Timothy about these in 1 Timothy and calls for Timothy to be diligent in how he deals with these people. Timothy must be a model of good teaching himself. Paul reveals to Timothy in 1 Tim 1:5 what ought to be his motivation: “The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.” Four essential ingredients for any who desire to teach the gospel:
- Love
- Pure heart
- Good conscience
- Sincere faith
Do I love people enough to tell them the truth and not hide behind culture, my own insecurities, or political correctness? Has my heart been purified and am I right before God? Am I hiding things or am I a man of integrity? Where do I find my strength, in myself or in God?
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