Day 346 of My 3rd Bible Study Journey - 12 December 2023 reflections - 17th Day of Advent
Day 346, 12 December 2023 - 17 Day of Advent
1) 1 Timothy 1, 1 Timothy 2, 1 Timothy 3, 1 Timothy 4, 1 Timothy 5, 1 Timothy 6
1 Timothy 1
Salutation
1 (Titus 1:3; Col 1:27; Lk 1:47) Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by
the command of God our Savior, and of the Lord Jesus Christ, our hope,
2 (2Ti 1:2; Titus 1:4; Ro 1:7) To Timothy, my true son in the faith:
Grace, mercy, and peace, from God our Father and Jesus Christ our Lord.
[1] Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the commandment of God our Saviour,
and Lord Jesus Christ, which is our hope;
[2] Unto Timothy, my own son in the faith: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God
our Father and Jesus Christ our Lord.
Warning Against False Doctrine
3 (Gal 1:6-7; 1Ti 6:3) As I urged you when I went into Macedonia,
continue to remain at Ephesus so that you might command some to teach
no other doctrine,
4 (1Ti 4:7; Titus 1:14) nor pay attention to fables and endless genealogies,
which cause debates rather than godly edifying, which is in faith.
5 (2Ti 1:5; 2:22) Now the goal of this command is love from a pure heart,
and from a good conscience, and from sincere faith.
6 (Titus 1:10) From this, some have lost their way and turned aside
to empty talk,
7 (1Ti 6:4) desiring to be teachers of the law, and understanding
neither what they say nor what they affirm.
8 (Ro 7:16) But we know that the law is good if someone uses it lawfully.
9 (Gal 5:23; 3:19) And we know that the law is not given for a righteous
person, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners,
for the unholy and the profane, for those who kill their fathers and mothers,
for murderers,
10 (2Ti 4:3; Lev 18:22) for the sexually immoral, for sodomites, for slave
traders, for liars, for perjurers, and for anything else that is contrary
to sound doctrine,
11 (Gal 2:7; 2Co 4:4) according to the glorious gospel of the blessed God,
which was committed to my trust.
[3] As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into
Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine,
[4] Neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister
questions, rather than godly edifying which is in faith: so do.
[5] Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a
good conscience, and of faith unfeigned:
[6] From which some having swerved have turned aside unto vain jangling;
[7] Desiring to be teachers of the law; understanding neither what they say,
nor whereof they affirm.
[8] But we know that the law is good, if a man use it lawfully;
[9] Knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the
lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and
profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers,
[10] For whoremongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for
menstealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other
thing that is contrary to sound doctrine;
[11] According to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which was
committed to my trust.
Thankfulness for Mercy
12 (Php 4:13; Ac 9:15) I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has enabled me,
because He counted me faithful and appointed me to the ministry.
13 (Ac 8:3; 3:17) I was previously a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and an
insolent man. But I was shown mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief.
14 (2Ti 1:13) The grace of our Lord overflowed with the faith
and love which is in Christ Jesus.
15 (1Ti 3:1; 2Ti 2:11) This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance,
that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the worst.
16 (1Ti 1:13; Eph 2:7) But I received mercy for this reason, that in me,
first, Jesus Christ might show all patience, as an example to those who were
to believe in Him for eternal life.
17 (Col 1:15; Mt 6:13) Now to the eternal, immortal, invisible King, the only
wise God, be honor and glory forever. Amen.
18 (1Ti 4:14; 1:2) This command I commit to you, my son Timothy, according
to the prophecies that were previously given to you, that by them you might
fight a good fight,
19 (1Ti 1:5; 3:9) keeping faith and a good conscience, which some have
rejected and suffered shipwreck in regard to their faith.
20 (2Ti 2:17; Ac 13:45) Among these are Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom I have
delivered to Satan that they may learn not to blaspheme.
[12] And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he
counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry;
[13] Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I
obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief.
[14] And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love
which is in Christ Jesus.
[15] This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ
Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.
[16] Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ
might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should
hereafter believe on him to life everlasting.
[17] Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be
honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen.
[18] This charge I commit unto thee, son Timothy, according to the
prophecies which went before on thee, that thou by them mightest war a good
warfare;
[19] Holding faith, and a good conscience; which some having put away
concerning faith have made shipwreck:
[20] Of whom is Hymenaeus and Alexander; whom I have delivered unto Satan,
that they may learn not to blaspheme.
1 Timothy 2
Instructions Concerning Prayer
1 Therefore I exhort first of all that you make supplications, prayers,
intercessions, and thanksgivings for everyone,
2 (Ezr 6:10) for kings and for all who are in authority, that we may lead
a quiet and peaceful life in all godliness and honesty,
3 (1Ti 1:1; Lk 1:47) for this is good and acceptable in the sight of God
our Saviour,
4 (Eze 18:23; 18:32) who desires all men to be saved and to come
to the knowledge of the truth.
5 (Gal 3:20; 1Co 8:6; Dt 6:4) There is one God and one mediator between God
and men, the Man Christ Jesus,
6 (1Co 1:6; 1Ti 6:15) who gave Himself as a ransom for all.
This was the testimony given at the proper time.
7 (Ac 9:15; 2Ti 1:11) For this I was appointed a preacher and an apostle
(I speak the truth in Christ and do not lie), a teacher of the Gentiles
in faith and truth.
8 (Ps 134:2; Jn 4:21) Therefore I desire that the men pray everywhere, lifting
up holy hands, without wrath or contentiousness.
9 In like manner also, that women clothe themselves in modest clothing, with
decency and self-control, not with braided hair, gold, pearls, or expensive
clothing,
10 but with good works, which is proper for women professing godliness.
11 Let a woman learn in silence with all obedience.
12 (1Co 14:34) I do not permit a woman to teach or to usurp authority
over a man, but to be silent.
13 (Ge 2:22; 2:7) For Adam was formed first, then Eve.
14 (Ge 3:6; 2Co 11:3) And Adam was not deceived, but the woman, being
deceived, fell into sin.
15 (1Ti 1:14) Yet she will be saved in childbearing if they continue
in faith, love, and holiness, with self-control.
[1] I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers,
intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;
[2] For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet
and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.
[3] For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;
[4] Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the
truth.
[5] For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man
Christ Jesus;
[6] Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.
[7] Whereunto I am ordained a preacher, and an apostle, (I speak the truth
in Christ, and lie not; ) a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and verity.
[8] I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands,
without wrath and doubting.
[9] In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with
shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or
costly array;
[10] But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.
[11] Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection.
[12] But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man,
but to be in silence.
[13] For Adam was first formed, then Eve.
[14] And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the
transgression.
[15] Notwithstanding she shall be saved in childbearing, if they continue in
faith and charity and holiness with sobriety.
1 Timothy 3
Qualifications of Overseers
1 (Ac 20:28; 1Ti 1:15; Ac 1:20) This is a faithful saying: If a man desires
the office of an overseer, he desires a good work.
2 (1Ti 5:9; 2Ti 2:24) An overseer then must be blameless, the husband
of one wife, sober, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach;
3 (Titus 1:7; 1Ti 3:8; Lev 10:9) not given to drunkenness, not violent, not
greedy for money, but patient, not argumentative, not covetous;
4 (1Ti 3:12; Titus 1:6) and one who manages his own house well, having his
children in submission with all reverence.
5 (1Ti 3:15) For if a man does not know how to manage his own house, how will
he take care of the church of God?
6 (1Ti 6:4) He must not be newly converted, so that he does not become
prideful and fall into the condemnation of the devil.
7 (2Ti 2:26; 1Ti 6:9) Moreover he must have a good reputation among those who
are outsiders, so that he does not fall into reproach and the snare of the
devil.
[1] This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he
desireth a good work.
[2] A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant,
sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach;
[3] Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient,
not a brawler, not covetous;
[4] One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection
with all gravity;
[5] (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care
of the church of God?)
[6] Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the
condemnation of the devil.
[7] Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he
fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.
Qualifications of Deacons
8 (Php 1:1; Titus 2:3; Lev 10:9) Likewise deacons must be serious,
not insincere, not given to much wine, not greedy,
9 (1Ti 1:19; 1:5) keeping the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience.
10 (1Ti 5:22) And let them first be tested; then, being found blameless,
let them serve as deacons.
11 (Titus 2:3; 2Ti 3:3; 1Ti 3:2) Likewise, their wives must be serious,
not slanderers, sober, and faithful in all things.
12 (1Ti 3:2) Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife,
managing their children and their own houses well.
13 (Mt 25:21) For those who have served well in the office of deacon
purchase for themselves good standing and great boldness in the faith,
which is in Christ Jesus.
[8] Likewise must the deacons be grave, not doubletongued, not given to much
wine, not greedy of filthy lucre;
[9] Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience.
[10] And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a
deacon, being found blameless.
[11] Even so must their wives be grave, not slanderers, sober, faithful in
all things.
[12] Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and
their own houses well.
[13] For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to
themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ
Jesus.
The Mystery of Our Religion
14 I am writing these things to you, hoping to come to you shortly,
15 (Mt 16:16; 18:18) but if I am delayed, you might know how you ought
to conduct yourself in the house of God, which is the church of the living
God, the pillar and foundation of the truth.
16 (Jn 1:14; Heb 1:3; Mk 16:19) Without question, great is the mystery
of godliness:
God was revealed in the flesh,
justified in the Spirit,
seen by angels,
preached to the Gentiles,
believed on in the world,
taken up into glory.
[14] These things write I unto thee, hoping to come unto thee shortly:
[15] But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave
thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the
pillar and ground of the truth.
[16] And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was
manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached
unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.
1 Timothy 4
Prediction of Apostasy
1 (Jn 16:13; 2Pe 3:3) Now the Spirit clearly says that in the last times
some will depart from the faith and pay attention to seducing spirits
and doctrines of devils,
2 (Eph 4:19) speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their consciences seared
with a hot iron,
3 (Ro 14:6; Heb 13:4) forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain
from foods, which God has created to be received with thanksgiving
by those who believe and know the truth.
4 (Ge 1:31; Ro 14:14) For everything created by God is good, and not to
be refused if it is received with thanksgiving,
5 for it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.
[1] Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall
depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of
devils;
[2] Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot
iron;
[3] Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God
hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know
the truth.
[4] For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be
received with thanksgiving:
[5] For it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.
A Good Minister of Christ Jesus
6 (1Ti 1:10) If you remind the brothers of these things, you will be a good
minister of Jesus Christ, nourished by the words of faith and of good
doctrine, which you have followed closely.
7 (1Ti 1:4; 2Ti 2:16; Heb 5:14) But refuse profane and foolish myths.
Instead, exercise in the ways of godliness.
8 (Mt 6:33; 1Ti 6:6) For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness
is profitable in all things, holding promise for the present life
and also for the life to come.
9 (1Ti 1:15) This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance.
10 (1Ti 2:4; 3:15) For to this end we both labor and suffer reproach,
because we trust in the living God, who is the Savior of all men,
especially of those who believe.
11 (1Ti 6:2; 5:7) Command and teach these things.
12 (2Ti 2:22; Titus 2:7) Let no one despise your youth, but be an example
to the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith,
and in purity.
13 Until I come, give attention to reading, exhortation, and doctrine.
14 (2Ti 1:6; Ac 6:6; 1Ti 1:18) Do not neglect the gift that is in you,
which was given to you by prophecy, with the laying on of hands
by the elders.
15 Meditate on these things. Give yourself completely to them,
that your progress may be known to everyone.
16 (Titus 2:7; Ro 11:14) Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine.
Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself
and those who hear you.
[6] If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a
good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of
good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained.
[7] But refuse profane and old wives' fables, and exercise thyself rather
unto godliness.
[8] For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto
all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to
come.
[9] This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptation.
[10] For therefore we both labour and suffer reproach, because we trust in
the living God, who is the Saviour of all men, specially of those that
believe.
[11] These things command and teach.
[12] Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers,
in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.
[13] Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.
[14] Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy,
with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery.
[15] Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy
profiting may appear to all.
[16] Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in
doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.
1 Timothy 5
Duties Toward Others
1 (Lev 19:32; Titus 2:6) Do not rebuke an elder, but exhort him as a father,
the younger men as brothers,
2 the elder women as mothers, and the younger women as sisters, with complete
purity.
3 (Ac 6:1; 9:39) Honor widows that are widows indeed.
4 (1Ti 2:3; Ge 45:10-11) But if any widow has children or grandchildren,
let them learn first to show piety at home and to repay their parents.
For this is good and acceptable before God.
5 (Lk 2:37; 1Ti 5:3) Now she who is a widow indeed, and desolate, trusts
in God, and continues in supplications and prayers night and day.
6 (Lk 15:24; Jas 5:5) But she who lives in pleasure is dead while she lives.
7 (1Ti 4:11) And these things command, that they may be blameless.
8 (Titus 1:16; Gal 6:10) But if any do not care for their own,
and especially for those of their own house, they have denied the faith
and are worse than unbelievers.
9 (1Ti 3:2) Do not let a widow be counted unless she is over sixty years old,
has been the wife of one man,
10 (1Ti 6:18; Titus 3:8) is well attested in good works, if she has brought
up children, has lodged strangers, has washed the saints' feet, has relieved
the afflicted, and has diligently followed every good work.
11 (1Ti 5:14) But refuse the younger widows, for when their sensual desires
have drawn them away from Christ, they want to marry,
12 and bring judgment on themselves, because they have cast off their
first pledge.
13 (Pr 20:19; Titus 1:11) Besides that, they learn to be idle, and not only
idle, wandering around from house to house, but also gossips and busybodies,
saying what they ought not.
14 (Titus 2:5; 1Ti 6:1; 4:3) Therefore I desire that the younger women marry,
bear children, manage the house, and give no occasion to the adversary
to speak reproachfully.
15 For some have already turned aside after Satan.
16 (1Ti 5:3-5) If any believing man or woman has widows, let those assist
them. Do not let the church be charged, so that it may relieve those
who are widows indeed.
17 (Ro 12:8; Php 2:29) Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy
of double honour, especially those who labor in the word and doctrine.
18 (Dt 25:4; Lev 19:13; Mt 10:10) For the Scripture says, "You shall not
muzzle the ox that treads out the grain,"(Dt 25:4.) and, "The laborer is
worthy of his reward."(Lk 10:7.)
19 (Dt 19:15; Mt 18:16) Do not receive an accusation against an elder,
except before two or three witnesses.
20 (Dt 13:11; 2Ti 4:2) Rebuke in the presence of everyone those who sin,
that the rest also may fear.
21 (1Ti 6:13; 2Ti 4:1) I command you before God and the Lord Jesus Christ
and the elect angels that you observe these things without prejudice,
doing nothing by partiality.
22 (Ac 6:6; Eph 5:11) Do not lay hands suddenly on anyone, and do not
partake of other men's sins. Keep yourself pure.
23 (1Ti 3:8; Ps 104:15) No longer drink only water, but use a little wine
for your stomach's sake and your frequent illnesses.
24 Some men's sins are evident, pointing to judgment,
but other men's sins are revealed later.
25 Likewise, the good works of some are evident,
but those that are not cannot be hidden.
[1] Rebuke not an elder, but intreat him as a father; and the younger men as
brethren;
[2] The elder women as mothers; the younger as sisters, with all purity.
[3] Honour widows that are widows indeed.
[4] But if any widow have children or nephews, let them learn first to shew
piety at home, and to requite their parents: for that is good and acceptable
before God.
[5] Now she that is a widow indeed, and desolate, trusteth in God, and
continueth in supplications and prayers night and day.
[6] But she that liveth in pleasure is dead while she liveth.
[7] And these things give in charge, that they may be blameless.
[8] But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own
house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.
[9] Let not a widow be taken into the number under threescore years old,
having been the wife of one man,
[10] Well reported of for good works; if she have brought up children, if
she have lodged strangers, if she have washed the saints' feet, if she have
relieved the afflicted, if she have diligently followed every good work.
[11] But the younger widows refuse: for when they have begun to wax wanton
against Christ, they will marry;
[12] Having damnation, because they have cast off their first faith.
[13] And withal they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house;
and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which
they ought not.
[14] I will therefore that the younger women marry, bear children, guide the
house, give none occasion to the adversary to speak reproachfully.
[15] For some are already turned aside after Satan.
[16] If any man or woman that believeth have widows, let them relieve them,
and let not the church be charged; that it may relieve them that are widows
indeed.
[17] Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour,
especially they who labour in the word and doctrine.
[18] For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out
the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward.
[19] Against an elder receive not an accusation, but before two or three
witnesses.
[20] Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear.
[21] I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect
angels, that thou observe these things without preferring one before
another, doing nothing by partiality.
[22] Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men's sins:
keep thyself pure.
[23] Drink no longer water, but use a little wine for thy stomach's sake and
thine often infirmities.
[24] Some men's sins are open beforehand, going before to judgment; and some
men they follow after.
[25] Likewise also the good works of some are manifest beforehand; and they
that are otherwise cannot be hid.
1 Timothy 6
1 (Titus 2:5; Isa 52:5) Let as many servants as are under the yoke of slavery
count their own masters worthy of all honor, so that the name of God and His
doctrine may not be slandered.
2 (1Ti 4:11) Let those who have believing masters not despise them, because
they are brothers. Instead, let them serve as slaves, because those who
receive their service are faithful and beloved.
[1] Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own masters
worthy of all honour, that the name of God and his doctrine be not
blasphemed.
[2] And they that have believing masters, let them not despise them, because
they are brethren; but rather do them service, because they are faithful and
beloved, partakers of the benefit. These things teach and exhort.
False Teaching and True Wealth
Teach and command these things.
3 (1Ti 1:3; 1:10) Anyone who teaches otherwise and does not consent
to wholesome words, to the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to godly
doctrine
4 (1Ti 1:4; 3:6) is conceited and knows nothing. He has a morbid
disposition for controversy and verbal disputes, from which come envy,
strife, blasphemies, evil speculations,
5 (2Ti 3:8; Titus 1:11) constant disputes by men of corrupt minds, being
destitute of the truth, and supposing that financial gain is godliness.
Withdraw yourself from such men.
6 (1Ti 4:8; Heb 13:5) But godliness with contentment is great gain.
7 (Job 1:21; Ps 49:17) For we brought nothing into this world,
and it is certain that we can carry nothing out.
8 (Ge 28:20) If we have food and clothing, we shall be content with
these things.
9 (Pr 15:27; 1Ti 3:7) But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation
and a snare and into many foolish and harmful lusts, which drown men
in ruin and destruction.
10 (Dt 16:19) For the love of money is the root of all evil.
While coveting after money, some have strayed from the faith
and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
[3] If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the
words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to
godliness;
[4] He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of
words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings,
[5] Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth,
supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.
[6] But godliness with contentment is great gain.
[7] For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry
nothing out.
[8] And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.
[9] But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into
many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and
perdition.
[10] For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted
after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with
many sorrows.
The Good Fight of Faith
11 (2Ti 2:22; 3:17) But you, O man of God, escape these things, and follow
after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, and gentleness.
12 (1Ti 1:18; 1Co 9:25-66) Fight the good fight of faith. Lay hold
on eternal life, to which you are called and have professed
a good profession before many witnesses.
13 (1Ti 5:21; Mt 27:11) I command you, in the sight of God, who gives
life to all things, and in the sight of Christ Jesus, who testified
a good confession before Pontius Pilate,
14 to keep this commandment without blemish, blameless
until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ,
15 (1Ti 1:11; Rev 17:14) which He, who is the blessed and only Ruler,
the King of kings and Lord of lords, will reveal at the proper time.
16 (1Ti 1:17; Jn 1:18; Ps 104:2) He alone has immortality, living in
unapproachable light, whom no one has seen, nor can see.
To Him be honor and everlasting power. Amen.
17 (Ro 11:20; 1Ti 4:10) Command those who are rich in this world that
they not be conceited, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God,
who richly gives us all things to enjoy.
18 (Ro 12:8; 12:13) Command that they do good, that they be rich in good
works, generous, willing to share,
19 (Lk 16:9; 1Ti 6:12) and laying up in store for themselves a good
foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of eternal life.
20 (Col 2:8; 2Ti 2:16) O Timothy, guard that which is committed to your trust.
Avoid profane babblings and opposing views from so-called knowledge.
21 (2Ti 2:18; Col 4:18) By professing it, some have erred concerning
the faith.
Grace be with you. Amen.
[11] But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after
righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.
[12] Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou
art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.
[13] I give thee charge in the sight of God, who quickeneth all things, and
before Christ Jesus, who before Pontius Pilate witnessed a good confession;
[14] That thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukeable, until the
appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ:
[15] Which in his times he shall shew, who is the blessed and only
Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords;
[16] Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can
approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honour and
power everlasting. Amen.
[17] Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded,
nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly
all things to enjoy;
[18] That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to
distribute, willing to communicate;
[19] Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to
come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.
[20] O Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding profane
and vain babblings, and oppositions of science falsely so called:
[21] Which some professing have erred concerning the faith. Grace be with
thee. Amen.
2) Our Daily Bread for 12 December 2023 Titled
Lean on God
Proverbs 18:10-15
10 (2Sa 22:3; Ps 18:2) The name of the Lord is a strong tower;
the righteous run into it and are safe.
11 (Pr 10:15) The rich man's wealth is his strong city,
and as a high wall in his own conceit.
12 (Pr 11:2; 15:33) Before destruction the heart of man is haughty,
and before honor is humility.
13 (Jn 7:51) He who answers a matter before he hearsit,
it is folly and shame to him.
14 (Pr 17:22; 15:13) The spirit of a man will sustain his infirmity,
but a wounded spirit who can bear?
15 (Pr 15:14) The heart of the prudent gets knowledge,
and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge.
10 The name of the LORD is a strong tower:
The righteous runneth into it, and is safe.
11 The rich man's wealth is his strong city,
And as an high wall in his own conceit.
12 Before destruction the heart of man is haughty,
And before honour is humility.
13 He that answereth a matter before he heareth it,
It is folly and shame unto him.
14 The spirit of a man will sustain his infirmity;
But a wounded spirit who can bear?
15 The heart of the prudent getteth knowledge;
And the ear of the wise seeketh knowledge.
While at a water park with some friends, we attempted to navigate a floating
obstacle course made of inflatable platforms. The bouncy, slippery platforms
made walking straight almost impossible. As we wobbled our way across ramps,
cliffs, and bridges, we found ourselves yelping as we fell unceremoniously
into the water. After completing one course, my friend, completely exhausted,
leaned on one of the "towers" to catch her breath. Almost immediately, it
buckled under her weight, sending her hurtling into the water.
Unlike the flimsy towers at the water park, in Bible times, a tower was a
stronghold for defense and protection. Judges 9:50–51 describes how the
people of Thebez fled to "a strong tower" to hide from Abimelek's attack on
their city. In Proverbs 18:10, the writer used the image of a strong tower
to describe who God is-the One who saves those who trust Him.
Sometimes, however, rather than lean on the strong tower of God when we're
tired or beaten down, we seek other things for safety and support-a career,
relationships, or physical comforts. We're no different from the rich man
who looked for strength in his wealth (v. 11). But just as the inflatable
tower couldn't support my friend, these things can't give us what we really
need. God-who's all-powerful and in control of all situations-provides true
comfort and security.
By: Jasmine Goh
Reflect & Pray
What "towers" do you lean on? How can you remind yourself
to run to God, the strong tower?
Dear God, help me to run to You instead of turning
to other things for comfort and security.
3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation
Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools
Week 5 Rejoice in Grace - Day 3 The song of Exaltation
Exodus 15:2
2 The Lord is my strength and song,
and He has become my salvation.
He is my God, and I will praise Him;
my father's God, and I will exalt Him.
2 The LORD is my strength and song,
And he is become my salvation:
He is my God, and I will prepare him an habitation;
My father's God, and I will exalt him.
The world is full of music that communicates human emotion:
love, joy, sadness, separation.
A love song makes us misty-eyed; a song of protest arouses anger; a song
describing loss stimulates feelings of hurt and abandonment.
Music is a powerful force to sway the human spirit.
Exodus 15:2 indicates that God should be the source of the songs in our hearts.
Human emotions vacillate; human relationships disappoint,
but God is our "strength" and our "song".
To exalt the Lord includes many different type of "songs".
"I can't carry a tune in a bucket," one woman complained.
"How can I sing to the Lord anything that will be pleasing to him?"
But the Lord does not delight in the professionalism of our songs,
but in the motivation of our hearts. We can "sing to the Lord"
when we enjoy a Bach organ piece played for his glory.
We can exalt him in the words of Scripture - either remembered or sung.
We can worship him by enjoying the songs of others.
The key to making the Lord our song is exaltation. When our thoughts
lift him up in praise, we are singing a song of exaltation to the Lord.
When God is exalted in our songs, in our hearts, and in our thoughts,
that focus gives strength to our lives. We can face the difficulties
that are an inevitable part of experience,
because God is our "strength and our song".
Application
a) What is the difference between a song that is professionally performed
and one that exalts the Lord?
b) What practical steps can I take to make
my daily life a "song of praise" to God?
4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland
Gen 13:2,5-6,14-17
2 (Ge 24:35; Ps 112:1-3) Abram was very wealthy in livestock,
in silver and in gold.
5 Now Lot, who went with Abram, also had flocks and herds and tents.
6 (Ge 36:6-7) But the land was not able to support them
both dwelling together because their possessions were so great.
14 (Ge 28:14; Dt 3:27) After Lot had departed from him,
the Lord said to Abram,
"Lift up now your eyes, and look from the place where you are,
northward and southward and eastward and westward.
15 (Ge 12:7; 2Ch 20:7) All the land that you see I will give to you
and to your descendants forever.
16 (Ge 28:14; Nu 23:10) I will make your descendants like the dust
of the earth, so that if a man could number the dust of the earth,
then your descendants could also be numbered.
17 Arise, and walk throughout the land across its length
and its width, for I will give it to you."
2 And Abram was very rich in cattle, in silver, and in gold.
5 And Lot also, which went with Abram, had flocks, and herds, and tents.
6 And the land was not able to bear them, that they might dwell together:
for their substance was great, so that they could not dwell together.
14 And the LORD said unto Abram, after that Lot was separated from him,
Lift up now thine eyes, and look from the place where thou art northward,
and southward, and eastward, and westward:
15 for all the land which thou seest, to thee will I give it,
and to thy seed for ever.
16 And I will make thy seed as the dust of the earth: so that if a man
can number the dust of the earth, then shall thy seed also be numbered.
17 Arise, walk through the land in the length of it and in the breadth of it;
for I will give it unto thee.
5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:
God's Generous Provision
Ps 145:13b-21
13 Your dominion endures throughout all generations.
14 The Lord upholds all who fall,
and raises up all who are bowed down.
15 The eyes of all wait upon You,
and You give them their food in due season.
16 You open Your hand
and satisfy the desire of every living thing.
17 The Lord is righteous in all His ways
and loving in all His works.
18 The Lord is near to all those who call upon Him,
to all who call upon Him in truth.
19 He will fulfill the desire of those who fear Him;
He also will hear their cry and will save them.
20 The Lord preserves all those who love Him,
but all the wicked He will destroy.
21 My mouth shall speak the praise of the Lord,
and let all people bless His holy name
forever and ever.
13 And thy dominion endureth throughout all generations.
14 The LORD upholdeth all that fall,
And raiseth up all those that be bowed down.
15 The eyes of all wait upon thee;
And thou givest them their meat in due season.
16 Thou openest thine hand,
And satisfiest the desire of every living thing.
17 The LORD is righteous in all his ways,
And holy in all his works.
18 The LORD is nigh unto all them that call upon him,
To all that call upon him in truth.
19 He will fulfil the desire of them that fear him:
He also will hear their cry, and will save them.
20 The LORD preserveth all them that love him:
But all the wicked will he destroy.
21 My mouth shall speak the praise of the LORD:
And let all flesh bless his holy name for ever and ever.
Remember God's promises when You pray
The Lord's prayer
Matthew 6:9-13
9 "Therefore pray in this manner:
Our Father who is in heaven,
hallowed be Your name.
10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;
Your will be done
on earth, as it is in heaven.
11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.
12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,
as we forgive our debtors.
13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."
9 After this manner therefore pray ye:
Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
11 Give us this day our daily bread.
12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2023 edition?)
The Northern Territories of Canada
Yukon
Yukon Total population (2015) 36500 Muslim (est) 69
In Whitehorse the Muslim population grew from 2 families
in 2001 to more than 60 people in 2014. Originally meeting in a church,
they now meet for prayer service in a former office space.
Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.
Northwest Territories (NWT)
NWT population (2015) 43600 Muslim (est) 473
The Muslim community of Yellowknife has grown from 275 to 330 un the past year.
To replace their inadequate facility, they are planning a C$2 to C$2.5 million
Islamic Centre.
Pray that the Muslims in Yellowknife and all of the NWT will awaken to
spiritual hunger and be open to saving faith in Jesus Christ.
Nunavut (NU)
NU total population (2015) 36600 Muslim (est) 86
The Islamic Centre of Iqaluit now claim about 100 Muslims and have surpassed
80 % of their funding goal to building the first mosque in this territory.
Their stated goal is "To spread the message of Islam
in the far northern reaches of Canada."
Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach
their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.
Adding further
30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020
Under the Keep Praying page
When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month
and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days
of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that
usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,
of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be
decorated and festivals will be held.
For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the
distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of
Islam.
You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",
which means Blessed Eid!"
Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you
know, and Muslims around the world:
- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions
in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about
unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such
movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three
decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim
relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.
Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,
"What does this mean?"
13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."
Peter's Speech at Pentecost
14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice
and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,
let this be known to you, and listen to my words.
15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,
since it is the third hour of the day.
16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:
17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,
'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;
your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
your young men shall see visions,
and your old men shall dream dreams.'
- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective
discipleship movements among Muslim people.
- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for
Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.
Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a
hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under
a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the
house."
Ideas for prayer
- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!
My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further
call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity
(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)
7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada
http://www.ehc.ca
12th Day of the Month
a) Pray that the Lord will put a desire in the hearts of those in business
to follow God's principles and act honourably and ethically
(Proverb 11:1
1 A false balance is abomination to the Lord,
but a just weight is His delight.
1 A false balance is abomination to the LORD:
But a just weight is his delight.
)
b) Pray the the Spirit of the Lord will restrain the spirit of
hatred and destruction against humanity across the world.
Advent Day 17
From C.S. Lewis A grand Miracle by Joel Heck
"'It seems, then," said Tirian... "that the Stable
seen from within and the Stable seen from without are two different places."
'Yes,' said the Lord Digory. 'Its inside is bigger than its outside.'
"Yes,' said Queen Lucy. 'In our world too, a Stable once
had something inside it that was bigger than our whole world.'"
- C. S. Lewis
(Read this and more in The Last Battle, p. 141.)
Bigger than the Whole World
Lucy and some of her friends had come into Narnia, thinking that they were
going to rescue Narnia from its enemies. But when the battle turned against
them, they thought they were about to die. Narnia had been overrun
by Calormenes, and during the battle Lucy and her friends were forced
into a stable. They soon discovered that they had actually entered
the Narnian heaven. An apparent defeat turned out to be the ultimate victory.
During that moment Queen Lucy recalls, "In our world too, a
Stable once had something inside it that was bigger than our whole world."
The stable to which Lucy referred was, of course, the stable of Bethlehem.
It once had something inside it that was bigger than the whole world,
the baby Jesus. We will one day experience the same firsthand,
we who humble ourselves to receive this Christ child.
We know that big things come in small packages. Small towns.
Short people. Diamond rings. Babies especially. But also heart, courage,
determination, and faith. Faith can move mountains, but it doesn't need
to be big to do so. Jesus said, "If you have faith as small as a mustard
seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there'
and it will move" (Matt. 17:20).
Lord Jesus, your greatness comes in smallness.
Give us a small faith in a great Savior. Amen.
But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small
among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for
me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins
are from of old, from ancient times.
Micah 5:2
From Follow the Story by Marva J. Dean
TUESDAY, THIRD WEEK OF ADVENT
Did Mary Stay?
Mary remained with her about three months
and returned to her own house.
-Luke 1:56
The question of our title today lingers with me because the Gospel text is
ambiguous. We have been told by the angel Gabriel that Elizabeth was already
six months along in her pregnancy when Mary received the news of hers.
If we add the months that Mary remained with her, Elizabeth must have given
birth before Mary left-but we aren't specifically told that.
Because Mary had traveled so far, one doubts if she would have gone home
before the big event of the baby's birth. Besides, she surely would want
to assist her relative through her last days of pregnancy and first days
of motherhood.
Why does the question matter? Mary was getting to the time when she would
be scorned for being pregnant before marrying Joseph. Imagine that God
furnished Mary with extra courage
by granting her the privilege of witnessing the birth of her promised child's
Forerunner and by sharing in the ardent faith of Elizabeth and Zechariah.
prayer
Thank you again, Gracious Father, that these two women had
each other. Amen.
Read Luke 1:45-56.
45 Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a completion
to those things which were told her by the Lord."
The Song of Mary
46 And Mary said:
"My soul magnifies the Lord,
47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.
48 For He has regarded
the low estate of His servant;
surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed.
49 For He who is mighty has done great things for me,
and holy is His name.
50 His mercy is on those who fear Him
from generation to generation.
51 He has shown strength with His arm;
He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.
52 He has pulled down the mighty from their thrones
and exalted those of low degree.
53 He has filled the hungry with good things,
and the rich He has sent away empty.
54 He has helped His servant Israel,
in remembrance of His mercy,
55 as He spoke to our fathers,
to Abraham and to his descendants forever."
56 Mary remained with her about three months
and returned to her own house.
From The AH-Has of Advent by Rich Bimler
THIRD TUESDAY
AH-HA! Ambassadors of Health, Hope and ANCESTORS!
2 (Mt 14:3; 4:12) Now when John had heard in prison the works of Christ,
he sent two of his disciples,
3 (Heb 10:37; Jn 11:27) and said to Him, "Are You He who should come,
or should we look for another?" MATTHEW 11:2-3
Who has prepared you to receive God's love and t)ope in Jesus Christ?
Who has been telling his story to you in both word and action? I hope
there have been many people in your history. as well as in your present.
who continue to be like John the Baptist to you as they "prepare the way of
the Lord" in and for you!
And to whom are you John the Baptist? This question does not refer of
course, to the taste and style of your clothes or what weird diets you may
be on. I'm simply asking how you are preparing people to hear and see
God's presence in Christ Jesus in their lives as well as in yours.
The AH-HA of ancestors is not talking about our old relatives and the
"good old days" of the Bible or even of our lives. Instead, it is centering
us on the people around us, now and in the past, who have brought the
message of Jesus to us.
Thank the Lord today for your ancestors who have prepared you to know
and love the Lord. If they are still here on earth, tell them you love them. If
not, thank the Lord for giving them to you as a Christmas gift!
Lord, you have prepared us through Word and sacrament (and though
special people) to be your child. Thank you for the legion of ancestors
with whom you've surrounded us. And empower us to be like John
the Baptist as we help other people to "prepare the way" for you
to come into their lives. In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!
Read Matthew 11:2-11
2 (Mt 14:3; 4:12) Now when John had heard in prison the works of Christ,
he sent two of his disciples,
3 (Heb 10:37; Jn 11:27) and said to Him, "Are You He who should come,
or should we look for another?"
4 Jesus answered them, "Go and tell John what you hear and see:
5 (Lk 4:18; Isa 35:4-6; Mt 5:3) The blind receive their sight
and the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed and the deaf hear,
the dead are raised up, and the poor have the gospel preached to them.
[Taken from Isa 35:5-6; 61:1.]
6 (Isa 8:14-15; Mt 24:10) Blessed is he who does not fall away because of Me."
7 (Eph 4:14; Jas 1:6) As they departed, Jesus began to say to the crowds
concerning John, "What did you go out into the wilderness to see?
A reed shaken by the wind? 8If not, what did you go out to see?
A man dressed in soft clothing? Indeed,
those who wear soft clothing are in kings' houses.
9 (Lk 1:76; Mt 14:5) Then what did you go out to see? A prophet?
Yes, I say to you, and more than a prophet.
10 (Mal 3:1; Mk 1:2) For this is he of whom it is written:
'Look, I am sending My messenger before Your face,
who will prepare Your way before You.'[Mal 3:1.]
11 Truly I say to you, among those who are born of women,
there has risen no one greater than John the Baptist.
But he who is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.
From On Eagle's wings Day 17
Challenges by Wendy Cusick (Episcopalian)
On Eagle's Wings Governing Board Member
Upper Gwynedd, Pennsylvania
14 (Isa 8:8; Mt 1:23; Isa 9:6) Therefore the Lord Himself shall give you
a sign: The virgin [Heb. young woman.] shall conceive, and bear a son,
and shall call his name Immanuel.Or God with us.
15 (Isa 7:22) Curds and honey he shall eat at the time that he knows
enough to refuse the evil and choose the good.
[14] Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin
shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.
[15] Butter and honey shall he eat, that he may know to refuse the evil,
and choose the good.
Isaiah 7:13-14,
We are gifted with God's truth spoken through the prophets
and shown through Jesus. That's important to remember as we
face not only the darkness of the season, but the shrouds of
natural and human calamity that have befallen us this year.
We are still feeling the after-effects of the pandemic, and
challenges caused by wildfires have plagued our communities.
In these times I return to the Old Testament prophets Isaiah,
Jeremiah and Ezekiel and read how their faith was tested. The
odds seemed insurmountable when these godly messengers
confronted people who had turned away from God, yet they
stayed faithful. When Jesus told his apostles that they would
face trials, it was faith that carried them forward.
As we move through this Advent Season, let's keep hope
burning in our hearts, knowing that as we keep faith, God will
continue to show us the light.
Conclusion:
Pray to the Lord and pray to conduct yourself as Jesus does
and pray to discern false philosophies.
Pray to the Lord: "Dear God, help me to run to You instead of turning
to other things for comfort and security."
Pray to the Lord and pray to give Him a Song of Praise.
Pray to the Lord and pray to know Him as the provider of your Needs.
Pray to the Lord and to know Him as the One who blesses all generations.
Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse and the Yukon to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.
Pray for Muslims and believers in Yellowknife to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.
Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach
their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.
- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!
Pray that the Lord will put a desire in the hearts of those in business
to follow God's principles and act honourably and ethically
Pray the the Spirit of the Lord will restrain the spirit of
hatred and destruction against humanity across the world.
Pray: Thank you again, Gracious Father, that these two women had
each other. Amen.
Pray: Lord, you have prepared us through Word and sacrament (and though
special people) to be your child. Thank you for the legion of ancestors
with whom you've surrounded us. And empower us to be like John
the Baptist as we help other people to "prepare the way" for you
to come into their lives. In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!
Pray: Father in heaven, the day draws near when the birth of
your Son will make radiant the night of the waiting world.
May his quiet coming fill us with true inner peace. Amen
Pray that Christian leaders in Mauritania will remain above reproach for the
sake of the Gospel.
Pray to the Lord that to know the Holy Spirit.
and Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness.
Remember eternity starts now -
Pray for the direction you take to the Ever lasting loving God.
1) 1 Timothy 1, 1 Timothy 2, 1 Timothy 3, 1 Timothy 4, 1 Timothy 5, 1 Timothy 6
1 Timothy 1
Salutation
1 (Titus 1:3; Col 1:27; Lk 1:47) Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by
the command of God our Savior, and of the Lord Jesus Christ, our hope,
2 (2Ti 1:2; Titus 1:4; Ro 1:7) To Timothy, my true son in the faith:
Grace, mercy, and peace, from God our Father and Jesus Christ our Lord.
[1] Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the commandment of God our Saviour,
and Lord Jesus Christ, which is our hope;
[2] Unto Timothy, my own son in the faith: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God
our Father and Jesus Christ our Lord.
Warning Against False Doctrine
3 (Gal 1:6-7; 1Ti 6:3) As I urged you when I went into Macedonia,
continue to remain at Ephesus so that you might command some to teach
no other doctrine,
4 (1Ti 4:7; Titus 1:14) nor pay attention to fables and endless genealogies,
which cause debates rather than godly edifying, which is in faith.
5 (2Ti 1:5; 2:22) Now the goal of this command is love from a pure heart,
and from a good conscience, and from sincere faith.
6 (Titus 1:10) From this, some have lost their way and turned aside
to empty talk,
7 (1Ti 6:4) desiring to be teachers of the law, and understanding
neither what they say nor what they affirm.
8 (Ro 7:16) But we know that the law is good if someone uses it lawfully.
9 (Gal 5:23; 3:19) And we know that the law is not given for a righteous
person, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners,
for the unholy and the profane, for those who kill their fathers and mothers,
for murderers,
10 (2Ti 4:3; Lev 18:22) for the sexually immoral, for sodomites, for slave
traders, for liars, for perjurers, and for anything else that is contrary
to sound doctrine,
11 (Gal 2:7; 2Co 4:4) according to the glorious gospel of the blessed God,
which was committed to my trust.
[3] As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into
Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine,
[4] Neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister
questions, rather than godly edifying which is in faith: so do.
[5] Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a
good conscience, and of faith unfeigned:
[6] From which some having swerved have turned aside unto vain jangling;
[7] Desiring to be teachers of the law; understanding neither what they say,
nor whereof they affirm.
[8] But we know that the law is good, if a man use it lawfully;
[9] Knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the
lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and
profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers,
[10] For whoremongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for
menstealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other
thing that is contrary to sound doctrine;
[11] According to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which was
committed to my trust.
Thankfulness for Mercy
12 (Php 4:13; Ac 9:15) I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has enabled me,
because He counted me faithful and appointed me to the ministry.
13 (Ac 8:3; 3:17) I was previously a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and an
insolent man. But I was shown mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief.
14 (2Ti 1:13) The grace of our Lord overflowed with the faith
and love which is in Christ Jesus.
15 (1Ti 3:1; 2Ti 2:11) This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance,
that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the worst.
16 (1Ti 1:13; Eph 2:7) But I received mercy for this reason, that in me,
first, Jesus Christ might show all patience, as an example to those who were
to believe in Him for eternal life.
17 (Col 1:15; Mt 6:13) Now to the eternal, immortal, invisible King, the only
wise God, be honor and glory forever. Amen.
18 (1Ti 4:14; 1:2) This command I commit to you, my son Timothy, according
to the prophecies that were previously given to you, that by them you might
fight a good fight,
19 (1Ti 1:5; 3:9) keeping faith and a good conscience, which some have
rejected and suffered shipwreck in regard to their faith.
20 (2Ti 2:17; Ac 13:45) Among these are Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom I have
delivered to Satan that they may learn not to blaspheme.
[12] And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he
counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry;
[13] Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I
obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief.
[14] And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love
which is in Christ Jesus.
[15] This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ
Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.
[16] Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ
might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should
hereafter believe on him to life everlasting.
[17] Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be
honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen.
[18] This charge I commit unto thee, son Timothy, according to the
prophecies which went before on thee, that thou by them mightest war a good
warfare;
[19] Holding faith, and a good conscience; which some having put away
concerning faith have made shipwreck:
[20] Of whom is Hymenaeus and Alexander; whom I have delivered unto Satan,
that they may learn not to blaspheme.
1 Timothy 2
Instructions Concerning Prayer
1 Therefore I exhort first of all that you make supplications, prayers,
intercessions, and thanksgivings for everyone,
2 (Ezr 6:10) for kings and for all who are in authority, that we may lead
a quiet and peaceful life in all godliness and honesty,
3 (1Ti 1:1; Lk 1:47) for this is good and acceptable in the sight of God
our Saviour,
4 (Eze 18:23; 18:32) who desires all men to be saved and to come
to the knowledge of the truth.
5 (Gal 3:20; 1Co 8:6; Dt 6:4) There is one God and one mediator between God
and men, the Man Christ Jesus,
6 (1Co 1:6; 1Ti 6:15) who gave Himself as a ransom for all.
This was the testimony given at the proper time.
7 (Ac 9:15; 2Ti 1:11) For this I was appointed a preacher and an apostle
(I speak the truth in Christ and do not lie), a teacher of the Gentiles
in faith and truth.
8 (Ps 134:2; Jn 4:21) Therefore I desire that the men pray everywhere, lifting
up holy hands, without wrath or contentiousness.
9 In like manner also, that women clothe themselves in modest clothing, with
decency and self-control, not with braided hair, gold, pearls, or expensive
clothing,
10 but with good works, which is proper for women professing godliness.
11 Let a woman learn in silence with all obedience.
12 (1Co 14:34) I do not permit a woman to teach or to usurp authority
over a man, but to be silent.
13 (Ge 2:22; 2:7) For Adam was formed first, then Eve.
14 (Ge 3:6; 2Co 11:3) And Adam was not deceived, but the woman, being
deceived, fell into sin.
15 (1Ti 1:14) Yet she will be saved in childbearing if they continue
in faith, love, and holiness, with self-control.
[1] I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers,
intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;
[2] For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet
and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.
[3] For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;
[4] Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the
truth.
[5] For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man
Christ Jesus;
[6] Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.
[7] Whereunto I am ordained a preacher, and an apostle, (I speak the truth
in Christ, and lie not; ) a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and verity.
[8] I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands,
without wrath and doubting.
[9] In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with
shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or
costly array;
[10] But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.
[11] Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection.
[12] But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man,
but to be in silence.
[13] For Adam was first formed, then Eve.
[14] And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the
transgression.
[15] Notwithstanding she shall be saved in childbearing, if they continue in
faith and charity and holiness with sobriety.
1 Timothy 3
Qualifications of Overseers
1 (Ac 20:28; 1Ti 1:15; Ac 1:20) This is a faithful saying: If a man desires
the office of an overseer, he desires a good work.
2 (1Ti 5:9; 2Ti 2:24) An overseer then must be blameless, the husband
of one wife, sober, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach;
3 (Titus 1:7; 1Ti 3:8; Lev 10:9) not given to drunkenness, not violent, not
greedy for money, but patient, not argumentative, not covetous;
4 (1Ti 3:12; Titus 1:6) and one who manages his own house well, having his
children in submission with all reverence.
5 (1Ti 3:15) For if a man does not know how to manage his own house, how will
he take care of the church of God?
6 (1Ti 6:4) He must not be newly converted, so that he does not become
prideful and fall into the condemnation of the devil.
7 (2Ti 2:26; 1Ti 6:9) Moreover he must have a good reputation among those who
are outsiders, so that he does not fall into reproach and the snare of the
devil.
[1] This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he
desireth a good work.
[2] A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant,
sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach;
[3] Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient,
not a brawler, not covetous;
[4] One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection
with all gravity;
[5] (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care
of the church of God?)
[6] Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the
condemnation of the devil.
[7] Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he
fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.
Qualifications of Deacons
8 (Php 1:1; Titus 2:3; Lev 10:9) Likewise deacons must be serious,
not insincere, not given to much wine, not greedy,
9 (1Ti 1:19; 1:5) keeping the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience.
10 (1Ti 5:22) And let them first be tested; then, being found blameless,
let them serve as deacons.
11 (Titus 2:3; 2Ti 3:3; 1Ti 3:2) Likewise, their wives must be serious,
not slanderers, sober, and faithful in all things.
12 (1Ti 3:2) Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife,
managing their children and their own houses well.
13 (Mt 25:21) For those who have served well in the office of deacon
purchase for themselves good standing and great boldness in the faith,
which is in Christ Jesus.
[8] Likewise must the deacons be grave, not doubletongued, not given to much
wine, not greedy of filthy lucre;
[9] Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience.
[10] And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a
deacon, being found blameless.
[11] Even so must their wives be grave, not slanderers, sober, faithful in
all things.
[12] Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and
their own houses well.
[13] For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to
themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ
Jesus.
The Mystery of Our Religion
14 I am writing these things to you, hoping to come to you shortly,
15 (Mt 16:16; 18:18) but if I am delayed, you might know how you ought
to conduct yourself in the house of God, which is the church of the living
God, the pillar and foundation of the truth.
16 (Jn 1:14; Heb 1:3; Mk 16:19) Without question, great is the mystery
of godliness:
God was revealed in the flesh,
justified in the Spirit,
seen by angels,
preached to the Gentiles,
believed on in the world,
taken up into glory.
[14] These things write I unto thee, hoping to come unto thee shortly:
[15] But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave
thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the
pillar and ground of the truth.
[16] And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was
manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached
unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.
1 Timothy 4
Prediction of Apostasy
1 (Jn 16:13; 2Pe 3:3) Now the Spirit clearly says that in the last times
some will depart from the faith and pay attention to seducing spirits
and doctrines of devils,
2 (Eph 4:19) speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their consciences seared
with a hot iron,
3 (Ro 14:6; Heb 13:4) forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain
from foods, which God has created to be received with thanksgiving
by those who believe and know the truth.
4 (Ge 1:31; Ro 14:14) For everything created by God is good, and not to
be refused if it is received with thanksgiving,
5 for it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.
[1] Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall
depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of
devils;
[2] Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot
iron;
[3] Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God
hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know
the truth.
[4] For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be
received with thanksgiving:
[5] For it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.
A Good Minister of Christ Jesus
6 (1Ti 1:10) If you remind the brothers of these things, you will be a good
minister of Jesus Christ, nourished by the words of faith and of good
doctrine, which you have followed closely.
7 (1Ti 1:4; 2Ti 2:16; Heb 5:14) But refuse profane and foolish myths.
Instead, exercise in the ways of godliness.
8 (Mt 6:33; 1Ti 6:6) For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness
is profitable in all things, holding promise for the present life
and also for the life to come.
9 (1Ti 1:15) This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance.
10 (1Ti 2:4; 3:15) For to this end we both labor and suffer reproach,
because we trust in the living God, who is the Savior of all men,
especially of those who believe.
11 (1Ti 6:2; 5:7) Command and teach these things.
12 (2Ti 2:22; Titus 2:7) Let no one despise your youth, but be an example
to the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith,
and in purity.
13 Until I come, give attention to reading, exhortation, and doctrine.
14 (2Ti 1:6; Ac 6:6; 1Ti 1:18) Do not neglect the gift that is in you,
which was given to you by prophecy, with the laying on of hands
by the elders.
15 Meditate on these things. Give yourself completely to them,
that your progress may be known to everyone.
16 (Titus 2:7; Ro 11:14) Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine.
Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself
and those who hear you.
[6] If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a
good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of
good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained.
[7] But refuse profane and old wives' fables, and exercise thyself rather
unto godliness.
[8] For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto
all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to
come.
[9] This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptation.
[10] For therefore we both labour and suffer reproach, because we trust in
the living God, who is the Saviour of all men, specially of those that
believe.
[11] These things command and teach.
[12] Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers,
in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.
[13] Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.
[14] Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy,
with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery.
[15] Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy
profiting may appear to all.
[16] Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in
doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.
1 Timothy 5
Duties Toward Others
1 (Lev 19:32; Titus 2:6) Do not rebuke an elder, but exhort him as a father,
the younger men as brothers,
2 the elder women as mothers, and the younger women as sisters, with complete
purity.
3 (Ac 6:1; 9:39) Honor widows that are widows indeed.
4 (1Ti 2:3; Ge 45:10-11) But if any widow has children or grandchildren,
let them learn first to show piety at home and to repay their parents.
For this is good and acceptable before God.
5 (Lk 2:37; 1Ti 5:3) Now she who is a widow indeed, and desolate, trusts
in God, and continues in supplications and prayers night and day.
6 (Lk 15:24; Jas 5:5) But she who lives in pleasure is dead while she lives.
7 (1Ti 4:11) And these things command, that they may be blameless.
8 (Titus 1:16; Gal 6:10) But if any do not care for their own,
and especially for those of their own house, they have denied the faith
and are worse than unbelievers.
9 (1Ti 3:2) Do not let a widow be counted unless she is over sixty years old,
has been the wife of one man,
10 (1Ti 6:18; Titus 3:8) is well attested in good works, if she has brought
up children, has lodged strangers, has washed the saints' feet, has relieved
the afflicted, and has diligently followed every good work.
11 (1Ti 5:14) But refuse the younger widows, for when their sensual desires
have drawn them away from Christ, they want to marry,
12 and bring judgment on themselves, because they have cast off their
first pledge.
13 (Pr 20:19; Titus 1:11) Besides that, they learn to be idle, and not only
idle, wandering around from house to house, but also gossips and busybodies,
saying what they ought not.
14 (Titus 2:5; 1Ti 6:1; 4:3) Therefore I desire that the younger women marry,
bear children, manage the house, and give no occasion to the adversary
to speak reproachfully.
15 For some have already turned aside after Satan.
16 (1Ti 5:3-5) If any believing man or woman has widows, let those assist
them. Do not let the church be charged, so that it may relieve those
who are widows indeed.
17 (Ro 12:8; Php 2:29) Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy
of double honour, especially those who labor in the word and doctrine.
18 (Dt 25:4; Lev 19:13; Mt 10:10) For the Scripture says, "You shall not
muzzle the ox that treads out the grain,"(Dt 25:4.) and, "The laborer is
worthy of his reward."(Lk 10:7.)
19 (Dt 19:15; Mt 18:16) Do not receive an accusation against an elder,
except before two or three witnesses.
20 (Dt 13:11; 2Ti 4:2) Rebuke in the presence of everyone those who sin,
that the rest also may fear.
21 (1Ti 6:13; 2Ti 4:1) I command you before God and the Lord Jesus Christ
and the elect angels that you observe these things without prejudice,
doing nothing by partiality.
22 (Ac 6:6; Eph 5:11) Do not lay hands suddenly on anyone, and do not
partake of other men's sins. Keep yourself pure.
23 (1Ti 3:8; Ps 104:15) No longer drink only water, but use a little wine
for your stomach's sake and your frequent illnesses.
24 Some men's sins are evident, pointing to judgment,
but other men's sins are revealed later.
25 Likewise, the good works of some are evident,
but those that are not cannot be hidden.
[1] Rebuke not an elder, but intreat him as a father; and the younger men as
brethren;
[2] The elder women as mothers; the younger as sisters, with all purity.
[3] Honour widows that are widows indeed.
[4] But if any widow have children or nephews, let them learn first to shew
piety at home, and to requite their parents: for that is good and acceptable
before God.
[5] Now she that is a widow indeed, and desolate, trusteth in God, and
continueth in supplications and prayers night and day.
[6] But she that liveth in pleasure is dead while she liveth.
[7] And these things give in charge, that they may be blameless.
[8] But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own
house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.
[9] Let not a widow be taken into the number under threescore years old,
having been the wife of one man,
[10] Well reported of for good works; if she have brought up children, if
she have lodged strangers, if she have washed the saints' feet, if she have
relieved the afflicted, if she have diligently followed every good work.
[11] But the younger widows refuse: for when they have begun to wax wanton
against Christ, they will marry;
[12] Having damnation, because they have cast off their first faith.
[13] And withal they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house;
and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which
they ought not.
[14] I will therefore that the younger women marry, bear children, guide the
house, give none occasion to the adversary to speak reproachfully.
[15] For some are already turned aside after Satan.
[16] If any man or woman that believeth have widows, let them relieve them,
and let not the church be charged; that it may relieve them that are widows
indeed.
[17] Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour,
especially they who labour in the word and doctrine.
[18] For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out
the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward.
[19] Against an elder receive not an accusation, but before two or three
witnesses.
[20] Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear.
[21] I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect
angels, that thou observe these things without preferring one before
another, doing nothing by partiality.
[22] Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men's sins:
keep thyself pure.
[23] Drink no longer water, but use a little wine for thy stomach's sake and
thine often infirmities.
[24] Some men's sins are open beforehand, going before to judgment; and some
men they follow after.
[25] Likewise also the good works of some are manifest beforehand; and they
that are otherwise cannot be hid.
1 Timothy 6
1 (Titus 2:5; Isa 52:5) Let as many servants as are under the yoke of slavery
count their own masters worthy of all honor, so that the name of God and His
doctrine may not be slandered.
2 (1Ti 4:11) Let those who have believing masters not despise them, because
they are brothers. Instead, let them serve as slaves, because those who
receive their service are faithful and beloved.
[1] Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own masters
worthy of all honour, that the name of God and his doctrine be not
blasphemed.
[2] And they that have believing masters, let them not despise them, because
they are brethren; but rather do them service, because they are faithful and
beloved, partakers of the benefit. These things teach and exhort.
False Teaching and True Wealth
Teach and command these things.
3 (1Ti 1:3; 1:10) Anyone who teaches otherwise and does not consent
to wholesome words, to the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to godly
doctrine
4 (1Ti 1:4; 3:6) is conceited and knows nothing. He has a morbid
disposition for controversy and verbal disputes, from which come envy,
strife, blasphemies, evil speculations,
5 (2Ti 3:8; Titus 1:11) constant disputes by men of corrupt minds, being
destitute of the truth, and supposing that financial gain is godliness.
Withdraw yourself from such men.
6 (1Ti 4:8; Heb 13:5) But godliness with contentment is great gain.
7 (Job 1:21; Ps 49:17) For we brought nothing into this world,
and it is certain that we can carry nothing out.
8 (Ge 28:20) If we have food and clothing, we shall be content with
these things.
9 (Pr 15:27; 1Ti 3:7) But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation
and a snare and into many foolish and harmful lusts, which drown men
in ruin and destruction.
10 (Dt 16:19) For the love of money is the root of all evil.
While coveting after money, some have strayed from the faith
and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
[3] If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the
words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to
godliness;
[4] He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of
words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings,
[5] Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth,
supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.
[6] But godliness with contentment is great gain.
[7] For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry
nothing out.
[8] And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.
[9] But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into
many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and
perdition.
[10] For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted
after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with
many sorrows.
The Good Fight of Faith
11 (2Ti 2:22; 3:17) But you, O man of God, escape these things, and follow
after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, and gentleness.
12 (1Ti 1:18; 1Co 9:25-66) Fight the good fight of faith. Lay hold
on eternal life, to which you are called and have professed
a good profession before many witnesses.
13 (1Ti 5:21; Mt 27:11) I command you, in the sight of God, who gives
life to all things, and in the sight of Christ Jesus, who testified
a good confession before Pontius Pilate,
14 to keep this commandment without blemish, blameless
until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ,
15 (1Ti 1:11; Rev 17:14) which He, who is the blessed and only Ruler,
the King of kings and Lord of lords, will reveal at the proper time.
16 (1Ti 1:17; Jn 1:18; Ps 104:2) He alone has immortality, living in
unapproachable light, whom no one has seen, nor can see.
To Him be honor and everlasting power. Amen.
17 (Ro 11:20; 1Ti 4:10) Command those who are rich in this world that
they not be conceited, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God,
who richly gives us all things to enjoy.
18 (Ro 12:8; 12:13) Command that they do good, that they be rich in good
works, generous, willing to share,
19 (Lk 16:9; 1Ti 6:12) and laying up in store for themselves a good
foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of eternal life.
20 (Col 2:8; 2Ti 2:16) O Timothy, guard that which is committed to your trust.
Avoid profane babblings and opposing views from so-called knowledge.
21 (2Ti 2:18; Col 4:18) By professing it, some have erred concerning
the faith.
Grace be with you. Amen.
[11] But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after
righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.
[12] Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou
art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.
[13] I give thee charge in the sight of God, who quickeneth all things, and
before Christ Jesus, who before Pontius Pilate witnessed a good confession;
[14] That thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukeable, until the
appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ:
[15] Which in his times he shall shew, who is the blessed and only
Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords;
[16] Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can
approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honour and
power everlasting. Amen.
[17] Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded,
nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly
all things to enjoy;
[18] That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to
distribute, willing to communicate;
[19] Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to
come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.
[20] O Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding profane
and vain babblings, and oppositions of science falsely so called:
[21] Which some professing have erred concerning the faith. Grace be with
thee. Amen.
2) Our Daily Bread for 12 December 2023 Titled
Lean on God
Proverbs 18:10-15
10 (2Sa 22:3; Ps 18:2) The name of the Lord is a strong tower;
the righteous run into it and are safe.
11 (Pr 10:15) The rich man's wealth is his strong city,
and as a high wall in his own conceit.
12 (Pr 11:2; 15:33) Before destruction the heart of man is haughty,
and before honor is humility.
13 (Jn 7:51) He who answers a matter before he hearsit,
it is folly and shame to him.
14 (Pr 17:22; 15:13) The spirit of a man will sustain his infirmity,
but a wounded spirit who can bear?
15 (Pr 15:14) The heart of the prudent gets knowledge,
and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge.
10 The name of the LORD is a strong tower:
The righteous runneth into it, and is safe.
11 The rich man's wealth is his strong city,
And as an high wall in his own conceit.
12 Before destruction the heart of man is haughty,
And before honour is humility.
13 He that answereth a matter before he heareth it,
It is folly and shame unto him.
14 The spirit of a man will sustain his infirmity;
But a wounded spirit who can bear?
15 The heart of the prudent getteth knowledge;
And the ear of the wise seeketh knowledge.
While at a water park with some friends, we attempted to navigate a floating
obstacle course made of inflatable platforms. The bouncy, slippery platforms
made walking straight almost impossible. As we wobbled our way across ramps,
cliffs, and bridges, we found ourselves yelping as we fell unceremoniously
into the water. After completing one course, my friend, completely exhausted,
leaned on one of the "towers" to catch her breath. Almost immediately, it
buckled under her weight, sending her hurtling into the water.
Unlike the flimsy towers at the water park, in Bible times, a tower was a
stronghold for defense and protection. Judges 9:50–51 describes how the
people of Thebez fled to "a strong tower" to hide from Abimelek's attack on
their city. In Proverbs 18:10, the writer used the image of a strong tower
to describe who God is-the One who saves those who trust Him.
Sometimes, however, rather than lean on the strong tower of God when we're
tired or beaten down, we seek other things for safety and support-a career,
relationships, or physical comforts. We're no different from the rich man
who looked for strength in his wealth (v. 11). But just as the inflatable
tower couldn't support my friend, these things can't give us what we really
need. God-who's all-powerful and in control of all situations-provides true
comfort and security.
By: Jasmine Goh
Reflect & Pray
What "towers" do you lean on? How can you remind yourself
to run to God, the strong tower?
Dear God, help me to run to You instead of turning
to other things for comfort and security.
3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation
Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools
Week 5 Rejoice in Grace - Day 3 The song of Exaltation
Exodus 15:2
2 The Lord is my strength and song,
and He has become my salvation.
He is my God, and I will praise Him;
my father's God, and I will exalt Him.
2 The LORD is my strength and song,
And he is become my salvation:
He is my God, and I will prepare him an habitation;
My father's God, and I will exalt him.
The world is full of music that communicates human emotion:
love, joy, sadness, separation.
A love song makes us misty-eyed; a song of protest arouses anger; a song
describing loss stimulates feelings of hurt and abandonment.
Music is a powerful force to sway the human spirit.
Exodus 15:2 indicates that God should be the source of the songs in our hearts.
Human emotions vacillate; human relationships disappoint,
but God is our "strength" and our "song".
To exalt the Lord includes many different type of "songs".
"I can't carry a tune in a bucket," one woman complained.
"How can I sing to the Lord anything that will be pleasing to him?"
But the Lord does not delight in the professionalism of our songs,
but in the motivation of our hearts. We can "sing to the Lord"
when we enjoy a Bach organ piece played for his glory.
We can exalt him in the words of Scripture - either remembered or sung.
We can worship him by enjoying the songs of others.
The key to making the Lord our song is exaltation. When our thoughts
lift him up in praise, we are singing a song of exaltation to the Lord.
When God is exalted in our songs, in our hearts, and in our thoughts,
that focus gives strength to our lives. We can face the difficulties
that are an inevitable part of experience,
because God is our "strength and our song".
Application
a) What is the difference between a song that is professionally performed
and one that exalts the Lord?
b) What practical steps can I take to make
my daily life a "song of praise" to God?
4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland
Gen 13:2,5-6,14-17
2 (Ge 24:35; Ps 112:1-3) Abram was very wealthy in livestock,
in silver and in gold.
5 Now Lot, who went with Abram, also had flocks and herds and tents.
6 (Ge 36:6-7) But the land was not able to support them
both dwelling together because their possessions were so great.
14 (Ge 28:14; Dt 3:27) After Lot had departed from him,
the Lord said to Abram,
"Lift up now your eyes, and look from the place where you are,
northward and southward and eastward and westward.
15 (Ge 12:7; 2Ch 20:7) All the land that you see I will give to you
and to your descendants forever.
16 (Ge 28:14; Nu 23:10) I will make your descendants like the dust
of the earth, so that if a man could number the dust of the earth,
then your descendants could also be numbered.
17 Arise, and walk throughout the land across its length
and its width, for I will give it to you."
2 And Abram was very rich in cattle, in silver, and in gold.
5 And Lot also, which went with Abram, had flocks, and herds, and tents.
6 And the land was not able to bear them, that they might dwell together:
for their substance was great, so that they could not dwell together.
14 And the LORD said unto Abram, after that Lot was separated from him,
Lift up now thine eyes, and look from the place where thou art northward,
and southward, and eastward, and westward:
15 for all the land which thou seest, to thee will I give it,
and to thy seed for ever.
16 And I will make thy seed as the dust of the earth: so that if a man
can number the dust of the earth, then shall thy seed also be numbered.
17 Arise, walk through the land in the length of it and in the breadth of it;
for I will give it unto thee.
5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:
God's Generous Provision
Ps 145:13b-21
13 Your dominion endures throughout all generations.
14 The Lord upholds all who fall,
and raises up all who are bowed down.
15 The eyes of all wait upon You,
and You give them their food in due season.
16 You open Your hand
and satisfy the desire of every living thing.
17 The Lord is righteous in all His ways
and loving in all His works.
18 The Lord is near to all those who call upon Him,
to all who call upon Him in truth.
19 He will fulfill the desire of those who fear Him;
He also will hear their cry and will save them.
20 The Lord preserves all those who love Him,
but all the wicked He will destroy.
21 My mouth shall speak the praise of the Lord,
and let all people bless His holy name
forever and ever.
13 And thy dominion endureth throughout all generations.
14 The LORD upholdeth all that fall,
And raiseth up all those that be bowed down.
15 The eyes of all wait upon thee;
And thou givest them their meat in due season.
16 Thou openest thine hand,
And satisfiest the desire of every living thing.
17 The LORD is righteous in all his ways,
And holy in all his works.
18 The LORD is nigh unto all them that call upon him,
To all that call upon him in truth.
19 He will fulfil the desire of them that fear him:
He also will hear their cry, and will save them.
20 The LORD preserveth all them that love him:
But all the wicked will he destroy.
21 My mouth shall speak the praise of the LORD:
And let all flesh bless his holy name for ever and ever.
Remember God's promises when You pray
The Lord's prayer
Matthew 6:9-13
9 "Therefore pray in this manner:
Our Father who is in heaven,
hallowed be Your name.
10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;
Your will be done
on earth, as it is in heaven.
11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.
12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,
as we forgive our debtors.
13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."
9 After this manner therefore pray ye:
Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
11 Give us this day our daily bread.
12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2023 edition?)
The Northern Territories of Canada
Yukon
Yukon Total population (2015) 36500 Muslim (est) 69
In Whitehorse the Muslim population grew from 2 families
in 2001 to more than 60 people in 2014. Originally meeting in a church,
they now meet for prayer service in a former office space.
Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.
Northwest Territories (NWT)
NWT population (2015) 43600 Muslim (est) 473
The Muslim community of Yellowknife has grown from 275 to 330 un the past year.
To replace their inadequate facility, they are planning a C$2 to C$2.5 million
Islamic Centre.
Pray that the Muslims in Yellowknife and all of the NWT will awaken to
spiritual hunger and be open to saving faith in Jesus Christ.
Nunavut (NU)
NU total population (2015) 36600 Muslim (est) 86
The Islamic Centre of Iqaluit now claim about 100 Muslims and have surpassed
80 % of their funding goal to building the first mosque in this territory.
Their stated goal is "To spread the message of Islam
in the far northern reaches of Canada."
Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach
their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.
Adding further
30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020
Under the Keep Praying page
When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month
and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days
of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that
usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,
of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be
decorated and festivals will be held.
For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the
distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of
Islam.
You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",
which means Blessed Eid!"
Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you
know, and Muslims around the world:
- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions
in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about
unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such
movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three
decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim
relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.
Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,
"What does this mean?"
13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."
Peter's Speech at Pentecost
14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice
and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,
let this be known to you, and listen to my words.
15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,
since it is the third hour of the day.
16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:
17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,
'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;
your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
your young men shall see visions,
and your old men shall dream dreams.'
- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective
discipleship movements among Muslim people.
- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for
Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.
Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a
hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under
a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the
house."
Ideas for prayer
- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!
My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further
call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity
(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)
7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada
http://www.ehc.ca
12th Day of the Month
a) Pray that the Lord will put a desire in the hearts of those in business
to follow God's principles and act honourably and ethically
(Proverb 11:1
1 A false balance is abomination to the Lord,
but a just weight is His delight.
1 A false balance is abomination to the LORD:
But a just weight is his delight.
)
b) Pray the the Spirit of the Lord will restrain the spirit of
hatred and destruction against humanity across the world.
Advent Day 17
From C.S. Lewis A grand Miracle by Joel Heck
"'It seems, then," said Tirian... "that the Stable
seen from within and the Stable seen from without are two different places."
'Yes,' said the Lord Digory. 'Its inside is bigger than its outside.'
"Yes,' said Queen Lucy. 'In our world too, a Stable once
had something inside it that was bigger than our whole world.'"
- C. S. Lewis
(Read this and more in The Last Battle, p. 141.)
Bigger than the Whole World
Lucy and some of her friends had come into Narnia, thinking that they were
going to rescue Narnia from its enemies. But when the battle turned against
them, they thought they were about to die. Narnia had been overrun
by Calormenes, and during the battle Lucy and her friends were forced
into a stable. They soon discovered that they had actually entered
the Narnian heaven. An apparent defeat turned out to be the ultimate victory.
During that moment Queen Lucy recalls, "In our world too, a
Stable once had something inside it that was bigger than our whole world."
The stable to which Lucy referred was, of course, the stable of Bethlehem.
It once had something inside it that was bigger than the whole world,
the baby Jesus. We will one day experience the same firsthand,
we who humble ourselves to receive this Christ child.
We know that big things come in small packages. Small towns.
Short people. Diamond rings. Babies especially. But also heart, courage,
determination, and faith. Faith can move mountains, but it doesn't need
to be big to do so. Jesus said, "If you have faith as small as a mustard
seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there'
and it will move" (Matt. 17:20).
Lord Jesus, your greatness comes in smallness.
Give us a small faith in a great Savior. Amen.
But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small
among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for
me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins
are from of old, from ancient times.
Micah 5:2
From Follow the Story by Marva J. Dean
TUESDAY, THIRD WEEK OF ADVENT
Did Mary Stay?
Mary remained with her about three months
and returned to her own house.
-Luke 1:56
The question of our title today lingers with me because the Gospel text is
ambiguous. We have been told by the angel Gabriel that Elizabeth was already
six months along in her pregnancy when Mary received the news of hers.
If we add the months that Mary remained with her, Elizabeth must have given
birth before Mary left-but we aren't specifically told that.
Because Mary had traveled so far, one doubts if she would have gone home
before the big event of the baby's birth. Besides, she surely would want
to assist her relative through her last days of pregnancy and first days
of motherhood.
Why does the question matter? Mary was getting to the time when she would
be scorned for being pregnant before marrying Joseph. Imagine that God
furnished Mary with extra courage
by granting her the privilege of witnessing the birth of her promised child's
Forerunner and by sharing in the ardent faith of Elizabeth and Zechariah.
prayer
Thank you again, Gracious Father, that these two women had
each other. Amen.
Read Luke 1:45-56.
45 Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a completion
to those things which were told her by the Lord."
The Song of Mary
46 And Mary said:
"My soul magnifies the Lord,
47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.
48 For He has regarded
the low estate of His servant;
surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed.
49 For He who is mighty has done great things for me,
and holy is His name.
50 His mercy is on those who fear Him
from generation to generation.
51 He has shown strength with His arm;
He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.
52 He has pulled down the mighty from their thrones
and exalted those of low degree.
53 He has filled the hungry with good things,
and the rich He has sent away empty.
54 He has helped His servant Israel,
in remembrance of His mercy,
55 as He spoke to our fathers,
to Abraham and to his descendants forever."
56 Mary remained with her about three months
and returned to her own house.
From The AH-Has of Advent by Rich Bimler
THIRD TUESDAY
AH-HA! Ambassadors of Health, Hope and ANCESTORS!
2 (Mt 14:3; 4:12) Now when John had heard in prison the works of Christ,
he sent two of his disciples,
3 (Heb 10:37; Jn 11:27) and said to Him, "Are You He who should come,
or should we look for another?" MATTHEW 11:2-3
Who has prepared you to receive God's love and t)ope in Jesus Christ?
Who has been telling his story to you in both word and action? I hope
there have been many people in your history. as well as in your present.
who continue to be like John the Baptist to you as they "prepare the way of
the Lord" in and for you!
And to whom are you John the Baptist? This question does not refer of
course, to the taste and style of your clothes or what weird diets you may
be on. I'm simply asking how you are preparing people to hear and see
God's presence in Christ Jesus in their lives as well as in yours.
The AH-HA of ancestors is not talking about our old relatives and the
"good old days" of the Bible or even of our lives. Instead, it is centering
us on the people around us, now and in the past, who have brought the
message of Jesus to us.
Thank the Lord today for your ancestors who have prepared you to know
and love the Lord. If they are still here on earth, tell them you love them. If
not, thank the Lord for giving them to you as a Christmas gift!
Lord, you have prepared us through Word and sacrament (and though
special people) to be your child. Thank you for the legion of ancestors
with whom you've surrounded us. And empower us to be like John
the Baptist as we help other people to "prepare the way" for you
to come into their lives. In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!
Read Matthew 11:2-11
2 (Mt 14:3; 4:12) Now when John had heard in prison the works of Christ,
he sent two of his disciples,
3 (Heb 10:37; Jn 11:27) and said to Him, "Are You He who should come,
or should we look for another?"
4 Jesus answered them, "Go and tell John what you hear and see:
5 (Lk 4:18; Isa 35:4-6; Mt 5:3) The blind receive their sight
and the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed and the deaf hear,
the dead are raised up, and the poor have the gospel preached to them.
[Taken from Isa 35:5-6; 61:1.]
6 (Isa 8:14-15; Mt 24:10) Blessed is he who does not fall away because of Me."
7 (Eph 4:14; Jas 1:6) As they departed, Jesus began to say to the crowds
concerning John, "What did you go out into the wilderness to see?
A reed shaken by the wind? 8If not, what did you go out to see?
A man dressed in soft clothing? Indeed,
those who wear soft clothing are in kings' houses.
9 (Lk 1:76; Mt 14:5) Then what did you go out to see? A prophet?
Yes, I say to you, and more than a prophet.
10 (Mal 3:1; Mk 1:2) For this is he of whom it is written:
'Look, I am sending My messenger before Your face,
who will prepare Your way before You.'[Mal 3:1.]
11 Truly I say to you, among those who are born of women,
there has risen no one greater than John the Baptist.
But he who is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.
From On Eagle's wings Day 17
Challenges by Wendy Cusick (Episcopalian)
On Eagle's Wings Governing Board Member
Upper Gwynedd, Pennsylvania
14 (Isa 8:8; Mt 1:23; Isa 9:6) Therefore the Lord Himself shall give you
a sign: The virgin [Heb. young woman.] shall conceive, and bear a son,
and shall call his name Immanuel.Or God with us.
15 (Isa 7:22) Curds and honey he shall eat at the time that he knows
enough to refuse the evil and choose the good.
[14] Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin
shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.
[15] Butter and honey shall he eat, that he may know to refuse the evil,
and choose the good.
Isaiah 7:13-14,
We are gifted with God's truth spoken through the prophets
and shown through Jesus. That's important to remember as we
face not only the darkness of the season, but the shrouds of
natural and human calamity that have befallen us this year.
We are still feeling the after-effects of the pandemic, and
challenges caused by wildfires have plagued our communities.
In these times I return to the Old Testament prophets Isaiah,
Jeremiah and Ezekiel and read how their faith was tested. The
odds seemed insurmountable when these godly messengers
confronted people who had turned away from God, yet they
stayed faithful. When Jesus told his apostles that they would
face trials, it was faith that carried them forward.
As we move through this Advent Season, let's keep hope
burning in our hearts, knowing that as we keep faith, God will
continue to show us the light.
Conclusion:
Pray to the Lord and pray to conduct yourself as Jesus does
and pray to discern false philosophies.
Pray to the Lord: "Dear God, help me to run to You instead of turning
to other things for comfort and security."
Pray to the Lord and pray to give Him a Song of Praise.
Pray to the Lord and pray to know Him as the provider of your Needs.
Pray to the Lord and to know Him as the One who blesses all generations.
Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse and the Yukon to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.
Pray for Muslims and believers in Yellowknife to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.
Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach
their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.
- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!
Pray that the Lord will put a desire in the hearts of those in business
to follow God's principles and act honourably and ethically
Pray the the Spirit of the Lord will restrain the spirit of
hatred and destruction against humanity across the world.
Pray: Thank you again, Gracious Father, that these two women had
each other. Amen.
Pray: Lord, you have prepared us through Word and sacrament (and though
special people) to be your child. Thank you for the legion of ancestors
with whom you've surrounded us. And empower us to be like John
the Baptist as we help other people to "prepare the way" for you
to come into their lives. In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!
Pray: Father in heaven, the day draws near when the birth of
your Son will make radiant the night of the waiting world.
May his quiet coming fill us with true inner peace. Amen
Pray that Christian leaders in Mauritania will remain above reproach for the
sake of the Gospel.
Pray to the Lord that to know the Holy Spirit.
and Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness.
Remember eternity starts now -
Pray for the direction you take to the Ever lasting loving God.
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