Remind them of these things, charging them in the sight of the Lord, that they don’t argue about words, to no profit, to the subverting of those who hear.
Give diligence to present yourself approved by God, a workman who doesn’t need to be ashamed, properly handling the Word of Truth. But shun empty chatter, for it will go further in ungodliness, and those words will consume like gangrene, of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus; men who have erred concerning the truth, saying that the resurrection is already past, and overthrowing the faith of some. However God’s firm foundation stands, having this seal, “The Lord knows those who are his,” and, “Let every one who names the name of the Lord depart from unrighteousness.” Now in a large house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of clay. Some are for honor, and some for dishonor. If anyone therefore purges himself from these, he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified, and suitable for the master’s use, prepared for every good work.
Flee from youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. But refuse foolish and ignorant questionings, knowing that they generate strife. The Lord’s servant must not quarrel, but be gentle towards all, able to teach, patient, in gentleness correcting those who oppose him: perhaps God may give them repentance leading to a full knowledge of the truth, and they may recover themselves out of the devil’s snare, having been taken captive by him to his will.
Thoughts
These are some of the wisest words in regard to how we’re supposed to act as Christ followers: “The Lord’s servant must not quarrel, but be gentle towards all, able to teach, patient, in gentleness correcting those who oppose…” If we all act more like this, I’ve got to believe that Christians wouldn’t have such a bad reputation in the world’s eyes. What do you think?
Questions
- Have you ever found yourself arguing about words in relation to your faith? What profit does Paul say this type of arguing renders?
- Do you diligently present yourself to God for approval in regards to being one of his workers?
- Do you believe you properly handle God’s truth?
- Do you shun empty chatter or you jump right in the mix?
- What is God’s firm foundation?
- Are you doing your best to depart from unrighteousness?
- What type of vessel are you? What are you doing to improve your qualifications as a more worthy vessel? Are you prepared for every good work?
- Are you pursuing righteousness, faith, love, and peace? Have you set aside youthful lusts?
- Do you quarrel?
- Would “gentle towards all, able to teach, patient” describe you?
- Could you gently correct those who oppose you?
Experience
I’ve got to admit, these are hard things for me to read. I’ve got to constantly remind myself that THIS is how a Christ follower looks—gentle, able to teach, and patient. Do you struggle with these things as well? Do you have some insights to help me do better in these areas?
Prayer
Father, forgive me. Keep this passage constantly before me. I want to be one of your workers, approved, prepared, gentle, able to teach, and patient. Help me to grow in these areas. Keep my faith firm, my heart soft, and words on target. I love you, Lord. Amen.
