Reflection:
Paul the Apostle was training and disciplining young Timothy, who had the intimidating task of setting up leadership teams in scattered churches. Some scholars believed that Timothy’s father died at a young age, so it was up to his mother and grandmother to raise him. Through their love and example, he became so convinced by their Christian faith that he ended up becoming one of the most influential leaders of the era.
Nevertheless, Paul still challenged Timothy to correct and even rebuke people in the churches he served. These challenges weren’t to be according to Timothy’s own wisdom, however. Paul instructs Timothy to stick to the Scriptures as his source of authority.
Just as it was for Timothy, the Scriptures guide us in teaching people about their salvation. The goal is, through Scripture, to make them wise in Christ, not ‘wise’ in any particular religious leader’s theology.
Have you ever tried to memorise Scripture? Do you know how to help your friends gain wisdom for salvation?
Prayer:
Dear God. Help me to be disciplined in my time with you and with my mentors to make an eternal difference in other people’s lives. Please don’t let me give up on any of my family or friends, and to persevere in prayer for them. Help me to become thoroughly equipped by training myself in your Word. Amen.