Keep reminding God’s people of these things. Warn them before God against quarreling about words; it is of no value, and only ruins those who listen. Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. Avoid godless chatter, because those who indulge in it will become more and more ungodly. (2 Tim. 2:14-16)
We recently explored the importance of God’s word for our ongoing spiritual health, looking at 2 Timothy 3 and the need to safeguard against destructive teachings. In chapter 2, Paul addresses the right attitude to Scripture.
There is no place in the house of God for divisive quarrels over words. Our faith should unite us, not divide us; that unity grows from a pattern of sound teaching, with faith and love in Christ Jesus. We are to faithfully guard the truth of God’s word, with the help of the Holy Spirit who lives in us. (1 Timothy 1:13-14).
Perhaps too often, we’re driven more by our own personal opinions than we are by the uncomfortable truths of God’s word. Like those first Christians, we must devote ourselves to the sound teaching of God’s word. Sunday services, mid-week studies, daily Bible readings, Christian radio – how many great resources we have to enjoy!
The psalmist asked, “How can a young person stay on the path of purity? By living according to your word.” (Psalm 119:9). We can’t live according to God’s word if we never read or hear it! May I urge you to make the Bible a priority in your life. As Jesus himself said, “Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.” (Matthew 4:4)
Jez Fernandez is pastor of Wantage Baptist Church.