Daily Walk Through the New Testament
January 17
Read 1 Timothy 2:1-3:13
Paul makes the assertion in 1 Timothy 2:5 that there is only one God. As Christians, we often take this truth for granted, but it is a foundational truth for what we believe. In this passage alone, we see several implications of that truth.
First, since there is one God, He determines how people can make their way to Him. We do not have the freedom to choose the terms of our relationship with Him. 2:5-6 make it clear that God has provided a way for us to have a relationship with Him through His Son, Jesus Christ. He is the only Mediator between God and man. The implication for believers is that we must share the good news of salvation in Jesus Christ and pray for the conversion of souls. There is no other way to be saved.
Second, since there is one God, we do not have the freedom to choose how we will run His church. 2:9-3:13, a passage about men’s & women’s roles & church leaders, tends to be controversial. Christians may disagree over what the Bible means in this instance, but we do not have the freedom to ignore the Bible altogether. In other words, we are bound by God’s Word. He has the right to determine the qualifications for the leaders of His church.
God’s authority extends to every aspect of our lives. We are subject to His Word and His will. But this is good news: because He is a good & loving God, “His commandments are not burdensome” (1 John 5:3). Take joy in submitting yourself to the instruction and wisdom of the one true God.