Thursday, March 15, 2012

First Timothy 3:14-16


From the New International Version of the Bible, First Timothy 3:14-16
Although I hope to come to you soon, I am writing you these instructions so that, if I am delayed, you will know how people ought to conduct themselves in God's household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth. Beyond all question, the mystery of godliness is great:
He appeared in a body, was vindicated by the Spirit, was seen by angels, was preached among the nations, was believed on in the world, was taken up in glory.
Commentary

In the closing verse of this chapter Paul explains why he is writing to Timothy with these instructions. He is concerned that his arrival in Ephesus will be delayed and he wanted Timothy to understand these things and put them into practice immediately. Paul saw these matters as urgent because of the problems in the Ephesian church. It was imperative to restore order to this tumultuous congregation and put the false teachers out of business. Only sound, swift leadership by Timothy would do this. Anything other than the truth could not be tolerated in God's church. The church has to be a citadel for truth. Paul then closes the chapter with a hymn.

Questions

If the church is suppose to be the 'pillar and foundation' of truth, why are there so many different brands of Christianity out there?

What is the mystery of godliness in verse 16 and how does the hymn that follows help explain it?