For government leaders it may be about the economy, but for followers of Christ it's about lifestyle.
"I am writing these things to you, hoping to come to you before long; but in case I am delayed, I write so that you will know how one ought to conduct himself in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and support of the truth." (1 Timothy 3:14-15)
The six chapters of 1 Timothy are chocked full of important information about how we ought to live as members of the household of God called the church. The foundation for that Christian lifestyle is found in Paul's very interesting description of the church: "the pillar and support of the truth". The church based upon its true purpose is the springboard for authentic Christian living.
This ideal isn't always a reflection of reality though, is it? It's far easier to talk the talk than to walk the walk. Annoying habits and patterns of disobedience are as difficult to overcome as battling a brushfire with a water pistol.
Facing reality is an important step in seeking the ideal. Transparency is key to achieving the ideal. It's been suggested that Christian fellowship should require the same honesty as Alcoholics Anonymous: "Hi. I'm Steve, and I'm a sinner."
An old saying goes, "The church isn't a museum for the saints but a hospital for sinners." Authentic Christian fellowship isn't about displaying our righteousness but treating our sinful condition. Believers with one eye on the ideal and the other on their true condition are in the best position of all to be overcomers.
The church truly is to be "the pillar and support of the truth" - both in word and lifestyle. Loving the truth is a necessary prerequisite to living the truth. Both go hand in hand.
May our individuals lives and corporate fellowship be characterized by both love and lifestyle of truth.
Steve
"I am writing these things to you, hoping to come to you before long; but in case I am delayed, I write so that you will know how one ought to conduct himself in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and support of the truth." (1 Timothy 3:14-15)
The six chapters of 1 Timothy are chocked full of important information about how we ought to live as members of the household of God called the church. The foundation for that Christian lifestyle is found in Paul's very interesting description of the church: "the pillar and support of the truth". The church based upon its true purpose is the springboard for authentic Christian living.
This ideal isn't always a reflection of reality though, is it? It's far easier to talk the talk than to walk the walk. Annoying habits and patterns of disobedience are as difficult to overcome as battling a brushfire with a water pistol.
Facing reality is an important step in seeking the ideal. Transparency is key to achieving the ideal. It's been suggested that Christian fellowship should require the same honesty as Alcoholics Anonymous: "Hi. I'm Steve, and I'm a sinner."
An old saying goes, "The church isn't a museum for the saints but a hospital for sinners." Authentic Christian fellowship isn't about displaying our righteousness but treating our sinful condition. Believers with one eye on the ideal and the other on their true condition are in the best position of all to be overcomers.
The church truly is to be "the pillar and support of the truth" - both in word and lifestyle. Loving the truth is a necessary prerequisite to living the truth. Both go hand in hand.
May our individuals lives and corporate fellowship be characterized by both love and lifestyle of truth.
Steve
posted by steve @ 8:17 AM
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