Timothy, a teacher in the manner of Christ

Faith in Action

Self-controlled, Upright and Godly Faith

The Good Fight of Faith

1 Corinthians 4:14-21 The Message

14-16 I’m not writing all this as a neighborhood scold just to make you feel rotten. I’m writing as a father to you, my children. I love you and want you to grow up well, not spoiled. There are a lot of people around who can’t wait to tell you what you’ve done wrong, but there aren’t many fathers willing to take the time and effort to help you grow up. It was as Jesus helped me proclaim God’s Message to you that I became your father. I’m not, you know, asking you to do anything I’m not already doing myself.
17 This is why I sent Timothy to you earlier. He is also my dear son, and true to the Master. He will refresh your memory on the instructions I regularly give all the churches on the way of Christ.
18-20 I know there are some among you who are so full of themselves they never listen to anyone, let alone me. They don’t think I’ll ever show up in person. But I’ll be there sooner than you think, God willing, and then we’ll see if they’re full of anything but hot air. God’s Way is not a matter of mere talk; it’s an empowered life.
21 So how should I prepare to come to you? As a severe disciplinarian who makes you tow the mark? Or as a good friend and counselor who wants to share heart-to-heart with you? You decide.

For Reflection

How could one possibly miss the parallel in the relationships among Paul, Timothy, and the Church in Ephesus? Jesus has prepared Paul well. Paul, who regards Timothy as a son, sends him to teach in Ephesus. Further, Paul writes as a "father" chiding the people as God does, in love and sincere concern for their wellbeing. It is the model of spiritual leadership taught by Jesus and practiced by Paul.

Pray

Pray that you will act compassionately to all people. Pray so that you will be able to practice your God Story in the manner of Christ.

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