Faith in Action

  July 22, 1974



  Dear Fellow Believers Around the World:

 Inter-America has grown to be the second largest division in the world
 church. During the last ten years the membership has more than
 doubled--an increase of 129 percent--or a membership of about 430,000.
 The churches are literally bursting at the seams. An ever-increasing
 number of young people, comprising more than half the church member-
 ship, are knocking at the doors of our church schools, day and board-
 ing academies and colleges. Administrators are straining every nerve
 and stretching every dollar, trying to open the way for this new genera-
 tion and to prepare them for future responsibilities in the church. But
 because the financial resources of the church do not keep pace with the
 growth of the membership and the need for new facilities, Inter-America
 is looking forward to the generous offering of our faithful Sabbath
 school members around the world, to help meet its most pressing needs.

 This Thirteenth Sabbath, Caribbean Union College, located near Port-of-
 Spain, Trinidad, which suffered from two fires in 1973, is at the top of
 the list to benefit from your liberal offering, along with Andrews
 Memorial Hospital in Kingston, Jamaica, the oldest hospital in Inter-
 America.

 When Andrews Memorial Hospital was first built, the work was small, but
 over the years it has helped to create a favorable climate for the preach-
 ing of the gospel. Today, Seventh-day Adventists are well respected
 there for what they do as well as for what they believe. This institu-
 tion has exerted a tremendous influence in Jamaica far in excess of its
 size, but the time has come to expand before it becomes outdated.

 We are very grateful for your contributions in the past, and we are con-
 fident that our brothers and sisters around the world will respond
 sacrificially during this Thirteenth Sabbath in answer to our urgent call.

 Yours for a liberal Thirteenth Sabbath Overflow,



    1.4 •
 President
 Inter-American Division

 BLA:r

Editorial Office:
6840 Eastern Ave., N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20012




                Lesson Titles for the Quarter
 1. Introducing Two Young Men            7. How to Keep the Faith
      of Faith                           8. Making Character a Credit to
 2. The Purpose of Theology                  Doctrine
 3. The Christian's Weapons              9. The Fruitage of Grace
 4. Credentials for Church              10. Guarding the Truth
       Leadership                       11. Portrait of Men and Women
 5. Preparation for Model Leaders            of Faith
 6. Responsibilities of the Church      12. Avoiding a Counterfeit Faith
       Toward Its Members               13. Faith Faces Death

 Copyright 1975 by Pacific Press Publishing Association
 Cover and all photographs by Concerned Communications

 Adult Sabbath School Lesson (standard edition), No. 321, July-September,
 1975. Single copy, 40 cents; four issues (1 year), $1.50; no additional charge
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  I pledge myself to the careful and prayerful study of
  some portion of my Sabbath School lesson each day
  of the week.




                          (signed)

                                      LESSON OUTLINE
                                      1.   Timothy Meets Paul, Acts 14:19,
                                           20; 16:1a
                                      2.   Timothy's Family Life, Acts
                                           16:1b; 2 Tim. 1:5
                                      3.   Timothy's Character, Acts 16:2
                                      4.   A Snapshot of Timothy, 1 Tim.
                                           4:12
                                      5.   Paul's Co-worker, 2 Tim. 3:10,11
                                      6.   Titus, the Other Son, Titus 1:4

     Part 1     Under what conditions did Timothy first meet Paul?
  TIMOTHY         "But Jews came there [to Lystral from Antioch and Ica-
MEETS PAUL   nium; and having persuaded the people, they stoned Paul
             and dragged him out of the city, supposing that he was dead.
             But when the disciples gathered about him, he rose up and
             entered the city; and on the next day he went on with Barna-
             bas to Derbe." Acts 14:19, 20, RSV.
                  "And he came also to Derbe and to Lystra. A disciple was
             there, named Timothy." Acts 16:1a, RSV.
                  Timothy, a Lystran, probably saw Paul mercilessly stoned
             and dragged through the streets of Lystra during Paul's first
             missionary journey. Yet, young Timothy did not flinch before
             his neighbors while he took his position beside the bloody body
             of his spiritual hero. Paul's miraculous recovery coupled with
             his forgiving spirit gave authenticity to the amazing message
             that he had been proclaiming.
                  During the approximately three years between Paul's first
             and second visit to Lystra, the meaning of Christian faith be-
             came a matter of personal experience for Timothy. He had
             come to know the Lord that Paul had proclaimed. Paul left no
             New Testament book for Timothy to read, for none had been
             written. Timothy based his faith on the Old Testament and the
             personal witness of an itinerant preacher who taught that God
             had become man in Jesus Christ, and that this Jesus is alive
             forevermore to restore power and dignity to all men through
             His Holy Spirit. THINK IT THROUGH      What is the real basis for Christian faith? On what does
             Christian faith build today?
                  "Our confession of His faithfulness is Heaven's chosen
             agency for revealing Christ to the world. We are to acknowledge
             His grace as made known through the holy men of old; but that
             which will be most effectual is the testimony of our own expe-
             rience. We are witnesses for God as we reveal in ourselves
              the working of a power that is divine. Every individual has a
              life distinct from all others, and an experience differing essen-
              tially from theirs. God desires that our praise shall ascend to
             Him, marked by our own individuality. These precious acknowl-
              edgements to the praise of the glory of His grace, when sup-
              ported by a Christlike life, have an irresistible power that works
              for the salvation of souls."—The Desire of Ages, page 347.
                  Timothy's faith was not the result of philosophical logic or
              scientific evidence; he heard the voice of God talking to him
              through Paul's witness of faith. Timothy responded to Paul and
              through Paul to Jesus, just as Paul himself had earlier re-
              sponded to Jesus.  FURTHER STUDY        Christ's Object Lessons, "The Lord's Vineyard," pages 296-
              299. 8

    Part 2        What divisions seemed likely in Timothy's home?
TIMOTHY'S    FAMILY LIFE        "A disciple was there, named Timothy, the son of a Jewish
               woman who was a believer; but his father was a Greek."
               Acts 16:1 b, RSV.

                   "I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt
               first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and
               now, I am sure, dwells in you." 2 Tim. 1:5, RSV.

                  Timothy grew up in a divided home. We do not know if his
               father ever became a Christian. We can surmise that family
               peace was not complete even under the best of conditions as
               long as Timothy's mother worshiped the crucified Jesus of the
               Jews and his father, through Greek eyes, saw the whole story
               as foolishness. "For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks
               seek after wisdom: but we preach Christ crucified, unto the
               Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness."
               1 Cor. 1:22, 23.
                  Timothy's experience gives hope and courage to all who find
               themselves in a divided home—whether the Christian be a
               parent or a child. Much credit must be given to godly Lois
               and Eunice. They knew how to keep Jesus before Timothy as
               a child and later as a teen-ager so that He was loved and not
               resented.

                   What can young parents today learn from Timothy's home
               life? 2 Tim. 3:15.

                  "From a child he had known the Scriptures. The piety that
               he saw in his home life was sound and sensible. The faith of
               his mother and his grandmother in the sacred oracles was to
               him a constant reminder of the blessing in doing God's will.
               The word of God was the rule by which these two godly women
               had guided Timothy. The spiritual power of the lessons that
               he had received from them kept him pure in speech and un-
               sullied by the evil influences with which he was surrounded.
               Thus his home instructors had co-operated with God in pre-
               paring him to bear burdens."—The Acts of the Apostles, page
               203.

      Part 3      What can be said about Timothy's reputation?
  TIMOTHY'S
 CHARACTER        "He [Timothy] was well spoken of by the brethren at
               Lystra and Iconium." Acts 16:2, RSV.

                  Paul's second missionary journey convinced him that the
               gospel was winning the hearts of men and women wherever it
               was preached. The need for trained workers who would nur-
               ture the growing groups that Paul would leave behind became
               one of the veteran apostle's chief concerns. Strong pastoral
               leadership was needed as well as more evangelistic teams.
                  On Paul's second visit to Lystra he was encouraged by the
               steadfastness of the young church and especially with the de-
               velopment of young Timothy.
                   "In Timothy Paul saw one who appreciated the sacredness
               of the work of a minister; who was not appalled at the prospect
               of suffering and persecution; and who was willing to be taught.
               Yet the apostle did not venture to take the responsibility of
               giving Timothy, an untried youth, a training in the gospel min-
               istry, without first fully satisfying himself in regard to his char-
               acter and his past life."—The Acts of the Apostles, page 203.
                   Paul did not want any more experiences such as he had
               with John Mark. See Acts 12:25; 13:13; 15:37-40. Youth were
               needed to carry the burden, but he wanted young men who
               were experienced in faith, men who had earned the respect
               of their peers as well as older members of the community. Such
               a young man he found in Timothy.

                   "As the lessons of the Bible are wrought into the daily life,
               they have a deep and lasting influence upon the character.
               These lessons Timothy learned and practiced. He had no spe-
               cially brilliant talents, but his work was valuable because he
               used his God-given abilities in the Master's service. His knowl-
               edge of experimental piety distinguished him from other be-
               lievers and gave him influence."—The Acts of the Apostles,
               page 205.
                   Nothing can compensate for genuine faith that is recog-
               nized alike by colleagues and by non-Christians. Platform skill,
               persuasive eloquence, mental brilliance—all such abilities may
               be useful and do permanent good only when used by the man
               of faith who truly witnesses to the converting power of the Lord
               Jesus.

     Part 4   How did Paul emphasize the influence of youthful be-    A SNAPSHOT lievers?    OF TIMOTHY     "Let no one despise your youth, but set the believers an
               example in speech and conduct, in love, in faith, in purity."
               1 Tim. 4:12, RSV.

                   From one standpoint Timothy was an untried youth. He was
               "little more than a boy" when Paul took him as his understudy.
               See Ellen G. White Comments, SDA Bible Commentary, Vol. 7,
               p. 918. Yet his character pattern had become well established;
               he had satisfied Paul's investigation.
                    "In the history of Timothy are found precious lessons. He
               was a mere lad when chosen by God as a teacher; but so fixed
               were his principles by a correct education that he was fitted
               for this important position. He bore his responsibilities with
               Christlike meekness. He was faithful, steadfast, and true, and
               Paul selected him to be his companion in labor and travel. Lest
               Timothy should meet with slights because of his youthfulnesi,
               Paul wrote to him, 'Let no man despise thy youth.' He could
               safely do this, because Timothy was not self-sufficient, but con-
               tinually sought guidance."—Ellen G. White Comments, SDA
               Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, p. 915.
                    Read 1 Tim. 5:23.
                    Here is a suggestion that Timothy may not have enjoyed
               robust health. But nevertheless Timothy plunged into the very
               demanding life that Paul's schedule called for. Paul knew, how-
               ever, that, unless Timothy placed a high priority on his physical
               strength and general health habits, he would soon become use-
               less as a leader. Mental and moral alertness are largely de-
               pendent upon a healthy body.
                    Although some believe that Paul here advocates the moder-
               ate use of fermented wine for medicinal purposes, others con-
               tend that Paul refers to unfermented wine and was not likely
               to give advice inconsistent with Scriptural warnings against in-
               toxicating beverages. The main point to consider is that Timothy
               needed to be reminded that optimal health was a major asset
               in his role as a church leader.
                     Read 2 Tim. 1:7, 8.
                    Paul's admonition intimates that his young co-worker may
               have been, by natural temperament, tilted more toward being
               an introvert than an extrovert.

      Part 5    What became Timothy's clearest teaching manual on how
     PAUL'S to become a faithful pastor?
 CO-WORKER      "Now you have observed my teaching, my conduct, my
               aim in life, my faith, my patience, my love, my steadfastness,
               my persecutions, my sufferings, what befell me at Antioch, at
               Iconium, and at Lystra, what persecutions I endured; yet from
               them all the Lord rescued me." 2 Tim. 3:10, 11, RSV.

                   Four times in the two letters to Timothy (two in each) Paul
               called him "son" (KJV) (in RSV two of these are rendered
               "child"). Although Paul probably had no son after the flesh, his
               relationship with Timothy seemed to compensate. The bond
               between these two men, one in his middle forties and the other
               yet in his teens, melded almost immediately; the mutual trust
               developed beyond the normal co-worker cordiality.
                   Read 2 Tim. 2:2.
                  Timothy learned by watching and doing. His information was
               not rented or second-hand, not merely academic but thoroughly
               experiential. Truth became more than an intellectual experi-
               ence, more than a knowing; Timothy saw what Paul had early
               realized, that truth is a matter of doing the will of God.
                   "The great apostle often drew the younger disciple out,
               questioning him in regard to Scripture history, and as they
               traveled from place to place, he carefully taught him how to
               do successful work. Both Paul and Silas, in all their association
               with Timothy, sought to deepen the impression that had al-
               ready been made upon his mind, of the sacred, serious nature
               of the work of the gospel minister."—The Acts of the Apostles,
               page 204. THINK IT THROUGH      Does Paul's advice to Timothy, as well as His method of
               developing his effectiveness as a soul winner, apply only to
               young ministers? Is there any difference between the way a
               minister witnesses to the power of the gospel and that ex-
               pected of an ordinary church member?
                  "Christ has given to the church a sacred charge. Every
               member should be a channel through which God can commu-
               nicate to the world the treasures of His grace, the unsearchable
               riches of Christ. There is nothing that the Saviour desires so
               much as agents who will represent to the world His Spirit and
               His character. There is nothing that the world needs so much as
               the manifestation through humanity of the Saviour's love. All
               heaven is waiting for men and women through whom God can
               reveal the power of Christianity."—The Acts of the Apostles,
               page 600. FURTHER STUDY         Christ's Object Lessons, "To Meet the Bridegroom," pages
               416-421.

    Part 6        How did Paul regard Titus?
TITUS, THE
OTHER SON         "To Titus, mine own son after the common faith." Titus 1:4.

                  Little is known of Titus: He is not mentioned in the book of
               Acts. References to him in Paul's letters however indicate
               that, like Timothy, Paul had found in Titus a remarkable young
               man who could be trusted, not only with the doctrinal content
               Paul had taught him, but also as a reliable co-worker. He be-
               came the leader of the church's expansion into the area now
               known as Yugoslavia. See 2 Tim. 4:10.
                  Read 2 Cor. 8:23, 16, 17.
                  Titus had been sent to Corinth on one of the most sensitive
               missions ever undertaken in the Christian church. The Chris-
               tian community in this influential port city was in great danger
               of destroying itself and bringing doubt into the minds of many
               regarding the genuine effectiveness of the gospel.
                   "Pride, idolatry, and sensualism were steadily increasing
               among those [in Corinth] who had once been zealous in the
               Christian life.
                   "As this picture was presented before him, Paul saw that
               his worst fears were more than realized. . . . Gladly would he
               have visited Corinth at once, had this been the wisest course
               to pursue. But he knew that in their present condition the be-
               lievers would not profit by his labors, and therefore he sent Titus
               to prepare the way for a visit from himself later on."—The Acts
               of the Apostles, pages 300, 301.
                   After sending the letter and Titus, Paul could only hope for
               the best. As time passed and not hearing from Corinth or Titus,
               Paul left for Troas on his way to Macedonia, hoping to find
               Titus. "I had no rest in my spirit, because I found not Titus
               my brother." 2 Cor. 2:13.
                  Read 2 Cor. 7:6, 7.
                  This remarkable incident tells us much about Titus. He was
               young but effective. He was a bridge builder and not one who
               delighted in polarizing a group. He was more committed to
               building up a program than taking advantage of misunderstand-
               ings between a leader and his followers. Titus could have
               subtly alienated Corinth from Paul and built himself up as a
               more understanding, up-to-date leader. If Titus had not been
               a man of faith, the situation at Corinth could possibly have
               become a complete disaster.

     Part 1   At what famous city was Timothy given major responsibil- THE CHALLENGE ities?    OF EPHESUS     "As I urged you when I was going to Macedonia, remain
             at Ephesus." 1 Tim. 1:3, RSV.
                 Timothy fulfilled many difficult assignments as Paul's rep-
             resentative, but going to Ephesus was perhaps his most impor-
             tant. He had spent more than two years in Ephesus during
             Paul's third evangelistic tour, followed by a special assignment
             to Corinth, some time with Paul in Greece, and then the last
             journey to Jerusalem where Paul was arrested.
                 During the first imprisonment in Rome, Timothy remained
             with Paul; after the release Paul and Timothy journeyed to Asia
             Minor, with Timothy staying in Ephesus while Paul moved on.
             Ephesus became a key base for the expansion of Christianity,
             and a clear thinking leader was needed to consolidate the
             work that Paul and others had developed. That Timothy was
             accounted capable of fulfilling this assignment is eloquent
             testimony of his ability and also unqualified vindication of
             Paul's earlier judgment to train Timothy as his close associate.
                 Read Acts 19:26, 27.
                 Along with being one of the great commercial capitals of
             the ancient world, Ephesus was also a center for the various
             schools of Greek and Oriental philosophy as well as most
             forms of pagan religion. Acts 19 refers to the great temple of
             the goddess Diana, or Artemis, that attracted vast multitudes
             of pilgrims and brought much wealth and fame to Ephesus.
             Besides being the swirling center of philosophy and pagan
             religion, Ephesus also had a strong Jewish community with
             its teaching and influence.
                 "Ephesus was not only the most magnificent, but the most
             corrupt, of the cities of Asia. Superstition and sensual pleasure
             held sway over her teeming population. Under the shadow of
             her temples, criminals of every grade found shelter, and the
             most degrading vices flourished."—The Acts of the Apostles,
             page 286. THINK IT THROUGH      If you had been Paul or Timothy, how would you have be-
             gun preaching the gospel in such a city as Ephesus? Are
             there similar challenges today? What evangelistic approaches
             do you think would be most effective?
                 "Those who belong to the higher ranks of society are to be
             sought out with tender affection and brotherly regard. Men in
             business life, in high positions of trust, men with large inven-
             tive faculties and scientific insight, men of genius, teachers of
             the gospel whose minds have not been called to the special
             truths for this time—these should be the first to hear the call."
             —Christ's Object Lessons, page 230.  FURTHER STUDY       Testimonies, Vol. 6, pp. 77-84. 16

    Part 2  What made Paul's credentials authentic?
AUTHENTIC   "Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the commandment of   CREDENTIALS God our Saviour, and Lord Jesus Christ, which is our hope."
               1 Tim. 1:1.
                   Paul's opening words sound out a note of authority, making
               it clear to all who would read this letter in Ephesus and else-
               where that he was not merely writing a personal letter to
               his old friend Timothy. After many years of watching young
               churches develop, knowing first-hand where the unseen dan-
               gers would be, Paul sent this very explicit pastoral letter to
               Ephesus through its chief pastor.
                   Paul spoke forcefully, knowing to whom he owed his first
               loyalties. Since those early days with Ananias in Damascus
               when he first heard the call to the Christian ministry, Paul had
               lived under the "commandment of God." In holy boldness and
               humility he took his place with the Twelve as one of Christ
               Jesus' special emissaries—the apostles.
                  In what way would God (the Father) be our Saviour? Is
               Christ our hope only in the sense that He is coming again?
               Or that He as a Person has become the ground of hope be-
               cause of what He did as a human being?

                   All members of the Godhead have participated in the work
               of saving mankind although they may have had different func-
               tions. In emphasizing God as our Saviour, Paul stresses the
               deliverance from the guilt and power of sin that the Godhead
               provides; in emphasizing Jesus as our hope, we are reminded
               that without God becoming incarnate in Jesus, there would be
               no meaning to life, no reason to hope that anything could truly
               get better. Life without hope is a depressing, suffocating ex-
               perience.
                   The pagan world had been calling some of their chief gods
               "Savior" for some time. Great men, such as Alexander the
               Great, were called "Savior," as were the Roman emperors. But
               all these applications never rose higher than the economic or
               political spheres; only Christianity, building on the rich back-
               ground of the Old Testament, applied the concept of Saviour to
               the spiritual and eternal.

                 For us living in the twentieth century, this letter to Timothy
               carries as much authority as it did to the church members at
               Ephesus. It contains priceless guidance for the church today.
                                                                             17

       Part 3  What is the danger of theological speculation?
   FAITH MIS-  "Nor to occupy themselves with myths and endless gene-
 UNDERSTOOD alogies which promote speculations rather than the divine
               training that is in faith." 1 Tim. 1:4, RSV.
                   Paul moves directly to the point: anything that does not
               lead to faith is pure waste and, worse, destructive. God designs
               that faith should be the beginning and end of divine training.
                   Faith is a dynamic way of life—a personal relationship with
               God wherein man cheerfully demonstrates his trust in God
               by a life habit of obedience. He says Yes to God in prosperity
               and adversity. Faith is the opposite of sin. A sinner is a rebel;
               he distrusts God and does not make Him Lord of his life.
                   When the man of faith turns to his neighbor and witnesses
               to his Lord, he begins to theologize, to explain doctrinally who
               it is that he trusts and for what reasons. The quality of his
               faith, his trusting, obedient relation with God, does not neces-
               sarily depend upon how much formal theology he knows.
                   In what way can you see doctrine (or theology) becoming
               a handicap to faith? In what way can faith make it possible
               to understand doctrine?
                  "The faith that is unto salvation is not a mere intellectual
               assent to the truth. He who waits for entire knowledge before
               he will exercise faith cannot receive blessing from God. It is
               not enough to believe about Christ; we must believe in Him.
               The only faith that will benefit us is that which embraces Him
               as a personal Saviour; which appropriates His merits to our-
               selves. Many hold faith as an opinion. Saving faith is a trans-
               action by which those who receive Christ join themselves in
               covenant relation with God. Genuine faith is life. A living faith
               means an increase of vigor, a confiding trust, by which the
               soul becomes a conquering power."—The Desire of Ages,
               page 347.
                  Strange as it may seem, many people enjoy the bizarre, the
               mystical, the novel, rather than the simple message of the
               gospel. They feel they are on the "inside" when they share
               some novel speculation, and the excitement is often misunder-
               stood for genuine religion. Here Paul makes it clear that a mis-
               understanding of faith can open the door to many kinds of
               useless activity often done under the cloak of respectable
               Christianity. THINK IT THROUGH       Do I substitute the confidence I have in doctrine for the
               daily confidence I should have in the empowering guidance
               of a living Saviour? FURTHER STUDY         Christ's Object Lessons, "To Meet the Bridegroom," pages
               408-416. 18

    Part 4    In what way can even Bible study become a substitute for
   AIM OF faith?
 DOCTRINE     "Whereas the aim of our charge is love that issues from a
               pure heart and a good conscience and sincere faith. Certain
               persons by swerving from these have wandered away into
               vain discussion." 1 Tim. 1:5, 6, RSV.

                  The aim of the Christian ministry (the "charge" given to
               Timothy) is to present before the world a truly loving people, a
               community of Christians that reflects the love and faith of the
               Lord Jesus Christ. It is for this that Christ lingers.
                  "Christ is waiting with longing desire for the manifestation
               of Himself in His church. When the character of Christ shall
               be perfectly reproduced in His people, then He will come to
               claim them as His own.
                  "It is the privilege of every Christian not only to look for
               but to hasten the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. . . . Were
               all who profess His name bearing fruit to His glory, how
               quickly the whole world would be sown with the seed of the
               gospel."—Christ's Object Lessons, page 69.
                   If faith does not produce love, it is not genuine faith. So
               Paul said: "For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth
               any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love."
               Gal. 5:6.
                  Paul's chief concern is that the gospel should make clear
               the new kind of life possible in Christ Jesus. We have often
               found it easier to learn doctrine than to make a life habit out
               of truly loving others. Thus some swerve from the purpose of
               the gospel, finding their security in knowing about the truth,
               rather than living in the truth, loving as Christ loved.

                  "It is contrition and faith and love that enable the soul to
               receive wisdom from heaven. Faith working by love is the key
               of knowledge, and everyone that loveth `knoweth God.' 1 John
               4:7."—The Desire of Ages, page 139.
                  A good conscience depends upon the source of the infor-
               mation that it is guided by. An ignorant conscience will not
               produce a sincere faith any more than a sincere faith can func-
               tion alongside an impure heart or an unintelligent conscience.
               Faith is the key that awakens conscience, purifies the heart,
               and prompts genuine love.

     Part 5   "But we know that the law is good, if a man use it law-   FAITH EXALTS fully; . . . according to the glorious gospel of the blessed
            God, which was committed to my trust." 1 Tim. 1:8-11.
   THE LAW
                  How can a good law be misused and lead to bad religion?
                  Paul hastens to distinguish between teachers who misuse
               the law and the law itself. Neither academic credentials, ob-
               vious literary skills, or a wealth of information will guarantee
               that a theologian rightly understands the law of God.
                  For example, how to apply the Ten Commandments has
               been the point of contention between well-trained theologians
               for centuries. Some say it applied only to the literal Jews,
               others contend that Christians under grace are no longer under
               the law. The problem gets even more difficult when earnest
               Christians are deluded into thinking that outward conformance
               to the law (a necessary and commendable objective) somehow
               provides security and satisfies God's expectations for His
               people.
                   Only genuine faith can rightly understand the purpose of the
               law. The scribes and other teachers of the law in Christ's day
               misunderstood this purpose and were rebuked by our Lord.
               See Matt. 22:29. As Paul said in Romans 7:12, "The law is
               holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good." So he
               reminds the church through Timothy that "the law is good."
               The man of faith knows that without the law no man would
               know God's will or how far man has strayed; faith says Yes
               to whatever God has commanded because faith knows that
               the law tells the truth about God and man.
                  What relationship is there between the law and love?
                  "Love is the fulfilling of the law." Rom. 13:10.

    Part 6    Where do faith and love begin?
 PAUL, AN     "I thank him who has given me strength for this, . .    EXAMPLE OF because I had acted ignorantly in unbelief, and the grace of
FAITH AND our Lord overflowed for me with the faith and love that are
           in Christ Jesus." 1 Tim. 1:12-14, RSV.
     LOVE
                 Read also 1 Tim. 1:15-17.
                 Paul was his own best illustration of what the gospel is all
             about. He had been guilty of misunderstanding the law—not
             as a vain speculator as some, not as others who diminished
             the importance of the law, but as one who confused the pur-
             pose of the law. He had trusted in external obedience and had
             missed the spiritual intent of the law. In serving God with this
             misguided understanding of the law, he had overlooked the
             principle of love and mercy that God Himself was showing to
             all men.
                 When Paul finally accepted Jesus as his Lord, he saw the
             law in a completely new setting. Instead of a burden, it be-
             came a friend—it showed him how much he truly needed grace.
                 Instead of viewing verses 12 to 17 as a digression, we
             should see them as a beautiful snapshot of what the gospel
             will do for anyone who lets the grace of God overflow in his
             life. Gratitude for salvation, for knowing Jesus as a personal
             Friend and Saviour, becomes as spontaneous as breathing. If
             thankfulness does not spring forth naturally, something very
             serious has happened to the spiritual life of a professed Chris-
             tian.
                  Instead of his former "unbelief" (literally, "unfaith"), verse
             13, Paul was a model of living faith (verse 14). Genuine love
             had replaced a merciless self-righteousness that had once
              driven a rabid bigot to kill men in the service of God. What
              greater example could be given of the power of God in Jesus
             Christ? If Paul could be changed, should any man doubt what
              God could do for him? THINK IT THROUGH       If Saul of Tarsus heard the gospel only as interpreted by
              the teachers of the law described in verse 7, do you think
              that there would have been Paul, the converted Pharisee?
              What is the only appropriate response to the gospel? What
              alone proves that Jesus indeed saves sinners?
                   "Satan had claimed that it was impossible for man to obey
              God's commandments; and in our own strength it is true that
              we cannot obey them. But Christ came in the form of humanity,
              and by His perfect obedience He proved that humanity and
              divinity combined can obey every one of God's precepts. . . .
                   "When a soul receives Christ, he receives power to live the
              life of Christ."—Christ's Object Lessons, page 314.  FURTHER STUDY         Christ's Object Lessons, "Without a Wedding Garment,"
              pages 307-311.
                                                                             21

      Part 1   What was the source of Timothy's continued inspiration?  PUBLIC RECOG-
NITION AND     "This charge I commit to you, Timothy, my son, in accord-
             ance with the prophetic utterances which pointed to you, that  CONFIRMATION inspired by them you may wage the good warfare." 1 Tim.
               1:18, RSV.

                  Every Christian is by definition a witness to Christ. In addi-
               tion the church has always recognized that certain persons are
               called to a specific work in Christian service. Such recognition
               has usually been confirmed by public ordination.
                   Timothy had a general charge and a specific task that
               changed frequently over the years. Paul had sent Timothy to
               Ephesus specifically to stabilize the doctrinal foundation in a
               time of conflict. See verse 3. While emphasizing the specific
               assignment and how to handle it, Paul also reminded Timothy
               of his ordination and of the ringing words of support from sea-
               soned elders of the church.
                  Every Christian worker will have occasions when his im-
               mediate assignment is difficult and foreboding and the fear of
               failure seems crushing. Paul knew all this from experience and
               here does for Timothy what he would have been grateful for
               during some of his perplexing days. Today the young pastor,
               like Timothy, should remember the confidence expressed in
               being selected by wise church leaders and realize that such
               public sanction was a recognition of basic qualifications for
               hard duties. Thus he will often find his courage greatly strength-
               ened and his mind cleared for fresh action.
                   "God foresaw the difficulties that His servants [Paul and
               Barnabas] would be called to meet, and, in order that their
               work should be above challenge, He instructed the church by
               revelation to set them apart publicly to the work of the min-
               istry. Their ordination was a public recognition of their divine
               appointment to bear to the Gentiles the glad tidings of the
               gospel....
                   "It was an acknowledged form of designation to an ap-
               pointed office and a recognition of one's authority in that of-
               fice."—The Acts of the Apostles, pages 161, 162.

    Part 2     What are the two weapons that guarantee the Christian's  RELATIONSHIP victory over evil?
 BETWEEN       "This charge I commit to you, Timothy, my son, . . . that
FAITH AND . . . you may wage the good warfare, holding faith and a   CONSCIENCE good conscience." 1 Tim. 1:18, 19a, RSV.
                   Paul states that living, genuine faith and a good conscience
               rests firmly on the conviction that God has spoken through
               inspired men (verses 18, 19). Faith is not built on human logic
               or philosophy; conscience is not safe or consistent if it gets
               its directions from human reasoning or feeling.
                   Conscience enables a person to pass judgment on his own
               acts or thoughts, but it acts only according to the light it has.
               This inner moral monitor is only as dependable as the stan-
               dards it sets up for itself. Thus a conscience can be over-
               scrupulous (1 Cor. 10:25) or seared by abuse (1 Tim. 4:2).
                   The man of faith admits the truth about himself and God
               when he confesses that he is the rebel and wants forgiveness.
               Those who do not admit themselves to be rebels do not ac-
               knowledge Jesus as Lord. Thus their understanding of truth
               is profoundly distorted. Such distortion directly affects the
               quality of conscience. The conscience can be no sharper and
               safer than the information it calls truth.

    Part 3        What erosion usually precedes the collapse of faith?   HOW TO SHIP-   WRECK FAITH        "By rejecting conscience, certain persons have made ship-
               wreck of their faith." 1 Tim. 1:19, RSV.

                  In verse 18 Paul uses the analogy of strategic warfare as
               the original language suggests. In verse 19 Paul uses another
               graphic metaphor, that of the shipwrecked vessel.
                  Hymenaeus and Alexander (verse 20) were leaders among
               those who were teaching strange doctrine and confusing the
               Ephesian church regarding the real aim of the Christian gos-
               pel. Paul struck at the heart of the problem when he noted
               that the faulty concience precedes a shipwrecked faith.
                  This sequence is as old as the apostolic church and as fresh
               as tomorrow. It is a pity but true that those who "thrust away"
               or "reject" a good conscience find things divine less and less
               appealing. In fact, justifying excuses pampers the indulged
               conscience, and a strange blindness sweeps over the soul until
               the blinded one no longer sees or lives in reality.
                  "The Lord requires us to obey the voice of duty, when
               there are other voices all around us urging us to pursue an
               opposite course. It requires earnest attention from us to dis-
               tinguish the voice which speaks from God. We must resist and
               conquer inclination, and obey the voice of conscience without
               parleying or compromise, lest its prompting cease and will and
               impulse control. The word of the Lord comes to us all who have
               not resisted His Spirit by determining not to hear and obey....
                  "Let no man flatter himself that he is a successful man
               unless he preserves the integrity of his conscience, giving
               himself wholly to the truth and to God."—Testimonies, Vol. 5,
               pp. 69, 70.

                  Compromise does not always involve gross sins; it may
               easily be cloaked with the approval of one's peers. Pride of
               education and superior skills, pride of popularity, desire to
               please those who are in power—all such unseen drives can
               argue a good conscience into a self-serving one. The end of
               such compromise is a shipwrecked faith that no longer hears
               the voice of God in either the Bible or conscience.

      Part 4  For whom should Christians earnestly pray?    RELATING TO    "I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers,   CIVIL POWERS intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; for
               kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a
               quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty." 1 Tim.
               2:1, 2.
                   In this second chapter Paul begins his specific counsel re-
               garding matters that needed emphasis in Ephesus and perhaps
               in all the young churches: (1) the importance of intelligent
               prayer (verses 1-8); (2) the part women were to take in public
               worship (verses 9-15).
                   When small in numbers and misunderstood, Christians in
               any age have found it easy to feel detached from the larger
               world about them. But Paul attacked this natural inclination to
               withdraw from civic responsibilities. Especially in public wor-
               ship, Christians are consciously to recognize their involvement
               with all men, high and low. Christianity was to enlighten pro-
               vincial attitudes and to strengthen civil cooperation wherever
               such could be done in good conscience.
                   Public prayer was to include petitions, intercessions, and
               thanksgiving for all men; all men needed the moral lifting
               power of Christians. To pray for another is the first step in
               recognizing another's need and how it can be cared for. Inclu-
               siveness in public prayer would keep the face of the church
               turned toward the world.
                   But what may have been surprising was Paul's counsel to
               pray for Nero and other government leaders who had made life
               difficult for the early Christians. If Paul commanded early Chris-
                tians to pray for such a despot, surely no leader of any govern-
               ment is beyond the circle of Christian sympathy and interces-
               sion.

                  We are reminded of Paul's counsel in Romans 13. Christians
               are not to be known as unpatriotic; that is, they should always
               be working to support the common good and not be identified
               with any particular political faction.
                  "We are not required to defy authorities. Our words, whether
               spoken or written, should be carefully considered, lest we place
               ourselves on record as uttering that which would make us ap-
               pear antagonistic to law and order. We are not to say or do
               anything that would unnecessarily close up our way."—The
               Acts of the Apostles, page 69.

    Part 5  Why should Christians pray for all men everywhere?    MOTIVATION   "This is good, and it is acceptable in the sight of God our  FOR MISSIONS Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the
               knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and there is
               one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus,
               who gave himself as a ransom for all." 1 Tim. 2:3-6, RSV.

                  The instruction already given in this chapter was given
               for two reasons: (1) it would reflect how God has always re-
               lated to all men; (2) such open concern for the welfare of all
               men, regardless of their rank or race, was the only way that
               Christians could please God and do His bidding.
                  Neither prayer nor church activity in general should be lim-
               ited to personal interests. The Christian is global in thought
               and act; he does not interest himself in only part of mankind
               any more than his Lord limited Himself to only a segment of
               mankind.
                  Salvation is not limited by God's willingness but by man's
               reluctance "to come to the knowledge of the truth." Coming
               to "the knowledge of the truth" is the act of faith. Accepting
               "the truth" means that a person recognizes the fact that he
               is a sinner, that he needs divine forgiveness and help, that he
               finds such in accepting Jesus as the Lord of his life, and that
               obedience to truth is hereafter his chief goal in life.

                  What fundamental fact makes Christianity unique and not
               just another useful religion among many others? Verse 5.

                  Probably the most awesome thought expressed in the history
               of man is here reaffirmed by Paul: "There is one God." But
               even more than that: "There is one mediator between God and
               men, the man Christ Jesus." Other religions have emphasized
               monotheism (the oneness of God), but no other religion has
               developed the concept of a God-man mediator, historically
               manifested.
                  Can a more beautiful, moving, powerful thought be uttered
               and contemplated? God, for man's sake, laid aside the security
               of divine rights and became man in order that He could speak
               and act in terms that man could understand. Jesus revealed
               to mankind how God still thought about sinners and what He
               desired to do for them, if they would only be willing to co-
               operate with Him.

    Part 6      What are some of the significant characteristics that dis-
 MEN AND     tinguish people of faith in public worship?
WOMEN OF          "I desire then that in every place the men should pray .. .
 FAITH AT    without anger or quarreling; also that women should adorn
 WORSHIP     themselves modestly and sensibly. . . . Let a woman learn in
             silence with all submissiveness. . . . Yet woman will be saved
             . . . if she continues in faith and love and holiness, with
             modesty." 1 Tim. 2:8-15, RSV.

                 After giving his counsel regarding the universal scope of
               public worship in the Christian congregation, Paul now em-
               phasizes the spirit and behavior of the worshipers. Paul was
               speaking to specific problems that emerged in these emerging
               churches: (1) the need for order and purpose, and (2) the
               need to reduce misunderstanding regarding the. new role for
               women that Paul encouraged at a time when such freedoms
               would have been greatly misinterpreted by the general public.

                  Is Paul more interested in the posture of prayer or the
               spirit in the one who prays? Verse 8.

                  The Ephesus congregation apparently had a number of mem-
               bers who wanted the privilege of being spiritual leaders but
               were more interested in public recognition of their leadership
               skills than in the spirit of the gospel they tried to teach. They
               misunderstood the central feature of Christianity.

                  Why do you think Paul was so explicit in his counsel re-
               garding women in public worship?

                  In Paul's day the rights of women, both private and public,
               were, relatively speaking, nonexistent. Perhaps no one man
               or group of men has surpassed Paul in radically altering the
               status of women. His writings have fostered the emancipation
               of women in securing social, civil, and political rights.
                  But Paul knew the dangers of misunderstanding in a day
               when women of ill repute were easily identified by both their
               extravagant adornment and cosmetics on one hand, and their
               public assertiveness on the other. Paul expected that the sim-
               ple principles of the gospel that cut through all self-indulgence
               and self-assertiveness would be clearly manifested in both
               Christian men and women.

                                                                             29

       Part 1   What was Paul's chief reason for writing to Timothy?
  THE HOUSE-    "I hope to come to you soon, but I am writing these in-
 HOLD OF GOD structions to you so that, if I am delayed, you may know how
               one ought to behave in the household of God, which is the
               church of the living God, the pillar and bulwark of the truth."
               1 Tim. 3:14, 15,115V.

                  Here Paul gives his reason for writing not only the specific
               instructions regarding elders and deacons but also the gen-
               eral summary of his important teachings that we now call
               1 Timothy.
                  Paul planned to visit Timothy in Ephesus soon. But knowing
               the uncertainty of travel and other hazards, Paul wanted to be
               certain that Timothy had in his hands authoritative guidelines
               for the organization of the Ephesians into a model church for
               Asia Minor. Every church since has had the privilege of check-
               ing its own procedures against the inspired instruction given by
               Paul.
                  The church is not a human institution even though it must
               be humanly administered. This fact has been hard to remember
               for many innovators throughout the history of the church. Even
               though the church is a living fellowship, organized by and for
               the general welfare of its members, it is also the "pillar and
               bulwark of the truth."
                  What relationship exists between the behavior of Chris-
               tians and the fact that they are to function as the "pillar and
               bulwark of the truth"? Verse 15.
                  Worshiping and representing a living God requires a living
               dynamic faith that is easily distinguished from the anxious, self-
               indulging men and women living without Christ. The Christian
               church has more assigned to it than merely to proclaim infor-
               mation—even if that information were without error. To be
               the "bulwark" or the buttress of the truth means that truth is
               believable only when the lives of the professing church mem-
               bers back up and clearly give visible structure to the word
               that is preached.
                  The central truth of the gospel is that God is able (Jude 24)
               to keep Christians from sin. Paul proclaims that "we are more
               than conquerors through him that loved us." Rom. 8:37.
                  Only when Christians reveal this power and manifest God's
               purposes will God be rightly represented and vindicated.

     Part 2 What is the great mystery of the universe that could be   THE MYSTERY made known only through revelation?
    OF OUR
  RELIGION  "Great indeed, we confess, is the mystery of our religion:
                 He was manifested in the flesh,
                 vindicated in the Spirit, seen by angels,
                 preached among the nations,
                 believed on in the world, taken up in glory."
                                                           1 Tim. 3:16, RSV.
                 Why does Paul call Christianity a mystery?

                   In the New Testament frequent references are made to the
               mysteries of certain aspects of the gospel and to the gospel
               generally. See Rom. 16:25; 1 Cor. 2:7; Eph. 3:3, 4. But mystery
               is not used here to suggest that something is covered up and
               kept secret. Although Paul uses "mystery" often, he always
               refers to divinely revealed truth that God wants all men to know.
               It is a mystery in the sense that it could be known in no other
               way than by God's revelation.
                   How else, except through revelation, could anyone under-
               stand the incarnation of Jesus or His resurrection?
                   The greatness that Paul stresses is not the mysterious nature
               of the gospel but its importance, its earthshaking possibilities.
               Any genuine Christian reading Paul's letter would quickly say
               Amen!

                                                                               33

    Part 3     What high standards were to guide the church in the selec-   THE ELDER-1  tion of its leaders?

                   "A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one
               wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality,
               apt to teach; not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of
               filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous." 1 Tim.
               3:2, 3.

                   The word "bishop" is the translation for the Greek word
               that literally means "overseer"; in the New Testament this
               word and another translated "elder" are used interchangeably,
               one referring to the scope of his work and the other to the dig-
               nity that befits such a leader.
                   The emphasis on the leader's irreproachable character as
               known among people outside the church as well as by fellow
               Christians is placed in proper perspective. The word "must" is
               strongly emphasized in the Greek as it should be. By the very
               nature of the case, Christian leaders must be living illustrations
               of the truth they profess to teach, not only for the sake of the
               community in general but also as a model for fellow members.
                   Also interesting in Paul's requirements of the elder is that
               there is nothing about this list, except perhaps "apt to teach,"
               that is any different from that expected of all church members.
               Paul does not recognize two spiritual divisions within the
               church: first-class being the clergy, and second-class, the
               laity.
                   "Husband of one wife" means that the church leader must
               be a man who is irreproachable in the area of sexual conduct.
               Although marital fidelity was taken very lightly in Paul's day,
               this instruction has never grown out-of-date. Perhaps it is
               needed to be said today as much as Paul needed to say it then.
                   "Vigilant" means literally, "an abstainer from wine." The
               elder should refrain from all that is harmful and use all else
               judiciously.
                   "Sober" suggests prudence; every church needs sound-
               minded leaders who can detect imbalance and fanaticism on
               one hand and devious liberalism on the other.
                   "Good behaviour" calls for leaders who are true Christian
               gentlemen. They exhibit a fitness and propriety that, sum up
               the previously mentioned traits.
                   "Apt to teach" does not mean merely that the elder should
               be willing to teach but that he be able to teach with a certain
               measure of skill.

    Part 4        How closely do a leader's children affect his church work?   THE ELDER-2
                "He must manage his own household well, keeping his
             children submissive and respectful in every way; for if a man
             does not know how to manage his own household, how can
             he care for God's church?" 1 Tim. 3:4, 5, RSV.

                   For two reasons ill-mannered children are a liability to a
               church leader, whether he be a minister or local elder; they
               are a poor exhibit of the power of Christianity, and they give
               evidence that the father is incompetent for church leadership.
               Paul is using the argument of the less to the greater—if a man
               fails in a smaller task (that of managing his own family), he is
               incapable of successfully managing the many families that
               compose a local congregation.
                   Although a man may possess all the other qualities that
               Paul lists, a recent convert or a hopeful beginner should not
               be elevated to important church responsibilities. Age is not
               Paul's point; spiritual maturity is.
                  What are some of the dangers that may overtake a man
               who has been prematurely placed in a position of heavy re-
               sponsibility? Verse 6.

                  Paul mentions how subtle conceit may be, even in a man of
               good intentions. Pride loses perspective; the affected one
               makes hasty decisions, not realizing the implications of the
               problem. The ability to listen to others is not a mark of a proud
               man or of many inexperienced men. Falling into the same con-
               demnation that Satan has received may sound harsh, but Paul
               was realistic.
                  In determining the qualifications of church leaders, how
               high a premium should be placed on the opinion of persons
               outside the church? Verse 7.

                  Again Paul uses the strong emphasis in the Greek: "He must
               be well thought of by outsiders." RSV. The potential church
               leader should enjoy a favorable reputation. Apparently, he
               should be someone who is already recognized as a man of
               integrity in his community.

    Part 5  How does Paul describe the qualities expected of a dea- THE DEACON-1 con?
                   "Deacons likewise must be serious, not double-tongued,
               not addicted to much wine, not greedy for gain; they must
               hold the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. And
               let them also be tested first; then if they prove themselves
               blameless let them serve as deacons." 1 Tim. 3:8-10, RSV.

                   The precise nature of the deacon's responsibility is not
               made clear in the New Testament, and about all we know is
               found in the above text and Philippians 1:1. In Rom. 16:1 refer-
               ence is made to a woman called a deaconess. (See RSV.)
               Although the seven men, including Stephen, who were ap-
               pointed to aid widows in the Jerusalem church (Acts 6) were
               not called deacons, it seems that their great assistance in re-
               lieving the apostles for preaching caused early leaders like
               Paul to think seriously about such a group in every church.
                   About the only difference between the qualifications for the
               deacon and the elder is that the deacons are not expected to
               be especially trained as official teachers of the church. Paul
               expected the same spiritual and moral standards to be upheld
               by both levels of leadership.
                   Being double-tongued is a serious problem for anyone, but
               it is a grave problem indeed for someone who has the respon-
               sibility of making the rounds of visitation as expected of a
               deacon or an elder. They would hear much that would require
               careful discernment; instead of a peacemaker, a double-
               tongued leader would be a troublemaker.
                   The warning against greed does not indicate that money-
               making is evil. It is a warning against dishonorable gain such
               as tripped up Judas as he handled the disciples' funds. The
                deacon in his personal business should plan to be successful,
                but it should be earned honestly. Certainly the deacon should
               not use his office for personal gain, even though he might not
               do anything legally dishonest. THINK IT THROUGH      Why does Paul again join faith and conscience? Is it be-
               cause Paul demands more than "a good conscience"? Can a
               person have a good conscience and do some very bad acts?

                  Every potential candidate for church office should ask him-
               self whether his conscience can approve his life-style when
               compared with the expectations of God's will.
                  As for the elder, so with the deacon—no one should be
               hurried into church office. There must be a record of mature
               Christian living. Church offices were not made so that the
               careless may be given a chance to prove themselves.

    Part 6   What are the legitimate rewards for those who serve well THE DEACON-2 in church office?
                  "Let deacons be married only once, and let them manage
               their children and their households well; for those who serve
               well as deacons gain a good standing for themselves and also
               great confidence in the faith which is in Christ Jesus." 1 Tim.
               3:12, 13, RSV.

                  Again, as with the elders (verse 2), Paul places a high pre-
               mium on a deacon's marital fidelity and his ability to manage
               his own household. All Christians should be faithful to their
               marital vows; if there is reason to question, that person should
               never be appointed a deacon or an elder.
                  Apparently Paul feels that ill-tempered, disobedient chil-
               dren are sufficient evidence that a man, in spite of other ex-
               ecutive abilities, is disqualified to assume the function of a
               church leader. THINK IT THROUGH      What satisfactions and compensations await a church offi-
               cer who performs his duties conscientiously?

                  Certainly men and women who do their church duties faith-
               fully will enjoy the respect and confidence of their fellow
               church members. More than that, their commitment will be
               noticed by people outside the church and could become an
               avenue of blessing to such.
                  More than the well-deserved commendation and respect of
               others is the church worker's growing confidence in his Lord's
               guidance. He knows that without the assurance of his Lord's
               care and power many would be the occasions for 'defeat and
               discouragement. Nothing prepares a man for largertasks more
               than the settled confidence that God is always able to provide
               the wisdom and strength needed, regardless of the duty as-
               signed. Developing such boldness of faith is the highest form
               of compensation that any Christian could hope for.
                  "The humble worker who obediently responds to the call of
               God may be sure of receiving divine assistance. To accept
               so great and holy a responsibility is itself elevating to the
               character. It calls into action the highest mental and spiritual
               powers, and strengthens and purifies the mind and heart.
               Through faith in the power of God, it is wonderful how strong
               a weak man may become, how decided his efforts, how prolific
               of great results. . .. The more one tries to explain the word of
               God to others, with a love for souls, the plainer it becomes to
               himself. The more we use our knowledge and exercise our
               powers, the more knowledge and power we shall have."—
               Christ's Object Lessons, page 354.

                                                                            37

      Part 1  What special apostasies within the Christian church were
 DEPARTURE predicted by Paul?
      FROM    "Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times some
 DOCTRINAL will depart from the faith by giving heed to deceitful spirits
  INTEGRITY and doctrines of demons, through the pretensions of liars
               whose consciences are seared, who forbid marriage and en-
               join abstinence from foods which God created to be received
               with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth."
               1 Tim. 4:1-3, RSV.
                  "Later times" means in the days to follow, and does not
               especially refer to the last days. In the previous three chapters
               Paul has emphasized that one of the chief responsibilities of
               church leadership is to guard the sacred truth as first pro-
               claimed by the apostles. But, even with such watchfulness,
               apostasies would occur.
                   When Paul left Ephesus some years before writing this
               letter to Timothy (now at Ephesus), what were some of his
               warnings? Acts 20:29, 30.

                  Paul here is more explicit regarding these leaders of deceit
               and some of their false doctrines. They sail under false colors,
               giving the impression that they are the most loyal to the
               church's mission and that what they teach is the deeper mean-
               ing of what the church has always believed, et cetera.
                  Sad but true, a person's conscience can become so seared
               by rationalization and habit that all sensitivity to the voice of
               the Holy Spirit is lost.
                  Some of these devilish doctrines that would appear logical,
               and in a strange way desirable in attaining Christian goals,
               were in the area of asceticism, a visible form of self-denial.
               Self-denial was central to Christian thought, and any promotion
               to encourage a person's self-denial seemed praiseworthy.
                  But in compulsory celibacy and programmed fasting from
               certain foods a strange spirit entered the church. Nowhere in
               the Bible is marriage condemned. In fact in chapter 3, Paul
               declared it proper for church elders and deacons to be faithful
               husbands and the heads of godly families. Likewise, nowhere
               is abstinence from food suggested as a means of developing
               character. The only prohibition of foods in the Bible (Lev. 11;
               Deut. 14) refers to unclean foods, and such food was never
               "created to be received with thanksgiving."

      Part 2   What particular characteristics distinguish a good church
PORTRAIT OF leader?  A GOOD LEADER     "If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things,
               thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up
               in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou
               Nast attained." 1 Tim. 4:6.

                  The reference to a "good minister" does not necessarily
               mean a clergyman; in fact, any church member who jealously
               guards the truths of Christianity from the false teachings that
               so easily creep in would be a "good minister of Jesus Christ."
                  What is at stake is how men are saved and how God dis-
               poses of the sin problem. The evil one will do anything to keep
               this issue confused, especially in the church. The essence of
               genuine faith is that men recognize Jesus to be man's Saviour
               and Example, that there is no good thing that man can do by
               his own effort without the empowering Spirit of God, and that
               God's goal for the Christian is to develop a character like his
               Lord's. Genuine faith and correct doctrine are two sides of
               the same coin.
                  Christianity is more than accepting a list of doctrines. If it
               were only this, the best Christians would be those with the
               sharpest intellect.

                  "It is not enough for us to believe that Jesus is not an
               impostor, and that the religion of the Bible is no cunningly de-
               vised fable. We may believe that the name of Jesus is the
               only name under heaven whereby man may be saved, and yet
               we may not through faith make Him our personal Saviour. It
               is not enough to believe the theory of truth. It is not enough
               to make a profession of faith in Christ and have our names
               registered on the church roll. . . . Whatever our profession, it
               amounts to nothing unless Christ is revealed in works of righ-
               teousness."—Christ's Object Lessons, pages 312, 313.
                  Genuine faith, Paul's theme here and elsewhere, is con-
               cerned about man's relationship with God. Aware of how
               subtle pride is, the man of faith takes no credit for his good
               deeds.
                   "The faith that is unto salvation is not a casual faith, it is
               not the mere consent of the intellect, it is belief rooted in the
               heart, that embraces Christ as a personal Saviour, assured
               that He can save unto the uttermost all that come unto God
                by Him."—Selected Messages, Bk. 1, p. 391.

      Part 3    What kind of discipline is necessary for Christian growth?
 CHRISTIAN
               "Train yourself in godliness; for while bodily training is
 DISCIPLINE of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds
               promise for the present life and also for the life to come."
               1 Tim. 4:7, 8, RSV.

                  The striving of the false teachers and the pretentious liars
               was worse than useless—it led to a false sense of security and
               a self-centered character that misrepresented Christianity.
                  There is a kind of physical exercise that is useful, Paul says
               —the kind that builds up health and provides the best possible
               condition for the spiritual man to grow.
                  But Paul is more concerned about the discipline that the
               Christian applies to his attitudes, habits, and desires. The
               genuine Christian concentrates on those habit patterns that
               are fitting him to live with the redeemed forever.
                  "We can never be saved in indolence and inactivity. There
               is no such thing as a truly converted person living a helpless,
               useless life. It is not possible for us to drift into heaven. No
               sluggard can enter there. If we do not strive to gain an en-
               trance into the kingdom, if we do not seek earnestly to learn
               what constitutes its laws, we are not fitted for a part in it. Those
               who refuse to co-operate with God on earth would not co-oper-
               ate with Him in heaven. It would not be safe to take them to
               heaven."—Christ's Object Lessons, page 280.

                  How does Paul vouch for the rewards of godliness in the
               present life? Verse 9.

                   What is one of the chief motivations that spurs on the
               faithful Christian worker? Verse 10.

                   Godliness does have value in this life; it may or may not
               accompany prosperity, but its blessings are worth more than
               a rich man's fortune. What lies ahead when Jesus sets up His
               kingdom is beyond man's imagination, but the reality of such
               promises is as sure as the promises that have been fulfilled
               in the present life.

     Part 4  What challenge did Paul give to young Timothy?    SETTING THE
             "These things command and teach. Let no man despise
  EXAMPLE thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word,
               in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity." 1 Tim.
               4:11, 12.

                   Verses 11-16 are filled with wise counsel for which Timothy
               and every successful pastor since has been very grateful.
               Probably equally significant is the heightened awareness that
               every church member has of the pastor's responsibilities, lead-
               ing to intelligent understanding and sympathy after reading
               these verses. Paul did not make the mistake of believing that
               a blameless life would be sufficient in fulfilling the responsibil-
               ities of Christian leadership. There would be times when firm,
               clear instruction and direction would have to be given in order
               to correct evil conduct or subversive teachings.
                   The one factor that could have persuaded Timothy to be
               less forceful was his comparative youthfulness, although at
               the time he received this letter he must have been in his mid-
               thirties. He had to contend with sophisticated men, strong and
               influential, who had won their way partly because of their
               apparent piety. But Timothy was commanded to deal forth-
                rightly with the subtle deceptions of the ascetic crowd, regard-
                less of their prestige and his own age.
                   The young leader's best credentials will be to live above
                reproach, an example of those Christian graces that are much
               easier to talk about than to live.

                  "Those who are older must educate the youth, by precept
               and example, to discharge the claims that society and their
               Maker have upon them. Upon these youth must be laid grave
               responsibilities. The question is, Are they capable of govern-
               ing themselves, and standing forth in the purity of their God-
               given manhood, abhorring everything that savors of wicked-
               ness?...
                  "Not for one moment should the youth think that they can
               acceptably fill any position of trust without possessing a good
               character. Just as well might they expect to gather grapes of
               thorns, or figs of thistles."—Counsels to Teachers, page 536.

                                                                                 43

      Part 5    What high premium did Paul place on the Christian lead- SKILL IN PUBLIC er's performance in public?  PERFORMANCE        "Till I come, attend to the public reading of scripture,
               to preaching, to teaching. Do not neglect the gift you have,
               which was given you by prophetic utterance when the elders
               laid their hands upon you. Practice these duties, devote your-
               self to them, so that all may see your progress." 1 Tim. 4:13-
               15, RSV.

                    Although Paul turns specifically to the public work that
                constitutes - the major task of a Christian preacher, his counsel
                should be considered by anyone who is called to lead out in a
               public meeting.
                    Preaching, teaching, and reading the Scriptures is a diffi-
                cult art and must be practiced. The novice, or one who has
               little idea of the sacredness of his work, considers sincerity
               to be enough. How sad, for their sake and for the many who
               have a right to hear the gospel given in a clear, meaningful
               manner.
                    "The man who accepts the position of being mouthpiece
               for God should consider it highly essential that he present the
               truth with all the grace and intelligence he can, that the truth
               may lose nothing in his presentation of it to the people. Those
               who consider it a little thing to speak with an imperfect utter-
               ance dishonor God."—Evangelism, page 665.
                    Reading the Scriptures in public is no easy task and should
               be done only after practice and in such a way that will "charm
               the hearers."—Evangelism, page 666.
                    "The science of reading correctly and with the proper em-
               phasis, is of highest value.' No matter how much knowledge
               you may have acquired in other lines, if you have neglected to
               cultivate your voice and manner of speech so that you can
               speak and read distinctly and intelligently, all your learning
               will be of but little profit; for without voice culture you can-
               not communicate readily and clearly that which you have
               learned....
                    "The tones of the voice have much to do in affecting the
               hearts of those that hear."—Evangelism, pages 666, 667.

                  "The manner in which the truth is presented often has much
               to do in determining whether it will be accepted or rejected."
               —Testimonies, Vol. 4, p. 404.

    Part 6  What relationship exists between the Christian's character  THE GREATEST and the doctrine he believes and shares?
  SERMON    "Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue
               in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and
               them that hear thee." 1 Tim. 4:16.

                   The genuine Christian first prepares himself before he tries
               to convince others. He is his greatest sermon. The effective-
               ness of Christianity rests not on brilliant theological reasoning
               but on the disarming gracefulness, forbearance, and integrity
               of its representatives.
                   God is waiting for a generation who will take Paul's counsel
               seriously. The doctrine is very important; without it Christian
               conviction melts into personal feeling that shifts with the cir-
               cumstances. But doctrine without a demonstration misrepre-
               sents the Lord of the doctrine.
                   The Bible is a light only when it is translated into living
               color in the lives of genuine Christians. "Through the Holy
               Spirit, God's word is a light as it becomes a transforming power
               in the life of the receiver. By implanting in their hearts the
               principles of His word, the Holy Spirit develops in men the
               attributes of God. The light of His glory—His character—is to
               shine forth in His followers."—Christ's Object Lessons, page
               414.
                   The Greek indicates that Paul is not prodding Timothy into
               more exactitude in his personal development or in pastoral
               skills. "Keep on taking heed" would be a better translation.

                  "'Thyself' needs the first attention. First give yourself to
               the Lord for purification and sanctification. A godly example
               will tell more for the truth than the greatest eloquence, unac-
               companied by a well-ordered life. Trim the lamp of the soul,
               and replenish it with the oil of the Spirit....
                  " 'Take heed,' first to yourself, and then to the doctrine.
               Do not let your heart become hardened by sin. Closely ex-
               amine your manners and habits. Compare them with the word
               of God, and then cut away from the life every wrong habit and
               indulgence. Kneel before God, and plead with Him for an un-
               derstanding of His word. Be sure that you know the real prin-
               ciples of the truth; and then when you meet opponents, it will
               not be in your own strength; an angel of God will stand by
               your side, to help in answering every question that may be
               asked."—Gospel Workers, pages 104, 105.

                                                                             45

                                    LESSON OUTLINE
                                    1.   Basic Human Relationships,
                                         1 Tim. 5:1, 2
                                    2.   Responsibility to "Real" Wid-
                                         ows, 1 Tim. 5:3-10
                                    3.   Guidelines for Young Widows,
                                         1 Tim. 5:11-15
                                    4.   Respect for Church Leaders,
                                         1 Tim. 5:17, 18
                                    5.   Impartial Justice, 1 Tim. 5:20
                                    6.   Truth Will Always Be Revealed,
                                         1 Tim. 5:24, 25

     Part 1       How should a Christian admonish a fellow church member?   BASIC HUMAN          "Do not rebuke an older man but exhort him as you would  RELATIONSHIPS     a father; treat younger men like brothers, older women like
               mothers, younger women like sisters, in all purity." 1 Tim.
               5:1, 2, RSV.

                  Church leadership involves personal care for individuals as
               well as developing skills in preaching and in the public read-
               ing of the Scriptures. See chapter 4:13.
                  Some will think they need more attention than truly re-
               quired; others will complain about what they think to be unfair
               practices and attitudes on the part of fellow church mem-
               bers. Always there will be some who will be overlooked be-
               cause they are undemanding, although their need for help will
               be very great.
                  When a younger person must admonish an older, respect for
               age must temper the rebuke. However, age itself does not
               make rebuke unnecessary. But wise is the young man or woman
               who deals gently, even when firmness is required, with the
               person who is older. The counsel is explicit: Do not run
               roughshod over those who are older.
                  No matter how correct one is, a person's usefulness is
               greatly limited by the manner in which he reprimands. Timothy
               was to be an example of Christian love, showing respect and
               deference to all who needed to be admonished.
                  What added caution did Paul give to men as they per-
               formed their church duties among young women? Verse 2.
                  Any breach of propriety may injure or destroy years of ex-
               cellent reputation of even the most devoted, energetic pastor
               or church officer.
                  "The subject of purity and propriety of deportment is one
               to which we [those called to the ministry] must give heed. We
               must guard against the sins of this degenerate age. Let not
               Christ's ambassadors descend to trifling conversation, to fa-
               miliarity with women, married or single. Let them keep their
               proper place with becoming dignity; yet at the same time
               they may be sociable, kind, and courteous to all. They must
               stand aloof from everything that savors of commonness and
               familiarity. This is forbidden ground, upon which it is unsafe
               to set the feet. Every word, every act, should tend to elevate,
               to refine, to ennoble. There is sin in thoughtlessness about
               such matters."—Gospel Workers, page 125. THINK IT THROUGH      Is there anything in my deportment that could be inter-
               preted as an enticement that would appeal to someone else's
               weakness? FURTHER STUDY        Testimonies, Vol. 4, pp. 65, 66. 48

    Part 2   How does Paul distinguish between widows who deserve RESPONSIBILITY special church support and those who do not?
TO "REAL"     "Honor widows who are real widows. If a widow has
  WIDOWS children or grandchildren, let them first learn their religious
             duty to their own family and make some return to their par-
             ents; for this is acceptable in the sight of God. She who is a
             real widow, and is left all alone, has set her hope on God
             and continues in supplications and prayers night and day;
             whereas she who is self-indulgent is dead even while she
             lives. Command this, so that they may be without reproach."
             1 Tim. 5:3-7, RSV.

                   Paul gives considerable counsel regarding the care of
               widows—a problem with many aspects. Such care for wid-
               ows must have been a new concept in the first century A.D.
               If not properly handled, however, it could have rent the young
               church. Not only would it disrupt local church budgets, but
               hazy thinking would divide congregations in endless arguments.
                   Paul knew how sensitive church members would be regard-
               ing the allocation of their funds for the care of needy members.
               His criteria for the widows who truly deserved church help
               were as follows: They were not able to support themselves;
               they had no relatives upon whom they had the right to depend;
               they were worthy—a credit to the church's name—as well as
               needy.
                  How strongly did Paul feel regarding those who did not
               care for the needs of their relatives? Verse 8.

                  The care for widowed parents or grandparents is a respon-
               sibility resting upon all children and is required by the fifth
               commandment. Returning the care given to them in their young
               years of helplessness should be the young's ready response of
               gratitude to those who are entering their older years of relative
               helplessness. No amount of Christian service can possibly ex-
               cuse the abandonment of needy parents or others in the im-
               mediate family.
                  What added qualification does Paul expect of a widow
               past sixty years of age who demonstrates financial need?
               Verses 9,10.

                                                                             49

      Part 3   What was Paul's counsel regarding young widows?
 GUIDELINES
 FOR YOUNG     "But refuse to enrol younger widows; for when they grow
             wanton against Christ they desire to marry, and so they incur
    WIDOWS
               condemnation for having violated their first pledge. Besides
               that, they learn to be idlers, gadding about from house to
               house, and not only idlers but gossips and busybodies, saying
               what they should not. So I would have younger widows
               marry, bear children, rule their households, and give the
               enemy no occasion to revile us. For some have already strayed
               after Satan." 1 Tim. 5:11-15, RSV.

                   Paul is adamant; young widows (apparently those under 60)
               were not to be placed on the list of those for whom the church
               should feel responsible. Such a practice seemed to have al-
               ready proved dangerous for both the woman and the good name
               of the church.
                   Paul is certainly not against remarriage; in fact, he strongly
               urges it. But he is against giving up the Christian faith in order
               to be married once again. Paul's chief concern here is for
               the spiritual welfare of young widows. See also verse 6. The
               loss of a husband creates a problem that unmarried women
               do not experience. Paul wants widows to remarry if possible
               but not for the wrong reasons.
                   To "wax wanton" means to cast off self-restraint, no longer
               restrained even by Christ. Such a person intends to satisfy
               personal desires, regardless; easy it is to rationalize a mar-
               riage with a pagan, becoming pagan again in order to satisfy
               the life-3tyle of the new husband.
                   For Paul nothing is more important than the image of the
               church before a pagan world. Nothing should be done, even
               the formation of a new home, that would "give the enemy . . .
               occasion to revile us."

                  How does Paul stress the inherent responsibility resting
               upon members of the young widow's family, to assist her
               until she finds a way to support herself? Verse 16.

                  Paul's principle is that relatives have first responsibility in
               the care of needy widows. Men are to care for the needs of
               widowed mothers and grandmothers (verse 4), and Christian
               women who have means should assist relatives who are widows
               and need help.

     Part 4  What special considerations should be given to those who   RESPECT FOR labor full time in the preaching-teaching ministry?
   CHURCH    "Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of
  LEADERS double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and
             teaching; for the scripture says, 'You shall not muzzle an ox
             when it is treading out the grain,' and, 'The laborer deserves
             his wages.' " 1 Tim. 5:17, 18, RSV.

                The care necessary in selecting church elders has already
             been emphasized in chapter 3. They are to be exceptional in
             spiritual matters as well as model fathers and homemakers. In
             return for their dedication to church affairs, they deserve double
             honor and respect.
                Those elders who devote themselves exclusively to the up-
             building of the church, the full-time pastor or evangelist, de-
             serve a living wage. In 1 Corinthians 9:9-11 Paul elaborates
             the principle of remuneration that he briefly touches here. Paul
             bases his instruction on a simple principle that settles every-
             thing: "The scripture says." He places an Old Testament state-
             ment (Deut. 25:4) alongside of a New Testament statement
             (Luke 10:7), indicating that the principle is one of long stand-
             ing and has been validated by our Lord Himself. This may be
             the first instance where the words of Jesus are quoted as
             "scripture."

                 How did Paul indicate that the church elder may get the
               opposite of honor as he faithfully pursues his duties? Verse 19.

                  It is a serious matter to charge a church elder with mis-
               conduct—much is at stake. Not only is a man's reputation
               questioned but the good name of the Christian community is
               endangered. III will has often trumped up charges against a
               minister who has had to be firm in rebuking wrongdoing. Not
               a few ministers and other church officers have had their in-
               tegrity questioned by unscrupulous persons.
                  Paul's caution is wise counsel even today. The honor due
               to the office demands that extreme care be given to accusa-
               tions demeaning a church leader. There may be times when
               the accusations are true and the offender must be dealt with.
               But with the indictment must come the credible witness of two
               or three persons or else the accusation is not to stand.

     Part 5   How did Paul order that wrongdoing by church officers be
 IMPARTIAL dealt with?
   JUSTICE    "As for those who persist in sin, rebuke them in the pres-
               ence of all, so that the rest may stand in fear." 1 Tim. 5:20,
               RSV.

                   Paul considers the charge of wrongdoing, especially against
               church officers, a very serious occasion. He rejects unsup-
               ported accusations on one hand, and cover-up of sin on the
               other.
                   The public exposure would remind fellow officers that sin
               is a terrible enemy wherever found and must be handled as
               a poisonous snake; otherwise, the end of unrecognized and
               unpunished sin is a demoralized congregation. Even though
               the offender is to be publicly rebuked, Paul would want it done
               in compassion and tenderness. See 2 Cor. 2:6-8.
                  Paul surely is not referring to gross sins such as stealing,
               adultery, Sabbath breaking, et cetera. These sins would require
               more than a rebuke. Elders who have committed grave sins
               should not continue to hold their office, and the congregation
               itself should be properly informed and be responsible for ap-
               propriate discipline. Paul would not excuse an elder for an
               offense for which he recommended disfellowshipping regular
               members. See 1 Cor. 5:9-13.
                  Against what practice did Paul warn? Verse 21.
                  When guilt has been established, the church leader must be
               given no favors; nothing would sour the spirit of a congrega-
               tion quicker. The younger members would feel cause to ques-
               tion the integrity of all leaders and the organization itself. Paul
               emphasized the importance of this principle by reminding
               Timothy and all other leaders that we all stand under the
               searching eyes of a righteous God.
                  What special counsel does Paul give regarding the qualifi-
               cations of church leaders? Verse 22.
                   If members are elected for church leadership prematurely,
               before they have made a consistent record of unimpeachable
               conduct, the church members have a responsibility for the
               mistakes of these untried leaders. Furthermore, if the mistakes
               of leaders are overlooked for reasons of friendship or timidity,
               again such fellow members are participating in those sins.

    Part 6    How does Paul make clear that selecting men and women    TRUTH WILL for church office, widow privileges, et cetera, is not an impos-
           sible task?
ALWAYS BE
 REVEALED      "The sins of some men are conspicuous, pointing to judg-
           ment, but the sins of others appear later. So also good deeds
           are conspicuous; and even when they are not, they cannot
           remain hidden." I Tim. 5:24, 25, RSV.


               These verses on sins and good deeds close Paul's discus-
           sion on making decisions about people for office, assistance,
           or misconduct. Timothy is told that judging the qualifications
           of men and women is not an impossible task because both sin
           and good deeds are sometimes conspicuous, and when not,
           they will be so eventually. Therefore, delay may be necessary
           in making some decisions. See verse 22.
               There are always three classes: those whose life record is
           clearly unworthy of sacred trust, those whose character invites
           trust, and those who keep you wondering about their real loy-
           alty. For the last class, many good points could be added up
           in their favor, but the discriminating observer also recognizes
           that there is inconsistency, that their good works and a peace-
           able spirit cannot be relied on for all occasions. Don't hurry
           this group into office until the general tenor of the life can be
           more clearly revealed.
               Sin has a way of leaving tracks. "Be sure your sin will find
           you out." Num. 32: 23. Paul restates this almost matter-of-
            factly: "the sins of others appear later." If a person is by-
            passed in a church election, or even if a ministerial ordination
            is postponed, the true character of that person will be revealed
            as time goes on. If quality is there, it will be exposed; but if a
            wrong spirit has been present, it cannot be hid.
                Possibly the ambiguity will always be there—not bad enough
            to censure and not good enough to entrust with sacred office.
            Ellen White said of such: "Some men's sins are open before-
            hand, confessed in penitence, and forsaken, and they go before-
            hand to judgment. Pardon is written over against the names of
            these men. But other men's sins follow after, and are not put
            away by repentance and confession, and these sins will stand
            registered against them in the books of heaven."—Ellen G.
             White Comments, SDA Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, p. 916.

     Part 1   What reason does Paul give for some rejecting the gospel   MORBID CRAV- and craving religious controversy?
   ING FOR    "If any one teaches otherwise and does not agree with   CONTROVERSY the sound words of our Lord Jesus Christ and the teaching
               which accords with godliness, he is puffed up with conceit, he
               knows nothing; he has a morbid craving for controversy and
               for disputes about words, which produce envy, dissension,
               slander, base suspicions." 1 Tim. 6:3, 4, RSV.

                   Paul chose his words carefully and boldly. The first motive
               which he ascribed to those in the church who teach contrary
               to "sound doctrine" (as measured by the "words of our Lord"
               and apostolic teaching "which accords with godliness") is
               vanity, conceit, and pride. In fact, such a person is not only
               conceited, he is really ignorant concerning what he thinks he
               knows most about. He has missed the whole point of the life
               of faith.
                   Paul was not only talking about heretics, for there have
               always been those within the church who have put more em-
               phasis on word battles than on Christlike living. Correct doc-
               trine is intended to lead to a godly life. If doctrinal disputes,
               about even correct doctrine, take precedence over godly liv-
               ing, then the doctrine is misused, and the disputes are afflicted
               with a spiritually dangerous and sometimes fatal disease.
                   But Paul did not here depreciate diligent study and the
               need to keep the doctrine pure as the years go by. Often the
               need would arise for true soldiers of faith to dispute, in a
               Christlike manner, with those who may be improperly handling
               the "sound words of our Lord."

                  "A profession of faith and the possession of truth in the
               soul are two different things. The mere knowledge of truth is
               not enough. We may possess this, but the tenor of our thoughts
               may not be changed. The heart must be converted and sancti-
               fied."—Christ's Object Lessons, page 97.
                  The tragedy set forth in the parable of the bridegroom
               (Matthew 25) is that the five foolish bridesmaids were not lost
               because they did not know the facts about the advent and the
               kind of people their Lord was waiting for. On the contrary,
               they possessed the lamp of doctrine even as the five wise—but
               the five wise allowed the lamp to be the instrument whereby
               the light of truth was reflected in their lives. The five foolish
               made the lamp of doctrine into an end in itself.

     Part 2  What other motivation could impel church members to USING RELIGION make a habit out of controversy in religious matters?    AS A MEANS
                . . and wrangling among men who are depraved in
 TO AN END mind and  bereft of the truth, imagining that godliness is a
               means of gain." 1 Tim. 6:5, RSV.

                   A most insidious motivation for many within the church was
               to use church employment chiefly for financial security and
               personal status rather than an opportunity to work full time
               in Christian witness. The motivation here is greed, whereas
               others were using their religious activity to puff up their con-
               ceit. The two motives are not mutually exclusive. Avaricious
               people watch the clock, personal comfort, and the fringe bene-
               fits more than they watch for the opportunities, in season and
               out, to represent their Lord.
                   These wrong motivations, in other forms, can be a problem
               to the volunteer church worker as well as to the vocational
               church worker.

                  In what way is there gain in godliness? Verse 6.

                  When godliness (God-likeness) is made the objective of all
               one's religious activity, there is great gain indeed. The fruits
               of the Spirit cannot be bought, but the one possessing them
               could hope for nothing more. Pseudogodliness can easily be-
               come a means of gain, but such is not the life of peace, joy,
               and integrity. Only when godliness is the end, and not the
               means to something else, is it even found. "Seek ye first the
               kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things
               shall be added unto you." Matt. 6:33.
                  But wise Paul added "with contentment" because he knew
               that there are many ways that man can convince himself that
               he is godly. However, if he has found genuine contenment,
               seeking no additional material advantage, completely indepen-
               dent from all outward circumstances, yet completely dependent
               upon his Lord, such a person may know the "peace . . . which
               passes all understanding," one of the gains of true godliness.

       Part 3      What is the root of all evil and why?
    THE LOVE
 OF MONEY-1        "But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a
                snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown
                men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is
                the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have
                erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with
                many sorrows." 1 Tim. 6:9, 10.

                    Nowhere did Paul declare it a crime to own property or to
                be rich, any more than he declares it a virtue to be poor. Paul
                is against discontentment of mind and soul, whether it be in
                the rich or the poor, because real contentment is independent
                of either poverty or wealth. See Phil. 4:11-13.
                    But Paul did fear the special temptations that can over-
                whelm the wealthy if they do not maintain a constant guard.
                The temptation is always there to use wrong means for further
                gain or even to maintain their holdings. Wealth has become a
                trap when the whole life is wrapped up in expectations of things
                that wealth can provide: new things, visits to new places, and
                diversions. Paul calls these "foolish and hurtful lusts" that
                plunge men into ruin and destruction.
                    Paul is being practical, not theoretical; he is recording what
                is too often true, examples of which almost everyone has
                known.
                    Money, land, investments become the extension of one's per-
                sonality. Frugality, diligence, foresight are commendable vir-
                tues and will produce material gain, given the right circum-
                stances. But there is something sinister about the human heart
                when unconverted—it wants to make itself self-sufficient.
                Money in civilized lands is merely the means by which self-
                sufficiency is measured. For this reason the "love of money
                is the root of all evil." Out of this soul-soil a bitter root grows,
                and the end of such growth is a diseased, self-centered spirit.

                   "The love of riches has an infatuating, deceptive power. Too
                often those who possess worldly treasure forget that it is God
                who gives them power to get wealth. . . . Their riches, instead
                of awakening gratitude to God, lead to the exaltation of self."
                —Christ's Object Lessons, page 52.

     Part 4  What counsel did Paul give to his wealthy friends in the
 THE LOVE church?   OF MONEY-2
                  "Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not
               highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living
               God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; that they do
               good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute,
               willing to communicate; laying up in store for themselves a
               good foundation against the time to come, so that they may
               lay hold on eternal life." 1 Tim. 6:17-19.

                   It has been difficult for Christian churches, it seems, to
               deal with wealth. On one hand, some churches have, without
               question, in many lands identified with the aristocracy and en-
               joyed their favors. On the other, some churches have supported
               in varying degrees those who would deny the rights of private
               property, almost intimating that a man is sinful or dangerous
               if he is wealthy.
                   Paul fell into neither trap. He knew that circumstances and
               individuals vary and that sin itself has something to do with
               the distressing inequalities in every period of world history.
                   Paul's concern was the same as his Lord's: Rich men are
                to be condemned only if they put their trust in their wealth and
                do not use their opportunities to help others. Furthermore, he
                knew that it would be difficult to identify precisely those who
               were the rich and the poor, for the next question is obvious:
               Compared to whom? Everyone, to some extent, needs to heed
               Paul's counsel not "to set their hopes on uncertain riches."
                   The rich are strongly charged to be humble, not "haughty."
               Not only is flaunting money vulgar; for the Christiartit is sinful.

                    "The Bible condemns no man for being rich, if he has ac-
                quired his riches honestly. Not money, but the love of money,
                is the root of all evil. It is God who gives men power to get
                wealth; and in the hands of him who acts as God's steward,
               using his means unselfishly, wealth is a blessing, both to its
                possessor and to the world. But many, absorbed in their in-
                terest in worldly treasures, become insensible to the claims of
                God and the needs of their fellow men. They regard their wealth
               as a means of glorifying themselves."—The Ministry of Heal-
               ing, page 212.

                                                                               59

      Part 5 What higher motivations than conceit and lust for material
 THE GOOD possessions did Paul set before Timothy?  FIGHT OF FAITH
             "But thou, 0 man of God, flee these things; and follow
               after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meek-
               ness. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal
               life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a
               good profession before many witnesses." 1 Tim. 6:11, 12.

                   Eternal life is again held up before Timothy, not only as
               the steady light at the end of the road, but also as a living
               reality to be experienced all the way down that road. Grasp
               eternal life, don't let go, Paul urges all Christians as does his
               colleague, John. See 1 John 5:12.
                   This quality of life is not given to man without cooperation
               and much effort on his part. Christianity is more than a matter
               of learning doctrine, or even "leaving it all to Jesus." Indeed,
               Jesus will supply all the needed prompting and power to live the
               righteous life (that is, the life without sin) but man must choose
               to accept this power from above and to fight the power from
               below. This is the "good fight of faith."
                  The Greek is specific: "Keep on contending; make a life
               habit of contending." The time will never come, while on earth,
               when the Christian can say that he is beyond the possibility of
               sinning. Our perfect Lord had to contend with the alternatives
               even into Gethsemane; but His victory was always in His will
               to choose "Thy will be done." The choice every day is Yes or
               No to God. The Christian finds his peace and strength in a daily
               Yes to whatever God wants him to do.

                   "It is no part of His plan that souls shall be sustained in the
               battle of life by human sympathy and praise; but He means
               that they shall go without the camp, bearing the reproach,
               fighting the good fight of faith, and standing in His strength
               under every difficulty. God has opened to us all the treasures
               of heaven through the precious gift of His Son, who is fully
               able to uplift, ennoble, and fit us, through His perfection of
               character, for usefulness in this life and for a holy heaven. He
               came to our world and lived as He requires His followers to
               live. His was a life of self-denial and constant self-sacrifice."
               —Testimonies, Vol. 5, p. 579.

     Part 6    What expectation did Paul hold up before Timothy?    CHALLENGE    TO A VICTO-     "I charge you to keep the commandment unstained and
            free from reproach until the appearing of our Lord Jesus
RIOUS LIFE Christ." 1 Tim. 6:14, RSV.

               The natural bent of even Christians is to think God is ex-
           pecting something less than an "unstained" life "free from
           reproach" of all who live the life of faith. But God clearly says
           that sin and faith are incompatible. Faith says Yes to God
           and sin says No.
               How can you live a life of victory over sin? Just as Jesus
           lived it—by faith. "Jesus revealed no qualities, and exercised
           no powers, that men may not have through faith in Him. His
           perfect humanity is that which all His followers may possess,
           if they will be in subjection to God as He was."—The Desire
           of Ages, page 664.
                This emphasis on the victorious life of faith is a major con-
           cern of New Testament writers. God's power to save is not
           limited or only half effective. See 1 John 5:4.
               Jude said it nicely: "Now unto him that is able to keep you
           from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence
           of his glory with exceeding joy." Jude 24.
                This power to change lives so that sin no longer is in con-
           trol is what the good news—the gospel—is all about. Mankind
           no longer needs to be shackled by hereditary or cultivated
           tendencies to sin. "The gospel is to be presented, not as a
           lifeless theory, but as a living force to change the life. God
           desires that the receivers of His grace shall be witnesses to
           its power. . . . He would have His servants bear testimony to
            the fact that through His grace men may possess Christlikeness
           of character, and may rejoice in the assurance of His great
            love. He would have us bear testimony to the fact that He can-
           not be satisfied until the human race are reclaimed and rein-
            stated in their holy privileges as His sons and daughters. . . .
                "Words alone cannot tell it. Let it be reflected in the char-
            acter and manifested in the life. Christ is sitting for His portrait
            in every disciple."—The Desire of Ages, pages 826, 827.

     Part 1   What is the chief end of faith and knowledge? GODLINESS: THE
              "Paul, a servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ,   END OF FAITH to further the faith of God's elect and their knowledge of  AND DOCTRINE the truth which accords with godliness, in hope of eternal
               life which God, who never lies, promised ages ago and at
               the proper time manifested in his word through the preach-
               ing with which I have been entrusted by command of God
               our Savior; to Titus, my true child in a common faith." Titus
               1:1-4, RSV.

                  Paul's consistency and foresight in handling this letter to
               Titus revealed his understanding of the task that they both
               faced. After Paul left Crete, when others joined the congre-
               gation who thus were not present when Titus was appointed
               to leadership, the question of authority would surely arise. This
               letter constituted Titus's credentials, providing great authority
               for the strong counsel that Paul gave in specific areas.
                   The Greek word, here translated "knowledge," refers to
               the understanding that comes through experience. More than
               mere theological information is meant. "Man's advantages for
               obtaining a knowledge of the truth .. . will prove of no benefit
               to him unless the heart is open to receive the truth, and there
               is a conscientious surrender of every habit and practice that
               is opposed to its principles. To those who thus yield themselves
               to God, having an honest desire to know and to do His will,
               the truth is revealed as the power of God for their salvation."
               —The Desire of Ages, pages 455, 456.
                   In his salutation Paul keeps the priorities straight and the
               uniqueness of Christianity clear. The Cretans seemed to have
               had their share of theological speculators and philosophical
               charlatans (1:9-16). The whole point of Christianity, the theme
               that permeates all of Paul's epistles, is that God wants to con-
               demn "sin in the flesh" (Rom. 8:3) by developing the life of
               faith that produces godliness (God-likeness).

                  "A knowledge of the truth depends not so much upon
               strength of intellect as upon pureness of purpose, the simplicity
               of an earnest, dependent faith."—Christ's Object Lessons,
               page 59.

     Part 2      How is error to be met in the Christian church?
  HOW TO  REFUTE ERROR        "He [the bishop] must hold firm to the sure word as taught,
              so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine
              and also to confute those who contradict it. For there are
              many insubordinate men, empty talkers and deceivers . . . ;
              they must be silenced." Titus 1:9, 10, RSV.

                 Here Paul amplifies what he had said regarding elders in
              Timothy's instruction, that is, "apt to teach." 1 Tim. 3:2. In addi-
              tion to a character beyond reproach, the elder should be rec-
              ognized for his intellectual grasp of the gospel and the chief
              arguments against the gospel.
                  "Some think that an education or a thorough knowledge of
              the Scriptures is of little consequence if only a man has the
              Spirit. But God never sends His Spirit to sanction ignorance."
              —Gospel Workers, pages 105, 106.
                  Paul is here concerned, not about open and free discussion
              which has always been the atmosphere in which the church
              has flourished best, but about deceivers whose end product is
              not godliness. Differences of opinion there will always be.
              Those who must be silenced are those whose teachings lead
              to lowered ethical standards and worldly accommodation.
                  The most effective method to silence such disrupters who
              would tailor the church after their own image is to let truth
              be seen in its simplicity and adequacy. The authority of truth
              is far more impressive than the authority of mere office.
                  "We are on dangerous ground when we cannot meet to-
              gether like Christians, and courteously examine 'controverted
              points. I feel like fleeing from the place lest I receive the mold
              of those who cannot candidly investigate the doctrines of the
              Bible.
                  "Those who cannot impartially examine the evidences of a
              position that differs from theirs, are not fit to teach in any de-
              partment of God's cause."—Selected Messages, Bk. 1, p. 411.

                 What is the objective of such forthright refuting? Verse 13.

                  All church discipline is aimed at the restoration of the de-
               linquent members to fellowship.

       Part 3   Why is sin self-deceiving? THE PSYCHOLOGY
   OF TRUTH     "Unto the pure all things are pure: but to them that are
 AND ERROR defiled   and unbelieving is nothing pure; but even their mind
              and conscience is defiled. They profess that they know God;
               but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobe-
               dient, and unto every good work reprobate." Titus 1:15, 16.

                   A very helpful psychological truth is here emphasized: When
               the heart (or spirit of man) is right with God, contact with what
               man has declared unclean cannot make the pure in heart im-
               pure. Conversely, when the heart is not right with God, no
               amount of religious activity can make the heart pure. See
               Matt. 15:10-20.
                   The Greek word for "unbelieving" would better be trans-
               lated "those without faith." The man of faith discerns truth and
               error because he has his eye on the external word of Scripture
               and his heart open to the internal word of the Spirit.
                   The kind of knowledge these teachers (without faith) have
               is different than the knowledge learned by "God's elect." Titus
               1:1. These church members without genuine faith possess only
                information. It never seems to get to the heart so that the life
               is changed.
                   "Many profess to know God, and yet deny Him in their
                works. They reckon themselves among God's peculiar, chosen
               people, who have a special, solemn message entrusted to their
                keeping to sanctify their lives and to give to the world, and
               yet the power of the truth is scarcely felt or manifested in our
               midst in zealous work for God. . . .
                   "What greater delusion can deceive the human mind than
               that in which individuals flatter themselves that they have the
               truth, that they are on the only sure foundation, and that God
               accepts their works because they are actively engaged in
                some work in the cause of God, when they are sinning against
               Him by walking contrary to the expressed will of God? They
               work mechanically, like machinery; but preparation of heart,
               the sanctification of the character, is wanting."—Testimonies
               to Ministers, page 451.

     Part 4      How does Paul connect doctrine and behavior?   LIVING A LIFE   THAT HONORS        "But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine:
              that the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith,
  TRUTH-1
              in charity, and in patience. The aged women likewise, that
              they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers,
              not given to much wine, teachers of good things." Titus 2:1-3.

                  Paul never tires of this theme that is stressed many times
              in his letters to Timothy and Titus—the truth of the gospel will
              refine a person, both in character and in the externals that
              reveal his character.
                  "The truth should be presented in a manner which will make
              it attractive to the intelligent mind. . . . How important that
              the cause of truth be stripped of everything like a false and
              fanatical excitement, that the truth may stand upon its own
              merits, revealing its native purity and exalted character.
                  "The truth of God will never degrade but will elevate the
              receiver, refine his taste, sanctify his judgment, and perfect him
              for the company of the pure and holy angels in the kingdom
              of God."—Testimonies, Vol. 1, pp. 414, 415.
                  Older men and women in the congregation are here given
              specific counsel. Paul chooses his words carefully. "Temper-
              ate," for example, is a translation of a Greek word that means
               self-mastery. Excess, although not to be condoned, may be
              understood easier when observed in youth. But adult Christians
              give evidence of their real maturity when they consistently
              exhibit self-control in physical, mental, and emotional behavior.
                  Older women are specifically counselled to be examples of
               reverent behavior, as befitting sacred persons (as the Greek
               clearly states). Such recognition of women was a new day in
               the world and provided the basis for the elevation of woman-
               hood by the Christian church as time passed.
                   Christian women, whose children may be grown, have a sec-
               ond responsibility almost as great—the training by example
               and precept of the young women in the church.

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        Part 5   What special counsel does Paul give young women and
 LIVING A LIFE men?
 THAT HONORS
                 "Train the young women to love their husbands and chil-
     TRUTH-2
               dren, to be sensible, chaste, domestic, kind, and submissive
               to their husbands, that the word of God may not be dis-
               credited. Likewise urge the younger men to control them-
               selves." Titus 2:4-6, RSV.

                   An interesting feature of Paul's counsel is that he delegates
               to the older women in the church, not to Titus, the task of train-
               ing the young women. Male counsel might be helpful to a de-
               gree, but genuine Christian women older in years should be
               the most effective in helping young women establish their
               homes so that they are a credit to the church in the commu-
               nity.
                   The young married women should be devoted to their hus-
               bands and children. Some will have great difficulty understand-
               ing Paul's counsel, thinking that such an appeal for domestic
               leadership would be restricting their rights as persons. But
               Paul's words here have often been understood only after great
               regret.
                   The attribute, "domestic," emphasizes the high stress placed
               on the wife and mother as the queen of the home. Proverbs 31
               comes to mind.
                   Paul's fullest presentation regarding the relationship of
               Christian wife and husband is found in Ephesians 5:22, 23; he
               wants no mistake made—Christianity does not alter the mar-
               riage relationship—only enhances it.
                   Paul's counsel to younger men seems brief, but not so when
               we think of the extended counsel to Titus and to Timothy who
               were to be living models for young men in their churches.
               Self-mastery is the goal set for all; the sooner it is learned, the
               happier that person will be.

                   "Forbearance and unselfishness mark the words and acts of
               all who live the new life in Christ. As you seek to live His life,
               striving to conquer self and selfishness and to minister to the
               needs of others, you will gain victory after victory. Thus your
               influence will bless the world."—The Ministry of Healing, page
               362.

      Part 6 Why should Titus and every other church member be a  LIVING MODELS model of good behavior?   OF GOD'S WAY
                 "Show yourself in all respects a model of good deeds, and
             in your teaching show integrity, gravity, and sound speech
             that cannot be censured, so that an opponent may be put to
             shame, having nothing evil to say of us." "So that in every-
             thing they may adorn the doctrine of God our Savior." Titus
             2:7, 8, 10, RSV.

                  The unbelieving world has the right to expect something
               exceptionally different and distinctly better from those who
               proclaim that they have the only gospel and know the world's
               only Saviour.
                  The Greek construction emphasizes that Titus has already
               been a good model, and that he should "keep on" being such.
               Probably the best lesson that could be taught in pagan Crete
               would be the living model of young Titus; self-restrained man-
               hood is always a welcome sight.
                  Every Christian is being closely watched by the youth and
               others, in the church and without. Opponents of the truth are
               undone when they are up against a life-style that indeed reflects
               "integrity, gravity, and sound speech." The world is waiting,
               not primarily for new methods or even a new message, but new
               men.

                  "As followers of Christ we should make our words such as
               to be a help and an encouragement to one another in the
               Christian life. Far more than we do, we need to speak of the
               precious chapters in our experience. We should speak of the
               mercy and loving-kindness of God, of the matchless depths of
               the Saviour's love. Our words should be words of praise and
               thanksgiving. If the mind and heart are full of the love of God,
               this will be revealed in the conversation. It will not be a difficult
               matter to impart that which enters into our spiritual life. Great
               thoughts, noble aspirations, clear perceptions of truth, unself-
               ish purposes, yearnings for piety and holiness, will bear fruit
               in words that reveal the character of the heart treasure. When
               Christ is thus revealed in our speech, it will have power in
               winning souls to Him."—Christ's Object Lessons, page 338.

                                                                                 69

     Part 1   Do all men have an opportunity to be saved? GRACE PROVIDES
   REASON     "For the grace of God has appeared for the salvation of
 FOR HOPE all men, training us to renounce irreligion and worldly pas-
               sions, and to live sober, upright, and godly lives in this world,
               awaiting our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our
               great God and Savior Jesus Christ." Titus 2:11-13, RSV.

                   It is difficult to understand how the perverted doctrine of
               predestination and kindred errors arose in view of this text and
               others such as John 1:9 and 1 Timothy 2:3-6. "The Spirit of
               God is freely bestowed to enable every man to lay hold upon
               the means of salvation. . . . Men fail of salvation through their
               own willful refusal of the gift of life."—The Great Controversy,
               page 262. Every person in his quiet, honest moments will ac-
               knowledge that the light of a better way to live has often flashed
               in his life.
                   The light that grace brings to the heart opens up a way of
               life that is contrary to selfish indulgence. It says No to all
               that is self-centered and this-world oriented. It says Yes to a
               totally different life-style which is characterized by self-mastery,
               piety, and harmony with God's expectations.
                   This dramatic triumph of grace is motivated in part by the
               happy hope that Jesus is returning to this earth and will invite
               all those who have been changed by grace to live in His king-
               dom. The return of Jesus is the double blessing adding to the
               rewards a godly life provides even in this life.
                   The Greek is colorful: "Make a habit of watching." Keeping
               the return of Jesus ever before us will provide proper perspec-
               tive as we go about our daily decision making.

                  "While you .. . have been forward to engage in controversy
               with others upon points of our faith, without an exception you
               have been asleep in reference to those things which pertain
               to Christianity. You are not even dreaming of the perilous posi-
               tion you occupy."—Testimonies, Vol. 4, p. 332.

      Part 2  Did Jesus come to save us in our sins or from our sins? GRACE DISPOSES
OF THE SIN    "Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from
  PROBLEM all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zeal-
               ous of good works." Titus 2:14.

                  These few words summarize how God intends to dispose of
               the sin problem. He will not pretend we're good when we really
               aren't. In the last analysis those who truly want their sins for-
               given will be those who have forsaken them.
                  "The religion of Christ means more than the forgiveness of
               sin; it means taking away our sins, and filling the vacuum with
               the graces of the Holy Spirit. . . . When Christ reigns in the
               soul, there is purity, freedom from sin. The glory, the fullness,
               the completeness of the gospel plan is fulfilled in the life."—
               Christ's Object Lessons, pages 419, 420.
                  The chief purpose of Christ's incarnation was to prove that,
               even after thousands of years of sin, men and women could
               live without sin by the power of the indwelling Spirit. His per-
               fect life in human flesh broke the spell of Satan. No longer
               could Satan claim that God was asking too much from His
               creation.
                  Further, Jesus promised all men that if they would place
               their trust in Him, He would help them to be purified from all
               iniquity. Ellen White wrote: "He did not consent to sin. Not
               even by a thought did He yield to temptation. So it may be with
               us. Christ's humanity was united with divinity; He was fitted
               for the conflict by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. And He
               came to make us partakers of the divine nature. So long as
               we are united to Him by faith, sin has no more dominion over
               us. God reaches for the hand of faith in us to direct it to lay
               fast hold upon the divinity of Christ, that we may attain to
               perfection of character."—The Desire of Ages, page 123.

                  "The world needs a practical demonstration of what the
               grace of God can do in restoring to human beings their lost
               kingship, giving them mastery of themselves. There is nothing
               that the world needs so much as a knowledge of the gospel's
               saving power revealed in Christlike lives."—The Ministry of
               Healing, pages 132, 133.

                                                                             73

     Part 3    How serious is Paul regarding the quality life expected, of
   GRACE IS Christians?
 PRACTICAL
                   "Declare these things; exhort and reprove with all author-
               ity. Let no one disregard you. Remind them to be submissive
               to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for any
               honest work, to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to
               be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all men." Titus
               2:15 to 3:2, RSV.

                  Paul's command to the church is to "declare . . . ; exhort
               and reprove. . . . Let no one disregard you." The church must
               be kept pure if the young within are to have good reason to
               stay in. Otherwise, the lack of integrity and courage to call
               sin by its right name will confuse them, causing some to feel
               that there is no place except within their own feelings where
               they can decide right from wrong.
                  Paul reminds Titus that Christians have civic responsibili-
               ties; that Christians, in applying Christ's way of life, should be
               examples of right conduct to those outside the church, begin-
               ning with civil officials.
                  "It is not wise to find fault continually with what is done by
               the rulers of government. It is not our work to attack individ-
               uals or institutions. We should exercise great care lest we be
               understood as putting ourselves in opposition to the civil au-
               thorities....
                  "We should not work in a manner that will mark us out as
               seeming to advocate treason. We should weed out from our
               writings and utterances every expression, that, taken by itself,
               could be so misrepresented as to make it appear antagonistic
               to law and order. Everything should be carefully considered,
               lest we place ourselves on record as encouraging disloyalty
               to our country and its laws."—Testimonies, Vol. 6, p. 394.

                  "You [our ministers] may be true to principle, you may be
               just, honest, and religious; but with it all you must cultivate
               true tenderness of heart, kindness, and courtesy. If a person is
               in error, be the more kind to him; if you are not courteous, you
               may drive him away from Christ."—Testimonies to Ministers,
               page 150.

     Part 4 How do all members of the Godhead cooperate in saving
  GODHEAD man?
 UNITED IN
            "But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our
    GRACE Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of deeds done by
               us in righteousness, but in virtue of his own mercy, by the
               washing of regeneration and renewal in the Holy Spirit, which
               he poured out upon us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior."
               Titus 3:4-6, RSV.

                   The loving-kindness of God is in contrast to the malice,
               envy and hatred that dominates the unconverted man (verse 3).
               The only logical response when a person learns of Him is the
               life of faith that breaks forth in obedience to all that God wants
               him to do. See Titus 2:12.
                   This God appeared to men. He wasn't thought up by wise
               men, nor does He pervade nature so that it is as natural as
               breathing to think religious thoughts. God is a Person who has
               made many contacts with mankind, the chief encounter being
               the incarnation.
                   Paul summarized the cooperation of the Godhead by noting
               the historical witness of Jesus and the internal work of the
               Holy Spirit. The historical, external witness is joined with the
               always current, internal witness, joining the head and the heart
               in unshakable conviction. See John 15:26.
                   God does not wait for any man to make the first move. God's
               love comes first, awakening the response of faith. Both the
               miracle of regeneration (second birth) and the renewing process
               that lasts until every un-Christlike habit is completely worked
               out of the life are results of the empowerment of the Holy Spirit.
               Man's task is to cooperate, willing every day to conform his
               choices to the will of God.

                   "His love received, will make us, in like manner, kind and
               tender, not merely toward those who please us, but to the
               most faulty and erring and sinful.
                   "The children of God are those who are partakers of His
               nature. It is not earthly rank, nor birth, nor nationality, nor re-
               ligious privilege, which proves that we are members of the
               family of God; it is love, a love that embraces all humanity."
               —Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, page 75.

     Part 5   If grace is not thwarted, where will it finally lead any
 GRACE RE- person who receives it?   STORES RIGHT
              "So that we might be justified by his grace and become  RELATIONSHIPS
               heirs in hope of eternal life. The saying is sure." Titus 3:7, 8a,
               RSV.
                  As a result of the Holy Spirit's work in the new birth and
               the beginning of a new life (new creation, 2 Cor. 5:17), the
               new Christian stands as a restored son in the family of God.
               He is now in the right relation with his Father when before
               he was in a "far country."
                  Being a restored son makes him also an heir, looking for-
               ward to the day when the inheritance will indeed be his.
                 What part does faith play when man is justified by grace?
               Eph. 2:8.

                  "Faith is the condition upon which God has seen fit to prom-
               ise pardon to sinners; not that there is any virtue in faith
               whereby salvation is merited, but because faith can lay hold
               of the merits of Christ, the remedy provided for sin."—Ellen
               G. White Comments, SDA Bible Commentary, Vol. 6, p. 1073.
                  What is the real test that genuine faith has truly allowed
               grace to have its way?

                   "Justification by faith in Christ will be made manifest in
               transformation of character. This is the sign to the world of
               the truth of the doctrines we profess. The daily evidence that
               we are a living church is seen in the fact that we are prac-
               ticing the Word. A living testimony goes forth to the world in
               consistent Christian action."—Ellen G. White Comments, SDA
               Bible Commentary, Vol. 6, p. 1071.

                  In order that his personal witness about justification would
               not be misunderstood, Paul emphatically concluded: "The
               saying is sure." See 1 Tim. 1:15; 3:1; 4:9; 2 Tim. 2:11. This
               should be the quiet, dynamic witness that every Christian, by
               speech and life, can tell to his child or to his nonbelieving
               neighbor.The peace promised when a man is in the right rela-
               tion with God (Rom. 5:1) is one of the blessings that confirms
               this great truth.

    Part 6     What relationship does Paul always maintain between be-
 GRACE RE- lief and works?
 VEALED IN
               "I desire you to insist on these things, so that those who  CHANGED LIVES
               have believed in God may be careful to apply themselves to
               good deeds; these are excellent and profitable to men."

                  "Let our people learn to apply themselves to good deeds,
               so as to help cases of urgent need, and not to be unfruitful."
               Titus 3:8, 14, RSV.

                   Paul will soar in theological explanation of what God has
               done for man, but he never forgets the earthly reality of man's
               responsibility in accepting grace. God does not force grace on
               anyone. He will only stand at the door and knock. His purpose
               is to assist man in changing his ways; man's part is to will to
               change, and God's part is to provide the power to change.
                   Grace is inoperative where there is no faith that leads to
               good works. There is more to Christianity than "only believe."
                   "The religion of Christ is something more than talk. The
               righteousness of Christ consists in right actions and works
               from pure, unselfish motives. Outside righteousness, while the
               inward adorning is wanting, will be of no avail."—Testimonies,
               Vol. 3, p. 528.
                   The object of sowing gospel seed is to produce a harvest—
               a fruitful response of people who have allowed the truth to
               assume complete control in their habit patterns.
                   "The divine Husbandman looks for a harvest as the reward
               of His labor and sacrifice. Christ is seeking to reproduce Him-
               self in the hearts of men; and He does this through those who
                believe in Him. The object of the Christian life is fruit bearing
               —the reproduction of Christ's character in the believer, that
               it may be reproduced in others."—Christ's Object Lessons,
               page 67.

        Part 1  What simple fact anchored Paul during this dreary moment
 PORTRAIT OF in his life?
   A VETERAN    "Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, ac-
               cording to the promise of life which is in Christ Jesus, to
               Timothy, my dearly beloved son: Grace, mercy, and peace,
               from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord. I thank God
               whom I serve from my forefathers with pure conscience, that
               without ceasing I have remembrance of thee in my prayers
               night and day." 2 Tim. 1:1-3.
                   Truly a matchless farewell! How would you have addressed
               your beloved friend for the last time?
                   Here was Paul, humiliated by men, in a dreary dungeon re-
               served for criminals, yet he held his head high—he was still
               an apostle of our Lord Jesus. No Nero could take that away
               from him.
                   The essence of the gospel is chiseled here in few words—
               "the promise of life which is in Christ Jesus." Sin had opened
               the door to death. Everything about sin destroys. The end of
               sin is bitterness even though the first sip may be exhilarating.
               But the good news about Jesus is that He is Life, and He came
               to give man life "more abundantly." John 10:10. This life
               changes man now, gives him a whole new reason to live now,
               gives him new energy and new hope in this life. But there is
               life beyond—a thought very high on Paul's mind at that mo-
               ment. The end was near for Paul but not really; the promise of
               his Lord was that there was eternal life ahead.
                   What prayerful wish does Paul ask for Timothy? Verse 2.
                  Paul's tender prayer for Timothy sums up the blessedness
               of genuine Christian living: Grace, mercy, and peace to you,
               dear Timothy. Only in his two letters to Timothy does Paul
               unite these three terms. They are ready to be enjoyed by any-
               one who, like Timothy, is committed to God the Father and
               Christ Jesus our Lord. THINK IT THROUGH      When I am in a difficult place, lonely and perhaps mis-
               understood, do I find reason to give thanks as did Paul?

                   Paul is no complainer. He lets the happy memories that line
               life's hallway flood over the present. He recounts the occasions
               wherein he and Timothy have seen the intervening hand of
               God. He has seen new churches spring up out of unlikely
               places. He has seen young men dream and hope when they
               had lost their courage before Jesus came into their lives.
                   Every Christian should be lining the hall of memory now so
               that there will be many occasions to give thanks in the days
               ahead. FURTHER STUDY          The Acts of the Apostles, pages 498-500.

     Part 2  What is the common bond that tied Paul, Timothy, and   PORTRAIT OF Timothy's family together?
A BELOVED
             "When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is
  DISCIPLE
               in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy
               mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also." 2 Tim.
               1:5.

                  Here Paul is saying that every person is, to a large extent,
               the product of his family background. That is why a good biog-
               raphy does not begin with the featured person's birth but with
               the parents and grandparents as well.
                  Paul thanks God for his own parents (verse 3) who must
               have taught him well regarding the God of Israel; he now
               recognizes in Timothy the same faith that animated Lois and
               Eunice. Faith is a total life response to God. It can best be
               taught by example. How grateful both Paul and Timothy were
               to their parents.
                  The bond between Paul and Timothy, between the aged
               veteran and the stalwart younger disciple, was their common
               faith. They recognized this "sincere," unpretending faith in
               each other, and mutual confidence was the result.

                  Without actually stating the fact, how could Paul emphasize
               more the importance of parental responsibility and privilege?
               Paul points every child or recipient of faith to the simple fact
               that faith is usually a gift which we owe to someone else's
               steadfast example.

                  What kind of spirit did the faith of Paul and Timothy
               create? Verse 7.

                  What a remarkable combination of words—how easy it is
               to have power without love, power without self-control, or self-
               control without love, et cetera. Paul knew what it took to face
               up to earth's toughest challenges and not flinch; he knew how
               to turn every difficulty into a way to preach Jesus Christ, by
               example if not by word.

                                                                            81

      Part 3   What great facts kept Paul and Timothy from being
 A POWERFUL ashamed of Jesus?
     GOSPEL
                   "Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our
               Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflic-
               tions of the gospel according to the power of God; who hath
               saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according
               to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace,
               which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began,
               but is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour
               Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought
               life and immortality to light through the gospel." 2 Tim.
               1:8-10.

                  Paul and Timothy had learned through experience that God
               was very near, in peace and crisis. They had seen their own
               spirit made bold when faithless men would have capitulated.
               They had seen power, love, and self-control develop in their
               own character. Such is the greatest proof of the existence and
               power of God.
                  The time may come for every Christian, as it did for Timothy,
               when it will be a social disgrace to identify with command-
               ment keepers. Paul's call still rings: Join me in suffering dis-
               grace if need be because we represent the God of the gospel!
                  The gospel is the story of Jesus who banished the fear of
               death because He demonstrated that He held the keys of the
               grave. That is power! The gospel also proclaims that Jesus can
               banish those destructive forces that kill the spirit, such as
               envy, fear, pride, and covetousness. That is power! Such a
               gospel is far more than only the forgiveness of sins.

                  "The work of pruning and purifying to fit us for heaven is a
               great work and will cost us much suffering and trial, because
               our wills are not subjected to the will of Christ. We must go
               through the furnace till the fires have consumed the dross and
               we are purified and reflect the divine image. . . .
                  "No cross, no crown. . . . Our Saviour was tried in every
               possible way, and yet He triumphed in God continually. It is
               our privilege to be strong in the strength of God under all cir-
               cumstances and to glory in the cross of Christ."—Testimonies,
               Vol. 3, p. 67.

     Part 4   What was Paul's anchor that empowered him to be such
   REALITY a remarkable Christian witness?   OF PERSONAL
              "For this gospel I was appointed a preacher and apostle    KNOWLEDGE
               and teacher, and therefore I suffer as I do. But I am not
               ashamed, for I know whom I have believed and I am sure
               that he is able to guard until that Day what has been en-
               trusted to me." 2 Tim. 1:11, 12, RSV.

                   Paul was not ashamed even when the whole world was cry-
               ing, Shame! Why? Because Paul knew something and Someone
               that his accusers did not know. That made all the difference.
               Even though the preaching of the gospel will always incite op-
               position and hatred, the Christian knows that he will get no
               better treatment than his Master received.
                   Paul's religion centered in a Person whom he knew through
               experience not merely in information about that Person. "The
               one great purpose of his Christian life had been to serve Him
               whose name had once filled him with contempt; and from this
               purpose no opposition or persecution had been able to turn
               him aside. His faith, made strong by effort and pure by sacri-
               fice, upheld and strengthened him."—The Acts of the Apostles,
               page 500.
                   There is some uncertainty regarding the exact meaning of
               verse 12: The King James version reads "to keep that which I
               have committed unto him against that day." The Greek reads
               literally "to guard my deposit unto that day" and could be
               referring to something Paul has entrusted to God or something
               that God has entrusted to Paul.
                   The context suggests strongly the latter meaning. God was
               able to guard the gospel that Paul above all others had spear-
                headed throughout the Mediterranean world.
                   At this bleak moment when the great teacher was about to
                be killed in disgrace, Timothy was reminded that this deposit
                of truth was in greater hands than Paul's. Jesus would guard
                the preaching of the gospel. Men die, but Jesus guards their
                work and hands it to faithful men who carry on until "that
                Day" when such labor will be forever over.

    Part 5        What did Paul urge Timothy to do? RESPONSIBILITY
 OF FAITH         "Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard
               of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. That good
               thing which was committed unto thee keep by the Holy Ghost
               which dwelleth in us." 2 Tim. 1:13, 14.

                  Paul knew that the temptation would always be there to
               trim the truth, to leave out the unpopular. Why create a crisis?
               Paul knew also that this would lead to spiritual defeat and
               eventual disaster.
                  "Sound" words could be literally translated, "healthy"
               words. Anything other than Paul's straight, clear teaching
               leads to spiritual infection and moral disease.
                  Although intelligent people know that truth must always be
               communicated in a modern way, the "healthy" words of Paul
               are still relevant and can be quickly understood. If Paul were
               discussing chemistry or astronomy, there would be no ques-
               tion regarding the necessity of bringing him up to date. But
               Paul is concerned with faith and sin, responsibility and rebel-
               lion, and these categories have not changed. Man still needs
               a Saviour, not only from the penalty of sin but from its power
               as well.
                  Men, in listening to Paul, could see that his message had
               been produced by a brilliant mind and a great heart of love.
               Such was Timothy's challenge—to carry on now in Paul's stead,
               linking faith and love to a wonderful gospel.
                  In verse 12 the gospel is considered a valuable treasure,
               committed to Paul and now to Timothy, as a great and sacred
               trust. So it has been given to everyone who has ever truly
               called Jesus Lord. What a trust! How few know how valuable
               this knowledge is! How easily this deposit gets marred in the
               hands of proud men!
                  Paul and Timothy had already spent many days contending
               with those who considered themselves teachers of the gospel.
               "Guard the deposit" has been one of the highest duties resting
               on the Christian church for 2,000 years.
                  The guarding cannot be done in human wisdom alone. Only
               the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of truth, can provide the insight and
               perseverence such a duty demands.

    Part 6  What disappointment did Paul face in his closing days?
 SHADOWS
   BEFORE   "This thou knowest, that all they which are in Asia be
 NOONDAY turned away from me, of whom are Phygellus and Hermo-
               genes. The Lord give mercy unto the house of Onesiphorus; for
               he oft refreshed me. . .. The Lord grant unto him that he may
               find mercy of the Lord in that day: and in how many things
               he ministered unto me at Ephesus, thou knowest very well."
               2 Tim. 1:15-18.

                   Paul knew the pain of humiliation by enemies and rejec-
               tion by brethren. Because he could write with such candor and
               courage, many thousands in the years to follow have been
               made strong as they were reminded of his spiritual resources.
                   Jesus understood what it meant to be forsaken by professed
               followers. See John 6:66; Mark 14:50.
                   The glimpse of Onesiphorus is refreshing and worthy of
               much study. When he heard of Paul's plight, his family appar-
               ently made it possible for Onesiphorus to leave their Ephesus
               home and make his way to troubled Rome. Paul had done so
               much for them—it was now their turn.
                   Far from being ashamed of Paul's predicament, he searched
               from Christian to Christian until he discovered where Paul had
               been imprisoned. Somehow he managed to get through, risking
               all the hazards that could easily have befallen him as he iden-
               tified himself with Paul, indicted as a criminal.
                   Paul did not forget such mercies, and he wanted Timothy
               to do all he could for this man's family back in Ephesus. More
               than that, Paul's prayer was that Onesiphorus would be granted
               a merciful entrance into the kingdom of our Lord "in that day."
                   For Paul "that day" was about all he had left to look forward
               10. How many Christians in the centuries that followed took
               courage because of Paul's courage and the gospel that he
               faithfully proclaimed.
                   True friendship cannot be bought; it lasts through hardship,
               suffering, and disgrace.

  PORTRAIT OF lerl AND WOMEN
     OF MIME

     Part 1       What are the particular characteristics of a good soldier?  THE CHRISTIAN
   SOLDIER        "Take your share of suffering as a good soldier of Christ
               Jesus. No soldier on service gets entangled in civilian pur-
               suits, since his aim is to satisfy the one who enlisted him."
               2 Tim. 2:3, 4, RSV.

                   In a world where sin abounds suffering is inevitable. Paul,
               however, refers to the added suffering that anyone who follows
               the example of Jesus will experience. See 3:12.
                   The comparison of a Christian life with that of a soldier's
               suggests that, for both, achievement requires fortitude, often
               under distressing circumstances. Soldiers do not expect a safe
               or easy time.
                   The forces of evil do all that is possible to destroy the be-
               liever's spirit. These forces do not come labeled as evil; they
               may be close loved ones or long-time friends as well as jealous,
               conniving associates. Ellen G. White wrote of the youth: "They
               should be taught that this world is not a parade ground, but
               a battlefield. All are called to endure hardness, as good sol-
               diers. . . . Let them be taught that the true test of character
               is found in the willingness to bear burdens, to take the hard
               place, to do the work that needs to be done, though it brings
               no earthly recognition or reward."—Education, page 295.
                   Furthermore, good soldiers concentrate on what they have
               committed themselves to do; they are wholly at their com-
               manding officer's disposal. In fact, concentration on their main
               task would probably do much to protect their own life as well
               as those around them. This admonition, directed especially to
               the ministry, surely applies to all Christians in the larger sense.
                  The full-time denominational employee who is wholly con-
               secrated to his calling should engage in no outside activities
               that drain his energies or his time from the possibilities and
               challenges of his task for which he is already paid. See The
               Acts of the Apostles, pages 365, 366.
                  The nondenominational employee must also sort out the
               priorities in his life so that ample time and energy may be de-
               voted to his Christian calling.

     Part 2     What are the special characteristics of successful athletes?  THE CHRISTIAN
   ATHLETE     "An athlete is not crowned unless he competes according
            to the rules." 2 Tim. 2:5, RSV.    AND FARMER
                  Paul carries through the concept of fortitude begun in his
               soldier illustration. The successful athlete also must win ac-
               cording to the rules; he must compete honestly and be so
               recognized by his associates.
                  A successful athlete determines long before he wins his
               victories not only that he will abide by the rules during the
               contest, but that he will rigorously train by the rules that lead
               to success. Great accomplishment is not happenstance; dis-
               cipline and personal sacrifice are the predominating aspects
               of his life.
                  "The object of discipline is the training of the child for self-
               government. He should be taught self-reliance and self-control.
               Therefore as soon as he is capable of understanding, his
               reason should be enlisted on the side of obedience. . . . Help
               him to see that all things are under law, and that disobedience
               leads, in the end, to disaster and suffering."—Education, page
               287.

                  What is the special characteristic of the successful farmer?
               Verse 6.

                   The concepts of fortitude, discipline, and patience are‘car-
               ried through from the soldier and athlete. Who questions the
               hard work of the farmer on whom all the world depends for
               food, and thus life itself?
                   Paul's spiritual lesson is this: Those who toil to bring salva-
               tion to others should be partaking of that salvation themselves.
               If Christians are not partaking of this spiritual harvest in their
               own lives, their influence will become barren.
                   "It is our own character and experience that determine our
               influence upon others. In order to convince others of the power
               of Christ's grace, we must know its power in our own hearts
               and lives. The gospel we present for the saving of souls must
               be the gospel by which our own souls are saved."—The Min-
               istry of Healing, page 469.

       Part 3   What connection do you see between the lessons to be
 THE WILLING learned from the soldier-athlete-farmer illustration and Jesus?
   SUFFERER     "Remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead, descended
              from David, as preached in my gospel, the gospel for which
              I am suffering and wearing fetters, like a criminal. But the
              word of God is not fettered. Therefore I endure everything for
              the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation
              which in Christ Jesus goes with eternal glory." 2 Tim. 2:8-10,
              RSV.
                 The main concept so far in the second letter to Timothy is
              that the genuine Christian will face suffering, especially be-
              cause he is a Christian. Now Timothy is told (as a parting re-
              minder) never to forget our Lord. When you are tempted to
              avoid pain and hard times, Paul tells him, remember Jesus
              and think again. When you fully understand the experience of
              Jesus, then you will realize that Christians are called to suffer
             also.
                 Before the victory, there is the cross! Suffering is the road
              to glory. Paul is here speaking not only doctrinally but also
             experientially when he holds up Christ's death and resurrec-
             tion.
                 In reference to his Lord's example, Paul included the
             thought that Jesus had descended from David. Jesus was not
             a make-believe man. Although He mysteriously entered the
             human stream, He did become part of the flow of heredity and
             faced life as every other baby has had 10. "Like every child
             of Adam He accepted the results of the working of the great
             law of heredity.... He came with such a heredity to share our
             sorrows and temptations, and to give us the example of a sin-
             less life....
                 "He [the Father] permitted Him to meet life's peril in com-
             mon with every human soul, to fight the battle as every child
             of humanity must fight it, at the risk of failure and eternal
             loss."—The Desire of Ages, page 49.
                 When Jesus hung on the cross, it seemed that all was lost.
             The gospel seemed not only fettered but defeated. When Paul
             was locked up in that dismal Roman prison soon to be ex-
             ecuted, the gospel seemed doomed. Who could carry on in
             Paul's stead? Paul answered the question forthrightly: "The
             word of God is not fettered"!
                 Jesus, Paul, Timothy, and all the others who have suffered
             for righteousness' sake through the years have had to leave
             the scene—but the gospel moves on in the men and women
             of faith. THINK IT THROUGH     Do I act as if the gospel is unfettered and God still lives
             even when hard times come into my life? FURTHER STUDY       The Acts of the Apostles, pages 462, 463. 90

     Part 4       What responsibility rested upon Timothy?   THE EARNEST
  STUDENT         "Remind them of this, and charge them before the Lord to
               avoid disputing about words, which does no good, but only
               ruins the hearers. Do your best to present yourself to God as
               one approved, a workman who has no need to be ashamed,
               rightly handling the word of truth." 2 Tim. 2:14, 15, RSV.

                   There is always the danger that, for some, Christianity
               should become a matter of doctrine only. The essentials of
               Christianity, for such people, rest in religious information that
               can be argued about among those who hold different view-
               points. Even arguments that support Biblical truth may fall
               short and ruin the hearers if Christianity is left only to the world
               of information and logic.
                   Paul appeals to Timothy to hold high before the young men
               whom he will train that God's genuine workmen move from
               the head to the heart in "handling the word of truth."
                   "God requires the training of the mental faculties. He de-
               signs that His servants shall possess more intelligence and
               clearer discernment than the worldling, and He is displeased
               with those who are too careless or too indolent to become
               efficient, well-informed workers. The Lord bids us love Him
               with all the heart, and with all the soul, and with all the
               strength, and with all the mind. This lays upon us the obligation
               of developing the intellect to its fullest capacity, that with all
               the mind we may know and love our Creator.
                   "If placed under the control of His Spirit, the more thoroughly
               the intellect is cultivated, the more effectively it can be used
               in the service of God. . . .
                   "The Lord desires us to obtain all the education possible,
               with the object in view of imparting our knowledge to others.
               . . . We should not let slip even one opportunity of qualifying
               ourselves intellectually to work for God. . . .
                    "Self-discipline must be practiced by everyone who would
               be a worker for God. This will accomplish more than eloquence
               or the most brilliant talents. An ordinary mind, well disciplined,
               will accomplish more and higher work than will the most highly
               educated mind and the greatest talents without self-control."
               —Christ's Object Lessons, pages 333-335.

      Part 5 What are the external evidences of a pure heart?   EVIDENCES OF   "Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith,   A PURE HEART charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure
               heart." 2 Tim. 2:22.
                    This admonition follows several verses that appeal to every
               Christian to be fit vessels for the Master's use. The chief con-
                dition, no matter how or where one serves, is that each person
               purify himself—a personal work is required before that church
               member can be useful to others.
                    The Greek is very instructive: "Keep on fleeing . . . keep
               on pursuing." Timothy was not being reprimanded but encour-
               aged to maintain his already exemplary life.
                    The emphasis is not on bodily passions but on a deeper
               level where all kinds of unholy passions reside. Think about
               those immature passions that beset everybody, regardless of
               age, when Jesus is not in control of feelings and ambitions.
               With all the advantages that Christians have, there is the pos-
               sibility that immature members will yield to the temptations of
               pride, conceit, dogmatism, contentiousness, and inordinate
               ambition. Keep on fleeing from such immaturity.
                    We should not make excuses for these sins of immaturity;
               we must not negotiate with them or linger in their presence.
               We are to flee as Joseph and Mary fled with Jesus from Her-
               od's wrath—the same Greek word is used to describe their
               haste.
                   There is a spiritual law about fleeing and pursuing; one
               cannot flee sin unless he is actively pursuing righteousness.
               Paul described this law in several ways; for example, in Colos-
               sians 3 he talks about putting off sinful practices and putting
               on the characteristics of Jesus.
                    There is no other way to please God and have the sanctified
               life.

                  "Not all who profess to be workers for Christ are true dis-
               ciples. Among those who bear His name, and who are even
               numbered with His workers, are some who do not represent
               Him in character. They are not governed by His principles.
               These persons are often a cause of perplexity and discourage-
               ment to their fellow workers who are young in Christian experi-
               ence; but none need be misled. Christ has given us a perfect
               example. He bids us follow Him."—The Ministry of Healing,
               page 493.

     Part 6  What characteristics distinguish a person who presents
THE KINDLY Christianity to others?
  TEACHER     "The Lord's servant must not be quarrelsome but kindly
            to every one, an apt teacher, forbearing, correcting his op-
            ponents with gentleness." 2 Tim. 2:24, 25, RSV.

                Here Paul erects a measuring stick by which the Christian
            may measure his Christlikeness in dealing with others. Know-
            ing the doctrine is important and basic, but not enough.
                The Christlike teacher is not a debater who loves the heat
            of battle; in fact, he will avoid a quarrel, knowing that Chris-
            tianity wants to win the heart as well as the head. Such a
            teacher wins by a sweet reasonableness and a gracious cour-
            tesy that disarms his opponent. The Christlike teacher can
            do it no other way.
                "Those who are handling the great, grand, ennobling truths
            of the Word, must ever reveal a spirit deep, earnest, fervent,
             but calm and full of sound sense that the mouths of gainsayers
            may be stopped.
                 "Those who are close students of the Word, following Christ
            in humility of soul, will not go to extremes. The Saviour never
            went to extremes, never lost self-control, never violated the
            laws of good taste. He knew when to speak and when to keep
             silent. . . . He silenced the voice of the caviling priests by
             penetrating beneath the surface and reaching the heart, flash-
             ing light into the mind and awakening the conscience."—Gos-
            pel Workers, page 317.
                Not being prepared to handle the truth properly is another
             form of rudeness. Paul wants Timothy to stress the quality of
             teaching skills that every church member should acquire—"apt
             to teach."
                 Being right is important; being right with meekness is in-
              dispensable. Such a quality is a result of the "pure heart."
             Verse 22.
                   What is the final goal of Christian teachings? Verse 25,
                last part.

                   Paul says that Christian teachers should do more than an-
                swer all opposers and prove them wrong; they are to be brought
                to repentance. There is a moral element in believing or reject-
                ing truth. Behind the rejection of the gospel there is a rebel
                heart unwilling to concede to God.

     Part 1       What characteristics would be widespread in the last days?
      FORM
   WITHOUT         "But understand this, that in the last days there will come
               times of stress. For men will be lovers of self, lovers of money,
    POWER
               proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, un-
               grateful, unholy, inhuman, implacable, slanderers, profligates,
               fierce, haters of good, treacherous, reckless, swollen with
               conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, holding
               the form of religion but denying the power of it. Avoid such
               people." 2 Tim. 3:1-5, RSV.

                   Paul declares under inspiration that the moral climate of
               this world will not improve as time goes on. This simple pre-
               diction could have saved the Western world much unfounded
               and wishful optimism during the nineteenth century and the
               first third of the twentieth.
                   Although every age could be described by Paul's list, he
               seems to suggest here that the last days will be especially
               difficult for those who prize righteousness. These times will be
               perilous because of the kind of men and women who will bring
               stress into the church. These are not obvious worldlings but
               rather those who try to pass off what they do under the cloak
               of religion. They are people whom Christians should be careful
               about associating with—"avoid such people."
                   The characteristics of the five foolish virgins (Matt. 25) are
               reflected in Paul's list, and Ellen White closes her description
               of the foolish virgins with the observation that "their service
               to God degenerates into a form. . . . The apostle Paul points
               out that this will be the special characteristic of those who
               live just before Christ's second coming. [2 Tim. 3:1-5, quoted]."
               —Christ's Object Lessons, page 411.

                  "Shall the selfishness and the ease of those who have
               earthly comforts and attractive homes allure us? Shall we
               cease as moral agencies to use our powers to the saving of
               souls? Shall our voices be indistinct? Then God will put His
               curse upon us who have had so great light, and inscribe upon
               the walls of our homes: 'Lovers of pleasures more than lovers
               of God.' "—Testimonies, Vol. 8, p. 55.

    Part 2       What are some of the marks of a counterfeit faith?   COUNTERFEIT
    FAITH       "For among them are those who make their way into
             households and capture weak women, burdened with sins
             and swayed by various impulses, who will listen to anybody
             and can never arrive at a knowledge of the truth.. . . These
             men also oppose the truth, men of corrupt mind and coun-
             terfeit faith; but they will not get very far, for their folly will
             be plain to all." 2 Tim. 3:6-9, RSV.

                 The astonishing aspect of Paul's summary is that among
             these self-loving, pleasure-seeking church members would be
             some who would actively propagate their own brand of reli-
             gion. Their methods, however, are not open and direct; they
             are secretive and cunning. Methods often are the first clue to
             the authenticity of religious doctrine that sounds acceptable
             on the surface. Another interesting feature of these tradesmen
             of heresy is that they would rather sneak up on a certain class
             of women than on men. Somehow they would sell their ideas
             to souls burdened down with guilt and self-pity.
                A tragedy of life is that so many, young and old, would
             rather spend years searching "new thought," while shying away
             from commitment. Gospel truth is not palatable to them, be-
              cause it requires decision and repentance. Large indeed is
             the amount of money collected each year by merchants of the
             occult, secret wisdom, and "new" light.
                 The problem of ever learning without finding the truth is
              not always the result of insincerity; it may just as easily be the
             problem of not making a strong attempt to practice it. Such
             people "need an experience in the truth that will enable them
              to comprehend the elevated character of the work."—Testimo-
             nies, Vol. 3, p. 53.
                 But Paul gave some timely advice that would help those
              concerned with keeping the faith pure; it would save some
              premature heresy hunting. Give them time, Paul counseled.
              There is something clearly false about counterfeit faith as there
              is something clearly right about truth. Error may spread for
              a while—but it will not get far before exposing itself.

     Part 3    What characteristics set Paul apart from those he has  GENUINE FAITH  described earlier in the third chapter?

                   "But thou host fully known my doctrine, manner of life,
               purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience, persecutions,
               afflictions . . . ; what persecutions I endured: but out of them
               all the Lord delivered me. Yea, and all that will live godly
               in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution." 2 Tim. 3:10-12.

                   In absolute contrast to the sorry description of those with
               a counterfeit faith (verses 1-9) stands Paul's record. Timothy
               and all his hearers, and their hearers down to the end of time,
               should not be overwhelmed by unscrupulous, insincere church
               members who will be responsible for great stress in the church.
               Paul lived through no less stress, and his example is there for
               all men to follow.
                   But Timothy, remember, he said, the Lord rescued me! He
               and all genuine Christians would endure similar experiences if
               they were loyal to the truth and lived a godly life. But through
               it all, the Lord would preserve. The Greek for "thou hast fully
               known" is literally, "you have followed." Timothy not only
               watched, he followed just as one man would follow another
               down a street. He had allowed Paul's faith to become his own.
                   In this summary of his life, Paul was not telling Timothy
               anything new. With only a few hours to live, he was talking like
               a father to his son. His faith in Jesus has made the difference
               —the contrast between his life and that described in verses
               1-5 is self-evident.

                   "The only reason is that the church has conformed to the
               world's standard and therefore awakens no opposition. The
               religion which is current in our day is not of the pure and holy
               character that marked the Christian faith in the days of Christ
               and His apostles. It is only because of the spirit of compromise
               with sin, because the great truths of the word of God are so
               indifferently regarded, because there is so little vital godliness
               in the church, that Christianity is apparently so popular with
               the world. Let there be a revival of the faith and power of the
               early church, and the spirit of persecution will be revived, and
               the fires of persecution will be rekindled."—The Great Con-
               troversy, page 48.

    Part 4   How only can the Scriptures become a basis for faith?   SCRIPTURES,
THE BASIS    "But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned
           and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast
 OF FAITH
               learned them; and that from a child thou hast known the
               holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto sal-
               vation through faith which is in Christ Jesus." 2 Tim. 3:14, 15.

                  This is a remarkable exhortation, one that many Christians
               have overlooked or rejected. As time goes by, there will always
               be those who feel embarrassed or dissatisfied with the old
               truths. They must innovate. They are not satisfied with that
               which is revealed—they must go beyond. They argue for a new
               theology, a new morality, a new image. It may be necessary to
               adapt methods to the changing needs and current thought
               framework as the generations pass—but Paul's counsel is
               "continue in [remain in] what you have learned and have
               firmly believed." Verse 14, RSV.
                   It is one thing to have passed all examinations on the doc-
               trines with a perfect record and quite another to allow them to
               control the desires and decisions of life. People may know
               doctrinal truth and yet not be firm believers. Such is the tragedy
               of the five foolish virgins in Matthew 25.
                   The chief reasons for any man's stability and deep assur-
               ance were also Timothy's: He knew from whom he had learned
               the truth and he knew the Scriptures which formed the basis
               for whatever Paul had taught him in word and example.
                   When Timothy heard Paul for the first time, he recognized
                the voice that he had heard when he read the Scriptures. Paul
                was no innovator; he was consistent with the Old Testament.
                Paul claimed before Agrippa (Acts 26) that he preached nothing
                other than what had already been predicted by the prophets.
                    Knowing about the Messiah was not enough. Timothy had
                to recognize his need for a Saviour, repent of self-will and
                self-indulgence, and commit his life completely to the God he
                heard speaking to him in the Old Testament and in Paul's
                preaching. Timothy's response to Jesus was the beginning of
                the life of faith.

      Part 5    For what purpose was the Bible given to man?
SCRIPTURES
  TRAIN IN      "All scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teach-
             ing, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteous- RIGHTEOUSNESS
               ness." 2 Tim. 3:16, RSV.

                   Timothy had no need to fear for the future even though
               Christianity's chief spokesman and his dearest friend was about
               to be executed. No false teacher need cause him dismay. No
               matter what happened to men, the Holy Scriptures remained as
               the unerring guide to Christian faith and practice.
                   "Profitable for teaching." In verse 15, Timothy was reminded
               that the Scriptures "are able to instruct you for salvation." RSV.
               Such teaching is salvation knowledge, full of God's invitation
               and mercy, full of Jesus Christ as man's example and substi-
               tute. The purpose of the Bible is not merely to teach facts that
               men can discover by their own personal investigation; rather
               it is to teach spiritual truths that can be learned only by divine
               revelation.
                   "For reproof, for correction." Another translation for "re-
               proof" is "refutation." The Scriptures are profitable for the
               refuting of every error and religious fiction; they are the only
               writings in the world that can change sinners into believers
               and commandment keepers. The results of sincere Bible study
               are unsurpassed.
                   "For training in righteousness." The chief purpose of the
               Bible is to lead men to a right relation with God, to that quality
               of life that God can point to as examples of His way of life.

                  "God has been pleased to communicate His truth to the
               world by human agencies, and He Himself, by His Holy Spirit,
               qualified men and enabled them to do this work. He guided
               the mind in the selection of what to speak and what to write.
               The treasure was intrusted to earthen vessels, yet it is, none
               the less, from Heaven. The testimony [of the Bible] is con-
               veyed through the imperfect expression of human language,
               yet it is the testimony of God; and the obedient, believing child
               of God beholds in it the glory of a divine power, full of grace
               and truth."—The Great Controversy, Introduction, pages vi, v11.

     Part 6 What is the ultimate purpose in studying the Bible?    SCRIPTURES
MAKE MAN    "That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished
COMPLETE unto all good works." 2 Tim. 3:17.
                 "Perfect" should be understood as fitted or equipped. The
             man or woman who chooses to identify with God will use His
             divinely revealed writings to teach, to refute, to help restore
             men and women to upright living, and to educate young and
             old in the ways that will produce righteousness of character.
                  In other words, the Christian who wants to find victory over
             sin in his life and who wants a clear statement of what truth
             is so that he can encourage others to accept Jesus as Lord
             will find that the Bible lacks nothing and the Christian will be
             wanting in nothing. All that is needed and more is in the Bible.
                  All the equipment necessary to live victoriously, ceasing to
             sin, is available through the record of Holy Scripture. The
             Christian learns about these divine resources when he studies
              the Bible with the right motives in mind.
                  The study of God's Word is not an end in itself; it should
             always lead to action, to moral restoration, to a change in
             ethics.
                  The man of faith is the only person who can read the Bible
             correctly.
                   "Through faith they [Bible students] come to know God by
              an experimental knowledge. They have proved for themselves
              the reality of His word, the truth of His promises. They have
              tasted, and they know that the Lord is good.
                   "The beloved John had a knowledge gained through his
              own experience. He could testify: [quote 1 John 1:1-3].
                   "So everyone may be able, through his own experience, to
              'set his seal to this, that God is true.' John 3:33, A.R.V. He can
              bear witness to that which he himself has seen and heard and
               felt of the power of Christ. He can testify:
                   "'I needed help, and I found it in Jesus. Every want was sup-
               plied, the hunger of my soul was satisfied; the Bible is to me
               the revelation of Christ. I believe in Jesus because He is to me
               a divine Saviour. I believe the Bible because I have found it to
               be the voice of God to my soul.' "—The Ministry of Healing,
               page 461.

      Part 1      What was Paul's last charge to Timothy?
    PREACH
  THE WORD        "I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus
               Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appear-
               ing and his kingdom; preach the word, be instant in season,
               out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering
               and doctrine." 2 Tim. 4:1, 2.

                    The charge to all Christians, especially the ministry, is to
               "preach the word." In verse three, the equivalent word is
                "sound doctrine"; in verse four, "the truth." This "word" con-
               sists of the Scriptures (2 Tim. 3:15, 16) and all that Timothy
               had heard and learned from Paul and the other apostles. The
               "word" Christians are to proclaim is not their own invention.
               The Christian's duty is to hear the word and to obey it, guard
               it from heresy, and proclaim it wherever men are found without
               embarrassment and without tempering it to curry favor.
                    Such preaching is clothed in urgency. Hearts are not warmed
               and broken by listening to a listless, drowsy witness. The judg-
               ment is coming, and time is uncertain. Half-hearted witnessing,
               lazy presentations, give the lie to the Christian message.
                    Paul added relevancy to urgency—God's word fits the
               needs of all men—convincing argument for the doubtful, re-
               buke for the sinful, and encouragement for the weary or fearful.
                    The Biblical message must be taught in an intelligent man-
               ner. Teaching and preaching need not be separate duties. Pity
               the church that hears not a compassionate witnessing appeal
               in its teaching and a logical, intelligent presentation of truth
               in its preaching.
                   So that Timothy might remember who is behind all proclama-
               tion of the word, Paul pointed him to the One who is ultimately
               responsible for its success—the ever-present God and the com-
               ing Jesus, the Judge of the living and the dead.

     Part 2  Why was Paul greatly concerned that the gospel be
    TEACH preached with unfailing urgency?
THE TRUTH
                "For the time will come when they will not endure sound
             doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to them-
             selves teachers having itching ears; and they shall turn away
             their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But
             watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an
             evangelist." 2 Tim. 4:3-5a.

                 Already in Paul's day (chap. 3:6, 7) the church was plagued
             by those who would seek to remake the gospel after their own
             whims.
                 Paul focused on a strange condition called "itching ears."
             Such people are attracted to certain teachers and preachers
             who find peculiar satisfaction in serving up novelties and con-
             centrating on the curious and sensational. The pity is that such
             people close their ears against the clear, old-fashioned gospel,
             chiefly because the gospel always asks for commitment when
             it promises its blessings.
                 By what standards do some church members judge their
             teachers and preachers? "The apostle does not here [2 Tim.
             4:3, 4] refer to the openly irreligious, but to the professing Chris-
             tians who make inclination their guide, and thus become en-
              slaved by self. Such are willing to listen to those doctrines only
              that do not rebuke their sins or condemn their pleasure-loving
              course. They are offended by the plain words of the faithful
              servants of Christ and choose teachers who praise and flatter
              them."—The Acts of the Apostles, pages 504, 505.
                 Paul's advice to Timothy was simply this: Don't take your
              lead from the prevailing theological fashions of the moment;
              don't quietly leave the scene to the gratifiers of "itching ears."
              When people are unstable, that is the time for the man of faith
              to stand his ground. When people would rather hear anything
              but the sober word, that is the time for conscientious Chris-
              tians to be even more persevering. The deafer the people, the
              more forceful and clear must be the proclamation.

    Part 3   What pressing reason did Paul give for Timothy to fulfill
  KEEPING his ministry?   THE FAITH-1
                  "Make full proof of thy ministry. For I am now ready to
               be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have
               fought a good fight." 2 Tim. 4:5b-7a.

                   Here Paul gives the chief reason for the importance of Tim-
               othy's ministry—Paul was at the point of being executed. Paul
               uses the language of the temple—sacrificial language. The New
               English Bible reads, "My life is being poured out on the altar."
                   "Departure" suggests in the Greek the loosening of a ship's
               mooring rope, or the loosening of a tent's cords as the tent
               goes down. How can anyone read these lines without a lump
               in the throat?
                   But there is a total absence of self-pity or regret in Paul's
               last words. This kind of death he did not deserve. Nevertheless,
               he maintained triumphant hope, and cheer for all, as he showed
               his converts everywhere how the man of faith faces death.
                   What kind of fight was Paul referring to? "The life of the
               apostle Paul was a constant conflict with self. He said, 'I die
                daily.' 1 Corinthians 15:31. His will and his desires every day
               conflicted with duty and the will of God...
                   "At the close of his life of conflict, looking back over its
               struggles and triumphs, he could say, 'I have fought a good
               fight....'
                   "The Christian life is a battle and a march. In this warfare
               there is no release; the effort must be continuous and per-
               severing. It is by unceasing endeavor that we maintain the
               victory over the temptations of Satan. Christian integrity must
               be sought with resistless energy and maintained with a resolute
               fixedness of purpose."—The Ministry of Healing, pages 452,
               453.

                  "Each one has a personal battle to fight. Not even God can
               make our characters noble or our lives useful, unless we be-
               come co-workers with Him. Those who decline the struggle lose
               the strength and joy of victory."—The Ministry of Healing, page
               487.

    Part 4   What settled assurance did Paul have when he faced
  KEEPING death?   THE FAITH-2    "1 have finished the race, I have kept the faith." 2 Tim.
               4:7, RSV.
                   Every Christian has his personal race to run—not against
               anyone else, but on a course that has only one goal, to reflect
               the character of Jesus. Paul likens this course to the public
               footraces that were very familiar to his readers.
                   Timothy had been by his side when Paul had run against
               stiff winds of hostility and misunderstanding. Timothy knew
               well what that course would be like after Paul was gone. Paul's
               record was plain and for all the world to examine—he had not
               faltered. He didn't run halfway and become satisfied with his
               progress. He died growing and running.
                   In what way did Paul keep the faith? Throughout the Timothy
               letters Paul contrasted faith with a counterfeit religious expe-
               rience. Genuine faith produces love and does not mistake
               theological knowledge for true Christian experience. See 1 Tim.
               1. But Paul does not depreciate doctrine when he emphasizes
               faith. Although it is true that a church member may have sound
               doctrine without faith, he cannot have faith without the founda-
               tion of the truth about God and how He saves men. The pur-
               pose of doctrine is to lead men to have a trusting, obedient
               relationship with God—the experience of faith. See 1 Tim. 6;
               2 Tim. 3.
                   Jesus on Calvary also faced death alone. No doubt his
               Lord's experience provided the courage that kept Paul strong.
               "Amid the awful darkness, apparently forsaken of God, Christ
                had drained the last dregs in the cup of human woe. In those
                dreadful hours He had relied upon the evidence of His Father's
               acceptance heretofore given Him. . . . By faith He rested in
                Him whom it had ever been His joy to obey. And as in sub-
                mission He committed Himself to God, the sense of the loss
                of His Father's favor was withdrawn. By faith, Christ was vic-
                tor."—The Desire of Ages, page 756. THINK IT THROUGH       In the minor distresses of life has my faith been strong?
               What is the foundation on which faith for tough times is
               built?
                  "If Christ is my Saviour, my sacrifice, my atonement, then
               I shall never perish. Believing on Him, I have life forevermore.
               Oh, that all who believe the truth would believe in Jesus as
               their own Saviour. I do not mean that cheap faith unsupported
               by works, but that earnest, living, constant, abiding faith, that
               eats the flesh and drinks the blood of the Son of God."—
               Selected Messages, Bk. 2, p. 381.  FURTHER STUDY        The Acts of the Apostles, pages 511-513.
                                                                            107

       Part 5       To whom will the eternal rewards be given?
    LOVE HIS
                   "Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteous-
  APPEARING
                ness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me
                on that Day, and not only to me but also to all who have
                loved his appearing." 2 Tim. 4:8, RSV.

                     Paul never doubted that Jesus would return the second
                 time. He believed Jesus' promises as relayed to him through
                 the other apostles. Furthermore, these firsthand witnesses were
                 corroborated by personal revelation. See 1 Cor. 15:8.
                     The second advent gives meaning and an end to history.
                 Life on earth will not merely repeat itself endlessly, generation
                 after generation, subject to the whims of man or the mysterious
                 forces of nature. There is a goal toward which all mankind
                 moves—the judgment of all and the reward of life everlasting
                 to those who were comfortable and settled into God's way of
                living.
                    The crown (literally, a garland of olive leaves) symbolized
                 victory for those who had identified with righteousness. In this
                text Paul is emphasizing that the reward of eternal life is a
                reward for being righteous, for a life-style that was loyal to
                God. "In the kingdom of God, position is not gained through
                favoritism. It is not earned, nor is it received through an arbi-
                trary bestowal. It is the result of character. The crown and
                the throne are the tokens of a condition attained; they are the
                tokens of self-conquest through our Lord Jesus Christ."—The
                Desire of Ages, page 549.
                    Eternal life awaits all who have made it clear that they are
                 willing to say Yes to whatever God wants them to do—the way
                of righteousness. Such a commitment has fitted them for the
                family of heaven and "the Lord can trust them" to be of that
                number. See Christ's Object Lessons, page 315.
                    Every Christian should feel the confidence of a victor, know-
                ing all the while that each victory was made possible by the
                indwelling Christ. Faith carries within itself the assurance that
                God will open wide the door to those who have trusted and
                obeyed Him.
                    Although we must live life to the full each day, the real
                cause for enthusiasm and meaning to life lies in the Chris-
                tian's love for the advent. It remains for the genuine Christian,
                the "blessed hope."

    Part 6       What was Paul's reason for peace and assurance?
 THE LORD       "But the Lord stood by me and gave me strength to pro-
  GAVE ME    claim the word fully, that all the Gentiles might hear it. . . .
STRENGTH     The Lord will rescue me from every evil and save me for his
             heavenly kingdom." 2 Tim. 4:17, 18, RSV.

                   In times of loneliness and impending death, where did Paul's
               thoughts go? Cut off and virtually abandoned, he longed for
               the touch of an old friend's hand. For a variety of reasons
               everyone who had been ordinarily by his side were gone, ex-
               cept faithful Luke (verse 11). (In a way this information tells
               us as much about the heroism of Luke as about the loneliness
               of Paul.)
                   He urged Timothy to come before winter (verses 9, 21); to
               bring Mark also (the young man he had written off as a coward
               some years before) (verse 11); to bring a winter cloak; and to
               bring books and parchments (verse 13). Here was a man with
               his heart set on the great return of His Lord, but also with a
               hearty longing for Timothy.
                    Although Paul rested his confidence in the Lord, who always
               stood by him, he did not despise the earthly means by which
                the Lord works. When we are lonely, we need friends; when
                we are cold, we need clothing; when we are bored, we need
               books.
                    Nevertheless, there are times when even the best of friends
                cannot provide what the spirit needs. No one can give a per-
                sonal witness for another, especially in times of great stress.
                By Paul's side, unseen by the curious spectators and malicious
                persecutors, was One as real to Paul as his own self: "The
                Lord stood by me."
                    SuchA a Presence was not imagination. He helped Paul to
                witness boldly and convincingly to the truth about Jesus and
                on numerous occasions He delivered Paul from his impas-
                sioned foes.
                    Paul was not so naive as to believe that God would always
                deliver him from physical harm; but he did know that none of
                his enemies could inflict any lasting harm. Evil would not con-
                quer his spirit. In God's time, there would be a place for him
                beyond the reach of suffering about which he knew so much.
                No wonder Paul, in the shadow of the executioner's sword,
                 could sing out, "To him be the glory for ever and ever. Amen."
                 Verse 18, RSV.

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