Immerse: Messiah - Flipbook - Page 250
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IMMERSE
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MESSIAH
4:1–5:1
Christ was revealed in a human body
and vindicated by the Spirit.
He was seen by angels
and announced to the nations.
He was believed in throughout the world
and taken to heaven in glory.
Now the Holy Spirit tells us clearly that in the last times some will turn
away from the true faith; they will follow deceptive spirits and teachings
that come from demons. These people are hypocrites and liars, and their
consciences are dead.
They will say it is wrong to be married and wrong to eat certain foods.
But God created those foods to be eaten with thanks by faithful people
who know the truth. Since everything God created is good, we should not
reject any of it but receive it with thanks. For we know it is made acceptable by the word of God and prayer.
If you explain these things to the brothers and sisters, Timothy, you will
be a worthy servant of Christ Jesus, one who is nourished by the message
of faith and the good teaching you have followed. Do not waste time arguing over godless ideas and old wives’ tales. Instead, train yourself to be
godly. “Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better,
promising benefits in this life and in the life to come.” This is a trustworthy
saying, and everyone should accept it. This is why we work hard and continue to struggle, for our hope is in the living God, who is the Savior of all
people and particularly of all believers.
Teach these things and insist that everyone learn them. Don’t let anyone
think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in
what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity.
Until I get there, focus on reading the Scriptures to the church, encouraging the believers, and teaching them.
Do not neglect the spiritual gift you received through the prophecy spoken over you when the elders of the church laid their hands on you. Give
your complete attention to these matters. Throw yourself into your tasks
so that everyone will see your progress. Keep a close watch on how you
live and on your teaching. Stay true to what is right for the sake of your
own salvation and the salvation of those who hear you.
Never speak harshly to an older man, but appeal to him respectfully as you
would to your own father. Talk to younger men as you would to your own
