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CHURCH AS PILLAR AND SUPPORT OF THE TRUTH
14 I am writing these things to you, hoping to come to you before long; 15 but in case I am delayed, I write so that you will know how one should act in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and support of the truth. 16 Beyond question, great is the mystery of godliness: He who was revealed in the flesh, was vindicated in the Spirit, seen by angels, proclaimed among the nations, believed on in the world, taken up in glory. – 1 Timothy 3:13-16
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In this letter of Paul to Timothy, his purpose is to ensure that there isn’t time wasted in giving of the instructions to the Gentile believers as to how one should act in the household of God. Paul calls the family of believers as the church of the living God, the pillar and support of the truth.
What a clear picture he paints in this letter of the body of believers who are the support or the ground that the truth of God’s word rest. What a big responsibility we have as Christians towards seeking and bringing truth into the world! How can a believer bring the gospel if he has no hunger for the law and the word of God? How can Christians preach the Good News if their lives do not manifest the life that comes only from the living word of God?
In verse 16, Paul discusses the mystery of godliness. Believers do not have a clue what godliness is until the Lord Jesus Christ became flesh and showed us what it is to be godly.
The previous guidelines stated in the earlier verses before this passage was laid down in detail so that there will be no confusion or chaos in the body of Christ. Paul clearly stated how Christians must live their lives blameless and pure, especially those in leadership position, as it may encourage or hinder the spiritual growth of other believers in that church.
How many churches are keeping this important role that all the body of believers must safeguard against corruption and the false teachings and doctrines that may have infiltrated the assembly of God’s people? It is a sad fate to watch many so-called Christians who do not even follow God’s order, law and discipline or submit to authorities that God has given them to follow. When we are mixed up with world systems, we are compromising the sanctification given to us through the Holy Spirit to live holy and pure lives.
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REFLECTION
• How can the church fail in being the pillar and support of truth?