October 24, 2015
Paul told Timothy that there is a time to retreat and a time to advance. As it regards “youthful lusts,” the command is to “flee.” Unlike the instruction to “stand firm” against the devil (Eph. 6:11), lust is not defeated by direct assault. It is to be avoided. When an image in a movie or magazine causes arousal, turn it off or throw it away! When the stomach growls for the apple, get out of the orchard! Run away! And run towards “righteousness.” “Pursue” it. Chase after it. Pursuing righteousness leaves less time for lustful temptation. Pull your affections off your idols and put them on Jesus. Pursue Christ!
October 23, 2015
This is the powerful, world-changing strategy of discipleship through the process of multiplication! Paul told Timothy to disciple others in the same way he had been discipled. We all need a Paul to mentor us. A Barnabas to walk alongside as a peer to encourage us. And a Timothy that we can invest in and disciple. Are you seeking these three powerful relationships?
October 23, 2014
What was the “Good News” that Paul preached? Answer: Christ crucified and raised from the dead. This is the news event that we are to proclaim. For the gospel is not good advice, it’s good news. And news is to be announced. Some will believe and some won’t. But for those who do believe and accept this good news as truth, theirs is eternal life in Christ. Many of us are news “junkies,” glued to our 24 hour news stations and internet outlets. We ask if others have seen the latest football score or weather report. Yet, do we “always remember” to proclaim the greatest good news of all?
October 24, 2013
This is the way that the Lord wants us to influence our generation. Winning the argument will not win the lost. We overcome with kindness, patience and gentleness. This does not mean withdrawal or surrender to the world’s system. But it does mean that we fight the battle with spiritual, not worldly weapons.
October 23, 2013
The powerful, world-changing strategy of multiplication discipleship! Paul told Timothy to disciple others in the same way he had been discipled. We all need a Paul to mentor us. A Barnabas to walk along side as a peer to encourage us. And a Timothy that we can invest in and disciple. Do you have these three powerful relationships?
October 24, 2012
Paul taught Timothy how to respond to EGR (Extra Grace Required) people. He told him not to quarrel, be kind, teach and finally just “be patient” (be forbearing, enduring). In other words, put up with them. Paul goes on to say that when we are gentle with EGRs, perhaps God will change their hearts and they will “come to their senses and escape the devil’s trap.” If you don’t know any EGRs, look in the mirror, it may be you.
October 23, 2012
Paul taught Timothy the power of discipleship multiplication. Paul told him to teach those who are “trustworthy” and “able” to teach others. Pour your life into a few reliable men, teaching them what I taught you, and challenging them to do likewise. This is the divine plan for reaching the world with the gospel. With whom are you investing your life?
October 23, 2011
Spiritual multiplication strategy. I teach you and you teach three and they teach three and we reach the world with the gospel. Two questions: Are you on the road for Jesus? And who are you taking with you?
October 23, 2009
How to read Scripture. Reflect & ask the Lord.