Christian Leader
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Philippians 1.1–6 Partners
But most importantly, it speaks foremost of our mysterious union with Christ, in which we not only have his inheritance but also very HIMSELF; this mysterious transformation is based on the forensic (legal) transformation whereby God has announced us ‘righteous’ for the sake of Christ. Continue reading
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1 Timothy 6.17–21 Guard the Truth behind Feeding the Hungry
Today’s reflection concludes 1 Timothy. As he rounds off the letter, Paul employs the use and meaning of money, both substantial and metaphorical, once again to teach the truth about God and his desire. 17 Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which Continue reading
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1 Timothy 5.22–25 Be Purified
Paul’s urge for Timothy is not just a good piece of advice but a heartfelt, desperate, and stern admonishment for a leader and a believer. Nothing may lag behind. 22 Do not be hasty in the laying on of hands, and do not share in the sins of others. Keep yourself pure. By context, it must Continue reading
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1 Timothy 5.19–21 Making a Case
Today’s passage is about dealing with accusations. What is God’s principle in this? To what extent should you punish, and to what end? 19 Do not entertain an accusation against an elder unless it is brought by two or three witnesses. ‘Entertain an accusation’ in the sense of to ‘give attention or consideration to (an idea Continue reading
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1 Timothy 5.16–18 Allocation
How do you prioritise your tasks? Is it ‘the most immediately urgent things first’? Consider Paul’s words to Timothy today and pray that we may do this wisely. 16 If any woman who is a believer has widows in her care, she should continue to help them and not let the church be burdened with them, Continue reading
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1 Timothy 5.11–15 Babylon vs Wilderness
Through the expression of marriage, Paul once again teaches Timothy the one thing he should look to when shepherding the Ephesian congregation. Continue reading
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1 Timothy 5.9–10 Criterion
Today’s short passage is about who should be on the list of poor relief recipients. Reading these words, watch how your mind travels out searching, but make sure it comes back to the first and foremost point. 9 No widow may be put on the list of widows unless she is over sixty, has been faithful Continue reading
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1 Timothy 4.11–14 The Calling
Do you sometimes feel inadequate for the things you are supposed to do? The key to turning the inadequacy into adequacy may lie in understanding who it is that commissioned you to it. 11-12 Command and teach these things. Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers Continue reading
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1 Timothy 3.11–13 The Perfect Housekeeping
The standard seems high. But not because of the persons’ profiles but because of Jesus’ profile, who is the proficient manager of the house. He makes sure God’s purpose advances despite the outward appearances of the house, whether messy or tidy. The perfect housekeeping advances the work of God, no matter how adverse or favourable Continue reading
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1 Timothy 3.8–10 The Mystery of Faith
The ‘qualification’ for overseers is followed by that for deacons. What is the mystery of faith they are to hold onto? How blameless should they be? Is it far from how Abraham was promised by God that he would be made blameless? Compare the following with your own standard for those who ‘deserve’ to be Continue reading
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