14/ Remind them of these things, and solemnly charge them in the presence of God not to wrangle about words, which is useless and leads to the ruin of the hearers.
15/ Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth.
16/ But avoid worldly and empty chatter, for it will lead to further ungodliness,
17/ and their talk will spread like gangrene. Among them are Hymenaeus and Philetus,
18/ men who have gone astray from the truth saying that the resurrection has already taken place, and they upset the faith of some.
19/ Nevertheless, the firm foundation of God stands, having this seal, “The Lord knows those who are His,” and, “Everyone who names the name of the Lord is to abstain from wickedness.”
20/ Now in a large house there are not only gold and silver vessels, but also vessels of wood and of earthenware, and some to honor and some to dishonor.
21/ Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from these things, he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified, useful to the Master, prepared for every good work.
22/ Now flee from youthful lusts and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart.
23/ But refuse foolish and ignorant speculations, knowing that they produce quarrels.
24/ The Lord’s bond-servant must not be quarrelsome, but be kind to all, able to teach, patient when wronged,
25/ with gentleness correcting those who are in opposition, if perhaps God may grant them repentance leading to the knowledge of the truth,
26/ and they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, having been held captive by him to do his will.
This foundation has two writings on it. One speaks our comfort. None can overthrow the faith of any whom God hath chosen. The other speaks our duty. Those who would have the comfort of the privilege, must make conscience of the duty Christ gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, Tit 2:14.
The church of Christ is like a dwelling: some furniture is of great value; some of smaller value, and put to meaner uses. Some professors of religion are like vessels of wood and earth. When the vessels of dishonour are cast out to be destroyed, the others will be filled with all the fulness of God. We must see to it that we are holy vessels. Every one in the church whom God approves, will be devoted to his Master's service, and thus fitted for his use.
Teaching, not persecution, is the Scripture method of dealing with those in error.
The same God who gives the discovery of the truth, by his grace brings us to acknowledge it, otherwise our hearts would continue to rebel against it. There is no peradventure, in respect of God's pardoning those who do repent; but we cannot tell that he will give repentance to those who oppose his will. Sinners are taken in a snare, and in the worst snare, because it is the devil's; they are slaves to him. And if any long for deliverance, let them remember they never can escape, except by repentance, which is the gift of God; and we must ask it of him by earnest, persevering prayer.
No comments:
Post a Comment