Free Friday

During my freshmen year at Bethel my New Testament professor would say something along the lines of "Free Friday" on every Friday when he would share something that was very knowledgeable with us. It's a simple yet funny saying. In his context, he would say that meaning he was giving us some pretty good advice that we didn't have to do any work for.

With this post there are three verses from 1 Timothy 1 that I want to share with you today and I hope that they make you think. Here is a little background on 1 Timothy. 1 Timothy was a letter that was written to Timothy from Paul. The main purpose of 1 Timothy is to give encouragement and instruction to Timothy. What makes 1 Timothy special is that it is a personal letter and handbook of church administration and disciple.

1. for the sexually immoral, for those practicing homosexuality, for slave traders and liars and perjures-and for whatever else is contrary to the sound doctrine. (1 Timothy 1:10)

Some people attempt to legitimize homosexuality as an acceptable alternative lifestyle. Even some Christians say people have a right to choose their sexual preference. But the entire Bible (both the Old and New Testaments) calls homosexual behavior a sin. (Leviticus 18:22; Romans 1:18-32; 1 Corinthians 6:9-11) We must be careful, however, to condemn only the practice, and not the people. People who live this lifestyle can be forgiven and their lives can be transformed. The church should be a heaven of forgiveness and healing for repentance against homosexual behavior.

2. Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners-of who I am the worst. (1 Timothy 1:15) 

Paul was never interested in creating in image about himself and about how much of a stud he was. Paul was more about being an example. He never hesitated to share his past, because he knew that his failures would allow others to have hope. I don't have a bad past but sometimes I hesitate to share things with other people. I shouldn't think that way because that is a selfish way to think. My struggles and your struggles could help others and change lives. Paul demonstrated that lowering our guard can be an important step in communicating the gospel. People will not believe the gospel is important if they can't see that it is crucial in your life. How has Christ shown patience with you? Did he stay with you when you doubted and rebelled? Remember that his patience is unlimited for those who love him. Don't be afraid to let others know what Christ has done for you.

3. holding on to faith and a good conscience, which some have rejected and so have suffered shipwreck with regard to the faith. (1 Timothy 1:19)

What do you think of your conscience? What goes through your mind? Do you think God speaks to you through your conscience? That is what I believe. How can you hold onto a good conscience? Treasure your faith in Christ more than anything else and do what you know is right? Each time you deliberately ignore your conscience, you are hardening your heart. Over a period of time your capacity to tell right from wrong will diminish. As you walk with God, he will speak to you through your conscience, letting you know the difference between right and wrong. be sure to act on those inner tugs so that you do what is right-then your conscience will remain clear. Your conscience is a tricky thing to work with. Most of the time it's a quiet voice so it's hard to listen too. That is why practicing and growing your relationship with Christ is so important. The stronger your faith and relationship the louder your conscience becomes.