I Timothy 4:1-5

I Timothy 4:1-5

After having outlined the common confession, Paul moves to warn about the opposite. The Holy Spirit explicitly says that people would reject Orthodox faith. Some scholars believe that this refers to the doctrines Paul has just outlined. The Spirit explicitly warned of this coming apostasy. These people follow doctrines that are designed and developed by the powers of the demonic. They might not actively seek demonic guidance, but they are nonetheless deceived and led to a point that return to orthodox faith is not possible. It is not possible because their conscience has been destroyed as with a branding iron. In ancient times criminals would be branded, leaving them with a mark that never left them. Paul here indicates that those who fall away have a conscience that is equally obvious. What does this look like? In verse 3, Paul gives an example; many look at this verse as descriptions of specific denominations or fellowships. But there's more to it than trying to pin the label heretic on someone. What is portrayed here is an attempt at “works righteousness and salvation.” This is about the heresy of “earn-by-doing”. There are specific cults and sects that teach this heresy. But this has application beyond any one specific group. Anyone who thinks or teaches salvation by earning is part of this heresy. 

In verses 4 and 5, Paul describes not earning but loving gratitude as expressed in holy living. Rather than trying to find someone else to label as deceived by demons, we need to make sure that our lives reflect gratitude and love that express themselves in holy living.

“Thank you Lord that I am saved by Your Grace and not what I attempt to do. AMEN”.