Apostolic Commentary on 1 Timothy Chapter 4
The Great Apostasy – Warnings against False Teachers
By Derrick P. Rodgers
6.9.14
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DISCERNING THE SOURCE OF INFLUENCE IN THE CHURCH:

While influence is often attractive and can be very convincing at times, it is our responsibility to look past the talent, charisma and emotionalism and discern the source of that influence and measure it in light of God’s Holy Word.

There are influential people among us today, brandishing hypocrisy, false doctrine and false patterns of ministry in a subtle, ambiguous or blatant manner with absolutely no feelings or conviction for the mode of operation they are executing. These individuals calculate these items with blended truth for the consumption of the saints. Regrettably, these individuals are more than likely seared in their conscience without any capacity for pure truth.

The spirit of God has clearly revealed that there will be some who will turn away from the faith and follow demon spirits and deceptive teaching of “conscience depraved” and “callous influential people,” all while satisfying church attendance.

What is the source of influence affecting your life? Influence does not always equate to Godly endorsement. Let us discern the source of influence being wielded over us.

Now the Spirit explicitly says that in the later times some will desert the faith and occupy themselves with deceiving spirits and demonic teachings, influenced by the hypocrisy of liars whose consciences are seared. (1 Timothy 4:1, 2)

A GOOD MINISTER:

A good minister will exercise wisdom by avoiding profane and senseless stories that amount to nothing but consumed time and unhealthy relationships. With the ongoing pursuit of leadership development of both emerging and seasoned ministers within the body of Christ, Apostle Paul’s assessment of a good minister of Jesus Christ is noteworthy: to teach the saints of God to avoid the pitfalls of apostasy.

A good minister of the gospel will teach or instruct the saints to exercise discernment of the source of influence that is being wielded over them. A good minister will exclaim and warn the brethren to avoid deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons and reveal the consequences of those who refuse to heed instruction, which results in departing from the faith. A good minister teaches and encourages that a disciplined lifestyle of Godliness is profitable for both now and for the life which is to come.

If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained. But refuse profane and old wives’ fables, and exercise thyself rather unto godliness. For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come. (1 Timothy 4:6-8)

BE AN EXAMPLE TO ALL BELIEVERS:

Teaching the word of God is good. However, living and being an example of the word is required to authenticate your teaching. The actions of your love, faith and holy living will testify of your commitment to The Lord God. It is important that ministers of the gospel focus on reading and teaching the scripture to the saints of God, insisting that we all come to a place of learning and application.

While some may contend that scripture is not appealing enough, true servants of Christ will not depart from the Holy Word of God. The word of God leads us, delivers us, and keeps our feet bound to the path of righteousness. The Lord provides spiritual gifts for us to execute His will and purposes on the earth. Therefore, it is most beneficial to allow spiritual gifts to operate, not only within the confines of the church building but also in our daily lives.

Teach these things and insist that everyone learn them. Don’t let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity. Until I get there, focus on reading the Scriptures to the church, encouraging the believers, and teaching them. Do not neglect the spiritual gift you received through the prophecy spoken over you when the elders of the church laid their hands on you. (1 Timothy 4:11-14)

MEDITATE ON THESE THINGS; GIVE YOURSELF ENTIRELY TO THEM:

The foundation of effective Christian leaders is the ability to yield their minds and hearts completely to God’s Holy Word. As a result, their growth and maturity will be proven among men. They deliberately practice maintaining a firm grasp on both their character and sound doctrine.

The process of developing an authentic relationship with Father God through His Holy Word produces deliverance for both the minister and those who hear the instruction that has been birthed out of a divine relationship.

Meditate on these things; give yourself entirely to them, that your progress may be evident to all. Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you. (I Timothy 4:15, 16)