CLERGY COUNTERFEITS

•    dropping estimation of clergy honesty and ethics
•    false teachers in Timothy’s time: myths, hypocritical liars, conceited, corrupt, out for gain
•    gain control over women, swayed by evil desires

AUTHORITY: GROUNDED IN GOD, SERVING SCRIPTURALLY

•    tone of command
•    not to be called Rabbi / father / teacher: greatness in serving
•    apostles, prophets, pastor/teacher - to prepare people for service
•    God the only Ruler / Sovereign; Christ’s the true Kingdom
•    Scripture God’s word/truth: for teaching, rebuking, correcting, training
•    doctrine authoritative - truths of the faith, good teaching, sound instruction
•    Billy Graham: “People have to be amused” (TV) - no time for godly pursuits

PRIORITY: PURSUING LOVE, FAITH, & PURITY

•    set example: speech, life, love, faith, purity
•    goal: love from pure heart...sincere faith
•    pursue: righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, gentleness
•    instruct opponents gently - God grants repentance

ACCOUNTABILITY: GET A GRIP

•    ‘agonize’ the good struggle of the faith
•    watch life and doctrine closely
•    body of elders: worthy of double honour, but to be rebuked if sin
•    ultimate accountability “in the sight of God” - without spot or blame