|
|
Introduction: 1Timothy 4.6-9 Most of us understand, at least philosophically and intellectually, the value of exercise. Schools have physical education classes so as to promote good health both physically and mentally. But the bad thing about exercise is it is so demanding and tiring. One gets tired of running, jumping, training, etc. But notice our text as Paul tells Timothy "exercise yourself rather to godliness." I) Our Text A) Paul is telling Timothy of his responsibilities in preaching the Gospel. 1. He was to instruct the brethren in the things he had learned and done. 2. Preaching the Gospel requires one to know what is right and to do what is right. a. Many a preacher had undermined the cause of Christ by being hypocritical. b. Getting involved in sin and causing the name of Christ to be ridiculed. B) The same can be said for all Christians. 1. There is no such thing as a clergy/laity system in Christ. 2. We are all to be students of God's word and practioners. Acts 17.11 a. Many a Christian has brought reproach on the church by being hypocritical and getting involved in sin. b. The way to avoid such is to do what Paul says next. C) Reject profane and old wives fables, 2 Peter 1.16 1. Profane means ordinary. 1 Timothy 1.9. a. Derived from a word which referred to the threshold, has the primary sense of that which may be trodden. b. "It describes a man whose mind recognizes nothing as higher than earth; for whom there is nothing sacred; who has no divine reverence for the unseen... In its thoughts, its aims, its pleasures, its standards, it is completely earthbound." 2. Wives fables -- made up stories, silly superstitions and alleged miraculous events which old women (as well as leaders) had made a part of the Jewish system or religion. a. Adam Clark says this refers particularly to the Jews, whose Talmudical writings are stuffed with the most ridiculous and profane fables that ever disgraced the human intellect. b. Today we may say the Gospel of Thomas or Barnabas or some other writings not found in the Holy Scriptures. II) But Rather Exercise Yourself A) Exercise 1. ISBE -- originally meant to drive or thrust out. a. To do, to put into action, Jeremiah 9.23-24 b. To walk, to strive Acts 24.16 c. To train, Hebrews 5.14. d. Authority of, dominion over, Matthew 20.25. 2. Physical exercise teaches us about spiritual exercise. a. Requires self control, discipline, 1 Cor. 9.25ff b. Hard work c. Over time it does have its effect, not the first day but days afterward. 3. Spiritually one must have discipline. a. Study their Bible, prayer, rejection of false teachings, worshipping God b. Over time it changes the way one thinks and behaves. A "renewing of the mind" Romans 12.2. B) Yourself 1. Exercise is individual in nature. One cannot work out for you. 2. One cannot work out your salvation for you, Phil. 2.12. III) Unto Godliness A) What is the aim or purpose of exercise? 1. Important because without a goal or aim you will grow tired of it. 2. In this case it is to be toward godliness. a. The scriptures are aimed at making us godly people, 1 Timothy 6.3 b. Godliness with contentment is great gain, 1 Timothy 6.10 B) If you want to know what is godly or what a godly person would do, look at the scriptures. IV) Which is Profitable for You A) The value of exercise is? 1. Physical are good. Fell better, look better, mentally may be sharper. 2.But those benefits are temporary. Stop exercising you lose your muscle tone, etc. 3. Spiritually we can lose our spiritual strength if we quit. Grow cold and weak. See Christians in the New Testament who left the faith and make shipwreck of their faith. B) Eternal life 1. To those who remain faithful and do not quit it will make you better now and eternity. 2. See this encouragement in 1 Timothy 4.16. |