Fourth in a series of studies of Paul’s instruction to Timothy
“Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12).
An overriding theme of the New Testament is the subject of love, whether speaking of God’s love for us, our love for God, our love for family, or our love for one another. Timothy is to be an example of all categories of love so that his fellow believers will understand the kind of relationships they are to have.
God demonstrated His love for His creation by sending Jesus to sacrifice Himself and make possible the forgiveness of sins. As His creation, we are to reciprocate—that is, we are to have a love for God that shows our recognition of and appreciation for this great sacrifice.
Familial love is the most natural and the most palatable to most people. Love for one another, however, can be somewhat difficult in some cases, even though the scriptures make it clear that we are to love even our enemies and those who despitefully use us.
These four categories cover the spectrum of the kinds of relationships we are to have as a child of God. In fact, without sincere love, we nullify any good we may do in this world and any hope we may have of going to Heaven.
“In spirit,” while not found in many translations, speaks to our attitude in all of the responsibilities mentioned in this verse.
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