Paul Instructs Timothy - Part 4

The newest movement in Christendom today is the emerging church. One of the most disturbing characteristics of those who embrace this movement is that they question the authority and inerrancy of God’s word. Once the scriptural foundation of our faith is placed on the shifting sand of man’s wisdom rather than the firm rock of God’s truth and authority as declared in His word, the door is open for every type of heresy to gain a foothold in Christendom. From the reading I’ve done, many also embrace universalism or the idea that God is going to eventually redeem all of creation in the end. That is in direct opposition to the Lord’s declaration that He is “the way, the truth and the life” and “no man comes to the Father, but by me.” They are teaching people to participate in the mystical practices of eastern religions in order to experience a more intimate connection with God, and there is absolutely no scriptural basis for such teaching. They place far more emphasis on experience than the truth of scripture. It is a human weakness to want to believe what we see and/or experience. The truth is that what we see and/or experience can be deceiving.

It is really amazing to me that those who are declaring such heresy are still identified with the “church,” but according to scripture, I shouldn’t be surprised at all. It is a fulfillment of prophecy happening right before our eyes.

Paul also warned Timothy that there would be some in the church who would forbid marriage. Thankfully, this is not a teaching that is part of even the most liberal parts of Christendom at this time (except, of course, regarding the Catholic Church’s requirements for nuns and priests). But as people are taught to question the authority and integrity of the word of God, the foundation is being laid.

Although not applicable in context of the scripture being discussed, I’d like to make another observation. Society in general has already embraced living together outside of marriage as acceptable. As more pastors choose to address their congregations on a seeker-sensitive platform, the more likely this lifestyle will become a normal part of the church community because these pastors don’t confront people with their sin. Essentially, it will result in “forbidding” marriage by accepting living outside of marriage as the norm. According to a November 2003 article by The Barna Group, 49% of adults who claim to be “born again” Christians consider living with someone outside of marriage as morally acceptable; the ratio increases to an overall 60% for all adults—and we know that those figures are only going to continue to climb.

The last topic Paul introduced was that some would declare that it is wrong to eat some foods, and God has declared that any food can be eaten with thanks to God for His provision.

The enemy is smart enough to realize that he will be much more successful if the introduction of his false doctrine is gradual and subtle. The social gospel being preached and the inclusion of adherence to certain laws are just subtle forms of embracing salvation by works instead of grace. Scripture is clear that salvation is a gift of God’s grace.