What is the Most Important?

6If you explain these things to the brothers and sisters,Timothy, you will be a worthy servant of Christ Jesus, one who is nourished by the message of faith and the good teaching you have followed. 7Do not waste time arguing over godless ideas and old wives’ tales. Instead, train yourself to be godly. (1 Timothy 4:6-7 NLT)

This passage of scripture is Paul instructing Timothy in his pastoral and leadership skills.  He is making him aware that things will change in the hearts of man as we draw closer to the return of Jesus Christ.  He is also making Him aware that he needs to lead.  He needs to be confident in the gifts and the callings of the Lord.  Right in the middle of these book ends of chapter 4 is this verse.

6If you explain these things to the brothers and sisters,Timothy, you will be a worthy servant of Christ Jesus, one who is nourished by the message of faith and the good teaching you have followed. 7Do not waste time arguing over godless ideas and old wives’ tales. Instead, train yourself to be godly.

When I read this verse I think about umpteen doctrinal and theological difference between friends, denominations, and even family members.  Here is my take away from this passage of scripture.  Focus on the things that matter, and disregard the things that don’t.  Good, Godly men and women have tried to figure out deep and meaningful spiritual truths for more than 6,000 years.  There have always been differences, and there will probably always be differences.  We are to focus on the one thing that should unite every Bible believing Christian.  Jesus Christ is the Way, the Truth, and the Life, and no one comes to Father except by Him.  If this is our focus then we can be united in speaking truth to our friends, family, co-workers, and those we come in contact with.

Does pre, mid, or post tribulation views matter?  When the tribulation happens it will matter.  Are there are other deep and meaningful doctrines and theologies that people are unable to resolve.  Yep, but they don’t matter in the grand scheme of things.  Focus on the most important part-Jesus! Everything else will work itself out in the end.  Remember we are only here for 100 years if we live a really long life.  We have eternity with Jesus, who may or may not explain all of the differences when you get there, but honestly, you won’t care.  You will be in Heaven for eternity!

Are We Watching?

“But take heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness, and cares of this life, and that Day come on you unexpectedly. For it will come as a snare on all those who dwell on the face of the whole earth. Watch therefore, and pray always that you may be counted worthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, and to stand before the Son of Man.” (‭Luke‬ ‭21‬:‭34-36‬ NKJV)

Are we watching?