GIVE ATTENDANCE. 1st Timothy 4:13. Paul planned to go to Ephesus and meet with Timothy, but back then, travel was slow, and it often took a long time for someone to reach a different place. Wanting to be somewhere was one thing; actually getting there was another. That’s why Paul provided instructions in writing, so the plans could be set before he arrived.
We are responsible for diligently applying ourselves to the work God has given us and being willing to accept instructions from those who care about us, even if they are not physically present. The way we read the Bible in public should never be done casually or with an indifferent tone, but with clear, well-articulated words that are easy to hear and with inflections that highlight important points. The same applies when teaching the Word. When sharing what we have read from the scriptures, we need to be wise in our exhortations and careful to convey the meaning of the words in a way that fits the context and purpose for which it can be applied.
To “Give attention to reading” means I need to commit myself as a duty to how I read the Bible in public. The order is important as well. Reading comes first because that is God’s way of speaking directly to us. The practice of exhortation is important because we have to know it comes from God to us, and what we openly hear is meant to be applied by us. In the given order, then, explaining what has been read, heard, and applied must include understanding why these words are important for us to know, make our own, and then keep and use whenever a situation arises where those words can provide divine guidance. It is no small responsibility to read the word of God publicly.
The way one reads, especially in public, reveals a lot about how one views the subject he is learning, whether his convictions are strong or weak. Things found within a book can be significant, but they must be presented in a way that captures my attention if the message is to leave a meaningful impact. Reading the Bible requires full attention, because every word is inspired. The Holy Spirit moved the writers to convey the truths He wanted people to know, remember, and act on. Ignoring what God provided would be like an insult. Giving full attention to the Holy Scriptures strengthens my faith as a result.
Other people deserve sincere encouragement, and I do as well. In some ways, I can encourage myself if I don’t let opportunities for learning pass me by. Brothers and sisters in Christ need someone who genuinely cares for their best interests and wants to help them become strong. To give encouragement, one must be wise in how they share what they have to offer, but those who hear the words are expected to pay attention and act on what the word teaches. A gentle and approachable spirit helps others appreciate what you say to them. The purpose of encouragement is to help someone who may not know what to do, is struggling, or feeling discouraged. When you provide encouragement, they will find more strength to keep moving forward.
Doctrine is not complicated, but it must be discerned, and the privilege of teaching it must be earned by someone whose life demonstrates the truth of what he says. A person’s teaching is strengthened by the way he lives. To give attention to doctrine begins with my careful study of the scriptures so that when others need clarification of God's words, I am prepared to answer questions or at least offer reasonable guidance. Hopefully, that person can understand the truth and confidently pass it on. The process of helping others means I am well-prepared to pass on what others have shared with me. If I have committed myself to reading, exhortation, and doctrine, I won’t go wrong when I relay what I have learned and given attention to.
Age, experience, and attitude influence how others perceive us and respond to what we preach and teach. Whether others slight us, look down on us, or treat us with contempt depends on our attitude and conduct. It is within our power to model what is expected of a good servant of Jesus Christ. Our example serves as a pattern of Christian behavior for believers to follow. Therefore, our speech should contain kind words that are not argumentative, contentious, sarcastic, or bitter. We do need to warn people of evil that has come or is imminent, and even though it may be unpleasant, we should also highlight the positive side of "these things." When one speaks carefully, a certain influence typically accompanies the actual words. "A soft answer turneth away wrath." "Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt." He stays within God's Word even when others demand we teach something different to please people.
The way we conduct ourselves in public and private should align with what we profess as children of God. Love in a believer's heart reflects the likeness of Christ and encourages sacrifice for others, rather than just an emotional feeling that makes people feel warm and fuzzy. Our faith in God is our trust and confidence that our actions and ambitions will be fulfilled. Believing in the heart produces words that bless others and works that build faith in others. The sins of the flesh can be avoided through our commitment to purity in every aspect of our lives. When faith and love are consistent, purity will be visible. The good minister dedicates himself to godliness and exercises "the gift" given to him. Others have nourished him. Now, he must learn and work diligently to fulfill God's purposes through him. His behavior should be diligent, appreciative, progressive, and thoughtful so that there is no reason for people to despise his youth.
The good minister of Jesus Christ should set an example in public scripture reading. Scriptures must be read clearly, with careful pronunciation, appropriate tone, and emphasis. Articulate speech shows our respect for God and teaches His truth even without words of explanation. We must prepare ourselves in advance so we are ready to preach and teach both publicly and privately. We should understand the subject well enough to give clear answers and to ask meaningful questions. Publicly proclaiming the truth encourages listeners to apply what they hear and enables them to pass it on in their daily lives. Doctrine is properly taught when exposition is given carefully within its original context. This approach helps the hearers not only apply God's truth but also understand it for themselves and live in the power of divine truth they experience.