CONTINUE. 1st Timothy 4:16 Before we can effectively teach others, we need to pay close attention to ourselves and examine how well we understand the doctrine we teach. Doctrine is “the whole counsel of God” about Himself, His kingdom, His people, His Gospel, and His church. Everything God wants us to know is contained in “the doctrine” we have received. How I approach things may seem unimportant to anyone else but me. At least, that’s what I thought until I heard someone say they were watching to see how I bear a particular burden. They wanted to see if I complained or resented the bitterness in the cup that the Lord handed me. They wanted to know if I truly believed God would enable me to handle what I received from His sovereign hand.
My teaching must align with the teaching I receive from the word of God, which is conveyed by the Holy Spirit. My response to the truth significantly influences how others value what I teach and how earnestly unbelievers accept the Gospel I share. My dedication to how I read the Bible and my use of the gift God gave me prevent me from gradually drifting away from God's doctrine. I am confident that God's doctrine is correct and allows me to bring spiritual light to important truths for the benefit of others.
Meditating and applying doctrine keep me from sin. When I listen to and follow what the Spirit teaches, it rescues me from temptations. That teaching impacts me and everyone the Word of God reaches through me. It is my duty to always ensure that what I believe and share with others is very clear. Together, we leave behind a good testimony so that God is glorified by the evidence others see through our consistency in the things of God.
Saving oneself does not refer to being justified by works. Instead, it relates to sanctification in daily life. This highlights the importance of facing difficulties and doing hard work, which can help other believers in their walk with the Lord as well as oneself. There is a risk of neglecting our spiritual condition if we serve others who we believe need what we have to teach more than we do. Our personal growth and devotion to the Lord qualify us to teach and serve others.
We must be cautious of any false beliefs we might accept in ourselves. If we're not vigilant, we can make serious errors that are all too often overlooked. “How we live is more important than what we believe and teach.” Both are crucial for an effective Christian life and testimony.