사귐의 소리 2025

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1 Timothy 4:11–16 “For Spiritual Growth”

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5–7 minutes

1 Timothy 4:11-16 NIV

Suggested Praise Songs:

Resources for Family Worship (with Children):

Explanation:

“These things” (v. 11) refer to everything Paul previously asked Timothy to do. What Paul asked was not only for Timothy’s own sake but also so that he could teach it to the congregation. The words “Command and teach these things” show two essential tasks of a pastor. It is not enough to command people to live by the truth; they must also be taught how to put that command into practice.

When a young person becomes the spiritual leader of a community, he may be despised because of his age (v. 12). It is assumed that Timothy was in his thirties or forties at the time, but by the standards of that day, one had to be at least fifty to be recognized as someone who truly knew something (John 8:57). The only way to overcome this was to “set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.” Spiritual authority had to be acknowledged through his words and actions.

To do so, Timothy had to “devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching” (v. 13). The Greek word translated “reading” here refers to reading Scripture aloud in the synagogue. Reading aloud is better than silent reading and copying it by hand is even more beneficial. Earlier, the apostle had mentioned that his visit to Ephesus might be delayed (3:15). Paul was essentially asking Timothy not to wait for him but to carry out the role himself.

Timothy received a spiritual gift when the elders laid hands on him (v. 14). This seems to refer to the gift of teaching. While gifts such as speaking in tongues or healing are often highly valued, the gift of teaching is easily neglected. Yet the gift of teaching is extremely important because it greatly benefits the believers. The apostle urges Timothy to give himself fully to his spiritual life so that “everyone may see your progress” (v. 15). To do this, he must “watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them” (v. 16). Spiritual life requires perseverance. When he does this, “you will save both yourself and your hearers.” Salvation comes from God, but remaining in that salvation, being transformed, and growing in that grace is our responsibility.

Meditation:

The apostle earlier emphasized to Timothy the importance of “training in godliness.” Just as one trains physically to maintain bodily health, spiritual training is needed to maintain spiritual health. The New Korean Revised Version translates 1 Timothy 4:7 as, “Train yourself to be godly,” but more precisely, it means, “Discipline yourself toward godliness.” In verse 16, the apostle again stresses, “Watch your life and doctrine closely.” The Greek word epecho, translated “watch,” means “to examine carefully.” Reaching godliness means growing into maturity “in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity” (v. 12). To achieve this, one must read, teach, and practice the Word diligently. This is the path of spiritual growth. It is essential for spiritual leaders, but it is also the calling of every true believer.

In verse 16, the apostle says, “By doing this, you will save both yourself and your hearers.” On the surface, this may sound as if salvation comes from one’s own effort, both for oneself and for others. But Paul could not have meant it in that way. The spiritual life of believers is not for obtaining salvation, but for remaining in the salvation already received and moving toward its completion. To stop or neglect spiritual life is to put that salvation at risk. If we truly understand how precious the salvation we have received in Christ Jesus is, we will remain in it and press forward toward its fulfillment. Spiritually mature people exert a positive influence on others. They bring unbelievers to faith and help believers to grow. This is what it means to save others.

Salvation is a gift freely given by God through His grace alone. To emphasize this truth, the saying arose, “Once saved, always saved.” But that is a rhetorical expression, not a factual one. Jesus said, “Small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it” (Matt. 7:14). Accepting Jesus as Lord is like entering through the gate that leads to life. Beyond the narrow gate stretches the narrow road. Walking that road is the spiritual life. Though narrow, it is filled with true life, and the Holy Spirit walks with us. That is why we can “walk the narrow road with joy always.”

Prayer:

We thank You for showing us the path of life and for letting us walk and run with joy on it. Today, let us also take each step on the Lord’s way under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Discussion Questions for Children & Youth:

Key Point: God has already given us salvation as a precious gift in Jesus. Our part is to keep walking the “narrow road” faithfully reading God’s Word, living in love and purity, and following the Holy Spirit step by step. As we grow spiritually, our lives can help others know Jesus too.

  • For Preschool-Elementary
    • The Bible says Jesus’ way is like a narrow road. What do you think narrow roads look like? Is it easy or hard to walk on?
    • Who helps us walk on God’s Road every day? (Hint: The Holy Spirit!)
    • What is one small thing you can do today to show love, kindness, or faith as you walk on Jesus’ Road?
  • Youth
    • Paul told Timothy to “watch your life and your teaching closely.” What do you think it means to watch your life in today’s world?
    • Why do you think spiritual growth isn’t just about what you know but also about how you live (speech, conduct, love, faith, purity)?
    • Walking the “narrow road” can feel hard when friends or culture choose an easier path. What helps you stay on God’s Road, and how can we support one another in that journey?

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