Be Committed to Truth

Paul warned the elders of the church in Ephesus, “For I know this, that after my departure savage wolves will come among you, not sparing the flock. Also, from among yourselves men will rise up, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after themselves.” (Acts 20:29) Paul was genuinely concerned about false teaching, coming from those within the church. He was fearful that certain ones would manipulate the truth, spreading lies and teaching error with the intent to lure disciples away from Christ. He counseled them to be cautious, reminding them in V31 of his constant warnings, day, and night with tears for three years. Paul’s love for his brethren was great, as was his concern for their souls. His warning was a call to be steadfast in the teachings of Christ.

In 1st Timothy 1:3, Paul instructed Timothy to remain in Ephesus to ensure that no other doctrines were taught. This point seems to have been well received by the Ephesian church. Also, in 2 Timothy 1:13, Paul stresses to Timothy the importance of adhering to sound doctrine, saying, “Hold fast the pattern of sound words which you have heard from me.”

In 2^nd Timothy 2:1, Paul writes, “Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.” Timothy was to continue faithfully teaching the doctrine of Christ as he had learned it. Paul stresses the importance of committing these teachings to faithful men, for they make for faithful teachers of God’s Word. Paul’s concern highlights the significance of steadfastness in teaching the sound, wholesome doctrine of Christ. We too should be concerned about what is being taught. We must be committed to the truth and accept nothing but the pure doctrine of Christ.