Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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 Priest: Minister of the Kingdom of God

1 Timothy 6:11-16
 

“... pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness.” (v. 11b)

Paul exhorts Timothy, his spiritual son to flee from all greedy desires of the world and pursue after the divine virtues. Ministry of the Kingdom of God involves fight against the evil powers and holding firmly and living earnestly for the Kingdom values. A minister of the Lord must inherit, imbibe and illumine the virtues of the Lord in his/her life. A minister or a priest is the one who bridge the gulf between God and the people of God. A minister must be a point of reference or a hub for others to pause and find the true light and path. A life devoid of Christ’s character will not be effective in guiding the people to Christ. Paul earlier used the same counsel of flight in regard to the two great sins that had repeatedly proved so disastrous in Israel’s history: illicit sexual relations and idolatry (1 Cor 6:18; 10:14). Evidently some threats to piety are so subtle and so powerful that they can be dealt with only by running from them. Paul encourages Timothy to hold on righteousness, both of relationship with God and its social outworking. A minister of God needs to be filled with godliness, piety, faith, love and gentleness. In verse 14 Paul sums up the calling of God and its consequent responsibilities before God. It points to “keeping” the commandment “without spot” or “blame”. A life lived as per gospel, will only influence others to Christ. 
 

 
Prayer

Lord Jesus bless us all to hold on you to live a life worthy of your calling and virtues, Amen

Thought for the Day

"The greatest enemy to human souls is the self-righteous spirit which makes men look to themselves for salvation." - Charles Spurgeon
 

Rev. Aby M. Thomas Tharakan,
Vicar, Chicago Mar Thoma Church

       

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