Man of God

Man of God: Foundations of Faith Series

There are some titles that are used rarely and, because of this, they carry immense weight. One of these titles is Man of God. It is a select company that’s had this title bestowed upon them. Moses. Samuel. David. Elijah. Elisha. Select prophets who boldly stood up to corrupt kings. It’s not just the individuals in this company that catch my attention but also the names not given this honor. Not Noah. Not Abraham. Not Joshua. No, to be branded a Man of God is reserved for only a select few. It’s so rare, in fact, that only one person in the New Testament receives this designation: Timothy. Paul’s protege, the young minister in Ephesus, is given a final charge to continue to be and to live faithfully as a Man of God. The words that Paul uses in these final words show that to be a Man of God is not a passive course but one full of action. Flee. Pursue. Fight. Take hold. Keep. Paul wants Timothy to understand clearly that he has been drafted into a war to “fight the good fight of faith.” This battle requires Timothy to flee evil that ensnares so many, while simultaneously pursuing virtue. The Christian life is this constant tension of turning away from one thing while turning toward another. But Paul doesn’t leave Timothy to fight alone in uncertainty. He anchors these commands in the reality of Christ’s return—that blessed hope when the “King of kings and Lord of lords” will appear in blazing glory. Timothy’s warfare has an end date. His perseverance has a purpose. That he fights not merely to survive but to stand blameless when Christ, “who alone is immortal and who lives in unapproachable light,” returns to claim His kingdom, until that day, the charge remains: keep the command without spot or blame.

Caleb McCaughan, Pulpit Minister – Foundations of Faith Series: Man of God

Dinner Table Conversations: 

Adult & Teen Table Talk: 

• Paul uses action words: “flee,” “pursue,” “fight,” “take hold,” and “keep.” Why do you think the Christian life requires such active, intentional effort rather than passive waiting?
• Paul lists six qualities to pursue: righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness. Which of these do you find most challenging to develop? Why?

Little Learners’ Table Talk: 

• Jesus has some very special names in this story: “King of kings” and “Lord of lords.” What do you think those big names mean? Why is Jesus so special?