1 Timothy 3:14-16 (Mark Hong)

Although I hope to come to you soon, I am writing you these instructions so that, if I am delayed, you will know how people ought to conduct themselves in God’s household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth. Beyond all question, the mystery from which true godliness springs is great: He appeared in the flesh, was vindicated by the Spirit, was seen by angels, was preached among the nations, was believed on in the world, was taken up in glory.

1 Timothy 3:14-16

While not referring to a particular building, rather the body of believers, Paul emphasizes ‘God’s household’ (v 15) in terms of a pillar and foundation of truth. John Stott uses this image in describing the double responsibility of the church regarding ‘truth.’ First, truth is the foundation to hold it firm so as to not collapse under the weight of false teaching. Second, truth is its pillar, to lift it high so as to be visible to the world. This double responsibility is ours, too, within God’s household.

Paul reminds us of the truth by quoting what was most likely an early hymn (v 16). The hymn, introduced with ‘the mystery from which true godliness springs’ serves as the firm foundation of truth from which the censure of false teaching can flow.

  1. Jesus' incarnation: He appeared in the flesh

  2. Jesus' divinity: He was vindicated by the Spirit (especially through His resurrection Rom 1:4).

  3. Angels' affirmation: He was seen by angels (from His birth, temptation, public ministry, resurrection and ascension).

  4. The proclamation to the world: He was preached among the nations.

  5. The acceptance of the world: He was believed on in the world (He is increasingly accepted as the Lord).

  6. His ascension: He was taken up in glory. Now He is sat on the right hand of the throne of God. He is returning in glory.

CLOSING PRAYER

Thank you for making me a part of your church, Lord Jesus. Help me to be faithful in all that you have called me to be and do within the household of faith, and to reach out to the world around me.

(Edited from the book Encounter with God)