A Pastor’s Focus - Doctrine (part 2)

Passage: 1 Timothy 1
Key Verse: “As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine” (1 Timothy 1:3, KJV).

Introduction

Doctrine matters. It’s not merely a theological word reserved for scholars; it’s the foundation that shapes our spiritual destiny. As the Apostle Paul wrote to Timothy, he highlighted the importance of safeguarding sound doctrine, warning against the perils of false teachings that creep into the church. In this first chapter of 1 Timothy, Paul lays a framework for understanding the necessity of Christ-centered teaching and the dangers of doctrinal drift.

Chapter Overviews

It Starts with Christ

1 Timothy 1:1-2

Paul opens his letter by focusing on the centrality of Christ. He identifies himself as “an apostle of Jesus Christ by the commandment of God our Saviour, and Lord Jesus Christ, which is our hope” (1 Timothy 1:1, KJV). From the beginning, Paul establishes that Christ is the foundation of faith and the focal point of all doctrine.

For Timothy and for us, the gospel is not about personal achievements or works but about Christ’s saving grace. As Paul refers to Timothy as “my own son in the faith” (1 Timothy 1:2, KJV), we see the relational aspect of discipleship, grounded in shared faith in Christ.

Timothy’s Mission

1 Timothy 1:3

Paul’s charge to Timothy is clear: “...that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine” (1 Timothy 1:3, KJV). The word charge implies a strong command, like a military order. Timothy was tasked with defending the gospel against those who sought to distort it.

In Ephesus, false teachers were introducing doctrines that distracted believers from Christ. Timothy’s mission was not only to confront these errors but also to ensure that Christ remained at the center of teaching. This command reminds us that standing firm in sound doctrine is not optional—it is essential for preserving the faith.

The Attacks on Doctrine

1 Timothy 1:4-11

Paul warns Timothy to avoid “fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly edifying which is in faith” (1 Timothy 1:4, KJV). False teachings create confusion and doubts, diverting believers from the truth of the gospel.

The law, Paul explains, is “good, if a man use it lawfully” (1 Timothy 1:8, KJV). However, misusing it—either by legalism or by distorting its purpose—leads to error. The law was not designed to justify sinners but to reveal sin and point people to their need for a Savior. True doctrine builds confidence in Christ, not confusion about salvation.

The Enabling by Christ

1 Timothy 1:12-17

Paul shifts to a personal testimony, showing the power of God’s grace in his own life. He writes, “And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry” (1 Timothy 1:12, KJV).

Paul describes himself as the “chief” of sinners (1 Timothy 1:15, KJV), yet Christ saved him to demonstrate His longsuffering as a pattern for all believers. This testimony underscores that salvation is not based on merit but on God’s mercy.

Paul’s doxology in verse 17 encapsulates the focus of sound doctrine: “Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen” (1 Timothy 1:17, KJV).

Fight or Fall

1 Timothy 1:18-20

Paul uses the language of warfare to describe Timothy’s charge, saying, “That thou by them mightest war a good warfare” (1 Timothy 1:18, KJV). Defending the faith requires vigilance and perseverance.

The consequences of failing to uphold doctrine are dire. Paul mentions two individuals, Hymenaeus and Alexander, who had “put away” faith and suffered spiritual shipwreck (1 Timothy 1:19-20, KJV). A shipwreck is catastrophic, leading to loss and destruction. Similarly, drifting from sound doctrine results in spiritual ruin, not only for individuals but also for churches.

Application

Double Down on Your Doctrine.

In an age of relativism and compromise, the call to hold fast to sound doctrine is more urgent than ever. As Paul entrusted Timothy with the gospel, so we are entrusted with the same. Guard it. Study it. Teach it.

Reflect on your church’s statement of faith. Commit to deepening your understanding of key biblical truths. Most importantly, ensure that Christ remains the focus, for “there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved” (Acts 4:12, KJV).

Conclusion
Doctrine determines your destiny. It’s the foundation of our faith, the anchor in the storms of life, and the compass that points us to Christ. Let us heed Paul’s charge to Timothy, standing firm in the truth of the gospel and proclaiming it with boldness. Guard the deposit of faith entrusted to us and fight the good fight.

“To God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ for ever. Amen” (Romans 16:27, KJV).