1 Timothy 4:13-15-- Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation, to teaching. Do not neglect the gift you have, which was given you by prophecy when the council of elders laid their hands on you. Practice these things, immerse yourself in them, so that all may see your progress. This part of Timothy is incredible to me. First I think Paul is giving Timothy (a preacher) and order of service. Second, I think he is giving us a way of discipleship--the second I think is far more important than the first. It is crucial that we understand that teaching and reading of the Scriptures are both vertical and horizontal. However, exhortation (preaching) is meant only for the service. In connection with this idea Paul encouraged Timothy to practice his gifts (received by the prayer of the elders) and even immerse himself in them. This was probably exhortation and discernment of the Scriptures (complete speculation). However, I think Paul also was encouraging him to immerse in other things. Namely exhortation, Scripture reading, and teaching. I mean that exhortation should be done weekly with the gather of Gods church in a local area. I man Scripture reading and horizontal teaching as an every day thing. This is discipleship, that we should live life with one another, practicing and even immersing ourselves in gifts that edify the community as well as participate in Scripture reading and discussion (teaching) amongst each other OUTSIDE of the weekly gathering. As my brother Andrew Cannon has titled a book--ITS AND EVERYDAY THING. Dont mistake exhortation and vertical teaching in whatever form for what God meant to be a life-living, Gospel oriented relationship with other believers on a daily basis.
Posted on: Thu, 24 Oct 2013 03:24:33 +0000