1 Timothy 1:18-19 – Good Warfare

Paul charges Timothy to “wage the good warfare.” What is this war he tells Timothy to fight? The surrounding Scriptures tell us it is not a war fought with earthly weapons. It is a warfare that involves “holding faith and a good conscience,” and one that God revealed Timothy was equipped and gifted to wage. It is the warfare of proclaiming the Gospel that Jesus Christ came into the world to save sinners. Paul calls this “warfare” because the world, being fallen and sinful, will hate God’s message of salvation in Christ. Moreover, there will even be those within the visible Church, people who profess faith in Christ, who will nevertheless reject the authority of God’s Word. Thus, the proclamation of the Gospel and of every doctrine consistent with it, will often be a struggle.

If you are faithful to proclaim God’s Truth, you will face opposition from the world – even from others called “Christians.” (Be open to recognizing that you could be wrong. Be willing to be corrected by God’s Word, but do not be surprised when the plain teaching of Scripture is opposed even by Christians. Some are misguided and some are false converts). As long as there is sin in the world, the proclamation of the Gospel will be a struggle, because the fallen world is in conflict with its Creator. Be ready to wage the good warfare.

Questions
1. What is the “good warfare” Paul charges Timothy to wage?
2. Why is it called “warfare”?
3. Is this a war you need to be ready to fight?

Prayer Points
1. Pray that we all be equipped to wage the good warfare.
2. Use prayer points from your congregation.
3. Pray for family matters.