Rightly Dividing the Word: II Timothy 2:14-18
The Apostle Paul wrote most of the New Testament in letters to the various churches such as the churches in Ephesus, Corinth, and Thessalonica. Although Paul was not one of the twelve disciples, he met Jesus on the road to Damascus. Before he met Jesus, his name was Saul, Saul of Tarsus. Saul was a highly educated Jew in the law, and the scriptures, and was also a Roman citizen. Saul was a religious leader who knew the scriptures, kept the law, and thought that followers of Christ were the enemy of God. He was responsible for hunting down Christians and having them killed. After he had an encounter with the risen Jesus, he was converted, became a Christian, and was renamed, Paul. Paul dedicated the rest of his life to spreading the gospel, planting new churches throughout the region, and wrote letters to the churches when he was in prison.
Because new Christians were coming out of paganism and idol worship Paul explained God’s saving grace versus the law (10 commandments & the other 600 laws) and gave instructions to the churches. Although some of Paul’s instructions and teachings were directed at the culture of his day some Christians today disagree on the true meaning of his teachings as it applies to our day and cultural norms. The Bible tells us to study the Word and become a good student rightly or correctly understanding the meaning of His Word. There are many passages that cause controversy among Christians but are not major issues that would make a difference in one's salvation or going to heaven. Many times scriptural controversies distract us from the main message of God’s love, our need for salvation, His saving grace, and our faith walk. Arguing with one another on scriptural teachings can be divisive, cause guilt, be judgmental, and legalistic, and take our focus off what is most important.
We will take one example and discuss whether men and women should wear hats or head coverings when praying or prophesying according to I Corinthians 11. Some people say men should not wear hats or caps in the church because it is disrespectful to God. However, Jewish men wear Yamakas on their heads and it is very respectful. Some say long hair is the covering on the head and not a hat or fabric. Men should not have a head covering and do so by wearing their hair short, but women need to have long hair because they need to have their heads covered. Some say women should wear head coverings, hats, and veils, in church but only certain religions and denominations practice this custom. Does wearing something on top of your head as a man or a woman make a difference to God? Will He hear your prayer only if you have your head uncovered as a man but covered as a woman? Will God hear your prayer only if you are a man with short hair but if you have long hair no? What about all the women with short hair? Will God not hear their prayers?
The point is when reading scripture, we must also take into account the context of the message. What were the customs of that day and how did those customs relate to what the scripture was addressing? When we don’t fully understand and know the answer, we can go to God and ask Him to reveal the meaning and give us understanding. When it comes to hats or no hats, short or long hair, a woman or man praying or prophesying, what is the Holy Spirit telling you? If you feel convicted that you should pray without a hat, then follow your conscience. Should your convictions be the same as someone else’s? If God is telling you that you should have short hair, should you make others feel bad if they have long hair? How short is short and when does hair become long? We can become very legalistic and set rules and regulations for ourselves and expect others to follow. We have the Word of God and the Holy Spirit to guide us. We know what the works of the flesh are and wearing a head covering has not been listed.
Two scriptures come to mind, “Pray without ceasing,” (I Thess 5:17) and “Whatever is not of faith is sin,” (Romans 14:23). Remember, sometimes a scripture was appropriate under the law in the Old Testament (old covenant), but Jesus brought a new covenant of grace in the New Testament. Some verses are not literal but illustrative and symbolic. For instance, if you have a problem with a lustful eye or porn, it’s not appropriate to pluck your eye out so you are not tempted to see things you shouldn’t. One more scripture, “Do you have faith? Have it to yourself before God. Happy is he who does not condemn himself in what he approves.” (Romans 14:22)
The key is having the Word and the Holy Spirit within you. In your studies, interpret scripture with scripture, and don’t hang a doctrine on one scripture. Ask the Lord to baptize and fill you with His Holy Spirit and guide you into truth. (John 16:13; Romans 8:26; I Cor. 2:10-13)
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Personal Development Tip of the week:
As 2023 approaches this Friday think about 1 New Habit you can set for yourself this upcoming New Year that could really make a difference in your life. Sometimes we overcomplicate the New Year by trying to set all these goals for ourselves only to fall short. Remember, that complexity is the enemy of execution.
If you think about it, habits, which are a regular practice of something, ultimately get us towards our goals. Also, consider asking yourself this question…
“What’s one habit I could practice regularly that would make this my best year ever?”
Remember, the quality of the questions we ask ourselves determines the quality of our life. Take some time to reflect on this as you get ready for the new year.
Lastly, a new habit typically takes 30-70 days to form so once you decide on what this habit is going to be, make sure to work on it each and every day to the best of your ability.
Bonus Tip: Practice your new habit around the same time each day. It helps make it easier when you write it on paper or on your phone and schedule it into your routine. Try it for yourself and see if it works for you too!
Question for you? What is one new habit you want to develop for 2023?
Prayer for the week
Father, I thank You that Your Word is actively strong and powerful and as I speak it out loud it transforms me inside and builds my faith in You. I receive Your Word that empowers me to overcome fear and anxiety, and even though I feel the emotion of fear in my body and mind, I put my trust in You knowing that I am well-abled and well-equipped to handle the challenges I face today in Jesus name, Amen.
PS. If you would like to support us consider checking out www.litwithprayer.com and picking up our devotional prayer journal to our new pieces of Christian-based Jewelry.
Do you know Jesus?
If you have never asked Jesus to be the leader of your life and forgive you of all your sins, this is the right time to act. Pray this simple prayer and believe it in your heart: “Dear God, Your Word says that You loved me so much that You sent Your Son Jesus to die on the cross for me. I want to be saved and have all my sins forgiven, past, present, and future. Forgive me now as I receive Jesus as my personal Lord and Savior. You promised me salvation and an abundant life. I believe and receive Your free gift. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit and help me grow stronger in You each day, in Jesus name I pray, Amen.” (John 3:16)
The Lord is gracious and full of compassion, Slow to anger and abounding in lovingkindness.
Rightly Dividing the Word