2 Timothy: Guard The GospelSample

What should a godly leader look like? How will he behave towards people who disagree with him? Paul says if Timothy is to be a godly leader, he must ‘Flee the evil desires of youth’ (v. 22).

We often associate the desires of youth with sexual impurity. But – in the context of this part of his letter – it seems more likely that Paul is warning Timothy against the tendency of young people to be argumentative, arrogant and hot-headed. He’s saying don’t be quick-tempered or aggressive towards those who disagree with you. Rather, pursue these hallmarks of godliness: righteousness, faith, love and peace. He’s echoing instructions he gave Timothy in his first letter – to flee from the quarrelling and greed that characterises the false teachers, and instead to ‘pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness’ (1 Tim. 6:11).

This is what godliness looks like. This is the example Timothy must set the church in Ephesus. It is the example all church leaders should set. And it is an example we should all follow. Those who ‘call on the Lord out of a pure heart’ (v. 22) are all who belong to God and have been cleansed from sin. This includes us if we are followers of Jesus.

Our natural sinful tendency is to quarrel and argue but, as God’s servants, we ‘must be kind to everyone’ (v. 24). This doesn’t mean false teaching shouldn’t be confronted and corrected – Paul will address this in the following verses. But rather than being argumentative, we will pursue peace. Rather than being critical or resentful towards others, we will show love. Rather than engaging in foolish quarrels, we will want to teach God’s Word as we have opportunity – in our families; in our small groups; to the young people we know; and to our unbelieving friends and neighbours. If we want to be godly, we must run from the dangers of quarrelling and fighting, and instead run towards righteousness.

Reflection

When are you most tempted to be argumentative or quick-tempered towards other believers? What would change if you were to pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace in your relationships? Think of a practical way in which you could pursue one of these qualities today. Ask God’s Spirit to help you.