10/20

1 Timothy 1:5

⁵The aim of our charge is love that issues from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.

Paul had asked Timothy to stay in Ephesus to charge certain persons not to teach any other doctrine. Timothy was to tell them to avoid myths and endless genealogies, which led to speculation. People are always looking for something new to get excited about. The teacher that comes up with a new idea is puffed up in pride by the interest of others. Timothy was to tell them to stick with clear biblical teaching.

In our verse for today Paul is telling Timothy the purpose of the charge is that believers might be focused on love that issues from a pure heart. We can discuss the interpretation of Scripture and have differing convictions, but we must do so in a loving way. A pure heart does not desire to elevate oneself above others, nor does it demean those who have a different conviction. It simply seeks the truth with all humility and respect for others.

Paul's and Timothy's purpose was also to see that believers' love operated from a good conscience. There is a temptation to win an argument even when we see validity in the other person's points. A good conscience puts truth above the desire to sound superior.

The goal was also to see that believers' love was lived out from a sincere faith. If interesting teachings and secret insights were the only goals of some in the church, then they did not have a sincere faith. Sincere faith fixes on the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. It is caught up in His love for us and our love for Him. Interesting peripheral doctrines take a back seat to the wonder of Jesus, our relationship to Him, and love for those for whom He gave His life.

Remember: Our goal is love that operates out of a pure heart along with a good conscience and sincere faith.