Truth and Integrity - All the Time

Last week we looked closely at the characteristics and behavior for leaders in a church. This Sunday in chapter 4 of 1 Timothy, Paul shows why those instructions will be very important during "later times." Paul is guided by the Holy Spirit as he writes to Timothy and all believers that there will be those who fall away, fall for deception and fall for the doctrines of demons in this later time. The "later times" began with Christ's resurrection and continue until His return when He sets up His kingdom and judges all humanity. As we live in the later times, we must hold strong to the truth of God's Word and show integrity of character by watching our lives closely, being on constant guard against falling into sin which can come on quickly, through wrong belief and false teachers. Of course this is nothing new, but how easy is it to slip and fall? These instructions are not only trustworthy, but benefit those who will listen with the intent to try, and also damaging to those who reject. And as Red Green once said in the man's prayer at the Possum Lodge... "I'm a man, but I can change, if I have to, I guess." :-)
 

15 Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst. 16 But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life. 17 Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen.
1 Timothy 1:15-17