Defending the Gospel

1 Timothy 1:5
"Now the purpose of the commandment is love from a pure heart, from a good conscience, and from sincere faith"

Paul charged Timothy to be the guardian of good doctrine in his church and community; to charge others with what is right and what to avoid. Such a task could easily produce anger, resentment and even division in the church if not done properly; in love. As guardians of sound doctrine, we must love the Truth of God's Word and His people in a way that builds up and strengthens the church. The way to do this begins with a pure heart or the right motive. We must be motivated by love rather than fearful control, selfish manipulation or prideful posturing. Second, we must guard the truth in love with a good conscience concerning our own behavior and especially our methods of defense or promotion. We must avoid anger, deception, manipulation, empty arguments, condescension and legalism. Our method must be filled with characteristics like love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control. Finally, our defense and promotion of sound doctrine must come from sincere faith and dependence on our model; Jesus Christ. Our lives; actions and words, must reflect His love. If we truly want to love as Jesus loved we must also walk as Jesus walked. He is our model for gently but boldly promoting sound doctrine in love.
My defense of the Gospel is directly tied to my adherence to the right motive, methods and model. As a steward of the great Truth of God, I must measure myself regularly to ensure that my defense is God honoring and edifying to His church.

God - grant me a pure heart, a good conscience and sincere faith that I may be a faithful steward of Your Gospel. Amen.