The Grands Letter

Dear Grands,

1 Timothy 1:5-10, “But the goal of our instruction is love from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.
6 For some men, straying from these things, have turned aside to fruitless discussion,
7 wanting to be teachers of the Law, even though they do not understand either what they are saying or the matters about which they make confident assertions.
8 But we know that the Law is good, if one uses it lawfully,
9 realizing the fact that law is not made for a righteous person, but for those who are lawless and rebellious, for the ungodly and sinners, for the unholy and profane, for those who kill their fathers or mothers, for murderers
10 and immoral men and homosexuals and kidnappers and liars and perjurers, and whatever else is contrary to sound teaching…”

Why do you do what you do? Is whatever you do simply the outcome of some thoughtless, spontaneous act? Or is there an guiding principle of purpose, behind it? Paul’s instruction possessed the goal of implanting in someone “love from a pure heart, a good conscience, and a sincere faith.” He writes that his goal might be our goal as well.

Paul’s day wasn’t much different than our own. I dare say that there are men today who so relish the admiration of others that they seek the pulpit where they find esteem and where they can influence others. Yet, theologically, they don’t understand what they are saying or matters which they pretend to understand. How can uncalled, ungodly men teach others the principles of God’s Holy Word? Simply stated: they cannot!

Additionally, those without Christ often engage in unholy, profane, immoral acts of sin and wickedness – things that are “contrary to sound teaching.” Thus, sound, spiritual instruction requires spiritually-sensitive, God-called men. Those men and those of us who would be led by them, must become what our LORD intends. When we are what we ought to be, those outside of Christ will see the difference and desire to be like Him, as well. May God help us to want to be like Him ourselves!

Heartily in Christ Jesus,

(Dado III)

P. S. Pray for your pastor! I pray for my pastors every day.

Gene L. Jeffries, Th.D.
Springdale, Arkansas 72764
United States of America

“We never know that Christ is all we need until He becomes all that we have.” – Corrie ten Boom