Weekly devotional: Godless chatter (11 in Paul’s letters to Timothy series)

Keep reminding God’s people of these things. Warn them before God against quarreling about words; it is of no value, and only ruins those who listen. Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. Avoid godless chatter, because those who indulge in it will become more and more ungodly. Their teaching will spread like gangrene. Among them are Hymenaeus and Philetus, who have departed from the truth. They say that the resurrection has already taken place, and they destroy the faith of some. Nevertheless, God’s solid foundation stands firm (2 Timothy 2:14–19).

Seemingly without taking a breath, Paul’s tone changes and he’s back to the brisk warnings against false teaching that he made in 1 Timothy and Titus. He may be making his final remarks in this letter, but he reserves the right to warn Timothy against the distractions which idol talk and endless controversies can “spread like gangrene,” in his memorable image. And although God’s truth is the solid foundation never to be worn down by rust or mold – or eaten away by gangrene – those in church leadership can become infected, with their focus diverted from the teaching, preaching and serving that should occupy them. Paul yearns that Timothy, and those who follow after him, would be saved from those trials.

I’ve heard stories about, and have witnessed, church conflict, including “godless chatter” and quarrels over words. Soon the arguments seem to descend into character assassinations, with those on opposite sides leaving behind the language of love as they slaughter each other with words. How the Holy Spirit must grieve at the splits and division.

Consider taking a few moments to review in your mind and heart, and before God, any conflicts at church you’ve been involved in. May we echo King David, who said how good and pleasant it is when people dwell together in unity (Psalm 133:1).

Prayer: Lord Jesus, you became man and died that we might find you and friendship with our neighbors. May your grace oil the wheels of communication in our homes, schools, places of work, churches and community meeting places.