II Timothy 3, Tolerance

 

II Timothy 3, Tolerance

There is a time for tolerance; there is also a time for intolerance. Being tolerant can be a positive characteristic when dealing with people’s idiosyncrasies or weaknesses. Tolerance is also positive when it frees someone from prejudice toward a person’s race or culture. But believer’s must not be tolerant of anyone who claims to teach the faith while living opposed to it. “Having a form of godliness but denying it’s power.” “From such people we are to turn away.” Exclaims Paul, for they cause great danger in weak believers. That’s the kind of tolerance we don’t need.

I recently read a poll on what Christians believe. The percentage of those who believed that the Bible was true and factual was very low. Some believed that the Bible was full of myths and fairy tales. Some believed that only parts of the Bible were true, other parts were not to be taken literally. Some believe that only the New Testament is relevant for today. Those who do not believe that the Bible is true, cannot believe the verse that says the Bible is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. The Bible stands alone in all truth and accuracy. When we believe that, then we will be complete and equipped for every good work. We need to pray for those who claim to teach the faith while living opposed to it. In other words, we should always practice what we preach and stay away from those who don’t.

Timothy had been learning the Holy scriptures from childhood. Christian parents have the God-given responsibility to raise their children to know and love God and His word. Young children can learn the great truths and stories found in the Bible that show God’s love and power. Teaching given to children will be embedded in their minds, giving them a strong foundation on which to build. That training can make them “wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.”

 

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Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible. Through the Bible by J. Vernon McGee