The Second Sunday after Epiphany (NTA)

1 Timothy 4:6-16

⁶ If you put these things before the brothers, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, being trained in the words of the faith and of the good doctrine that you have followed. ⁷ Have nothing to do with irreverent, silly myths. Rather train yourself for godliness; ⁸ for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. ⁹ The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance. ¹⁰ For to this end we toil and strive, because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe. 

¹¹ Command and teach these things. ¹² Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity. ¹³ Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation, to teaching. ¹⁴ Do not neglect the gift you have, which was given you by prophecy when the council of elders laid their hands on you. ¹⁵ Practice these things, immerse yourself in them, so that all may see your progress. ¹⁶ Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this, for by so doing you will save both yourself and your hearers. 

How often do you spend training yourself in the Word of God?  How often do you train yourself in godliness?  It takes a lifetime of training and even then you will not find full success.  But it should be a constant struggle as we encounter new problems everyday.  And no matter what, we are called to teach that which Christ has taught us.

St Paul encourages St Timothy to continue to train himself in godliness.  St Paul encourages St Timothy to remain faithful to proclaiming the truth.  He encourages him to read publicly the Holy Scriptures which will help train others.  He encourages him to teach others publicly and help them stand up for this same faith.  Now, it is up to each of us to encourage one another to do the same.

You need to stand up for the truth in the work place and on the street corner.  When you hear someone speaking or teaching falsely, read the Word of God publicly and teach the truth publicly.  Do not allow people to tell you or your friends lies.  Even if you do not understand or have a perfect defense, confess boldly the faith that is within you.  Continue to train yourselves in the Scriptures and good conduct.