O TIMOTHY!

O TIMOTHY!

The “O” used by Paul in addressing young Timothy is in the Greek vocative case which shows great emotion and intensity. Paul loved Timothy, wanted him to succeed, and would soon deliver into his young hands his entire ministry. Let’s take a look at two verses that display this passion of Paul.

1. O TIMOTHY, RUN!

1 Tim 6:9-12

9 But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition.

10 For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.

11 But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.

12 Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.

Paul was warning Timothy that the reckless pursuit of money and things would drown him in a sea of trouble. God would provide the necessary material things to conduct an earthly ministry whether it be much or little. God distributes His gifts according to current need and always cautions against grasping and hoarding. Manna stored after the expiration date rotted and produced worms. (Exodus 16:20) This, of course, flies in the face of man’s nature. O Timothy! You will have to struggle against your own desires in this case but understand that you should run from it as urgently as Joseph fled the pursuit of Potipher’s wife! (Genesis 39:12)

O Timothy! There are some things that are of such value as to urgently run after them. These are righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, and meekness. (v.11) These are the treasured gifts of the Holy Spirit which Paul lists in Galatians 5.

Gal 5:22-23

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,

23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.

2. O TIMOTHY, KEEP AND GUARD JEALOUSLY!

1 Tim 6:20-21

20 O Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding profane and vain babblings, and oppositions of science falsely so called:

21 Which some professing have erred concerning the faith. Grace be with thee. Amen.

The word “keep” indicates to isolate, guard and preserve safely.” O Timothy, safely and carefully keep that which has been deposited to your care. What Paul was referring to, of course, is the entire volume of his Christian faith; all the many hours of training and mentoring.

O Timothy! The gospel is not simply another philosophy! Do not dilute it with vain chatter or speculation of theories that puff up man’s intellect. O Timothy! The gospel does not belong to you but to another and it is placed in your care.

O Timothy! Soon you will have to stand on your own firmly held beliefs and convictions. Soon you will not be able to ask questions of me for challenge or confirmation. Soon I will be gone! O Timothy, learn thy lessons well and keep the treasure of truth close and safe. O Timothy! I am soon to finish my course. Begin yours in earnest!

O, Mighty God! How I love you! How I fear my own fondness for human philosophy! Lord, keep me today close to you and protect my mind as I hold tightly to your revealed truths. AMEN