It Starts Small

God’s Word provides detailed explanation of Heavenly wisdom, which leads to godliness, or earthy demonic wisdom which leads to corruption.

Yesterday we studied Paul instructing us to not quarrel, be gentle to everyone, able to teach, and patient (2 Timothy 2:24) and today we look at a fourth attribute he adds: to give mature, loving, effective answers. Peter also mentioned this:

but in your hearts regard Christ the Lord as holy, ready at any time to give a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you.

1 Peter 3:15

Apologetics is a study that teaches believers how to defend the Christian faith and it involves the ability to to teach and with an attitude of gentleness, instruct others. The goal of Christian knowledge and conversation is not to win an argument but to win souls to Christ. Those who watch their life and doctrine closely will find effective ministry among the unbelievers they serve.

Paul teaches we content for the faith not to get into hair splitting theological debates, but to lead others into repentance, Lord willing. He continues in verse 26 in addition to repentance, another goal for those Timothy served was to become aware enough of the Devil’s influence to break free.

This verse indicates that the Devil’s attacks are often directed toward the mind. The devil seeks to make something false appear true. Those who hear the truth and repent “escape” from his snare. When we think of a snare, we can think of an animal snare. These often involved rope or rocks that would fall onto an animal lured there by food for bait. These snares, if we are not careful are unseen and the bait is what lures us in. It is usually something within our minds. The devil tempts unbelievers with “bait” to keep them in his trap and away from the freedom Christ brings.

Look closely at how Paul describes the unbelievers. They are referred to here not as enemies, but as prisoners. An unbeliever has no spiritual power over the Devil and is therefore “captive” to him. He or she has no other option than to follow the Devil’s tricks unless God’s grace intervenes.

⁸ For you are saved by grace through faith, and this is not from yourselves; it is God’s gift— ⁹ not from works, so that no one can boast.

Ephesians 2:8-9

Followers of Christ are to share the gospel and show kindness, knowing God can change people from death to life.

¹⁰ A thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I have come so that they may have life and have it in abundance.

John 10:10

The devil comes to ensnare, but Christ brings life. God will provide eternal life to those who believe. We do not quarrel with others, but with patience, gentleness and kindness we give correction and contend with the faith so that through the Lord there is repentance and freedom to others.

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If you are following along in the Journal, the back pages have a table of Heavenly Wisdom vs. Corrupted Wisdom. Today’s scripture is in the first block under the column Heavenly Wisdom. If you get stuck, you can visit this page and see my example.