It Starts Small

²² Flee from youthful passions, and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart. ²³ But reject foolish and ignorant disputes, because you know that they breed quarrels. 

2 Timothy 2:22-23

God’s Word is not just a book filled with complicated verses; often, its wisdom is beautifully simple and profound. The lessons within are crystal clear, inviting each of us to embrace their truth. You don’t need a P.H.D. or a seminary education to grasp its message—it’s accessible to all! We are called to flee from temptations with urgency and fervor. When faced with temptation, we are not merely to resist but to RUN with determination! This charge asks us to avoid things or places that ignite temptation. We should consciously steer clear of them.

along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart

We are not alone! God has blessed us with brothers and sisters who passionately support us in our goals. Teams unite in exhilarating long-distance biking races like the Tour de France. They propel each other toward incredible speeds that none could achieve alone. As you watch these thrilling races, you can’t help but notice the teamwork in action. Team members take turns as lead racers. Others skillfully draft behind them. They seize the chance to “rest” and recharge. Similarly, geese soar majestically in a V formation. They reflect this spirit of cooperation as they take turns rotating to the end of the line. This process embodies the essence of community and shared strength.

Are you actively engaging in meaningful ways to support your brothers and sisters on their noble journey toward righteousness? Are you opening yourself to the assistance of others, allowing their strength to empower your mission?

reject foolish and ignorant disputes

This verse resonates profoundly with verses 14 and 16, yet here, the term that echoes is speculation. The Greek word “zhthsij,” pronounced “dzay’-tay-sis,” encapsulates a sense of fervent seeking, an earnest enquiry, and an impassioned questioning. It embodies intense debates and contentious matters that ignite controversy. Discussions like these often lead to foolish arguments. They swirl around the mysteries of questions that we can never truly grasp the answers to!

There are countless issues that believers can get caught up in, often wasting precious time. Consider the renowned question that theologians have debated for centuries: “How many angels can fit on the head of a pin?”. A quick search on Google reveals a treasure trove of articles dedicated to exploring this very question. Passionate discussions showcase the depth of thought and wonder surrounding such a seemingly trivial topic.

I refuse to entertain any of these articles, for they are rooted in foolish speculation. The questions posed are utterly nonsensical, and the answers reside nowhere in the Bible. Worse yet, they have no practical application in our lives! Pouring our energy into such trivial inquiries yields no spiritual benefit whatsoever. Instead, these questions breed conflict and discord, driving a wedge between us. They squander the precious time of believers. Believers could focus on what truly matters—loving others. They should be fervently sharing the gospel!

Satan revels with glee whenever believers squander their time entangled in trivial debates. Instead, they should fervently dedicate themselves to the glorious task of building God’s kingdom.

⁹ But avoid foolish debates, genealogies, quarrels, and disputes about the law, because they are unprofitable and worthless.

Titus 3:9

Do not squander your precious time on trivial questions like these! Always challenge yourself to consider if a question is truly deserving of a fierce debate with fellow believers. Ask yourself boldly, “Does discovering the answer propel me closer to becoming more like Christ?” Let this guide your quest for truth!

---

Cross-References

• James 4:7
• Hebrews 2:18
• Luke 22:40
• Psalm 119:11
• 1 John 5:4
• 1 Corinthians 15:33

Discussion Questions

• Why did Paul call the lusts Timothy faced youthful?
• What are some examples of youthful lusts?
• Do we face these temptations?
• What should we do about it?
• How can you better flee and avoid these things?
• Take a moment and write a temptation you sometimes face (you don’t need to show this to anyone, but you can if you feel it is helpful). Now write down one specific way you can flee/avoid this temptation. If anyone would like to share, you can.
• What other protection is offered in verse 22?
• Why is it important that we are not only running from something, but also pursuing something else?
• Who are we to pursue these things with?
• Why is it important that we are not in this race by ourselves?
• How can others help you conquer temptations?
• How can you hep them?
• What kind of things is Paul referring to in verse 23?

---

© Kimberlee Smith 2025 http://www.itstartssmall.com All rights reserved.