Fighting to Be Faithful

“You belong to God” (v 11). Is there a more fundamental statement? It’s the basis for understanding our identity, our present purpose, and our future hope. Paul told the Corinthians, “You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honour God with your bodies.” (1 Cor 6:19-20). Here, he draws a similar but negative conclusion: “keep away from these evil things” (v 11).

Who do you owe allegiance to? Paul recognizes that our true identity will come under challenge. It can be suppressed when the controlling message is “You are what you possess,” illustrated by the thirteen-year-old girl who turned to prostitution because of her obsessive craze for high-end gadgets and mobile phones.

Timothy must close his mind to any other narrative and be faithful to who he is (v 11). A recent book asks us to understand “salvation by allegiance alone” (Matthew Bates, Salvation by Allegiance Alone, Baker Academic, 2017), calling for a loyalty to our covenant Lord that takes precedence over every other claim on us. It is our promise of obedience (v 14).

Paul chooses a fight image. Clearly, not the choreographed fighting of TV or movies, which we watch desensitized to the brutality and injury. A real fight up close is horrific. We fight because the opposition, although subtle, will otherwise consume us.

We battle with sin and temptation and hold unswervingly to our identity because the God we belong to is eternal, unique, and holy (v 16). He is the giver of eternal life and the coming judge of the world (v 15). That is enough to draw loyalty, but this God doesn’t stand aloof in his fear-inducing glory. He entered the fight as a human being, boldly stood in front of threatening powers, remained faithful and defeated them.

Respond in Prayer

Our Father, rich in mercy and unfailing in love, thank you for Jesus, who endured the cross despite fierce opposition. I belong to your family and want to remain true to you, avoiding sin and boldly confessing you are my Lord. Give me your strength. I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Andy Bathgate

Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® (NIV®).