The Rules of the Competition

217 - Today's Prime Time Devo comes from 2Ti 2:4 No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier. 5 And also if anyone competes in athletics, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. 6 The hard-working farmer must be first to partake of the crops. 7 Consider what I say, and may the Lord give you understanding in all things. Paul uses several analogies to encourage Timothy in his role of overseer in the church. These are like mini-parables, (earthly stories, with heavenly lessons!) First he warns Timothy not to get too entangled with the affairs of this world. His number one priority, (like a good soldier) is to please his Commanding Officer! In Timothy's case, that would of course be Jesus. Next he reminds Timothy to play by the rules. Any athlete who competes, but breaks the rules of the competition and is found out, is disqualified. Wow! This sounds very serious! A pastor needs to compete by the rules! What rules? What is Paul talking about here? The best way to answer that question is to turn to the Books of Deuteronomy or Revelation! In Dt 4:2, we read, "You shall not add to the word which I command you, nor take from it, that you may keep the commandments of the LORD your God which I command you.” And in De 12:32 "Whatever I command you, be careful to observe it; you shall not add to it nor take away from it. And in Re 22:18,19, “ For I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: If anyone adds to these things, God will add to him the plagues that are written in this book; 19 and if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part from the Book of Life, from the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.” Pastor! Teacher! That's the rules! Don't add to the Word of God or take away from the Word of God! Scripture interprets Scripture, not societal trends, or the itchy ears of others! Let “Thus saith the Lord,” be your mantra and you will do well!