2 Timothy 1:7 (ESV)
for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and
self-control.
Fear in this verse refers to cowardice. The Greek word from
which it is translated is used only once in the New Testament. In contrast to
cowardice or timidity, the Spirit given to every believer is a spirit of power,
love, and self-control. That last word has been translated as discipline as in
the self-discipline of a gymnast, self-control, and sound mind. Again, it is a
word used only here in the New Testament. HELPS Word Study says that it refers
to “aptly acting out God's will by doing what He calls sound reasoning.” It
seems to me that what Paul is talking about here is discernment. He is writing
to young Pastor Timothy who is apparently uncertain of his own ability to lead
well and is perhaps looked down on by those older and more experienced (see 1
Tim 4:2). Paul reminds him that his ability to lead is not found in himself,
but in the Spirit who dwells in him. The Spirit of power. The Spirit of
self-sacrificing love (agape). The Spirit of sound reasoning and
discernment. Each of those characteristics brings balance to the others. Together
they are what equips and enables an individual to be a good leader among the people
of God. We would do well to reflect on the implications of this truth.
Comments
Post a Comment