“Protecting the Church’s Resources and Reputation” (1 Timothy 5:9–16)

“Protecting the Church’s Resources and Reputation” (1 Timothy 5:9–16)
^{Cameron Jungels/Eastside Baptist/Wed PM/May 6, 2015}

“if I am delayed, you will know how people ought to conduct themselves in God’s household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth.” (1 Timothy 3:15, NIV)

“Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.” (Galatians 6:10, NIV)

 
“No widow may be put on the list of widows unless she is over sixty, has been faithful to her husband, and is well known for her good deeds, such as bringing up children, showing hospitality, washing the feet of the Lord’s people, helping those in trouble and devoting herself to all kinds of good deeds. As for younger widows, do not put them on such a list. For when their sensual desires overcome their dedication to Christ, they want to marry. Thus they bring judgment on themselves, because they have broken their first pledge. Besides, they get into the habit of being idle and going about from house to house. And not only do they become idlers, but also busybodies who talk nonsense, saying things they ought not to. So I counsel younger widows to marry, to have children, to manage their homes and to give the enemy no opportunity for slander. Some have in fact already turned away to follow Satan. If any woman who is a believer has widows in her care, she should continue to help them and not let the church be burdened with them, so that the church can help those widows who are really in need.” (1 Timothy 5:9–16, NIV)
 

Lessons:
⦁    Use God’s resources wisely
⦁    Maintain the reputation of the church
⦁    Maintain a consistent Christian character
⦁    Serve others as we have opportunity
⦁    Use our time and our words wisely

Main Idea: We need to be Christians whose lives match our professions.