The Mystery of the Church: 1 Timothy 3:14-15
“14) I am writing these things to you, hoping to come to you before long; 15) but in case I am delayed, I write so that you will know how one ought to conduct himself in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and support of the truth.” 1 Timothy 3:14-15
Paul took seriously his apostleship and oversight of the churches he helped start. Though often absent in body he was present in spirit. He carried them in his bosom night and day. (See 2 Corinthians 11:28-29) He constantly prayed for them.
Though he did not stay long in one location, he made a constant circuit of ministering to both churches and those he discipled in the faith. When his circumstances prevented his visits, he summoned a scribe or took the pen in hand and wrote them. His diligence to correspond in his absence resulted in much of the New Testament being written. God used his delays to greatly advance the gospel.
Paul had a high view of the church in society. As verse 15 says, he viewed it as “… the household of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and support of truth.”
The church is the pillar of truth in society. It has the role of opposing moral darkness and decay and proclaiming the light. While Satan and the world seeks to deceive, corrupt and enslave; the church holds forth truth, forgiveness and freedom through the gospel. It is no surprise that the gates of hell are aligned against the true church.
Though many churches have abandoned the faith and become liberal and secular institutions, Jesus watches over His bride. His church is a living organism. He promised to build His church in such a way that the gates of hell would not prevail against it. (See Matthew 16:17-19 & Ephesians 5:22-30)
Every believer should embark on a detailed study of the church in the New Testament. It is indeed the household of God. It is the pillar and support of truth. It is not made up of brick or mortar, it is made up of born-again believers. (See 1 Peter 2:4-5 & Ephesians 2:19-22) Jesus Himself is the head and we are His body.
I love Jesus and count it my highest privilege and honor to be part of His body. Few Christians understand or value the mystery of the church in the world. The Spirit of God has always been active through the true household of God in the world.
His true church cannot be defined or contained by denominations or human institutions. Though many man made churches are dead, dysfunctional and void of truth; His church is very alive, powerful and active in the world. The Spirit of God is working in unprecedented ways in and through His Church today. I believe He is preparing His bride for His soon return.
Daily Bible Commentary By Terry Baxter: Cofounder of GoServ Global