Recently our Elders engaged in a study on the phrase "able to teach" from 1 Tim. 3 where the list of qualifications for an elder are found. I stumbled upon a text this afternoon that falls in line with our study….. Be encouraged!
2 Timothy 2:24-26
24 The Lord’s bond-servant must not be quarrelsome, but be kind to all, able to teach, patient when wronged,
25 with gentleness correcting those who are in opposition, if perhaps God may grant them repentance leading to the knowledge of the truth,
26 and they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, having been held captive by him to do his will.
What does properly teaching the Bible do for the student?
They come to repentance…. Freedom from sin
They come to truth… Freedom from error and deceit
They come to their senses… freedom from the wiles of the devil
Reality of Satan’s Schemes
1. He casts doubt on the Word of God and the character of God- (Gen 3:1, 5) - “Has God said” (casting doubt on His word) Later.. “For God knows that in the day you eat of it..” (Suggesting God is keeping something from you. Can He be good?) Just like God kept something from Satan in heaven- His throne.
2. He lies. (John 8:44) Jesus calls him a liar and the Father of all lies.
3. He deceives. (2 Cor. 11: 13-15) He can present himself as an angel of light and his angels also disguise themselves as servants of righteousness.
4. He tempts. (Matt 4:1; 1 Thess. 3:5) He actively incites people to sin.
5. He teaches false doctrine. (I Tim 4:1)- “doctrines of demons”
6. He creates division. (James 3:13-16). The wisdom that is made up of jealousy and selfish ambition is not from above but is earthly, natural demonic. Where this jealousy and selfish ambition exist is disorder and every evil thing.
7. He exploits our sin. (Eph. 4:26-27; 2 Cor. 2:10-11). “Be angry and yet do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger and do not give the devil an opportunity.” The word means a foothold, a wedge. That is, an entry point of influence.
8. He attacks leadership in the church by exploiting pride and inexperience. (1 Tim 3:5) “... and not a new convert, lest he become conceited and fall into the condemnation of the devil.”
9. He hinders believers in their work for God. (1 Thess. 2:18). “For we wanted to come to you-I Paul, more than once and yet Satan thwarted us.
10. He accuses believers before God night and day. (Job 1; Zech. 3:1-2; Rev 12:10)
11. He seeks to hurt, inflict pain kill and devour. (Job 1:8-12; 1 Peter 5:8)
See also Jesus’ words to Peter re: Satan in Luke 22: 31-32