We must pay attention to what we believe
“Command and teach these things … Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching.” 1 Timothy 4:11, 16a
As we continue our exploration of Paul’s exhortations to Timothy, a foundational truth emerges—what we believe shapes the core of our existence. In this installment, we delve into the imperative of paying attention to our beliefs, as Paul underscores the centrality of doctrine in a world teeming with distractions. Throughout our passage, Paul employs the terms “teaching” and “doctrine,” emphasizing their significance. Paul is showing us something vitally important about life in Christ: what we believe is of first importance.
Our “doctrine on doctrine” is that it is of first importance because what we believe is how we see the world. What we believe is how we understand our lives. What we believe drives the everyday nitty gritty decisions we make.
Do We Truly Know What We Believe?
Paul’s inquiry pierces through the centuries to echo in our hearts. Can we articulate the reasons behind our belief in the trustworthiness of the Bible? Can we navigate the intricate facets of God’s Triunity or the two natures of Christ? Are we equipped to elucidate why Jesus’ sacrificial death is the only way to be reconciled with God? These are life and death issues and they illuminate our need to be well-versed in our faith’s fundamental tenets.
Radium Girls
Consider this sobering story as a stark reminder of the consequences our beliefs can wield. The book “Radium Girls,” tells the story of a group of young women’s harrowing experience during World War I. Tasked with painting radium onto watch dials to render them luminous, they were consistently reassured of the substance’s harmlessness. Yet, as days turned into weeks and weeks into months, an alarming pattern emerged.
Unbeknownst to these diligent workers, their prolonged exposure to radium led to dire repercussions. Handling it daily, they unwittingly ingested the hazardous material through touch and even unknowingly licked their paintbrushes. The outcome was distressing—illnesses surfaced, accompanied by severe bone and organ deterioration. As their health deteriorated, they sought explanations, only to be met with dismissive reassurances. Authorities proclaimed that their suffering was coincidental, unrelated to radium.
Tragically, these women, who willingly dedicated themselves to their country’s cause, found themselves betrayed by what they believed to be safe. Assured by those in authority that no danger lurked, they placed their trust in misplaced beliefs. By the year 1927, the devastating toll became undeniable—over 50 of these women had lost their lives.
This cautionary tale underscores a resounding truth—the beliefs we hold can either lead us toward vitality or spell our spiritual demise. Much like the insidious effects of radium, beliefs that are not grounded in truth can subtly corrode our spiritual well-being. In an age where misguided beliefs threaten to erode our core, we’re challenged to embrace a rigorous pursuit of truth.
Pay Attention
Paul’s admonition to Timothy transcends time, inviting us to cultivate a robust understanding of our faith. Sound doctrine serves as our compass, guiding us through a sea of distractions. By heeding Paul’s call to pay attention to what we believe, we fortify ourselves against the corrosive forces of deception, ensuring our faith remains unshakable amidst a turbulent world.
