15 September 2021

Without any doubt, the mystery of our religion is great:
He was revealed in flesh,
vindicated in spirit,
seen by angels,
proclaimed among Gentiles,
believed in throughout the world,
taken up in glory.
1 Timothy 3:14-16 NRSV

In writing this letter to Timothy, Paul was aware that it could be some time before he was able to visit the church at Ephesus in person. He therefore wanted to give them some clear and helpful advice on how they were to behave in ways that reflected their membership of the Church. The people of this community were likely subjected to many influences and some false teaching, so Paul begins by reminding them that they are members of God’s family and as such members of the “Church of the living God” as distinct from the many pagan temples to the gods. In the following few lines, Paul gives a concise and beautiful summary of Christian truth showing Christ’s journey from incarnation, his presence and influence on earth and his final return to glory.  Acceptance of these fundamental truths brings with it the expectation that those who accept them will want their lives to be guided and shaped by their relationship with Christ.

• • Do Paul’s words give enough guidance on how to live as members of the Church?
  • What might you say to someone who asks what the Church is for today?

Read Paul’s words slowly and mindfully – you might even want to try and memorise them.

Image – Christ in Glory 14th century Constantinople