The Clearest Sign
As I urged you when I went into Macedonia, stay there in Ephesus so that you may command certain men not to teach false doctrines any longer … The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith 1 Timothy 1:3,5
After being released from his first Roman imprisonment (c.f. Acts 28:30), Paul revisited several of the cities in which he had ministered, including Ephesus. Leaving Timothy behind there to deal with problems that had arisen, Paul went on to Macedonia, from where he wrote this letter. The situation in Ephesus was very difficult with false teachers, who were probably local elders, leading some of the house churches astray.
Two major concerns run through 1 and 2 Timothy and Titus. Firstly, Paul is anxious that everyone who professes the Christian faith should allow the gospel to transform the whole of their lives. Secondly, he is anxious that all Christians (and especially leaders) should know how to build up the community in love and support. This is the emphasis in the scripture before us.
How would Paul know Timothy’s ministry in the Ephesian church was successful? There would be one clear marker: love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.
(1) love from a pure heart
The word ‘pure’ means purity resulting from some kind of cleansing. This is love from a right motive, love that’s open and real. This is love from a heart God has “worked” on.
(2) love from a good conscience
A good conscience means we’re honestly unaware of anything wrong in what we’re doing or saying. Love from a good conscience is love that’s in no way constrained or forced or knowingly compromised
(3) love from a sincere faith
This is love that comes from our faith in Christ. The Holy Spirit’s fruit begins growing in us from the moment of our conversion
What do we look for in a church as a sign that they’re doing well – increased numbers, how many answer an altar call, bigger offering, their worship team? These have their place but none would “cut it” with Paul. He knew what he wanted: love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.
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