Stay Put.1 Timothy 1:3-4.
As I urged you when I was going to Macedonia, remain at Ephesus so that you may charge certain persons not to teach any different doctrine, Nor to devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies, which promote speculations rather than the stewardship from God that is by faith.
Dear Strangers and Aliens in this World,
In this section, Paul seems to be encouraging Timothy to stay where he left him. It is probable that Timothy’s concern for Paul was such that he wanted to be with him. But there are times when we do not have the luxury of choice. Necessity often demands separation from those we hold dear.
Charge (v. 3). Timothy was to charge certain persons – there were such persons, not to teach a different doctrine. The word charge is a synonym of command and it assumes that the one who speaks has authority. It is common for people to ignore the commands of pastors. While it is good to read and understand the Bible for oneself, God has appointed leaders to watch over his flock and we do well to listen to them and respect what they say.
Correct (v. 4). The teachers misleading the Ephesians took them on several deviations: Stories. Paul calls them myths. It is possible for people to create all manner of believable stories and send everyone on the wrong path. Speculations. These were based on genealogies, whether historical or mythical, that took people on a wild goose chase, away from the “stewardship from God that is by faith.” The issue seems to have been that the Ephesians were misled by people who caused them to focus away from the faith.
To be lost, sometimes one only takes one’s eyes from the truth and emphasizes something that takes attention away from God. Ask what you are being led to focus on. Is it central to the gospel?
Your Loving Pastor Chris.