2 Timothy 2. As the Apostle Pual continues to share with Pastor Timothy, two things stand out to me in this chapter:

First, we see these instructions to Timothy: What you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also (2:2). If you count carefully, there are four generations of people represented in this little phrase – Paul, who taught Timothy, who will teach others, who will be able to pass along what they have learned. This is the central biblical principle of discipleship. It is called replication – the ability to teach and train someone else to do what you are doing as you follow Jesus.

Secondly, I am struck by how concerned Paul is about the quarrels and squabbles in the church in Ephesus. Have you ever been part of a group of people who seemed to be fixated on something… something that maybe does not matter as much as they think it does? This is what the Apostle Paul says:

Remind them of these things and charge them before God not to quarrel about words, which does no good, but only ruins the hearers (2:14).

Avoid godless chatter, because those who indulge in it will become more and more ungodly. (2:16)

Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. (2:22-23)

Wow. They did not even have the internet and social media back when Paul wrote these words! And yet somehow people still found a way to engage in foolish and stupid arguments; they still found a way to participate in godless chatter. Apparently this is a catastrophic waste of time that does no good, ruins the hearers, makes people more and more ungodly and produces quarrels.

Got it? Stay out of foolish arguments and godless chatter!

In closing, Paul encourages Timothy to flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.

What circle of “chatter” do you need to stay out of this week?!