Our Only Foundation1 Timothy 3:14-16

What is TRUTH?Who defines it?

How do I find it?

Can I know it with certainty?

Why is it so important?

Introduction

• TRUTH is the foundation of any valuable worldview.

• The pastoral letters are practical theologies – a worldview acted out.

Building or People?

Introduction

• The text of 1 Tim 3:14-16 contains a 6-line hymn.

• It’s main theological emphasis is Christology.

StructureA

or

Pass

3rd

Sg Verb Prep

Dat

ive

No

un

Object

Structure

Ascension (l.6)

Following (l.5)

Preaching (l.4)

Ministry (l.3)

Baptism (l.2)

Incarnation (l.1)

A trouble spot?

manifested in the flesh

• The incarnation of Christ models revelatory compassion

The church must preach the truth of Christology wrapped in acts of grace

vindicated by the Spirit

• The baptism of Christ identified Him as the Messiah and launched His ministry

The church must be a Spirit-filled organization and a godly institution

seen by angels

• The life, death and resurrection of Christ was a public display of His mission

The church must be publicly witnessing to the power of the resurrection

proclaimed among the nations

• Jesus came to teach; He trained His disciples to preach. Both Jew and Gentile gathered to hear His message

The church must be preaching the gospel “until the whole world knows”

believed on in the world

• Many came to Jesus by faith, and having their sins forgiven, followed Him

The church will be successful only if its members are converted, committed and connected by grace through faith

taken up in glory

• Jesus finished His earthly ministry and was exalted and elevated to Heaven

The church is now the effective Body of Christ, left behind to influence the world; we are awaiting glorification

Structure (better?)

Christ’s actual life on the

earth• Lines 1-3

Christ’s representative

life on earth• Lines 4-6

Conclusion

• The gospel of JESUS CHRIST is a significant, foundational doctrine.

• The longevity of this LOCAL CHURCH depends on it.

• Our doctrinal statement is a declaration of what we BELIEVE.

• What we believe affects how we BEHAVE.

Conclusion

GREAT is the uniqueness of Christianity

GREAT is the importance of the Church

GREAT is the truth of the gospel

GREAT is the example of Christ

GREAT is the mystery of godliness