READ: 1 Tim. 6:11-14: … But you … Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life … I urge you that you keep this commandment without spot, blameless until our Lord Jesus Christ’s appearing.
Paul warns against false teachers and those who desire to become rich at the expense of losing their faith. In contrast, he calls upon Timothy and all who belong to God to not follow false teachings and to flee from the desires of the old self. To flee means to escape danger; in this case, the danger is the temptation that attaches itself to sinful desires of the old self. Fleeing means not seeking out that temptation.
At the same time, Paul urges them to live with love, dedication, and zeal for the faith. The act of faith, fleeing from evil, and pursuing what is good is the good fight of faith. This fight can only be fought in the power of the Spirit but requires careful obedience and wholehearted dedication. This fight is good because you are serving Christ and pursuing what is right (v. 11).
The good fight is likened to a race, with the reward being eternal life. Keep that in mind! Moreover, this fight is not optional. Timothy was called to it at his ordination. Paul gives not advice here but a command: Fight. Follow this command blamelessly until Christ’s return. “This commandment” refers to everything that Christ has commanded us to do in His service (Matt. 28:19).
This includes, first and foremost, teaching nations and baptizing. Besides apostles, this applies to all office-bearers and also to congregation members who, in the office of all believers, are kings and must also fight the good fight of faith (Heidelberg Catechism Q&A 32).
This good fight is challenging, but it is possible with God’s help, who gives life to all things. He is almighty and gives you strength! Let Timothy also look to Christ: He Himself stood firm in the truth before Pilate, even with death before Him. He will also help you.
Why is there always a struggle with faith?
Singing: Hymn 43:3