Introduction:
1. In this verse the apostle Paul instructed Timothy to:
a. flee certain things [things that oppose "the doctrine which is according to godliness" -- vs.3-5]
b. follow after other things [righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, and meekness].
2. On this first Lord's Day of 2024 we are concentrating on the admonition to follow after "godliness"
[reverence or respect toward God, piety].
3. Let us begin our study by pointing out that . . .
Discussion:
I. MANY SCRIPTURES TEACH US TO PURSUE "GODLINESS"
A. In addition to "following after godliness" (1 Timothy 6:11),:
1. we are to exercise ourselves unto "godliness" (1 Timothy 4:7)
2. we are to live "godly" in this present world (Titus 2:11-12)
3. we are to develop "godliness" with all diligence (2 Peter 1:5-7).
B. How grateful we need to be that God has given us "all things that pertain unto life and godliness"
(2 Peter 1:3).
C. As we pursue "godliness" we need to place great emphasis on activities such as Bible study, prayer,
meditation, worship, and service.
D. In addition to teaching us to pursue "godliness," . . .
II. THE SCRIPTURES CONTAIN WARNINGS THAT RELATE TO "GODLINESS"
A. We learn from 2 Timothy 3:1-5 that God is not pleased with those who only have "a form of godliness."
B. According to 1 Timothy 2:9-10, those who profess true "godliness" will be adorned with good works.
C. We are to serve God "with reverence and godly fear" because He is a consuming fire (Hebrews 12:28-29).
D. To be ready for the Lord's return we must develop "godliness" (2 Peter 3:10-14).
E. In addition to these warnings, the Scriptures teach that . . .
III. BLESSINGS ARE IN STORE FOR THOSE WHO FOLLOW AFTER "GODLINESS"
A. "Godliness is profitable unto all things" (1 Timothy 4:8).
B. "Godliness with contentment is great gain" (1 Timothy 6:6).
C. "The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations" (2 Peter 2:9).
Conclusion:
1. The Lord has blessed us by allowing us to begin a new year.
2. As we go through 2024, let us follow after "godliness" while fleeing things that oppose it.
3. The Lord will be pleased, and He will bless us in return.
W