CENTRALITY OF THE WORD
September 1
Until I come, give attention to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation and teaching. 1 Tim. 4:13
The books of 1 Timothy, 2 Timothy, and Titus are known as the “Pastoral Epistles.” The human author of these books was Paul who desired to give instruction on how young Timothy and Titus were to carry themselves in the ministry. Giving heed to what is said here will lead to an increase of godly order in the church.
There are 3 things we need to do with the Word of God in the context of the church. First: There is to be reading of the Word. From the very beginning of the church local gatherings of believers listened as they heard the elders read the Scriptures (Rev. 1:3). What a blessing to always keep God’s revelation before us as we worship!
Second: There is to be the preaching of the word. Our verse uses the word “exhortation.” Timothy is supposed to urge his congregation to believe and practice what the Bible says. There is authority in the Word of God which the church is to submit to. By practicing this the preacher trusts in God’s method of church growth.
And Third: There is to be teaching or doctrine flowing from the mouth of the man of God. More than just becoming saved, it is God’s will for believers to become mature. When involved in discipleship a Christian man or woman can be taught (Matt. 28:20a). Consider a portion of the Great Commission which says, “teaching them to keep all that I commanded you”.
Is the Bible used often in your worship services at your church? Do you sing songs filled with truth? Are there God-exalting sermons? Do you listen closely in order to follow what has been revealed by God? May we all be more faithful to these things.
Matt Foreman
Grace For Living
Devotional Thoughts to Grow in the Grace of Our Lord Jesus Christ
September October November
2025
But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. 2 Peter 3:18
To subscribe or order physical copies please email Pastor Ethan Kallberg at pastorethan@outlook.com. To finacially support this ministry please click here.
Dear Brethren,
The College of Pastors of the CGBCI has a desire to see the people of our fellowship grow in Christian maturity. This devotional is an avenue to help you do just that. I pray that as you read the scriptures and the thoughts from our own pastors each day, that your heart and mind are drawn into closer communion with our Savior, Jesus Christ. To Him be all the
In Christ,
Pastor Ethan Kallberg
Contributors:
Pastor Bob Kulp, Elkhart GBC
Pastor Ike Graham, Orrville GBC
Pastor Terry L. Reese, Valley GBC of Armagh
Pastor Davy Troxel, Mishawaka GBC
Pastor Russ Simpson, Retired
Pastor DeLane Miller, GBC Albany
Pastor Tom Johnson, GBC of Somerset
Pastor Joshua Steiner, Orrville GBC
Pastor Gordy Harmon, Berean Faith Fellowship
Pastor Les Vnasdale, Cornerstone GBC
Pastor Matt Forman, North Buffalo GBC
Cover Photo by John Elliot
Scripture quotations taken from the (LSB®) Legacy Standard Bible®, Copyright © 2021 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Managed in partnership with Three Sixteen Publishing Inc. LSBible.org and 316publishing.com.