Everything God Created
November 27, 2022
1 Timothy 4:4 - For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving.
This letter from Paul in Chapter 4 is dealing with false teachings. He wants to make sure his followers understand that everything God created has a good purpose. Nothing on it’s own should be treated as evil. But, it’s how some things are used that can make them evil and can be abused. For example, alcohol has a use, but can be abused in drunkenness. And even food is good! But can be abused when you eat too much or not the right foods. Guilty here!
But what was happening during the writing of this letter was that the false teachers were trying to prohibit and deny on things that actually distorted the beauty of God’s creation and designs and undermine the Word of God. They were forbidding people to marry and abstain from certain foods such as fruits, seeds and herbs, which are all part of God’s gifts to us for our benefit and for our healing.
The group that spreading these false teachings were trying to say that you needed more than just Bible knowledge, you needed a secret knowledge that only a select few knew about. They felt that all physical things were worthless and the only thing that mattered were spiritual things. They wanted everyone to deny themselves the blessings that God has given us.
But Paul tells us that is absolutely not true. It’s like having to give back a present that was giving to you! Instead of bringing you closer to God, it will actually drive you further away from God! We are to look at the gifts we are given, such as any special talent or interest. Don’t hide it away, but use it to God’s glory! Enjoy what He has given to you and give Him the thanks for it!
If God has given you more than you need, don’t be ashamed of that! But, remember that God loves you, and that He has given you that gift to be used and shared with others. I’m talking about actual physical gifts like teaching, preaching, playing the piano, talent, or any number of things and financial gifts as well. If God has given you an abundance, should you hoard it or share it? The way to thank Him would be to use it to help others.
Everything God created is good. It’s our responsibility to accept what He has given to us with thanksgiving. And not be led astray but those who are teaching things that are contrary to the Word of God. The only way we can do that is to stand firm and continue to be students of God’s Word and to pray for the wisdom to know right from wrong.