The apostle Paul instructed his son in the faith, the evangelist Timothy, to “Preach the word” (2 Timothy 4:2). Some of the reasons Timothy was told to preach the Word were (1) God’s Word is truth (John 17:17) and (2) the time would come when men would turn their ears away from the truth (2 Timothy 4:3-4). In this context, Paul said that men would not put up with (endure, tolerate) healthful (sound) teaching/doctrine but would satisfy their own desires. It was as though they had itching ears. They would seek teachers to “scratch” their itching ears. Those who would not endure the sound doctrine and who would turn their ears from the truth would turn to teachings made up by men (fables). Paul knew this by inspiration, of course, and urged Timothy to preach the Word, knowing that God’s Word would counter the fables and false teachings of men.
In God’s plan for the church, we have a primary function that is to be the support and foundation of the truth (1 Timothy 3:15). The central purpose of the church is found in the Great Commission. We are to preach the Truth, the Gospel (Mark 16:15). As Paul told the Ephesians, it is God’s purpose for his manifold wisdom to be made known through the church (Ephesians 3:10-11). So, the church fulfills an important role in supporting the truth.
The varied duties of Christians are encompassed in this serious responsibility to support the Truth. Personal godliness is needed in one who truly supports the Truth. Our lives will reflect the extent of our faith and trust in God’s Word. Scriptural worship reflects our loyalty and support of the Truth. Acceptable worship toward God is to be offered “in truth” (John 4:24). For example, our singing in worship without instrumental accompaniment shows our devotion to God and His Truth and also indicates our respect for the authority of the Truth.
Some say the truth “speaks for itself.” While I think I understand the intent of this statement, the church must know the Truth, set forth the Truth and defend the Truth. If we do not know the Truth and know it well, the Truth may suffer at our hands. We must be able to contend for and defend the Truth. We must stand up for Truth. We must remember our duty is to be the “pillar and the ground of the truth” (1 Timothy 3:15).
