// Covenant Family Church

Text: 1 Timothy 6:11-12

Throughout the Old Testament there are several individuals who are referred to by the noble title “Man of God”—Moses, David, Elijah, Elisha, and various lesser known prophets (e.g. 1 Kings 13:1-26). Thus, when Paul uses this same term to refer to Timothy it communicates his very high regard for the young pastor. Paul, though, is not trying to flatter Timothy, instead he trying to exhort and encourage him to persevere in his pursuit of “godliness”. This same word of exhortation and encouragement could surely be given to all disciples of Jesus Christ regardless of gender—whether they are a man or woman (cf. 2 Timothy 3:16-17). Nevertheless, in this passage it seems to address those men who serve as spiritual leaders; in other words those men who are responsible for the spiritual welfare of others (e.g. pastors, teachers, missionary/evangelists, elders, deacons, husbands, and fathers).

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Text: 1st Timothy 6:6-10

What should the attitude of the Christian be towards money? Well, it is certainly one of the necessary things of life that is used to purchase food, clothing, transportation, shelter, and services of various kinds. It is also used to bless others by meeting their needs. Moreover, we are commanded by God to regularly bring our tithe into the Lord’s house and thereby receive his blessing. Yet, we should also know that money can be a temptation, and snare and a pathway that leads to our own destruction. Jesus warned his disciples “No one can serve two masters… You cannot serve God and money” (Matt. 6:24). And so, we would do well to take Jesus’ admonition to heart and resolve by God’s grace to practice generosity, learn Christian contentment, and rejoice in God’s promises–of these actions God greatly approves!

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Text: Psalm 121:1-8

Every year each Israelite male was required by the Lord to make three pilgrimages to Jerusalem; for Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles (see Exodus 23:14-17, 34:22-24; and Deuteronomy 16:16-17). As Israel’s borders grew it became very difficult to make these lengthy journeys, and so it was customary for the people from the outlying areas to go Jerusalem only once a year. The Law did not require women and children to make this arduous trip, however in many devout households all family members would go. You may remember that the Lord Jesus went on one of these pilgrimages when he was a young boy (see Luke 2:41-51). The route to Jerusalem could be filled with adventure and danger. But, when the hills of Jerusalem came into view the pilgrim’s hope would rise to the point of great expectation and joy! In this Psalm there are lessons for each of us—in how we deal with adversity, in how we prepare to worship our God, and in how the Lord keeps us safe throughout the pilgrimage we all make to the heavenly Jerusalem.

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1 Timothy 6:3-5

If you know your Bible well, then you can spot a false teacher by his doctrinal aberrations and irregularities (cf. Deuteronomy 18:20-22; Matthew 7:15-20; 2 Corinthians 11:13-15; Galatians 1:8-9; 1 John 4:1-6; 2 Peter 2:1-22; and Jude 4, 8-16). But what sort of marks does the false teacher manifest in his character? Apparently, the Apostle Paul was concerned that Timothy, the young pastor, and the church in Ephesus might not be able to spot a false teacher until it was too late and the damage had already been done! In this particular passage Paul identifies certain marks in a man’s character that Timothy should watch out for. These seven marks are as true today as they were back then. Let us resolve, then, to learn these for our own protection, as well as for the protection of our young adults and little children.

The Main Point of this Passage:

“He has an unhealthy craving for controversy and for quarrels about words, which produce…constant friction” 1 Timothy 6:4-5

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September 6th - Full Meal following the worship service
September 11th - Next meeting of the Overseeing Session (7 pm)
September 15th - Men’s Meeting - Pastor Serven on Biblical Evangelism
September 20th - Full Meal following the worship service
October 23th-24th - Reformation Day Faire in Peoria, IL
November 1st - Reformation Sunday at CFC with Fellowship Meal
December 10th-12th - NCFIC National Conference in Cincinnati, OH
February 26th-27th - Men’s Advance with Bill Potter in Troy, MO
March 20th - Liberty Day with Dr. Paul Jehle in Chicago, IL

On Tuesday evening, September 15th, we will hold our next Men’s Meeting (7-9). Pastor Serven will give practical instruction on “Biblical Evangelism”, plus we will observe three lively demonstrations on how to share the gospel! All men and boys are welcome.

Our joyful choice for September is #699, “Like a River Glorious”. Many Christians have treasured this hymn written by Francis Havergal in 1874. It pictures the eternal peace which will reign in the New Heave and on the New Earth (cf. Isaiah 66:12; 2 Peter 3:13; Revelation 21-22). May God be praised!

Guest Preacher: Pastor Conrad Cheatham
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