Bad Form

Bad Form
 
“But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.” I Timothy 5.8
 

What is it that an older man should teach his younger associates? What great lessons does a young pastor (or husband/father) need to know in order to be effective and mature? There is such a vital need for the aged men to pass along their wisdom to the younger generation that Solomon dedicated the first nine chapters of his book of Proverbs to offering more than mere knowledge – he offered wisdom.
 
Having attended several officiating (camps for sports officials), I soaked in methods and mechanics – rules and interpretations – and, wisdom from those who have gone before me. One of the most profound lessons I learned that affected my approach to any sporting contest, was something I learned at one of those camps. It was at an ACC sponsored basketball camp where the instructor said: “Too many officials say they have had so many years of experience when in reality they have had only one year so many times.” In other words, years on the court do not always translate into court wisdom – and, not everyone advances past the basics – they never mature. (Hebrews 5.12-14)
 
In the realm of Christianity, we call this “discipling” or “making disciples.” (Matthew 28.19, 20) The Apostle Paul was not boasting when he said: “Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.” (I Corinthians 11.1, See also Colossians 4.16 and Philippians 3.17) His experience had given him the wisdom to suggest that this young man Timothy would do well to emulate his example.
 
At first glance, our text verse would seem to suggest that Paul is warning Timothy of something that could cost him his eternal soul. However, looking a bit deeper into the verbiage, we see a rather obtainable message.
 
“Provide” translates the Greek word, “pronoeō” and suggests someone who sees the needs of others and makes plans to fulfill those needs.* Needs, in this case, are not just concerning food and clothing, but also address spiritual and emotional needs – wisdom and understanding provided by properly attending to the things lacking in others. (See Romans 12.17; II Corinthians 8.21) The implication is that we are to “foresee” a need and take care of it.
 
“Denied” translates the Greek word, “arnéomai” which means that he is acting contrary to his profession. “They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.” (Titus 1.16)
 
“Infidel” translates the Greek word, “apistos” which means someone who is untrustworthy and without Christian faith.
 
There may be nothing more damaging to the Cross of Christ than the actions of those who claim to be of the household of faith but do not do the things of Christ.
 
“Faith demands works and fruits. By refusing the natural duties which Christian faith implies, one practically denies his possession of faith. Faith does not abolish natural duties, but perfects and strengthens them.” (Bengel)
 
 

*(Perfect, Middle Deponent – a verb, stronger than a reflexive in English. It suggests a belief that changes one’s character. It is used of living by faith in Hebrews 10.38.)