The Christian life is one of active movement! For Timothy, Paul calls on him as a young minister of the gospel to be on the run! “But as for you, O man of God, flee these things. Pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, gentleness” (6:11).
First, Paul alerts Timothy to the fact that some things are giving him chase, and he needs to flee them so as to not get caught, tangled, and trapped! The question is what are the “these things” from which Timothy should flee? For that answer we look to the previous text. At least three items appear in vv3-10 that believers, especially pastors, should intentionally avoid; false doctrine, meaningless controversy, and the love of money. When Timothy notices any of these three, he is to run in the opposite direction as fast and as hard as he can. False doctrine is anything that contradicts the words of Jesus (v3). Meaningless controversy is initiated with evil intent and only results in division. The love of money will cause one to destroy his soul (vv9-10)!
Second, not only is Timothy to avoid the dangers that give him chase, but he is to be about chasing godly virtues! Paul commands him to pursue six. (1) Righteousness - right living among men. (2) Godliness - God-glorifying life. (3) Faith - keep believing more and deeper. (4) Love - work at displaying love toward one another, not just vocally affirming it. (5) Steadfastness - Be consistent in the Christian life. (6) Gentleness - Do unto others and you would have them do unto you.
Evil is not easy to avoid and Spirit-fruit does not come without cooperating effort! Get busy; get to running!
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