Titus 1:1; I Timothy 6:2-4 – “What is Theology For?” – Dr. Ligon Duncan
Titus 1:1; I Timothy 6:2-4 – “What is Theology For?”
Dr. Ligon Duncan
Titus 1:1 – Paul, a servant [1] of God and a an apostle of Jesus Christ, for the sake of the faith of God’s elect and b their knowledge of the truth, c which accords with godliness,
I Timothy 6:2-4 – Those who have believing masters must not be disrespectful on the ground that they are q brothers; rather they must serve all the better since those who benefit by their good service are believers and beloved. r Teach and urge these things. 3 If anyone s teaches a different doctrine and does not agree with t the sound [2] words of our Lord Jesus Christ and the teaching u that accords with godliness, 4 v he is puffed up with conceit and w understands nothing. He has an unhealthy craving for x controversy and for y quarrels about words, which produce envy, dissension, slander, evil suspicions,
These represent an important theme in Paul’s teaching. The teaching which he and Timothy are to do. False teaching leads to vain speculations; does not benefit their well being. The true doctrine of God’s Word by the Spirit is productive in the life of the believer. As you expound the word of God always have the view of what that word is to produce in believers which is a “right apprehension of the 1 true God and His gospel and His grace and what it should produce = Piety, Proper understanding of God. Packer says, the Bible is about God and godliness. It is about doctrine and duty, ____?________, theology and living, God and godliness. The truth is unto godliness. In many circles today the application of the truth is held in great suspicion. Some believe that application is inappropriate. Paul’s words here and his practice makes it clear that it is the preacher’s duty to make His word applicable to the hearer.
Theology exists in the interests of pastoral ministry. How do you pastor? “Believe in God, believe in Me.” Every doctrine has its application. Every truth has its practical aim and effect in the life of God’s people. What is the truth for? Biblical ignorance is so wide in the truth now that you cannot assume even, “What the truth is for”. Are you receiving complaints of your practical application? It could because you are not applying the word to them. They are asking, What is this truth for?
4 Passages on the Application of Theology
1. Romans 11:32-36 – (Refer to Derek Thomas’ talk on Romans 11 from Wednesday night) – 32 For God r has consigned all to disobedience, that he may have mercy on all. 33 Oh, the depth of the riches and s wisdom and knowledge of God! t How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways! 34 “For u who has known the mind of the Lord, or v who has been his counselor?” 35 “Or w who has given a gift to him that he might be repaid?” 36 For x from him and through him and to him are all things. y To him be glory forever. Amen.