What is a missional youth? (1/2)

Timothy holds a special place in my life because my middle name comes from this youthful disciple. At my point in life, I resonate a lot with the message that God spoke to Timothy through the apostle Paul. I imagine I'm very close to Timothy's age at the time that Paul wrote this letter to him. I hope, however, that Timothy and I have more than just age and name in common. 1 Timothy is a great epistle on encouragement because the language and style is written from a mentor to a disciple. In this letter from Paul, a lot can be learned about God's heart for His disciples. The first chapter of 1 Timothy introduces the discipling and mentoring nature between Paul and Timothy. Paul calls Timothy a true son in the faith. This acknowledgement only is a powerful one. Paul recognizes and affirms Timothy's faith even in this first address. In this passage, some background is shared about Paul's own life before he met Christ and the lessons he has learned since accepting Christ. Timothy gets a full dose of wisdom, encouragement, and blessing from Paul throughout this epistle beginning in very first sentence.

If there is one point that ought strikes out the most in this passage, the repeated use of the word "faith" ought to stand out the most. The description of "faith" and "faithful" are repeated at least six times in this very first chapter and rightly so for "faith" is a vital element of living out God's mission. Paul encourages Timothy to promote not controversies but encourage God's work which is by faith. In addition, Paul the wise Christian mentor, goes on to say that, "The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith." If I could choose one key theme verse that ties together the need for missional youths to have faithful obedient hearts it would be this! The greatest command ever written in the Bible is summed up by loving God and loving others. Paul states in one sentence that this kind of love comes from a pure heart with a good conscience and a sincere faith. One of God's greatest skill throughout history has always been choosing the right missional youth to carry out His will. For God sees what man does not, the heart.