Exalting the Cross
137
As a precautionary measure, Paul wisely advised Timothy to be
circumcised—not that God required it, but in order to remove from
the minds of the Jews that which might be an objection to Timothy’s
ministration. In his work Paul was to journey from city to city, in
many lands, and often he would have opportunity to preach Christ in
Jewish synagogues, as well as in other places of assembly. If it should
be known that one of his companions in labor was uncircumcised, his
work might be greatly hindered by the prejudice and bigotry of the
Jews. Everywhere the apostle met determined opposition and severe
persecution. He desired to bring to his Jewish brethren, as well as
to the Gentiles, a knowledge of the gospel, and therefore he sought,
so far as was consistent with the faith, to remove every pretext for
opposition. Yet while he conceded this much to Jewish prejudice, he
believed and taught circumcision or uncircumcision to be nothing and
the gospel of Christ everything.
Paul loved Timothy, his “own son in the faith.”
1 Timothy 1:2
.
The great apostle often drew the younger disciple out, questioning
him in regard to Scripture history, and as they traveled from place to
place, he carefully taught him how to do successful work. Both Paul
and Silas, in all their association with Timothy, sought to deepen the
impression that had already been made upon his mind, of the sacred,
serious nature of the work of the gospel minister.
[205]
In his work, Timothy constantly sought Paul’s advice and instruc-
tion. He did not move from impulse, but exercised consideration and
calm thought, inquiring at every step, Is this the way of the Lord? The
Holy Spirit found in him one who could be molded and fashioned as a
temple for the indwelling of the divine Presence.
As the lessons of the Bible are wrought into the daily life, they have
a deep and lasting influence upon the character. These lessons Timothy
learned and practiced. He had no specially brilliant talents, but his
work was valuable because he used his God-given abilities in the
Master’s service. His knowledge of experimental piety distinguished
him from other believers and gave him influence.
Those who labor for souls must attain to a deeper, fuller, clearer
knowledge of God than can be gained by ordinary effort. They must
throw all their energies into the work of the Master. They are engaged
in a high and holy calling, and if they gain souls for their hire they
must lay firm hold upon God, daily receiving grace and power from