Pastor Nate Brosher
Nov 20, 2025
1Timothy 4:1-5 NLT - 1 Now the Holy Spirit tells us clearly that in the last times some will turn away from the true faith; they will follow deceptive spirits and teachings that come from demons. 2 These people are hypocrites and liars, and their consciences are dead. 3 They will say it is wrong to be married and wrong to eat certain foods. But God created those foods to be eaten with thanks by faithful people who know the truth. 4 Since everything God created is good, we should not reject any of it but receive it with thanks. 5 For we know it is made acceptable/holy by the word of God and prayer.
1Timothy 4:6-7 NLT - 6 If you explain these things to the brothers and sisters, Timothy, you will be a worthy servant of Christ Jesus, one who is nourished by the message of faith and the good teaching you have followed. 7 Do not waste time arguing over godless ideas and old wives' tales. Instead, train yourself to be godly.
■ Why are we wasting our time arguing with the Godless?
Matthew 7:6 NLT - 6 "Don't waste what is holy on people who are unholy. Don't throw your pearls to pigs! They will trample the pearls, then turn and attack you.
1. Discernment
1Corinthians 15:32-33 NLT - 32 And what value was there in fighting wild beasts--those people of Ephesus--if there will be no resurrection from the dead? And if there is no resurrection, "Let's feast and drink, for tomorrow we die!" 33 Don't be fooled by those who say such things, for "bad company corrupts good character."
Hebrews 12:15 ESV - 15 See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no "root of bitterness" springs up and causes trouble, and by it many become defiled.
Proverbs 13:20 NLT - 20 Walk with the wise and become wise; associate with fools and get in trouble.
2. Self-awareness
A crowd can either pull you up, pull you down or push you off course.
1Timothy 4:8-11 NLT - 8 "Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come." 9 This is a trustworthy saying, and everyone should accept it. 10 This is why we work hard and continue to struggle, for our hope is in the living God, who is the Savior of all people and particularly of all believers. 11 Teach these things and insist that everyone learn them.
■ How do we train for godliness?
■ Train - “Gynmazo” - to exercise, discipline, practice with effort.
Scripture Intake:
• Daily Reading
• Applying what you read.
• Meditation
• Memorization
We can’t become what we don’t consume.
Prayer:
• Set times of prayer
• Short prayers throughout the day
• Honest prayers (not just eloquent ones)
• Listening as much as speaking
Prayer is not only communication, it’s formation.
Worship:
• Personal worship
• Corporate worship
• Consistent gathering with believers
What you embrace consistently shapes what you become.
1Timothy 4:12-13, 15-16 NLT - 12 Don't let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity. 13 Until I get there, focus on reading the Scriptures to the church, encouraging the believers, and teaching them. ... 15 Give your complete attention to these matters. Throw yourself into your tasks so that everyone will see your progress. 16 Keep a close watch on how you live and on your teaching. Stay true to what is right for the sake of your own salvation and the salvation of those who hear you.