2 Timothy 2

"Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth." – 2 Timothy 2:15

This is a command we must observe. The below are ways of doing so.

Don't Quarrel

"Remind them of these things, and charge them before God not to quarrel about words, which does no good, but only ruins the hearers." – 2 Timothy 2:14

"But avoid irreverent babble, for it will led people into more and more ungodliness, and their talk will spread like gangrene." – 2 Timothy 2:16-17a

"Have nothing to do with foolish ignorant controversies; you know that they breed quarrels." – 2 Timothy 2:23

The definition of quarrel: a heated argument or disagreement, typically about a trivial issue and between people who are usually on good terms.

Paul mentions the specific word quarrel twice! He cautions against this. How tragic for friendly people to intensely argue about a trivial issue! It's totally not worth it, no matter from what angle you look at it.

Not only will you destroy your relationships with those close to you, but you will also fall away from godliness. Furthermore, you'll lead others astray.

Be An Honorable Vessel

"Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from what is dishonorable, he will be a vessel for honorable use, set apart as holy, useful to the master of the house, ready for every good work." – 2 Timothy 2:21

"So flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart." – 2 Timothy 2:22

"And the Lord's servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil, correcting his opponents with gentleness." – 2 Timothy 2:24-25a

We even see Paul mention the word quarrel a third time! Rather than quarreling, we should be honorable vessels.

We should avoid being quarrelsome and flee youthful passions.

Instead, we should pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, taking care to be kind to everyone, be able to teach, patiently enduring evil, and being gentle with our opponents.