PODCAST
Flim-Flam Faith
July 30th, 2016
1 Timothy 6:1-10
In Meredith Willson’s The Music Man Professor Harold Hill convinces the citizens of River City that they have a problem with juvenile delinquency. Professor Hill has the solution, a boy’s band, and he just happens to sell the instruments and uniforms! He promises to instruct the boys and whip them together into a first-rate band. The problem is Professor Hill is a huckster who collects the money, delivers shoddy instruments and uniforms, and departs before anyone can demand a refund.
Religious hucksters had befallen the Christian community in Ephesus. The Apostle Paul’s first letter to Pastor Timothy addresses this problem. He writes how they “have an unhealthy interest in controversies and quarrels” (1 Timothy 6:4b). Sadly, the Church has never quite rid itself of these flim-flam artists.
The kingdom of God works on a different economy. It recognizes that “we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it” (1 Timothy 6:7). Christians find contentment in God’s provision, living in obedience to His will, and enjoying His care.
Author: Duane Brush
