As I urged you when I went into Macedonia, stay there in Ephesusso that you may command certain people not to teach false doctrines any longer or to devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies. Such things promote controversial speculations rather than advancing God’s work—which is by faith. The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith. 1 Timothy 1:3-5
“Wherefore I do also call upon Thee, Lord God of Abraham, and God of Isaac, and God of Jacob and Israel, who art the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the God who, through the abundance of Thy mercy, hast had a favor towards us, that we should know Thee, who hast made heaven and earth, who rulest over all, who art the only and the true God, above whom there is none other God; grant, by our Lord Jesus Christ, the governing power of the Holy Spirit; give to every reader of this book to know Thee, that Thou art God alone, to be strengthened in Thee, and to avoid every heretical, and godless, and impious doctrine.”
Irenaeus of Lyons in Against Heresies 3.6.4.
Polycarp discipled Irenaeus. When the persecution arose in Lyons he sent Irenaeus there to serve. He became bishop. Later, he was sent to Rome because of “the rising pestilence of heresy.” His most famous work, which we have to this day is a five-volume set called, Against Heresies.
This excerpt from the spiritual grandson of John the disciple of Jesus reminds us why he wrote. He wanted people to avoid attaching to a counterfeit and to find their strength in Jesus alone. He also wanted them to avoid heretical, godless, and impious doctrine. This is true for every generation.
Yesterday at Annunciation Catholic Church in downtown Denver (pictured above), a dear friend of mine, Randy Kipp (the “mobile monk” who prays for me daily gives me airport rides), did his vows to be a Franciscan (third order secular). In short, he vowed to follow Jesus in the steps of Francis of Assisi for the rest of his life.
People tend embrace a cultural of thinking that sounds go0d, but when you look closely, it’s inconsistent with Jesus. Irenaeus wanted people to live consistent with Christ. Generosity is making sure your life matches with the teachings of Jesus, not with what anyone else. Do this with love, a good conscience, and a sincere faith.
And pray for me, and GTP staff members, Ereny, and Paula. Ereny had difficulty getting out of Cairo last night. Because of COVID, she could not travel through Frankfurt and the USA. We had to re-route her through London, direct to Mexico City. Pray Ereny, Paula, Nydia, and I can convene tonight in Mexico City. Thanks.
God must have big plans for these meetings as the opposition seems great. Our trust is in the mercy and favor of the God of Abraham and Isaac, the God of Polycarp and Irenaeus, the God of Francis and Randy. Father, guide, direct, and bless our meetings by the Holy Spirit for your glory we ask in Jesus name. Amen.