The Pillar and the Ground of "Truth"

But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth (I Tim 3:15). 

 

The metaphorical use of "house" (oikos) by the apostle Paul is used in reference to a family rather than a building.  The members of the "house" have the responsibility to conduct themselves accordingly.  The apostle carries the idea further by giving the obvious theological definition of the same as "the church of the living God".  And conclusively, by it's very nature, the church belongs to God (Acts 20:28; Eph. 1:14; Titus 2:14; I Pet.2:9; Rev.5:9).

 

Here the "church" that belongs to God through the purchase of redemption is declared to be the "Pillar" and the "Ground" of truth.  The "Pillars" were significant in that they were used to support the roof of the structure and then the "Ground" would be the reference to the foundation on which the structure rests.  

From these two metaphores we may conclude that God has ordained that His church is a testimony to God's truth.  We do not create nor invent truth. We have no liberty to alter the truth but rather we support the truth and safeguard truth.  To the church, both local and universal, the stewardship of Scripture was given.  Each individual member of the church is to be committed to that duty.

I find it a strange event when a church declines or negates it's responsibility of truth and the stewardship thereof.  No longer needing the Bible or Scriptures, let us all turn to some humanitarian deeds or social effort and show everyone how we love.  Now dont misunderstand, we are involved in humanitarian efforts as well as social efforts but not at the price of forsaking the Word of God.  Paul did not command Timothy to proclaim social reformations but he did command the Pastor Timothy to "Preach the Word", to be instant in season and out...to study to show himself approved rightly dividing the word of truth.   

Now, we will never win the Nobel Peace Prize for preaching and after a life time of preaching and death comes we probably wont be remembered in this world by many but when the righteous judge rewards us with the crown of righteousness there will be glory to God and that's what it is all about. My dear friend, what place does the Word of God hold with you?  What is its value to you and your life, your ministry, or your congregation?  Lives are sanctified by the truth of God's word thereby sanctification is taking place and preparing the child of God for the time of glorification.  Preach the Word.