MONDAY June 16, 2025
Departing from Iniquity
Nevertheless the solid foundation of God stands, having this seal: “The Lord knows those who are His,” and, “Let everyone who names the name of Christ depart from iniquity.”
2 Timothy 2:19
Back in 2 Timothy 2:17, Paul mentioned two men Hymenaeus and Philetus who were at first following Christ, but then they departed and became his enemies. They are recorded in Scripture as a warning to us of what can happen when we stray from the truth. They were influenced by deception and attempted to deceive others. Their deception spread like cancer because they were able to overthrow the faith of others.
Therefore, as an elder, Paul had to cut them off. The lies they were spreading had to be stopped. They became false teachers. Their error was to stray away from the truth. Could it be that they just wanted to be known for their own philosophy and doctrine? The reason is not given, but it is often the case that people will have their own agendas for what they decide to do.
This is why it is vitally important for new believers to become grounded in the truth of God’s Word. It is also important to know who Christ is. Jesus declared Himself to be: “...the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). Immerse yourself in what Jesus taught in the Gospels and in what Paul taught in the Epistles. Feed your soul on solid doctrine and do not be moved away from the truth of God’s Word.
Truth is a solid foundation found in God’s Word. Within this truth is the doctrine of the Holy Spirit. God knows who are His because they have His seal. What seal? The seal of His Holy Spirit.
In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, who is the guarantee of our inheritance... (Ephesians 1:13-14).
The indwelling Spirit is a seal that marks us as belonging to Christ. Sin should no longer dwell in our lives. Are you departing from iniquity or embracing iniquity? Your answer will tell you who you belong to.
Sin forsaken, is one of the best evidences of sin forgiven.
~J.C. Ryle~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!
