InstaStudy

For Bodily Exercise Profiteth Little: A Study on Spiritual Priorities

This study explores the Apostle Paul's admonition regarding the limited value of physical training compared to the eternal benefits of godliness. We will delve into the nature of true profit, the call to spiritual discipline, and the ultimate goal of knowing and living for the one true God.

1. Understanding the Context of Paul's Admonition

1.1 The Apostle's Contrast

Verses: 1 Timothy 4:8
  • Paul highlights the temporal and limited benefits of physical exercise.
  • He draws a clear distinction between earthly training and spiritual training.

1.2 The Superiority of Godliness

Verses: 1 Timothy 4:8b; Matthew 6:33
  • Godliness holds profit for all things, encompassing both the present life and the life to come.
  • Seeking the kingdom of God first aligns with true and lasting profit.

2. The Nature of True and Lasting Profit

2.1 Eternal vs. Temporal Value

Verses: Matthew 16:26; Mark 8:36-37
  • Earthly gains, no matter how vast, are fleeting and cannot secure the soul's salvation.
  • True profit is measured by eternal outcomes, not by temporary worldly possessions or achievements.

2.2 Investing in the Spirit

Verses: Galatians 6:7-8; Romans 8:5-6
  • Sowing to the flesh yields corruption, while sowing to the Spirit yields life everlasting.
  • A mind set on the Spirit leads to life and peace, which are invaluable spiritual returns.

2.3 Storing Up Treasures in Heaven

Verses: Matthew 6:19-21; Luke 12:33-34
  • We are encouraged to invest in spiritual treasures that cannot be corrupted or stolen.
  • Our heart's true desire will follow where our ultimate treasure is stored.

3. The Call to Spiritual Discipline and Training

3.1 Exercising for Godliness

Verses: 1 Timothy 4:7; Hebrews 12:11
  • We are exhorted to train ourselves for godliness, making it a deliberate pursuit.
  • Spiritual discipline, though challenging, ultimately yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness.

3.2 The Role of the Spirit in Transformation

Verses: 2 Corinthians 3:17-18; Galatians 5:22-23
  • The Spirit of the Lord brings liberty and transforms us into the image of the Lord.
  • The fruit of the Spirit is the evidence of a life actively engaged in spiritual exercise.

3.3 Putting Off the Old, Putting On the New

Verses: Ephesians 4:22-24; Colossians 3:9-10
  • Spiritual training involves shedding old habits and embracing a new nature in righteousness.
  • We are renewed in the spirit of our minds, reflecting the image of our Creator.

4. The Ultimate Goal: Knowing and Serving the One God

4.1 The Revelation of God in Christ

Verses: John 14:9; Colossians 2:9
  • Jesus declared, 'He that hath seen me hath seen the Father,' revealing the Father's presence in Him.
  • In Christ dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily, showing Him as the complete manifestation of God.

4.2 Living a Life Pleasing to God

Verses: Romans 12:1-2; Philippians 2:12-13
  • Presenting our bodies as living sacrifices is our reasonable and spiritual worship.
  • God works in us, enabling us to both will and do of His good pleasure.

4.3 The Hope of Eternal Life

Verses: John 17:3; Titus 1:2
  • Eternal life is found in knowing the one true God, and Jesus Christ whom He has sent.
  • This hope is rooted in the promise of God, who cannot lie, before the world began.