Measure of a Man: Wisdom (Self-Control)

Getz has me a little confused in this chapter, and I admit I am primarily to blame for my own confusion. Getz takes term sofrona and interprets it as prudence, which becomes the central concept for this chapter--through his English term "wisdom."

The Greek term sofrona (which has a long 'o' sound as its first verb) can refer to sound-mind, which is incredibly close to the previous term for "temperance." Interestingly, Paul groups two very similar terms together, one with an emphasis on clear-mindedness (Chapter 4) and now one with an emphasis on wisdom. It appears that one term calls the man of God to focus on Christ, the other to use the knowledge gained in a wise way.

Getz says "Some biblical truths can be taught with words alone, such as who Jesus is, how to be saved and many other Bible doctrines. But some things must be taught by both instruction and example. In fact, without modeling, some words are meaningless." (p59)

AMEN.

sophrona is one of these concepts that must be lived, not just known.

I wish Getz would have used the term "self-control" here. Getz emphasizes, rightly so, the need for humility, gratitude, and prayer--all of which are signs of wisdom. But ultimately, it appears that Paul is reminding Timothy to put the reigns on the young servants in his churches. It seems that these servants need to place their enthusiasm and energy into the proper channels of ministry and priority. Thus, the servants need to be wise by showing lives that are not given over to excess. Again, this is very similar to our previous chapter.

So, are you keeping your energy and passion in check? Again, a life balanced on Christ will keep knowledge and emotion centered in the divine will. As servants of Christ, we must model the power of a racing horse with the control of a bridle and reins that are firmly placed in the hands of God. In this way, let your light shine before all--servants empowered by the resurrection of Christ, engaged in the will of God.