2 Timothy 3:1-9

Exhibitionism As Religion Matthew 6:1-6 - Some people make sure everyone notices when they are acting out their religion. Instead of seeking to please God, they seek after the things that please men – Galatians 1:10 Our religion is not to be a hidden thing – Matthew 5:14-17 Pharisees performed deeds of God, but made sure others noticed them – Matthew 23:5,14,28 Sought the glory of other men – John 5:44

Sensuality As Religion Pagan religions known for use of sensual desires to attract worshipers Religion only in form, but its focus is on the world – God is Spirit Those who pervert gospel of Christ will stoop to such means – 2 Peter 2:12-15,18,19 2 Timothy 3:2-7 – Holding only a form of godliness

Self-Abasement As Religion Glorify self-denial – opposite of those who pursue pleasures of the senses Jews fasted, but not for God – Matthew 6:16- 18 You cheat yourself when you delight in self- abasement – Colossians 2:18,19 If we belong to Christ, these do not make sense- Colossians 2:20-23 It is a doctrine of demons – 1 Timothy 4:1-5

Holding On To The Pattern Retain the pattern of sound words – 2Timothy 1:13.14 We became Christians by obeying that form of teaching – Romans 6:17 “Form” is a pattern, a die struck to stamp coins with the same pattern Makes exact duplicates Christians to live be same standard – Philippians 3:17

Holding On To The Pattern Those who follow the standard become a pattern for others – 2 Thessalonians 3:7-9 Same word translated “form” in Romans 6:17 We set examples by following God’s pattern 1 Timothy 4:12 – to show himself an example Titus 2:7,8 – Titus to be an example 1 Peter 5:3 – Elders to be an example

True religion comes by duplicating the pattern laid down by God.

It might not match man’s expectation of religion, but God is not a man.