1 Timothy 4:8 For while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.
Paul makes a wonderful point in this short verse. He teaches us to value the spiritual training that calls each child of God into greater intimacy with their Savior, Jesus Christ. Each Christian is called to train themselves in the disciplines of prayer, study, etc. just like an athlete trains themselves to run, lift, and swim faster, stronger, or with greater endurance. These spiritual disciplines have greater value and have a greater impact on the life of the believer and all who are around them.
But, the Apostle doesn’t devalue physical exercise. Instead, he reminds us that physical training has value, just not as much as spiritual training. Why is this so? Because the body is the temple of the Holy Spirit. Paul says in 1 Corinthians:
1 Corinthians 6:19 Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, 20 for you were bought with a price. So, glorify God in your body.
We glorify God by how we care for our body. Again, the greater glory is spiritual, but the body, and our care for it, gives glory to God as well.
Unfortunately, the Christian culture rarely speaks of physical training and care. Many spiritual leaders are out of shape and don’t recommend any measure of discipline or restraint. Very few teachers speak on the sins of gluttony. Even fewer offer Godly examples of what care for the body should look like.
So, while spiritual training has the higher value and greater impact, physical training is important. If the body fails, spiritual ministry will be hindered and at times, prevented.
Let’s not be those who neglect one truth by over-emphasizing another. God desires us to glorify Him both physically and spiritually.
Gordon Duncan
Gospel Rich Books, Editor
If you would like to learn more about Gospel Rich books, we offer a host of challenging and encouraging resources. You can find them at www.gospelrichbooks.com.
Why do you say so, that the church doesn't talk about physical training? The church does. The bible talks of good health, and that involves physical exercise. But that is not the primary message of the bible, God's Kingdom is the primary message.
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I agree with you that the Kingdom of God is the primary message. As a pastor and a pastor's kid, I've just noticed that the language of care for the body is typically focused on the do not's (drunkeness etc.) which are important messages. However, if we don't honor the Holy Spirit by caring for our bodies, the impact of declaring the Kingdom of God could be hindered because we are too sick to do it or die early.
Thanks so much for the comment.
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