"Flee and Follow: A Call to Godly Living"

Text: "But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness." (1 Timothy 6:11, KJV)

Introduction

In a world filled with distractions, temptations, and moral decay, the Apostle Paul gives Timothy—and by extension, all believers—a clear, two-fold command: Flee and Follow.

This verse is set in the context of Paul’s warning against the love of money (1 Timothy 6:10) and false teachings. He contrasts the dangers of worldly pursuits with the high calling of a "man of God."

Today, this message is just as relevant. God is calling His people to flee from sin and pursue Christlikeness. This sermon will explore:

1. The Identity of a Man (or Woman) of God

2. The Command to Flee

3. The Call to Follow

4. The Virtues to Pursue

5. The Power to Obey

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1. The Identity of a Man (or Woman) of God

"But thou, O man of God..."

Paul addresses Timothy as a "man of God." This title is significant—it was used in the Old Testament for prophets like Moses (Deuteronomy 33:1) and Elijah (1 Kings 17:18). It signifies someone set apart for God’s purposes.

What Does It Mean to Be a "Man/Woman of God"?

• You belong to God. You are not your own; you are bought with a price (1 Corinthians 6:20).

• You are called to represent God. Like an ambassador, you carry His name (2 Corinthians 5:20).

• You are set apart for holiness. God’s people must reflect His character (1 Peter 1:16).

Application:

• Do you see yourself as God’s man or woman?

• Are you living in a way that honors His name?

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2. The Command to Flee

"...flee these things..."

Paul doesn’t say, "Stand and fight" or "Negotiate with sin." He says "FLEE!"

What Are We to Flee?

In context (1 Timothy 6:3-10), Paul warns against:

• False teachings (v. 3-5)

• The love of money (v. 10)

• Worldly desires that lead to destruction

Biblical Examples of Fleeing:

• Joseph fled from Potiphar’s wife (Genesis 39:12).

• David often fled from Saul’s attacks, trusting God’s timing.

• Jesus resisted Satan’s temptations by standing on Scripture (Matthew 4:1-11).

Why Must We Flee?

• Sin is deceptive (Hebrews 3:13).

• Sin brings destruction (James 1:15).

• Sin hinders our fellowship with God (Isaiah 59:2).

Application:

• What do you need to flee from today?

  • Lust? Greed? Anger? Pride?

  • Unhealthy relationships?

  • Compromising entertainment?

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3. The Call to Follow

"...and follow after..."

Christianity is not just about avoiding evil but pursuing good. We are called to actively chase after Christlikeness.

What Does It Mean to Follow After?

• It’s intentional. You don’t drift into godliness; you pursue it.

• It’s continuous. It’s a daily discipline (Luke 9:23).

• It’s costly. It requires sacrifice (Philippians 3:7-8).

Illustration:
Imagine an athlete training for the Olympics. They don’t just avoid junk food; they discipline their body, eat right, and practice daily. Likewise, we must train ourselves in godliness (1 Timothy 4:7-8).

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4. The Virtues to Pursue

Paul lists six key virtues:

1. Righteousness

• Living right before God and man.

• It’s not self-righteousness but Christ’s righteousness imputed to us (2 Corinthians 5:21).

• "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness..." (Matthew 5:6).

2. Godliness

• Reverence toward God in all things.

• It’s not just Sunday religion but a lifestyle of worship (1 Timothy 4:8).

3. Faith

• Trusting God in every circumstance.

• Without faith, it’s impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6).

4. Love

• Selfless, sacrificial love (agape).

• The greatest commandment (Matthew 22:37-39).

5. Patience

• Endurance through trials.

• "Let patience have its perfect work..." (James 1:4).

6. Meekness

• Strength under control (not weakness).

• Jesus was meek (Matthew 11:29), yet powerful.

Application:

• Which of these virtues do you need to grow in?

• Ask God to cultivate these in your life.

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5. The Power to Obey

How can we flee sin and pursue godliness? Not by willpower alone, but by the Spirit’s power.

A. Depend on the Holy Spirit

• "Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh" (Galatians 5:16).

B. Stay in God’s Word

• "Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You" (Psalm 119:11).

C. Surround Yourself with Godly Community

• "Iron sharpens iron" (Proverbs 27:17).

D. Keep Your Eyes on Jesus

• "Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith" (Hebrews 12:2).

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Conclusion: A Life of Flight and Fight

Paul’s command is clear:

• Flee from sin like Joseph.

• Follow after Christ like Paul (Philippians 3:12-14).

Final Challenge:

1. Examine your life. What do you need to flee from?

2. Set your heart. What will you pursue more diligently?

3. Rely on God’s grace. You can’t do this alone—He will empower you!

Closing Prayer:
"Lord, make us men and women of God who flee sin and pursue You wholeheartedly. Fill us with Your Spirit, transform us into Christ’s image, and use us for Your glory. Amen."