The Pillar and Foundation of the Truth

“Although I hope to come to you soon, I am writing you these instructions so that, if I am delayed, you will know how people ought to conduct themselves in God’s household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth.” (1 Timothy 3:14-15)

The great strongman of the Old Testament—Samson—accomplished one final feat at the end of his life. Remember what it was? Even though he was a captive in chains, Samson prayed to God for strength one final time. He put his hands on the two pillars that supported the great Philistine temple in which he was standing. When Samson pushed on those pillars, the whole temple came crashing down (see Judges 16).

The Bible says that there is a pillar that supports something very important. Not the walls and roof of a temple: “The pillar and foundation of the truth.” There is a pillar that supports God’s truth.

It’s surprising to hear what that pillar and foundation of the truth is: “The church of the living God.” Do you understand what that is saying? The Christian Church is the “pillar and foundation of the truth.” It is through the Christian Church that God preserves the good news of Jesus and his salvation.

In fact, the Christian Church is so special that Paul also calls it “God’s household.” What a title!

You’re looking for strength in your life. All of us are. You’re looking for a foundation that can never be shaken. You’re looking for the truth. Not just any truth, but the truth from the living God himself. You’re looking for a home. A real home where you belong.

Where can you find all that? In God’s household. In the church of the living God.

God doesn’t want you to try to be a Christian on your own, because you’re not on your own. You’re part of God’s family! God wants you to seek out a Christian church, where you can regularly hear the truth and be strengthened in your faith and learn how to conduct yourself as a son or daughter of God.

In our world today, the Christian Church seems weak and insignificant. That couldn’t be further from the truth! As Samson proved, any man-made building can easily be knocked to the ground. But not God’s Church. It’s the pillar and foundation of the truth!

Dear Jesus, we need the truth from you. We need strength from you. By your grace, may the Christian Church continue to be the pillar and foundation of the truth. May we find a home in your household. Amen.

Pastor Nathan