Flee and Pursue...with OTHERS

Paul instructs Timothy to “flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace”. In a society that is so individualistic, we tend to stop reading there and think that the only way to do this is by focusing on our personal relationship with God - praying more, longer quiet times. Fuelled by the rationalisation that our unwanted sexual behaviours are a private issue and therefore need a private solution.

But Paul continues, he says to pursue these things “along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart”. This is not an optional extra, a nice-to-have. Turning away from worldly, fleshly desires and towards a life shaped by the Gospel, is not just an individual pursuit. Paul encourages Timothy do this alongside those that are on the same journey. This is at the heart of Outgrow Ministries as we aim to help create spaces where deep discipleship occurs in Christ-centred community. Where shame and isolation is broken by genuine connection and vulnerability.

This pattern of fleeing the lust of the flesh and pursuing the good found in Christ, is a lifelong process of growth and maturity. A process that is designed to be done in community with our brothers and sisters in Christ. And this should be no surprise, because we are made in the image of a triune God who has existed in community for eternity.

Linden Simmons
September 2024