While that term, “man of God” is used around 75 times in the Old Testament, I surprisingly find it ONLY TWICE in the entire New Testament! Let me show you where …

In 1 Timothy 6:11 … “But thou, O MAN OF GOD, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.”

Then again in 2 Timothy 3:17 … “That the MAN OF GOD may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.”

Both these foregoing occurrences are found in Paul’s Pastoral Epistles, but no surprise there.

I looked for “linkage” between these two References. And here it is, the “common bond” that ties these two appellations together.

Both are in verses admonishing these the “man of God” to “live right” to the Glory of God!

That’s understandable!

I occasionally use the term (“man of God”) … but always cautiously. As an evangelist I am around dozens and dozens of Pastors every year. This honor places me in a position to be able to interact with these strong Believers in Christ.

And yet I have learned something this morning. No one becomes a “man of God” by means of a diploma from some prestigious institution. Or by claiming such a name for himself. Or, Biblically speaking, by any other means than …

… LIVING A GODLY LIFE!

Wow!

Read these two verses again. Then notice the context into which each is set. Amid good advice, both negatively and positively, from the Holy Spirit of God.

This fact sure shows God’s priorities, doesn’t it?

If you have been blessed enough to be around a real “man of God,” thank the dear Lord for such a privilege.

Then pray for him.

Especially as this world rapidly becomes darker and darker, more and more ungodly.

— Dr. Mike Bagwell

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