Almost all humans recognize that there is a gap between what we should do and what we actually do. Also, we have invented many methods to try to deal with that gap. Unfortunately, we repeatedly discover that our methods don’t ultimately work. In John 1:19-34, John (the Baptist) called Jesus “the Lamb of God” and claimed that he is able to take away that gap in our lives. (Here are Larry’s complete sermon notes.)
When it looked like God had forgotten his people, he remembered his covenant promises.
To those who try to impose their own rules on all Christians we should just say “No!”
Timothy and Epaphroditus demonstrated the mind of Christ in the way they lived.