Definition: But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Timothy 3:15. It's a really important message about living right and being a good example for others. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: “Don’t let your time slip away without learning how to live well and be good in God’s house – the church.” Let’s unpack that a little more: "But if I tarry long..." : This is a warning. "Tarry" means “to linger” or “to stay longer.” It's about not wasting time. "...that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God..." : This means, “Don’t just be here passively; learn what is right and proper for living in God’s home.” Think of it as understanding the rules and expectations of a place where everyone should be respectful and godly. "...which is the church of the living God..." : This is key . The church isn't just a building or a group of people; it’s a community – a group of believers – that is led by God and dedicated to following His teachings. “Living God” refers to God himself. "...the pillar and ground of the truth." : This describes what it means to be a good member of this church. “Pillar” means a strong foundation; “ground” means a stable base. So, these people are: Strong Foundations: They’re reliable and dependable. Stable Bases: They uphold truth and righteousness. In short, the verse is telling us that we need to be thoughtful and diligent about living our lives in a way that reflects God's will – that's why we should strive to be good, honest, and trustworthy. It’s about striving for excellence and being a positive influence within the community of believers. Why is this important? This verse encourages us to: Be responsible: It reminds us that we have a duty to behave well in God's house. Lead by example: By living right, we inspire others to do the same. Maintain integrity: Being trustworthy and honest is essential for building trust within the church community. Do you want me to explain any of these parts further? For example, would you like a deeper dive into the concept of "the church" or the idea of “living God”?