1 Timothy 1:18-20

v18: Ministry is war.  It is "a good fight against sin and Satan." Those called by Christ to serve as pastors and elders are "especially engaged in this battle, under the banner of the Lord Jesus... for his cause and against his enemies."  Pray for them that would "carry out their work conscientiously and courageously despite opposition and discouragements."

v19: Sadly, there are numerous examples of those who once professed faith in Christ but who have abandoned their profession and shipwrecked their faith.  Holding to a good conscience, by listening to it and following its direction is a means of keeping us sound and preserving us in the faith.

v20: Church discipline is designed both "to prevent further sin" in the church and to "restore the sinner."