In 1 and 2 Timothy, Paul writes to Timothy, a young pastor in the city of Ephesus, to teach him how to fight the good fight of faith and the importance of fostering faithful conduct in the house of God. Paul also instructs him how to manage the affairs of the church.
One of the realities of pastoral ministry is that pastors often encounter many varied challenges. Paul himself said, “I fought with beasts in Ephesus.” Timothy was no different. He pastored in a pagan city and faced many difficulties.What is the solution? Hold fast to the Word of God which is “given by inspiration of God and is profitable” for everything.
In 1 & 2 Timothy, God is glorifying Himself through Christians fighting the good fight, so that He might demonstrate His superior goodness in the salvation sinners, the damnation of the wicked, and for the preservation of His people, for His eternal glory, and their eternal joy.
Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ, by the commandment of God our Savior and the Lord Jesus Christ, our hope…”
1 Timothy 1:1
“Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, according to the promise of life which is in Christ Jesus…”
2 Timothy 1:1
“To Timothy, a true son in the faith”
1 Timothy 1:2
“This charge I commit to you, son Timothy…”
1 Timothy 1:18
“O Timothy! Guard what was committed to your trust…”
1 Timothy 6:20
“To Timothy, a beloved son”
2 Timothy 1:2
“This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief. However, for this reason I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might show all longsuffering, as a pattern to those who are going to believe on Him for everlasting life. Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, to God who alone is wise, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.”
1 Timothy 1:15–17
“Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.”
1 Timothy 2:1–2
“Flee also youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. But avoid foolish and ignorant disputes, knowing that they generate strife. And a servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient, in humility correcting those who are in opposition, if God perhaps will grant them repentance, so that they may know the truth, and that they may come to their senses and escape the snare of the devil, having been taken captive by him to do his will.”
2 Timothy 2:22–26
1 Timothy
2 Timothy
1 Timothy
What changed Paul from being a blasphemer and enemy of the church into an apostle and missionary?
The mercy and grace of God (1 Tim. 1:13–16).
Who does Paul say Christians should pray for?
For all people (1 Tim. 2:1) and especially for those in authority (v. 2).
What are the two offices in the church?
Overseers (bishop/elders) and deacons (1 Tim. 3:1–13).
What three things are to occur in the church meeting?
Public reading of Scripture, exhortation, and teaching (1 Tim. 4:13).
How should other Christians in the church be treated?
Like family (older men as fathers, young women as sisters, etc.) (1 Tim. 5:1–2)
What is a root of all kinds of evil?
The love of money (1 Tim. 6:10).
2 Timothy
What kind of spirit has God given to Christians?
One of power, love, and sound judgment – not fear (2 Tim. 1:7).
What should everyone who names the name of Christ do?
Depart from iniquity (2 Tim. 2:19).
What is Scripture profitable for?
For doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, and to be equipped for good works (2 Tim. 3:16–17).
Why do people listen to false teachers?
Because the false teachers tell them what they want to hear (2 Tim. 4:3–4).