1 Timothy

1 Timothy is the first pastoral epistle of the New Testament: the others are 2 Timothy and Titus. (Philemon is also sometimes included in this group.) They are addressed to individuals with pastoral oversight of churches and discuss issues of Christian living, doctrine and leadership.

Timothy was a resident of Lystra, a city in the province of Galatia (Acts 16:1-3). He was the son of a Greek father (Acts 16:2) and a Jewish mother named Eunice (2 Timothy 2:5). From his youth he was taught in the Scriptures by his mother and grandmother (2 Timothy 1:5; 3:15).

1

Paul is an apostle of Jesus Christ by the commandment of God our saviour. Grace, peace and mercy to Timothy. Paul commands Timothy to stay in Ephesus, ensuring that no rival doctrine is taught, nor fables and genealogies heeded to. A pure heart, a good conscience and a sincere faith is far preference to a desire to be a teacher of the law. The law is made for the unrighteous, not the righteous. Christ has empowered Paul’s ministry, forgiving him for the sins he committed in unbelief. ‘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.’ The saved Paul is a pattern of mercy to others. ‘Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, to God who alone is wise, be honor and glory forever and ever. Paul charges Timothy to war the good warfare, with faith and a good conscience. Paul has delivered Hymenaeus and Alexander to Satan.


2

Pray for all men, including those in authority. God desires all men to be saved. Christ Jesus gave Himself a ransom for all. Women should adorn themselves modestly. Women should be submissive and silent, and not be teachers. Adam was not deceived, but Eve was, and fell into transgression. Women will be saved in childbearing if they continue in faith, love and holiness.


3

If a man desires the position of a bishop, he desires a good work. A bishop must be virtuous, in authority in his house, and experienced. The same goes for deacons. Great is the mystery of godliness - God was manifested in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen by angels, preached among the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up in glory.


4

The Spirit says that in latter times, some will depart from the faith, heeding spirits and demons, remaining unmarried, and abstaining from some foods. Nothing is to be refused if it is received with thanksgiving. Reject profane old wives’ fables. Timothy is instructed to teach these things. Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you by prophecy with the laying on of the hands.


5

Do not rebuke an older man, but exhort his as a father. Treat young men as brothers, older women as mothers, younger as sisters. Help widows who are really widows, and who have no family to assist them. If widows live in pleasure, they are dead while they live. Everyone should provide for their own. Only help widows if they are over sixty, and well reported for good works. Younger widows are in danger of becoming gossips and busybodies, and turning to Satan – Paul recommends that they remarry. Elders who labour in the word and doctrine are to be honoured. Do not receive an accusation against an elder unless there are two or three witnesses. Publically rebuke those who sin. Do not be prejudiced or show partiality. Do not lay hands on anyone hastily. Drink wine occasionally for the health of your stomach. Some sins are evident, and some more hidden – it is the same with good works.


6

Slaves should honour their masters, especially if the masters are Christian. Withdraw yourselves from people who misuse God’s word. Godliness with contentment is great gain. We brought nothing into the world, and can carry nothing out. If we have food and clothes, we should be content. The love of money is the root of all evil. Pursue instead righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness. Fight the good fight of faith, and lay hold on eternal life. The rich should not be haughty, ready to give and to share. Avoid profane and idle babblings – some have strayed. Grace be with you. Amen.