Timothy 1
The book of I Timothy is a letter by the Apostle Paul to Timothy, Paul’s true son in the faith. Paul entrusted Timothy with leading the church in Ephesus. He strongly reminds him of his objective which is to squelch the false teachings by those who teach the law, promoting controversy instead of faith. He then instructs Timothy with practical advice on how to lead this assembly. He ends by encouraging him to continue to fight the good fight and to guard carefully what has been entrusted to him. Now a personal greeting by the apostle Paul. Paul reminds Timothy that the law is good if one uses it lawfully, which is to condemn. He then reminds of the grace of God using himself as an example. Paul, the worst of sinners was shown mercy so Christ’s unlimited grace would be displayed. Paul ends by encouraging Timothy to fight the good fight and to keep his conscience clear. Paul reminds that we are to pray for those in authority so we can live peaceful and quiet lives. We learn and important truth that God desires everyone to be save and to come into a knowledge of him . Paul finishes with specific instructions to the women of this church to dress modestly and to learn about the faith. Here is a list of the characteristics that both the overseers and deacons in the church must have. They are to manage their households well in order to likewise manage the house of God well. Paul gives these instructions so they will know how to conduct themselves in God’s household. A little advice from Paul warning to observe the times. Mentioning that some will abandon the faith and follow things taught by demons such as forbidding marriage and abstaining from certain foods. However Paul reminds that everything is created by God and should be received with thanksgiving. He then encourages Timothy to train to be godly, to devote himself to reading the scripture and preaching and teaching. He encourages him to watch his life and his doctrine closely.
Then gives instructions about caring for widows in their needs. Paul advises that their families should first and foremost take care of them. However, if a widow is without family she is trusting in God for provision and the church ought to take care of her. He also gives instructions about elders, and then finishes with practical advice for Timothy.
Pauls final charge to Timothy is a reminder to be content and to pursue godliness. He instructs Timothy to flee from the desire to acquire wealth and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. Once again he tells Timothy to fight the good fight and to take hold of the eternal life given him. This letter ends with Paul reminding Timothy to guard carefully what has been entrusted to him.
2 Timothy
The book of 2 Timothy is a personal letter from Paul to Timothy. The book opens with Paul reflecting on Timothy’s sincere faith. He had learned it from His mother Eunice and his grandmother Lois and Paul rejoices that this very same faith was evident in Timothy as well. Paul writes this letter to encourage Timothy to be strong in grace, steadfast in what he had been taught as well as giving a warning about the coming days of apostasy or godlessness. Paul closes with a charge for Timothy to be prepared to preach the Word in season and out. Paul encouraging Timothy to fan into flame the gifting of God which he received through the laying on of hands. He reminded Timothy not be ashamed of testifying about the Lord Jesus Christ, or ashamed of Paul even though he was in chains. He then charges Timothy to keep the pattern of teaching and of sound doctrine that he has learned from Paul guarding diligently what had been entrusted to him. Be Strong in Grace is a reminder to be singular in mission. Paul tells Timothy to be strong in the grace of Christ Jesus and endure hardship. He is to remain focused on Jesus, His resurrection and persevering for the sake of the elect. Paul instructs Timothy not to quarrel over words rather to handle the Word of God with skill and accuracy. Being able to gently instruct and explain the Word so through it, God can lead people into a knowledge of the truth. Oh and there is a warning that a time of apostasy is coming. In the last days people will be lovers of themselves, having a form of godliness but denying its power. They will continually be seeking knowledge but never able to accept the truth. And Paul firmly instructs that we should have nothing to do with these people. Instead we are to combat this by knowing the holy scriptures which are able to make us wise and equip us for every good work.
Now be prepared to preach the Word in season and out, alway being ready to correct, train and encourage others. Paul encourages Timothy to keep calm and steady, endure hardship, and to fully perform all the duties of his ministry. Paul closes with final instruction for Timothy to gather a few of his things and a few people and come quickly.
As you can see this book is full of wise instructions. It is a good reminder to stay focused on Christ and true to the grace revealed in the Word of God being able to teach and explain it with authority and power.
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