Timothy Guess

January 2006

I Timothy

Introduction

Timothy was an assistant to Paul in the gospel ministry. Timothy had a mixed background. His mother was a Jew, who had evidently taught Timothy in the Scriptures along with Timothy’s grandmother (II Tim. 3:15; 1:5). In coming to the cities of Derbe and Lystra, Timothy was chosen by Paul to accompany him in the ministry. Timothy had a good reputation from the saints of Lystra and Iconium. Timothy would accompany Paul through his travels and become very dear to the apostle (I Tim.1:2; II Tim 2:2-4; Phil.2:19-22). At this writing Timothy was a young man (I Tim. 4:12). Paul sent Timothy on different missions during their ministry. At the setting of this letter, Paul had left Timothy in Ephesus. The church there was having some problems with false teachers and troublemakers. This letter records instructions regarding the function and office of the minister, as well as particular instructions given on the functioning of a church. Issues addressed include the qualifications of elder and deacons, the place of women in the church, the church’s caring for widows, and others. Estimated dates of the time of writing range from the 50s to 60s A.D.

Chapter-by-Chapter

Chapter 1-Paul starts with a greeting to Timothy his “own son in the faith” (v.2). Paul reminded Timothy why he had left him in Ephesus, namely, to ensure that false doctrine was not preached. Paul here encouraged Timothy to stay out of foolish debates that were insignificant and unprofitable, but rather to edify. Timothy was having to contend with men who wanted to be teachers, but they were unqualified and didn’t know the word. Paul then related a personal thanksgiving and praise to God. Paul reminded the young preacher how that in his former life he had been a blasphemer and persecutor against Christ and His people. But, the great grace of Christ had saved Paul and put him in the ministry. It seems that Paul never lost the wonder of his salvation. Neither should we!

Chapter 2-Paul instructed Timothy to make it a priority to pray for civil leaders. Most of us probably are very slack in this practice, but it is a command of God. This short chapter also deals with God’s desire to save all men without distinction (rich, poor, white, black, etc.). This does not indicated a desire to save all men without exception, as is commonly thought. God does fulfil His desire to save men from all classes of life. He is not a respecter of persons, but has a love for all kinds of men. Paul also made it clear here that women are not to usurp the authority of men in public teaching. God’s design is for men to be in authority in the home and church. This is not because men are better than women, but God has created men and women with obvious distinctions and different roles.

Chapter 3-Paul gives to Timothy here the qualifications for elders and deacons. The qualifications are quite similar, an important exception being that elders are to have a teaching ability. Both offices are to be occupied by men who lead their families well, are not covetous or greedy, honest, and not given to wine. Elders are also to be particularly hospitable, patient, not novices, not having a fighting and contentious spirit, and other particulars. Paul tells Timothy that he is giving him all these instructions that he might know how to properly conduct the affairs of a very important institution, the church of God.

Chapter 4-Paul warns Timothy here of apostasy. Many would depart from the faith into false teachings. He instructed Timothy to teach truth. He also told him to discipline himself unto godliness. Godliness does require discipline. We don’t grow in the Lord without consistent, diligent effort. Timothy was told to be an example to the believers in every are of life, to publicly read the word, exhort and teach. He was told not to neglect the gift that he was given but to give himself wholly to the work of the ministry. Paul’s zeal comes out here while instructing the young preacher. He wasn’t content with Timothy staying at a certain point in his ministry, but he was pushing for more. God wants total effort on the part of His people, not laziness. We can all neglect the gifts of the Spirit that God has given us. We should stir up those gifts through study, prayer, meditation, and practice. When we do this, it will bless us and others. Lastly, Timothy is told to take heed to himself and his doctrine. Many a preacher has brought an early end to their ministry by being taken in grievous sin, because they failed to take heed to themselves. This instruction applies to all believers.

Chapter 5-Instruction here regards Timothy’s dealing with different types of people in the church, elders, young men, and women, as well as the church’s role in providing for needy widows. He is also told the church’s responsibility to financially support the elders. Timothy is also strictly charged never to do anything in the ministry by favoritism or partiality.

Chapter 6-Paul warns Timothy of false teachers who would equate wealth with godliness. Paul makes it clear that we are not to seek to be wealthy, but are to be content with food and clothing. We brought nothing into the world and we can carry nothing out. Paul correctly taught here that the love of money was the root of all kinds of evil and people who seek after riches fall into a sinful trap that brings great hurt and damage upon them. Many people in their lust for wealth will do anything, including lie, cheat or even kill. Instead of seeking wealth, Timothy and us are to seek after fruits of righteousness. Paul gives Timothy a serious charge reminding him of the seriousness of the things that this letter requires of him. He is serving the Lord Jesus who will show to all one day that He is the great King of kings and Lord of lords. We are not serving Paul or other men, we are serving the immortal, eternal King Jesus! Lastly, Paul told Timothy to instruct those who were rich to be humble and not trust in their wealth, but in God and to be mindful to give of their substance and be rich in good works.