Paul met Timothy early in his second missionary journey: “Paul came also to Derbe and to Lystra. And a disciple was there, named Timothy, the son of a Jewish woman who was a believer, but his father was a Greek, and he was well spoken of by the brethren who were in Lystra and Iconium. Paul wanted this man to go with him; and he took him and circumcised him because of the Jews who were in those parts, for they all knew that his father was a Greek” (Acts 16:1-3).
Timothy plays prominently in the rest of Paul’s life, being mentioned in ten out of his thirteen letters. He is not mentioned in Galatians, because Paul had not met Timothy when he wrote this letter, and he is not mentioned in Ephesians, during Paul’s early imprisonment. He is not mentioned in Titus either, another letter written during his imprisonment.
We know, from the book of Acts, about Paul’s arrest in Jerusalem at the end of his third missionary journey, and his subsequent imprisonment in Rome. A summary of the events in the book of Acts, which is helpful in the timeline of the apostle Paul’s letters, can be found here.
We do not know, from the Bible (although we can learn more from historical writings of that time), the sequence of events that occurred after this before his eventual martyrdom. But we can pick up clues by the mention of Timothy in Paul’s letters.
In 1 Timothy 1:3 Paul tells Timothy, “I urged you upon my departure for Macedonia, remain on at Ephesus.” I thought this occurred at the end of Paul’s third missionary journey, but Paul said his goodbye to the elders of Ephesus at Miletus and the proceeded to Jerusalem, not Macedonia. Scholars place Paul’s letter to Timothy at the end of his life. They also believe he had a time of freedom after his time of arrest in Rome, before he was arrested again and then killed. There are clues in this letter to Timothy that Paul possibly did get to travel again after his time of arrest in Rome that we read about in Acts. His dire condition upon a subseqent arrest, that ends in his death, makes the context and content of his letter to Timothy understandable.
1 Timothy is a letter of instruction from Paul to his “true child in the faith.” It is necessary instruction for those in church leadership, but also for all of us who desire to live godly lives in Christ Jesus.
NOTE ON MY SUMMARIZING STYLE: I always want to “show my work,” like I used to have to do in school. I revere the word of God with gravity. I always want you to be able to go back to the full original source, provided by links to the appropriate daily reading, to verify my summary. I start with an outline at the bottom of the document, and then I progressively refine my summaries as I move to the top. It is an exercise that helps with my comprehension and I pray it helps with yours.
There is so much instructive content in 1 Timothy, it is hard to summarize it simply.
SHORTEST CHAPTER SUMMARIES:
Chapter 1: Paul writes to Timothy to instruct men not to teach strange doctrines or to pay attention to things which give rise to mere speculation. He teaches that, “the Law is good, if one uses it lawfully, realizing that law is not made for a righteous person, but for those who are lawless and rebellious, for the ungodly and sinners, for the unholy and profane, for those who kill their fathers or mothers, for murders and immoral men and homosexuals and kidnappers and liars and perjurers, and whatever else is contrary to sound teaching, according to the glorious gospel of the blessed God.”
Chapter 2: Paul reminds that God our Savior “desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.” He urges that “entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness in dignity.” Men should “pray, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and dissension.” He reminds women to clothe themselves “moderately and discreetly…by means of good works.” Women “must quietly receive instruction with entire submissiveness” and not “teach or exercise authority over a man” because Eve, when she was “deceived, fell into transgression.” Women “will be preserved through the bearing of children if they continue in faith and love and sanctity with self-restraint.”
Chapter 3: Paul writes so that we will “know how one ought to conduct himself in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and support of the truth.” He describes the qualifying characteristics of elders, deacons, and deaconesses.
Chapter 4: “The Spirit explicitly says this in later times some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and doctrines of demons, by means of the hypocrisy of liars seared in the own conscience as with a branding iron, men who forbid marriage and advocate abstaining from foods which God has created to be gratefully shared in by those who believe and know the truth.” Discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness.
Chapter 5: “Do not sharply rebuke an older man, but rather appeal to him as a father, to the younger men as brothers, the older women as mothers, and the younger women as sisters, in all purity.” Paul teaches how widows should be cared for, gives more instruction for elders, and exhorts “keep yourself free from sin.”
Chapter 6: Paul addresses slaves, that they should regard their masters as “worthy of all honor so that the name of God and our doctrine will not be spoken against.” The rich should be instructed should be instructed “to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, storing up for themselves the treasure of a good foundation for the future.” He concludes his letter admonishing Timothy to “teach and preach these principles. If anyone advocates a different doctrine and does not agree with sound words, those of our Lord Jesus Christ, and with the doctrine conforming to godliness, he is conceited and understands nothing; but he has a morbid interest in controversial questions and disputes about words, out of which arise envy, strife, abusing language, evil suspicions, and constant friction between men of depraved mind and deprived of the truth, who supposed that godliness is a means of gain.” Pursue “righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance and gentleness. Fight the good fight of faith….keep the commandment without stain or reproach until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Avoid “worldly and empty chatter and the opposing arguments of what is falsely called ‘knowledge’—which some have professed and thus gone astray from the faith.”
LONGER CHAPTER SUMMARIES:
Chapter 1: The apostle Paul writes to Timothy, his true child in the faith, who he had told to stay in Ephesus when he departed for Macedonia during his third missionary journey, so that he could instruct men not to teach strange doctrines or to pay attention to things which give rise to mere speculation, reminding him, “the goal of our instruction is love from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.” He warns that some men want to be teachers of the Law, “even though they do not understand either what they are saying or the matters about which they make confident assertions.” He teaches that, “the Law is good, if one uses it lawfully, realizing that law is not made for a righteous person, but for those who are lawless and rebellious, for the ungodly and sinners, for the unholy and profane, for those who kill their fathers or mothers, for murders and immoral men and homosexuals and kidnappers and liars and perjurers, and whatever else is contrary to sound teaching, according to the glorious gospel of the blessed God.” He thanks Jesus who showed him mercy because he had acted “ignorantly in unbelief” when he had been a persecutor of the church. He realizes he is an example, since he was the “foremost” of sinners, that “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.” In Paul, Jesus demonstrated “His perfect patience as an example for those who would believe in Him for eternal life.” He commands Timothy, in keeping with prophecies made concerning him, to “fight the good fight, keeping faith and a good conscience.” He gives an example of men who rejected this and “suffered shipwreck in regard to their faith,” saying he has handed them “over to Satan, so that they will be taught not to blaspheme.”
Chapter 2: Paul reminds that God our Savior “desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth”: “there is one God, and one mediator also between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself as a ransom for all.” Knowing God’s desire, Paul urges that “entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness in dignity.” Men should “pray, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and dissension.” He reminds that he was appointed “a preacher and an apostle…as a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth,” even adding, “I am telling the truth, I am not lying.” Maybe he needs to remind us because his teachings are difficult. He reminds women to clothe themselves “moderately and discreetly…by means of good works.” Women “must quietly receive instruction with entire submissiveness” and not “teach or exercise authority over a man” because Eve, when she was “deceived, fell into transgression.” Women “will be preserved through the bearing of children if they continue in faith and love and sanctity with self-restraint.”
Chapter 3: Paul describes the characteristics of a man who is spiritual overseer: above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, prudent, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not addicted to wine or pugnacious, gentle, peaceable, free from the love of money, able to manage his own household well (keeping his children under control with all dignity), not a new convert (so that he will not become conceited and fall into the condemnation incurred by the devil), and with a good reputation with those outside the church (so he will not fall into reproach and the snare of the devil). Deacons: men of dignity, not double-tongued or addicted to much wine or fond of sordid gain, tested (then let them then serve if they are above reproach), husbands of only one wife, and good managers of their children and households. Women deacons: dignified, not malicious gossips, temperate, and faithful in all things. Those who have served well as deacons obtain for themselves a high standing and great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus. Paul writes so that we will “know how one ought to conduct himself in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and support of the truth. By common confessions, great is the mystery of godliness:
He who was revealed in the flesh,
Was vindicated in the Spirit,
Seen by angels,
Proclaimed among the nations,
Believed on in the world,
Taken up in glory.”
Chapter 4: “The Spirit explicitly says this in later times some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and doctrines of demons, by means of the hypocrisy of liars seared in the own conscience as with a branding iron, men who forbid marriage and advocate abstaining from foods which God has created to be gratefully shared in by those who believe and know the truth….everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with gratitude; for it is sanctified by means of the word of God and prayer.” If we point these things out to believers, we “will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, constantly nourished on the words of the faith and…sound doctrine….discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness,” which is “profitable for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and…the life to come….it is for this we labor and strive, because we have fixed our hope on the living God, who is the Savior of all….Prescribe and teach these things….in speech, conduct, love, faith and purity, show yourself an example of those who believe….give attention to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation and teaching….Take pains with these things; be absorbed in them, so that your progress with be evident to all….persevere in these things, for as you do this you will ensure salvation both for yourself and for those who hear you.”
Chapter 5: “Do not sharply rebuke an older man, but rather appeal to him as a father, to the younger men as brothers, the older women as mothers, and the younger women as sisters, in all purity.” Regarding widows, their children or grandchildren, if they have them, should “learn to practice piety in regard to their own family” and “make some return to their parents.” If “anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever. A widow who has been left alone, fixed her hope on God, and continues in entreaties and prayers night and day is a “widow indeed.” She can be put on the list for care from the church if she is “not less than sixty years old, having been the wife of one man, having a reputation for good works,” and if she has brought up children, shown hospitality to strangers, washed the saints’ feet, assisted those in distress, and devoted herself to every good work. “Prescribe these things as well, so that they may be above reproach.” Refuse “to put younger widows on the list, for when they feel sensual desires in disregard of Christ, they want to get married, thus incurring condemnation, because they have set aside their previous pledge. At the same time they also learn to be idle, as they go around from house to house; and not merely idle, but also gossips and busybodies, talking about things not proper to mention.” She “who gives herself to wanton pleasure is dead even while she lives.” “I want younger widows to get married, bear children, keep house, and give the enemy no occasion for reproach; for some have already turned aside to follow Satan. If any woman who is a believer has dependent widows, she must assist them and the church must not be burdened, so that if may assist those who are widows indeed.” Considering elders, those who “rule well” are worthy of “double honor, especially those who work hard at preaching and teaching….Do not receive an accusation against an elder except on the basis of two or three witnesses. Those who continue in sin, rebuke in the presence of all, so that the rest also will be fearful of sinning….maintain these principles without bias, doing nothing in a spirit of partiality. Do not lay hands upon anyone too hastily and thereby share responsibility for the sins of others; keep yourself free from sin….The sins of some men are quite evident, going before them to judgment; for others, their sins follow after. Likewise also, deeds that are good are quite evident, and those which are otherwise cannot be concealed.”
Chapter 6: Regarding slaves, they should regard their masters as “worthy of all honor so that the name of God and our doctrine will not be spoken against.” If their masters are believers, they “must not be disrespectful to them because they are brethren, but must serve them all the more,” because they are “believers and beloved.” Paul admonishes Timothy to “teach and preach these principles. If anyone advocates a different doctrine and does not agree with sound words, those of our Lord Jesus Christ, and with the doctrine conforming to godliness, he is conceited and understands nothing; but he has a morbid interest in controversial questions and disputes about words, out of which arise envy, strife, abusing language, evil suspicions, and constant friction between men of depraved mind and deprived of the truth, who supposed that godliness is a means of gain.” Godliness “is a means of great gain when accompanied by contentment.” We should be content if “we have food and covering.” The “love of money is a root of all sorts of evil, and some by longing for it have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.” Pursue “righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance and gentleness. Fight the good fight of faith….keep the commandment without stain or reproach until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Regarding the rich, they should not be conceited or “fix their hope on the uncertainty of riches, but on God.” They should be instructed “to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, storing up for themselves the treasure of a good foundation for the future.” Avoid “worldly and empty chatter and the opposing arguments of what is falsely called ‘knowledge’—which some have professed and thus gone astray from the faith.”
LONGEST CHAPTER SUMMARIES:
Chapter 1: “Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus…To Timothy, my true child in the faith…As I urged you upon my departure for Macedonia, remain on at Ephesus so that you may instruct certain men not to teach strange doctrines, nor to pay attention to myths and endless genealogies, which give rise to mere speculation rather than furthering the administration of God which is by faith. But the goal of our instruction is love from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith. For some men, straying from these things, have turned aside to fruitless discussion, wanting to be teachers of the Law, even though they do not understand either what they are saying or the matters about which they make confident assertions. But we know that the Law is good, if one uses it lawfully, realizing the fact that law is not made for a righteous person, but for those who are lawless and rebellious, for the ungodly and sinners, for the unholy and profane, for those who kill their fathers or mothers, for murderers and immoral men and homosexuals and kidnappers and liars and perjurers, and whatever else is contrary to sound teaching, according to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, with which I have been entrusted. I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has strengthened me, because He considered me faithful, putting me into service, even though I was formerly a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent aggressor. Yet I was shown mercy because I acted ignorantly in unbelief; and the grace of our Lord was more than abundant, with the faith and love which are found in Christ Jesus. It is a trustworthy statement, deserving full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, among whom I am foremost of all. Yet for this reason I found mercy, so that in me as the foremost, Jesus Christ might demonstrate His perfect patience as an example for those who would believe in Him for eternal life….This command I entrust to you, Timothy, my son, in accordance with the prophecies previously made concerning you, that by them you fight the good fight, keeping faith and a good conscience, which some have rejected and suffered shipwreck in regard to their faith. Among these are Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom I have handed over to Satan, so that they will be taught not to blaspheme.”
Chapter 2: “I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and one mediator also between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself as a ransom for all, the testimony given at the proper time. For this I was appointed a preacher and an apostle (I am telling the truth, I am not lying) as a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth. Therefore I want the men in every place to pray, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and dissension. Likewise, I want women to adorn themselves with proper clothing, modestly and discreetly, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly garments, but rather by means of good works, as is proper for women making a claim to godliness. A woman must quietly receive instruction with entire submissiveness. But I do not allow a woman to teach or exercise authority over a man, but to remain quiet. For it was Adam who was first created, and then Eve. And it was not Adam who was deceived, but the woman being deceived, fell into transgression. But women will be preserved through the bearing of children if they continue in faith and love and sanctity with self-restraint.”
Chapter 3: “if any man aspires to the office of overseer, it is a fine work he desires to do. An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, prudent, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not addicted to wine or pugnacious, but gentle, peaceable, free from the love of money. He must be one who manages his own household well, keeping his children under control with all dignity (but if a man does not know how to manage his own household, how will he take care of the church of God?), and not a new convert, so that he will not become conceited and fall into the condemnation incurred by the devil. And he must have a good reputation with those outside the church, so that he will not fall into reproach and the snare of the devil. Deacons likewise must be men of dignity, not double-tongued, or addicted to much wine or fond of sordid gain, but holding to the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. These men must also first be tested; then let them serve as deacons if they are beyond reproach. Women must likewise be dignified, not malicious gossips, but temperate, faithful in all things. Deacons must be husbands of only one wife, and good managers of their children and their own households. For those who have served well as deacons obtain for themselves a high standing and great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus….I write so that you will know how one ought to conduct himself in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and support of the truth. By common confession, great is the mystery of godliness:
He who was revealed in the flesh,
Was vindicated in the Spirit,
Seen by angels,
Proclaimed among the nations,
Believed on in the world,
Taken up in glory.”
Chapter 4: “The Spirit explicitly says this in later times some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and doctrines of demons, by means of the hypocrisy of liars seared in the own conscience as with a branding iron, men who forbid marriage and advocate abstaining from foods which God has created to be gratefully shared in by those who believe and know the truth….everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with gratitude; for it is sanctified by means of the word of God and prayer. In pointing out these things to the brethren, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, constantly nourished on the words of the faith and of the sound doctrine which you have been following. But have nothing to do with worldly fables fit only for old women….discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness; for bodily discipline is only of little profit, but godliness is profitable for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. It is a trustworthy statement deserving full acceptance. For it is for this we labor and strive, because we have fixed our hope on the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of believers. Prescribe and teach these things. Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but rather in speech, conduct, love, faith and purity, show yourself an example of those who believe. Until I come, give attention to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation and teaching. Do not neglect the spiritual gift within you, which was bestowed on you through prophetic utterance with the laying on of hands by the presbytery. Take pains with these things; be absorbed in them, so that your progress will be evident to all. Pay close attention to yourself and to your teaching; persevere in these things, for as you do this you will ensure salvation both for yourself and for those who hear you.”
Chapter 5: “Do not sharply rebuke an older man, but rather appeal to him as a father, to the younger men as brothers, the older women as mothers, and the younger women as sisters, in all purity. Honor widows who are widows indeed; but if any widow has children or grandchildren, they must first learn to practice piety in regard to their own family and to make some return to their parents; for this is acceptable in the sight of God. Now she who is a widow indeed and who has been left alone, has fixed her hope on God and continues in entreaties and prayers night and day. But she who gives herself to wanton pleasure is dead even while she lives. Prescribe these things as well, so that they may be above reproach. But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever. A widow is to be put on the list only if she is not less than sixty years old, having been the wife of one man, having a reputation for good works; and if she has brought up children, if she has shown hospitality to strangers, if she has washed the saints’ feet, if she has assisted those in distress, and if she has devoted herself to every good work. But refuse to put younger widows on the list, for when they feel sensual desires in disregard of Christ, they want to get married, thus incurring condemnation, because they have set aside their previous pledge. At the same time they also learn to be idle, as they go around from house to house; and not merely idle, but also gossips and busybodies, talking about things not proper to mention. Therefore, I want younger widows to get married, bear children, keep house, and give the enemy no occasion for reproach; for some have already turned aside to follow Satan. If any woman who is a believer has dependent widows, she must assist them and the church must not be burdened, so that it may assist those who are widows indeed. The elders who rule well are to be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who work hard at preaching and teaching. For the Scripture says, ‘YOU SHALL NOT MUZZLE THE OX WHILE HE IS THRESHING,’ and ‘The laborer is worthy of his wages.’ Do not receive an accusation against an elder except on the basis of two or three witnesses. Those who continue in sin, rebuke in the presence of all, so that the rest also will be fearful of sinning. I solemnly charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus and of His chosen angels, to maintain these principles without bias, doing nothing in a spirit of partiality. Do not lay hands upon anyone too hastily and thereby share responsibility for the sins of others; keep yourself free from sin. No longer drink water exclusively, but use a little wine for the sake of your stomach and your frequent ailments. The sins of some men are quite evident, going before them to judgment; for others, their sins follow after. Likewise also, deeds that are good are quite evident, and those which are otherwise cannot be concealed.”
Chapter 6: “All who are under the yoke as slaves are to regard their own masters as worthy of all honor so that the name of God and our doctrine will not be spoken against. Those who have believers as their masters must not be disrespectful to them because they are brethren, but must serve them all the more, because those who partake of the benefit are believers and beloved. Teach and preach these principles. If anyone advocates a different doctrine and does not agree with sound words, those of our Lord Jesus Christ, and with the doctrine conforming to godliness, he is conceited and understands nothing; but he has a morbid interest in controversial questions and disputes about words, out of which arise envy, strife, abusive language, evil suspicions, and constant friction between men of depraved mind and deprived of the truth, who suppose that godliness is a means of gain. But godliness actually is a means of great gain when accompanied by contentment….If we have food and covering, with these we shall be content. But those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a snare and many foolish and harmful desires which plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all sorts of evil, and some by longing for it have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. But flee from these things, you man of God, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance and gentleness. Fight the good fight of faith; take hold of the eternal life to which you were called, and you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses. I charge you in the presence of God, who gives life to all things, and of Christ Jesus, who testified the good confession before Pontius Pilate, that you keep the commandment without stain or reproach until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ, which He will bring about at the proper time—He who is the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords, who alone possesses immortality and dwells in unapproachable light, whom no man has seen or can see. To Him be honor and eternal dominion! Amen. Instruct those who are rich in this present world not to be conceited or to fix their hope on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy. Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, storing up for themselves the treasure of a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is life indeed….guard what has been entrusted to you, avoiding worldly and empty chatter and the opposing arguments of what is falsely called ‘knowledge’— which some have professed and thus gone astray from the faith. Grace be with you.”
OUTLINE:
greeting (v1):
“Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus according to the commandment of God our Savior, and of Christ Jesus, who is our hope,
“To Timothy, my true child in the faith: Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.”
“As I urged you upon my departure for Macedonia, remain on at Ephesus so that you may instruct certain men not to teach strange doctrines, nor to pay attention to myths and endless genealogies, which give rise to mere speculation rather than furthering the administration of God which is by faith.” (v3-7):
“But the goal of our instruction is love from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.
“For some men, straying from these things, have turned aside to fruitless discussion, wanting to be teachers of the Law, even though they do not understand either what they are saying or the matters about which they make confident assertions.”
“But we know that the Law is good, if one uses it lawfully, realizing the fact that law is not made for a righteous person, but for those who are lawless and rebellious, for the ungodly and sinners, for the unholy and profane, for those who kill their fathers or mothers, for murderers and immoral men and homosexuals and kidnappers and liars and perjurers, and whatever else is contrary to sound teaching, according to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, with which I have been entrusted.” (v8-11)
“I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has strengthened me, because He considered me faithful, putting me into service, even though I was formerly a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent aggressor.” (v12-17):
“Yet I was shown mercy because I acted ignorantly in unbelief; and the grace of our Lord was more than abundant, with the faith and love which are found in Christ Jesus.
“It is a trustworthy statement, deserving full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, among whom I am foremost of all.
“Yet for this reason I found mercy, so that in me as the foremost, Jesus Christ might demonstrate His perfect patience as an example for those who would believe in Him for eternal life.
“Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.”
“This command I entrust to you, Timothy, my son, in accordance with the prophecies previously made concerning you, that by them you fight the good fight, keeping faith and a good conscience, which some have rejected and suffered shipwreck in regard to their faith.” (v18-20):
“Among these are Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom I have handed over to Satan, so that they will be taught not to blaspheme.”
“First of all, then, I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity.” (v1-8):
“This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.
“For there is one God, and one mediator also between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself as a ransom for all, the testimony given at the proper time.
“For this I was appointed a preacher and an apostle (I am telling the truth, I am not lying) as a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth.
“Therefore I want the men in every place to pray, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and dissension.”
“Likewise, I want women to adorn themselves with proper clothing, modestly and discreetly, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly garments, but rather by means of good works, as is proper for women making a claim to godliness.” (v9-15):
“A woman must quietly receive instruction with entire submissiveness.
“But I do not allow a woman to teach or exercise authority over a man, but to remain quiet.
“For it was Adam who was first created, and then Eve. And it was not Adam who was deceived, but the woman being deceived, fell into transgression.
“But women will be preserved through the bearing of children if they continue in faith and love and sanctity with self-restraint.”
“It is a trustworthy statement: if any man aspires to the office of overseer, it is a fine work he desires to do. An overseer, then, must be” (v1-7):
“above reproach,
“the husband of one wife,
“temperate,
“prudent,
“respectable,
“hospitable,
“able to teach,
“not addicted to wine or pugnacious,
“but gentle,
“peaceable,
“free from the love of money.
“He must be one who manages his own household well, keeping his children under control with all dignity (but if a man does not know how to manage his own household, how will he take care of the church of God?),
“and not a new convert, so that he will not become conceited and fall into the condemnation incurred by the devil.
“And he must have a good reputation with those outside the church, so that he will not fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.”
“Deacons likewise must be” (v8-13):
“men of dignity,
“not double-tongued,
“or addicted to much wine
“or fond of sordid gain,
“but holding to the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience.
“These men must also first be tested; then let them serve as deacons if they are beyond reproach.
Women must likewise be:
“dignified,
“not malicious gossips,
“but temperate,
“faithful in all things.
“Deacons must be
“husbands of only one wife, and
“good managers of their children and their own households.
“For those who have served well as deacons obtain for themselves a high standing and great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.”
“I am writing these things to you, hoping to come to you before long; but in case I am delayed, I write so that you will know how one ought to conduct himself in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and support of the truth.” (v14-16):
“By common confession, great is the mystery of godliness:
He who was revealed in the flesh,
Was vindicated in the Spirit,
Seen by angels,
Proclaimed among the nations,
Believed on in the world,
Taken up in glory.”
“But the Spirit explicitly says that in later times some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and doctrines of demons, by means of the hypocrisy of liars seared in their own conscience as with a branding iron, men who forbid marriage and advocate abstaining from foods which God has created to be gratefully shared in by those who believe and know the truth.” (v1-5):
“For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with gratitude; for it is sanctified by means of the word of God and prayer.”
“In pointing out these things to the brethren, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, constantly nourished on the words of the faith and of the sound doctrine which you have been following.” (v6-10):
“But have nothing to do with worldly fables fit only for old women.
“On the other hand, discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness; for bodily discipline is only of little profit, but godliness is profitable for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. It is a trustworthy statement deserving full acceptance.
“For it is for this we labor and strive, because we have fixed our hope on the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of believers.”
“Prescribe and teach these things.” (v11-16):
“Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but rather in speech, conduct, love, faith and purity, show yourself an example of those who believe.
Until I come, give attention to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation and teaching.
Do not neglect the spiritual gift within you, which was bestowed on you through prophetic utterance with the laying on of hands by the presbytery.
Take pains with these things; be absorbed in them, so that your progress will be evident to all.
Pay close attention to yourself and to your teaching; persevere in these things, for as you do this you will ensure salvation both for yourself and for those who hear you.”
“Do not sharply rebuke an older man, but rather appeal to him as a father, to the younger men as brothers, the older women as mothers, and the younger women as sisters, in all purity.” (v1-2)
Care of widows (v3-16):
“Honor widows who are widows indeed; but if any widow has children or grandchildren, they must first learn to practice piety in regard to their own family and to make some return to their parents; for this is acceptable in the sight of God.
“Now she who is a widow indeed and who has been left alone, has fixed her hope on God and continues in entreaties and prayers night and day.
“But she who gives herself to wanton pleasure is dead even while she lives.
“Prescribe these things as well, so that they may be above reproach.
“But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.
“A widow is to be put on the list only if she is not less than sixty years old, having been the wife of one man, having a reputation for good works; and if she has brought up children, if she has shown hospitality to strangers, if she has washed the saints’ feet, if she has assisted those in distress, and if she has devoted herself to every good work.
“But refuse to put younger widows on the list, for when they feel sensual desires in disregard of Christ, they want to get married, thus incurring condemnation, because they have set aside their previous pledge.
“At the same time they also learn to be idle, as they go around from house to house; and not merely idle, but also gossips and busybodies, talking about things not proper to mention.
“Therefore, I want younger widows to get married, bear children, keep house, and give the enemy no occasion for reproach; for some have already turned aside to follow Satan.
“If any woman who is a believer has dependent widows, she must assist them and the church must not be burdened, so that it may assist those who are widows indeed.”
Concerning elders (v17-22):
“The elders who rule well are to be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who work hard at preaching and teaching.”
“For the Scripture says, ‘YOU SHALL NOT MUZZLE THE OX WHILE HE IS THRESHING,’ and ‘The laborer is worthy of his wages.’
Do not receive an accusation against an elder except on the basis of two or three witnesses.
Those who continue in sin, rebuke in the presence of all, so that the rest also will be fearful of sinning.
I solemnly charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus and of His chosen angels, to maintain these principles without bias, doing nothing in a spirit of partiality.
Do not lay hands upon anyone too hastily and thereby share responsibility for the sins of others; keep yourself free from sin.”
“No longer drink water exclusively, but use a little wine for the sake of your stomach and your frequent ailments.” (v23)
“The sins of some men are quite evident, going before them to judgment; for others, their sins follow after. Likewise also, deeds that are good are quite evident, and those which are otherwise cannot be concealed.” (v24-25)
“All who are under the yoke as slaves are to regard their own masters as worthy of all honor so that the name of God and our doctrine will not be spoken against.” (v1-2a):
“Those who have believers as their masters must not be disrespectful to them because they are brethren, but must serve them all the more, because those who partake of the benefit are believers and beloved.
“Teach and preach these principles.” (2b-10):
“If anyone advocates a different doctrine and does not agree with sound words, those of our Lord Jesus Christ, and with the doctrine conforming to godliness, he is conceited and understands nothing; but he has a morbid interest in controversial questions and disputes about words, out of which arise envy, strife, abusive language, evil suspicions, and constant friction between men of depraved mind and deprived of the truth, who suppose that godliness is a means of gain.
“But godliness actually is a means of great gain when accompanied by contentment.
“For we have brought nothing into the world, so we cannot take anything out of it either.
“If we have food and covering, with these we shall be content.
“But those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a snare and many foolish and harmful desires which plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all sorts of evil, and some by longing for it have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.”
“But flee from these things, you man of God, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance and gentleness.” (v11-16):
“Fight the good fight of faith; take hold of the eternal life to which you were called, and you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.
“I charge you in the presence of God, who gives life to all things, and of Christ Jesus, who testified the good confession before Pontius Pilate, that you keep the commandment without stain or reproach until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ, which He will bring about at the proper time—He who is the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords, who alone possesses immortality and dwells in unapproachable light, whom no man has seen or can see. To Him be honor and eternal dominion! Amen.”
“Instruct those who are rich in this present world not to be conceited or to fix their hope on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy.” (v17-19):
“Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, storing up for themselves the treasure of a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is life indeed.
“O Timothy, guard what has been entrusted to you, avoiding worldly and empty chatter and the opposing arguments of what is falsely called ‘knowledge’— which some have professed and thus gone astray from the faith.
Grace be with you.” (v20-21)