1 Timothy 1:1-20
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New Testament - This week we begin Paul’s first and second letters to Timothy! These are very powerful letters to read because Paul wrote them toward the end of his life. Paul’s second letter to Timothy was likely the last letter he ever wrote. Some call this letter Paul’s “last will and testament.”
~ First Timothy ~
Author: Paul the apostle
Place: Uncertain
Date: A.D. 64
Content: This letter was written by Paul near the end of his life and he addressed it to his associate Timothy, whom he had left in Ephesus to correct some problems in the church. By this time problems had arisen concerning doctrine, church practice, church government, and various aspects of Christian living. Paul wrote to instruct Timothy concerning these matters so that the church would function properly. He also wrote to encourage Timothy so that he would not become weary in his Christian life, but would live wholly to the glory of God. There are some specific regulations given for the ordination of church officers as well.
Theme: The importance of right belief and right behavior form the theme of this book. Paul stresses that we must know the truth and defend it against the false doctrines that arise. We must also be very careful to live lives that are consistent with the truth so that Satan will not get an advantage over the people of God. The importance of dedicated and pure-hearted men to lead the church is also stressed. (Above commentary is from Tyndale Publishers “The One Year Bible Companion” p. 29) Below is an image of Timothy receiving from a messenger one of Paul's letters to him:
First and Second Timothy and Titus are considered to be "The Pastoral Letters" because they provide instruction about the care of churches. We have some powerful teachings from Paul today in First Timothy chapter 1. One very interesting thing to note is that Paul uses the clause "This is a trustworthy saying" in verse 15. What's interesting about this is that this clause is found nowhere else in the New Testament except for its use 5 times in the Pastoral Letters to identify an important teaching. So, here is the important teaching in verse 15: "This is a trustworthy saying, and everyone should accept it: "Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners"" What do you think about this teaching? So simple a teaching at first glance, and yet of course so profound in it's meaning! I like how Paul starts off this letter to Timothy with a lot of humility.
Bible.org's commentary on today's readings in First Timothy chapter 1 titled “Critical Concerns for Pastoral Ministry” is at this link.
Video: Today’s readings reminded me of the great Christian movie called "Facing the Giants." Have you seen this movie yet? My wife and I just watched it for the first time a couple of weeks ago on DVD and loved it. It's made by the same folks that made the movie "Fireproof." Here's a trailer for it, below.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4xneiV7Ru6Q
Are you facing the giants in your life? Click here and face the giants!
Comments from You: What verses or insights stand out to you from today's readings? Please post up by clicking on the "Comments" link below!
Grace, love, peace, and joy!
Mike
p.s. I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!
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