1 Timothy Chapter 1

1 Timothy 1:1 "Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the commandment of God our Savior, and Lord Jesus Christ, [which is] our hope;"

"Apostle of Christ Jesus" (see notes on 2 Cor. 12:11-12; Acts 1:2; 2:42; Rom. 1:1; Eph. 2:20).

"God our Savior": A title unique to the Pastoral Epistles (1 & 2 Tim. and Titus), that has its roots in the Old Testament (Psalms 18:46; 25:5; 27:9; Mica 7:7; Hab. 3:18). God is by nature a saving God and the source of our salvation, which He planned from eternity past (see note on 4:10; 2 Thess. 2:13).

"Jesus Christ ... our hope": Christians have hope for the future because Christ purchased salvation for them on the cross in the past (Rom. 5:1-2), sanctifies them through His Spirit in the present (Gal. 5:16-25), and will lead them to glory in the future (Col. 1:27; 1 John 3:2-3).

"God" is described as "our Savior" because He is the author of man's salvation. "Jesus" is called "our hope", since He is the object and embodiment of our expectation.

Paul feels it necessary in this letter to Timothy to mention that he was commanded of the Lord Jesus Christ to be an apostle. Apostle is taken from a word which means delegate or ambassador of the gospel. It includes the meaning, with miraculous powers.

We are aware that these miraculous powers followed Paul. The Hope is of the resurrection. Because He rose, we will rise. We are not like the world that has no hope. We have hope of eternal life in Jesus Christ our Lord.

1 Timothy 1:2 "Unto Timothy, [my] own son in the faith: Grace, mercy, [and] peace, from God our Father and Jesus Christ our Lord."

"Timothy: True child in the faith". Only Timothy (2 Tim. 1:2; 2:1), and Titus (1:4), received this special expression of Paul's favor. "Child" emphasizes Paul's role as spiritual father to Timothy. "True" speaks of the genuineness of Timothy's faith (2 Tim. 1:5). Timothy was Paul's most cherished pupil, and protégé (1 Cor. 4:17; Phil. 2:19-22).

"Grace, mercy and peace: Paul's familiar greeting that appears in all his epistles (see note on Rom. 1:7), but with the addition here of "mercy" (2 Tim. 1:2). Mercy frees believers from the misery that accompanies the consequences of sin.

"My own son" ("or genuine child"): Paul acknowledges Timothy to be a real believer, in contrast to some whose Christian claims are spurious.

Timothy was not the son of Paul in the flesh, but was his spiritual son. Timothy was really an extension of Paul's teaching. Of all the people that worked with Paul, he was his favorite.

This letter, or epistle, is not addressed to a church, but to Timothy. (1 and 2 Timothy and Titus), are all known as the Pastoral Epistles.

The grace, mercy and peace, are blessings Paul spoke on Timothy. The statement of the Father, separate from the Lord Jesus Christ, shows that all of heaven was included in this.

Verses 3-11: In his opening charge to halt the spread of false teaching in the church at Ephesus, Paul characterizes the false teachers and their doctrine.

Verses 3-4: We may read (verses 3b and 4a), as follows: "That you might command certain people not to teach other doctrines, nor to give heed to myths and endless genealogies." Timothy is to put an end to the teaching of false doctrines. "Which minister questions, rather than godly edifying" (i.e., they promote useless speculations rather than God's work): Attention given to the circulating false doctrines, "fables and ... genealogies," does not assist believers in carrying out responsibilities divinely entrusted to them, but gives rise to idle queries.

1 Timothy 1:3 "As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine,"

"My departure for Macedonia, remain on at Ephesus": Before Paul left Ephesus, he likely began the confrontation with the expulsion of Hymenaeus and Alexander (verse 20), then assigned Timothy to stay on and complete what he had begun.

"Instruct": This refers to a military command, it demands that a subordinate obey an order from a superior (2 Tim. 4:1).

"Certain men": The false teachers were few in number, yet had a wide influence. Several reasons point toward these men being elders in the church at Ephesus and in the churches in the surrounding region:

(1) They presumed to be teachers (verse 7), a role reserved for elders (3:2; 5:17).

(2) Paul himself had to excommunicate Hymenaeus and Alexander, which implies they occupied the highest pastoral positions.

(3) Paul detailed the qualifications of an overseer (3:1-7), implying that unqualified men, who needed to be replaced by qualified ones, were occupying those roles.

(4) Paul stressed that sinning overseers were to be publicly disciplined (5:19-22).

"Not to teach strange doctrines": A compound word made up of two Greek words that mean "of a different kind" and "to teach." The false teachers were teaching doctrine different that apostolic doctrine (6:3-4; Acts 2:42; Gal. 1:6-7). This had to do with the gospel of salvation. Apparently, they were teaching another gospel (see notes on Gal. 1:6-9), and not the "glorious gospel of the blessed God" (verse 1).

It seems from this that Paul was going to minister in Macedonia, and Timothy wanted to go with him. Paul asked Timothy to stay in Ephesus and teach. When Timothy taught, it was as if it were Paul teaching.

Paul was having trouble at this time, with the churches straying away from the doctrine that he had set down. The word, "charge", shows that Paul was in authority over Timothy. We have said so many times, this was at the very beginning of the founding of the doctrine of the church.

1 Timothy 1:4 "Neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly edifying which is in faith: [so do]."

"Myths and endless genealogies": Legends and fanciful stories manufactured from elements of Judaism (verse 7; Titus 1:14), which probably dealt with allegorical or fictitious interpretations of Old Testament genealogical lists. In reality, they were "doctrines of demons" (4:1), posing as God's truth (4:7).

The Jews were very aware of genealogies and he could be speaking of this. The fables, spoken of here, came directly from the Talmud. The Talmud was in heavy use at this time, and much of it was fables.

We discussed (in 1 Corinthians), how some of the teaching in the Talmud had been quoted by Paul. Paul, as many of the other Jewish converts, had studied the Talmud right along with the Bible, and even though it was not the Bible, they had picked up customs from the Talmud that they were practicing in the church.

The "Talmud" was a commentary similar to the book of Josephus in our day. The customs of the Talmud were man-made laws. They were not divine in nature. The Jews were interested in being able to trace their ancestry back to Abraham in the flesh. That is what the genealogy is all about. All of these things cause trouble in the church.

The flesh connection to Abraham saved no one. It is the spiritual connection to the faith of Abraham that saves us.

Galatians 3:29 "And if ye [be] Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise."

Edifying means to build up.

Jude 1:20 "But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost,"

1 Timothy 1:5 "Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and [of] a good conscience, and [of] faith unfeigned:"

"Our instruction (see note on verse 3), where the verb form "instruct" is used. The purpose of the instruction (in verses 3-4), is the spiritual virtue defined (in verse 5). Timothy was to deliver this charge to the church.

The goal of preaching the truth and warning of error is to call men to true salvation in Christ, which produces a love for God from a purified heart (2 Tim. 2:22; 1 Pet. 1:22). A cleansed conscience (Heb. 9:22; 10:14). And genuine faith (Heb. 10:22).

"Love": This is the love of choice and the will, characterized by self-denial and self-sacrifice for the benefit of others. And it is the mark of a true Christian (John 13:35; Rom. 13:10; 1 John 4:7-8; see notes on 1 Cor. 13:1-7). In contrast, false doctrine produces only conflict and "speculation" (verse 4; 6:3-5).

"Good conscience": (verses 19; 3:9; 4:2; see note on 2 Cor. 1:12). The Greek word for "good", refers to that which is perfect and produces pleasure and satisfaction. God created man with a "conscience", as his self-judging faculty. Because God has written His law on man's heart (see note on Rom. 2:15), man knows the basic standard of right and wrong.

When he violates that standard, his conscience produces guilt, which acts as the mind's security system that produces fear, guilt, shame, and doubt. As warnings of threats to the soul's well-being (John 8:9; 1 Cor. 8:7, 10, 12; Titus 1:15; Heb. 10:22).

On the other hand, when a believer does God's will, he enjoys the affirmation, assurance, peace, and joy of a good conscience (Acts 23:1; 24:16; 2 Tim. 1:3; Heb. 13:18; 1 Peter 3:16, 21).

This verse could be translated as follows: "But the goal of this command is love from "a pure heart," from a clear "conscience," and from genuine "faith." The "goal" of Timothy's "command" of forbidding false teaching (verses 3-4), is not all negative. Its positive aim is to bring about true love in Christians.

Note the spiritual evolution here: "genuine faith" in Christ produces "a clear conscience," that is, one cleared of offense before God by Jesus' atonement. This in turn leads to "a pure heart," that is, a life free of sin; and this brings about "love" for God and others.

The charity here, would have been better translated love. Jesus had told the disciples that love of God and love for their neighbor covered all the law. A pure heart is one that is stayed upon the Lord. The pure heart has been washed in the blood of the Lamb (Jesus Christ).

If your heart is stayed upon God, then you will have a clear conscience, because the desire of your heart is to please God. "Unfeigned", in the verse above, means sincere. This is the kind of faith that we read the patriarchs had. This sincere faith is spoken of (in Hebrews 11:1).

"Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen."

1 Timothy 1:6 "From which some having swerved have turned aside unto vain jangling;"

"Fruitless discussion" (Titus 1:10), refers to speech that is aimless and has no logical end. It is essentially irrelevant and will not accomplish anything spiritual or edifying to believers. False doctrine leads nowhere, but to the deadening end of human speculation and demonic deception (6:3-5).

"From which" (refers to verse 5's), "pure heart," "clear conscience," and "faith unfeigned."
Because heretics have "swerved" (deviated), from these practical virtues of daily living, they "have turned aside unto vain jangling" (fruitless discussion). Such talk is profitless because it detracts from spiritual progress.

This is talk then, that has no connection with reality. This means, many times, they are talking about things they know nothing of.

Verses 7-8: The Mosaic law is in view here, not just law in general. These were Jewish would-be-teachers who wanted to impose circumcision and the keeping of Mosaic ceremonies on the church as necessary for salvation. They plagued the early church (see notes on Gal. chapters 3-5; Phil. 3:1-8).

1 Timothy 1:7 "Desiring to be teachers of the law; understanding neither what they say, nor whereof they affirm."

We see that the trouble is coming from the Jews. They may profess Christianity, but they are still hanging on to the Law of Moses. Worse than that, they are teaching the Talmud as if it were the Word of God. The Lord Jesus rebuked the people doing this very thing.

Matthew 22:29 "Jesus answered and said unto them, Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God."

The word "affirm" means confidently, or strongly. Paul is saying with Jesus, they think they know and do not. They would be teachers of an untruth.

1 Timothy 1:8 "But we know that the law [is] good, if a man use it lawfully;"

"The Law is good": The Greek word for "good" can be translated "useful." The law is good or useful because it reflects God's holy will and righteous standard (Psalm 19:7, Rom. 7:12), which accomplishes its purpose in showing sinners their sin (Rom. 3:19), and their need for a savior (Gal. 3:24).

The law forces people to recognize that they are guilty of disobeying God's commands, and it thereby condemns every person and sentences them to hell (see notes on Rom. 3:19-20).

Jesus came, not to do away with the law, but to fulfill it.

Galatians 3:21 "[Is] the law then against the promises of God? God forbid: for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law."

The law was not bad, but man's ability to keep the law was lacking. Jesus took care of the obligation of the law for us.

Matthew 5:17 "Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil."

Those who are hid in Jesus have the law already fulfilled for them. They are not under the law, but grace.

Romans 6:14 "For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace."

1 Timothy Chapter 1 Questions

1. Who is this letter addressed to?
2. What 3 books are known as Pastoral Epistles?
3. Why does Paul speak of Timothy as his son?
4. Where was this letter written from?
5. Approximately when was the letter written?
6. What nationality were Timothy's parents?
7. Who would Timothy minister to primarily?
8. Why did Paul circumcise Timothy?
9. What is difficult to understand about this?
10. Where were some of the places that Timothy went with Paul to minister?
11. Who was Timothy taught in the Scriptures by?
12. What does Paul call himself in verse 1?
13. What does the word that "apostle" was translated from mean?
14. What is the hope?
15. What 3 things did Paul speak as blessings on Timothy?
16. Who was Paul's favorite of all that he had ministered with?
17. While Paul went to Macedonia, what did he want Timothy to do?
18. Why did Paul desire Timothy to do this?
19. What was Timothy's teaching like?
20. What does the word "charge" show in verse 3?
21. What are the fables in verse 4 referring to?
22. What was the "Talmud"?
23. How can you build up your most holy faith?
24. What is the end of the commandment?
25. What makes a pure heart?
26. What does "unfeigned" mean?
27. What does "jangling" mean?
28. Why should they not be teachers of the law?
29. The law is good, if a man use it ___________.
30. If Jesus did not come to destroy the law and the prophets, what did He come to do?

1 Timothy Chapter 1 Continued

1 Timothy 1:8 "But we know that the law [is] good, if a man use it lawfully;"

If everyone lived a righteous life, there would be no need for laws. The law is actually given to protect the righteous from the ungodly. The law, known as the Law of Moses, is possibly spoken of here.

Verses 9-10: "Murderers of fathers ... perjured persons": These sins are violations of the second half of the Ten Commandments, those dealing with relationships among people.

These specific sins undoubtedly characterized the false teachers, since they are characteristic behaviors related to false doctrine (verse 10). Killing of "fathers" and "mothers" is a violation of the fifth commandment (Exodus 20:12; 21:15-17), which forbids everything from dishonor to murder. Murder is in violation of the sixth commandment (Exodus 20:13).

"Immoral men" and "homosexuals" violate the seventh commandment (Exodus 20:14), which prohibits sexual activity outside the marriage bed.

Because the theft of children was commonplace in Paul's day, he mentions "kidnappers", in connection with the eighth commandment (Exodus 20:15), which prohibits stealing. Finally, "liars" and "perjurers" are violators of the ninth commandment (Exodus 20:16).

"The law is not made for a righteous man" (or "the law is not valid for a righteous person"), implies that the heretics (of verses 6 and 7), are misusing the law, trying to impose it on the Christian. Properly used, the law benefits unbelievers in pointing out their sin (Rom. 7:7-9), and leading them to Christ (Gal. 3:24).

The "lawless" are criminals. The "disobedient" are the rebellious. The "ungodly" are the godless, that is, showing no reverence for God. "Sinners" are those failing to measure up to divine standards. The "unholy" are impure. "Profane" means defiling sacred things. "Whoremongers" are fornicators. "Them that defile themselves with mankind" are homosexuals.

"Menstealers" are kidnapers. "Sound doctrine" (literally, "healthy teaching"): The Bible properly taught is a sort of spiritual medicine that heals man's diseased moral nature, making him spiritually and ethically sound and healthy.

1 Timothy 1:9 "Knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers,"

"Not made for a righteous man": Those who think they are righteous will never be saved (Luke 5:32), because they do not understand the true purpose of the law. The false teachers, with their works system of personally achieved self-righteousness (in their own minds), had shown clearly that they misunderstood the law completely.

It was not a means to self-righteousness, but a means to self-condemnation, sin, conviction, repentance, and pleading to God for mercy (verse 15; see notes on Luke 18:9-14; Rom. 5:20; Gal. 3:10-13, 19).

"Lawless ... profane": These first 6 characteristics, expressed in 3 couplets, delineate sins from the first half of the Ten Commandments, which deal with a person's relationship to God.

"Lawless" describes those who have no commitment to any law or standard, which makes such people "rebellious." Those who are "ungodly" have no regard for anything sacred, which means they are "sinners" because they disregard God's law. "Unholy" people are indifferent to what is right, which leads them to be the "profane," who step on or trample what is sacred (Heb. 10:29).

If all mankind knew God and conformed to His will, there would be no need for laws. Laws are to convict those who have transgressed the will of God. The righteous man lives within the will of God, and there is no law against that. The sad thing is that while we are in the flesh, we cannot live totally without sin.

All mankind has sinned and come short of the glory of God. The penalty for sin is death. The difference is that the righteous have been made righteous in Jesus; our sin is done away with on the cross of Jesus. All who have not accepted Jesus as their Savior are still living in their sin.

1 Timothy 1:10 "For whoremongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for menstealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine;"

"Sound doctrine": A familiar emphasis in the Pastoral Epistles (2 Tim. 4:3; Titus 1:9; 2:1). "Sound" refers to that which is healthy and wholesome. It is the kind of teaching that produces spiritual life and growth, which implies that false doctrine produces spiritual disease and debilitation.

In (verses 9 and 10), we see a list of things that are displeasing to God. People who commit these sins are breaking the law. The penalty for this type sin is death. The only way to avoid paying the penalty of death for these sins is to accept Jesus Christ as your substitute for your sin, and accept His righteousness in exchange.

"Menstealers" are kidnappers.

I could go into the meaning of these sins, but really all things displeasing to God are sin. "Sound doctrine" would be doing things the way God intended in the first place. People who remain in the sins listed above are headed for eternal damnation.

1 Timothy 1:11 "According to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which was committed to my trust."

"The glorious gospel of the blessed God": The gospel reveals God's glory; that is, the perfections of His person or His attributes. Including His holiness (hatred of sin), and justice (demand of punishment for violations of His law), and grace (forgiveness of sin). Those attributes are key to any effective gospel presentation.

"Committed": This Greek word refers to committing something of value to another. God entrusted Paul with the communication and guardianship of His revealed truth (2:7; 6:20-21: Rom. 15:15-16; 1 Cor. 4:1-2; 9:17; 2 Cor. 5:18-20; Gal. 2:7; Col. 1:25; 1 Thess. 2:4).

The glorious gospel of the blessed God means the gospel about the character of the blessed God. The law reveals man's sinful character (verses 9 and 10), but the gospel discloses God's salvation from sin and from the law's curse.

"The blessed God:" All blessings and happiness are in God, and He bestows them upon those embracing His gospel.

The "glorious gospel" (good news), is that we can obtain forgiveness for one, or all, of these sins, by accepting Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. This message had been entrusted to Paul to give to the Gentile world. Paul is trying to say, that the message he brought was not his message, but the message God had entrusted him with.

Verses 12-17: Paul's testimony of his own salvation in these verses provides a contrast between his proper understanding of the law and the misconceptions of the false teachers, and between the glory of the true gospel and the emptiness of false doctrine.

1 Timothy 1:12 "And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry;"

"Christ" provided all the enablement required, so that Paul could fulfill his apostolic duties.

"Counted me faithful": God's sovereign purpose for Paul and for all believers works through personal faith. Until Paul was turned by the Holy Spirit from self-righteous works (see Phil. 3:4-7), to faith alone in Christ, he could not be used by God. He was in the same condition as the useless false teachers (verses 6-7).

Paul feels so greatly privileged, because Jesus sought him out for salvation. I personally believe that Paul really thought himself to be doing the right thing when he was persecuting the Christians. Jesus knew the heart of Paul. He turned Paul around on the road to Damascus and made Paul a believer in Christ. Paul did not go into the ministry; Jesus put him in the ministry.

1 Timothy 1:13 "Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did [it] ignorantly in unbelief."

"A blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious": This verse indicates that experience of Paul when he saw himself, in the light of God's law, for who he really was (see notes on Rom. 7:7-12). A "blasphemer" speaks evil of and slanders God. Paul violated the first half of the Ten Commandments through his overt attacks against Christ (Acts. 9:4-5; 22:7-8; 26:9, 14-15).

As a "persecutor" and a "violent aggressor": Paul violated the second half through his attacks on believers (see note on verse 20).

"Injurious" means violent.

"I did it ignorantly in unbelief": Paul was neither a Jewish apostate nor a Pharisee who clearly understood Jesus' teaching and still rejected Him. He was a zealous, fastidious Jew trying to earn his salvation, thus lost and damned (see notes on Phil. 3:4-7). His plea of ignorance was not a claim to innocence nor an excuse denying his guilt.

It was simply a statement indicating that he did not understand the truth of Christ's gospel and was honestly trying to protect his religion. His willing repentance when confronted by Christ (Rom. 7:9; Phil., 3:8-9), is evidence that he had not understood the ramifications of his actions, he truly thought he was doing God a service (Acts 26:9).

Paul did not do these things after his eyes were opened to who Jesus was. He did them before he realized who Jesus was. We are all like Paul, before we come to the knowledge of who Jesus is and accept Him as our Savior.

We may not have committed the same sin, but we are guilty of sin. The main thing that Paul is saying here, and that we must do as well, is our life should be transformed when we are saved. We must become a new creature in Christ. Those sins must be part of our past, and not of our future.

1 Timothy 1:14 "And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus."

"Grace": God's loving forgiveness, by which He grants salvation apart from any merit on the part of those He saves (see notes on Rom. 3:24; Gal. 1:6).

"Faith and love": Attitudes frequently linked with salvation in the New Testament (Eph. 1:15; 3:17; Col. 1:4, 23). They are gifts of God's grace in Christ.

"Grace" ... was exceeding abundant" (or, "grace ... was more abundant"): Christ's undeserved favor far outweighed Paul's previous sinful life. "With faith and love:" God's grace brought about faith in Paul, in contrast to his former "unbelief" and it also produced love in him, in contrast to his previous blasphemy, persecution, and violence to the church (verse 13).

"Which" refers to faith: Paul's faith or trust "is in Christ Jesus."

None of us deserve to be saved. The only reason we are saved, is because Jesus loved us enough to die as our substitute for our sins. The only thing we have to do with being saved, and the only thing Paul had to do with being saved, was to believe.

Ephesians 2:5 "Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)"

Ephesians 2:8 "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: [it is] the gift of God:"

All of this faith and love was wrapped up in Jesus on the cross.

1 Timothy 1:15 "This [is] a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief."

"This is a faithful saying": A phrase unique to the Pastoral Epistle (3:1; 4:9; 2 Tim. 2:11; Titus 3:8), which announces a statement summarizing key doctrines. The phrase "deserving full acceptance" gives the statement added emphasis. Apparently, these sayings were well known in the churches, as concise expressions of cardinal gospel truth.

"To save sinners": This faithful saying was based on the statements of Jesus recorded (in Matt. 9:13; Luke 19:10).

"I am chief": Literally "first," in rank. Few could be considered a worse sinner than someone who blasphemed God and persecuted His church (see note on Eph. 3:8). Paul's attitude toward himself dramatically changed (Phil. 3:7-9; see notes on Rom. 7:7-12).

Paul views himself as the foremost of "sinners; of whom I am chief" (the worst).

The word, that acceptation was translated from, means acceptance. Then this means, the message is worth us accepting it. We must receive this message. He gives us the gift of salvation, but we must accept it for it to be ours. The purpose of the Word of God taking on the form of flesh and living among us as Christ Jesus was to save our soul.

1 Timothy 4:10 "For therefore we both labor and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, specially of those that believe."

The name Jesus means Jehovah Savior. Jesus did not come for those who were not sinners. He came to save the lost. Paul felt that he was chief among sinners, because he had persecuted the Christians. Jesus forgave him of that, and sent him forth to win the lost.

1 Timothy 1:16 "Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting."

"For this cause": Paul was saved so that God could display to all His gracious and merciful patience with the most wretched sinners.

"A pattern": Paul was living proof that God could save any sinner, no matter how great a one he might be. The account of Paul's conversion has been instrumental in the salvation of many. Paul's testimony is repeated 6 other times in the New Testament (in Acts 9, 22, 26; Gal. 1, 2; Phil. 3:1-14).

We could read the verse thus: "But I obtained mercy for this reason: that in my case as the worst (sinner), Christ Jesus might demonstrate the fullest of patience, as an example for those about to believe on him for eternal life." Paul's conversion encourages other sinners; since Christ has already saved the worst sinner, He can save those less sinful.

Paul is saying, if Christ can forgive me of that, you know he will forgive you of your sin. Paul thinks that others will be more apt to receive their forgiveness from Jesus, if they realize what Jesus has forgiven Paul. The love of God endures forever. He is not willing that even one would be lost. The only requirement to receive life eternal is to believe in the Lord Jesus Christ.

1 Timothy 1:17 "Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, [be] honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen."

God receives all the praise for sovereignly saving Paul. This is one of the many doxologies Paul wrote (Rom. 11:33-36).

Jesus is King of kings, and Lord of lords. He is the Eternal One. He is Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End. The true meaning of immortal is un-decaying. Immortal is always the same forever. Invisible here, means something not seen with mortal eyes.

He is Wisdom to the utmost. This is praise from Paul to God the Father and Jesus for all that they are, as well as what they have done for him. This glory and honor will never be diminished. Amen means, so be it.

1 Timothy 1:18 "This charge I commit unto thee, son Timothy, according to the prophecies which went before on thee, that thou by them mightest war a good warfare;"

"Prophecies which went before on thee": The Greek word literally means "leading the way to," implying that a series of prophecies had been given about Timothy in connection with his receiving his spiritual gift (see note on 4:14). These prophecies specifically and supernaturally called Timothy into God's service.

"War a good warfare": Paul urged Timothy to fight the battle against the enemies of Christ and the gospel (2 Cor. 10:3-5; 2 Tim. 2:3-4; 4:7).

"This charge" (or, "this command"): This refers to the command to forbid the teaching of false doctrine (verse 3). "The prophecies which went before on thee" (or, "the prophecies that pointed to you"): These were divine revelations given through New Testament prophets, which pointed out to Paul that Timothy was to be his coworker.

Paul has told Timothy all of this to encourage him in his ministry. He is giving to Timothy the care of the church at Ephesus. Paul felt that Timothy was called of God for this very purpose. He is actually putting Timothy as an overseer of the church at Ephesus so that they will not stray into false doctrine.

Paul had tutored Timothy and he felt sure of his ability to minister. He felt sure that Timothy was a capable soldier for the Lord Jesus Christ. It seems that there had been prophecies in the church about the ministry Timothy has been called to.

Paul knows that Timothy will prevail over the false teaching. He will be fully ready for spiritual warfare, because of his training from Paul and by the Holy Spirit.

1 Timothy 1:19 "Holding faith, and a good conscience; which some having put away concerning faith have made shipwreck:"

"Faith" is used in two different ways in this verse. The first "faith" is subjective, referring to Timothy's own personal trust or faith in God; "holding faith" means that he is to maintain his confidence in God. The second faith is objective, referring to the body of revealed truth believed by the church, that is, "the faith which was once delivered unto the saints" (Jude 3).

The last half of (verse 19), may be translated: "which [a good conscience] some, having repudiated, have become shipwrecked concerning the faith." Because some rejected their inner moral voice of conscience, they have strayed far from the truth of God into theological heresy. Often religious error has its roots in moral rather than intellectual causes (see note on verse 5).

"Shipwreck": A good conscience serves as the rudder that steers the believer through the rocks and reefs on sin and error. The false teachers ignored their consciences and the truth, and as a result, suffered shipwreck of the Christian faith (the true doctrine of the gospel), which implies severe spiritual catastrophe.

This does not imply loss of salvation of a true believer (see notes on Rom. 8:31-39), but likely indicates the tragic loss that comes to the apostate. They had been in the church, heard the gospel and rejected it in favor of the false doctrine defined (in verses 3-7). Apostasy is a turning away from the gospel, having once known it (see notes on Heb. 2:3-4; 3:12-19; 6:1-8; 10:26-31).

Paul knew that Timothy had been well trained in the Scriptures, and that he was baptized in the Holy Spirit of God. He believed Timothy would fight the good fight of faith. Faith and a good conscience go hand in hand. Fear does not please God, and does not bring a clear conscience.

To doubt brings disaster. Paul knew Timothy would remain faithful. His conscience would be clear, knowing that he had done his best.

1 Timothy 1:20 "Of whom is Hymenaeus and Alexander; whom I have delivered unto Satan, that they may learn not to blaspheme."

"Hymenaeus and Alexander": Hymenaeus is mentioned (in 2 Tim. 2:17), in connection with Philetus, another false teacher. Alexander may be the opponent of the faith referred to (in 2 Tim. 4:14-15). Nothing else is known about these two men (see note on verse 3).

"I have delivered unto Satan" may signify

(1) That the two heretics mentioned were excommunicated from the church;

(2) "Prayers" is a general word embracing various kinds of prayer, confession, adoration, and so on;

(3) "Intercessions" denote prayers to God on behalf of others;

(4) "Giving of thanks" refers to prayers of praise.

Hymenaeus and Alexander were the ones who were shipwrecked. They had doubted and even blasphemed God. They were possibly, the two who had brought in a false doctrine concerning the resurrection of Jesus.

Perhaps, they had set a day, and when it did not occur on that day, they started to doubt and even blasphemed. Paul means by turning them over to Satan, that he could do all sorts of evil things to them short of death. The problems that came to them as a result of that, could cause them to repent and save their souls.

1 Timothy Chapter 1 Continued Questions

1. The law is good, if a man use it ____________.
2. Who is the law made for?
3. The law is given to protect the _____________.
4. What law is there against righteous living?
5. What is the penalty for sin?
6. Name some of the sins mentioned specifically.
7. How is the only way to avoid the penalty for our sin?
8. What is meant by "sound doctrine"?
9. What is the "glorious gospel"?
10. Whose message did Paul bring?
11. Who, or what, did Paul credit with his being a minister?
12. Why did Jesus bother with Paul?
13. What description of himself did Paul give about his life before Jesus?
14. Paul obtained ________.
15. How were we like Paul?
16. What must we become, after we are saved?
17. What is "grace"?
18. What did Paul call himself in verse 15?
19. Jesus is Savior of ____________.
20. What does the name Jesus mean?
21. What caused Paul to think that he was chief among sinners?
22. What did Paul believe would make others believe they could receive salvation?
23. How does Paul describe God in verse 17?
24. Who is King?
25. Who did Paul call Timothy in verse 18?
26. What made Paul believe that Timothy would fight the good fight?
27. What two things in verse 19, did Paul say Timothy had?
28. Who had Paul delivered to Satan?

1 Timothy Chapter 2

Verses 1-8: The Ephesian church had evidently stopped praying for the lost, since Paul urged Timothy to make it a priority again. The Judaistic false teachers in Ephesus, by a perverted gospel and the teaching that salvation was only for Jews and Gentile proselytes to Judaism, would have certainly restricted evangelistic praying.

Religious exclusivism (salvation only for the elite), would preclude the need for prayer for the lost.

1 Timothy 2:1 "I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, [and] giving of thanks, be made for all men;"

"First of all" (or, "most important of all"): Prayer is to hold the preeminent place in church meetings. Four different types of prayer are mentioned here:

(1) Supplications" are precise requests for specific needs. The Greek word is from a root that means "to lack," "to be deprived," or "to be without." Thus, this kind of prayer occurs because of a need. The lost have a great need for salvation, and believers should always be asking God to meet that need.

(2) "Prayers" is a general word embracing various kinds of prayer, confession, adoration, and so on. This word comes from a root meaning "to fall in with someone," or "to draw near so as to speak intimately." The verb from which this word derives is used of Christ's and the Spirit's intercession for believers (Rom. 8:26; Heb. 7:25). Paul's desire is for the Ephesian Christians to have compassion for the lost, to understand the depths of their pain and misery, and to come intimately to God pleading for their salvation (see notes on Titus 3:3-4).

(3) "Intercessions" denote prayers to God on behalf of others;

(4) "Giving of thanks" refers to prayers of praise.

Paul is now giving some last minute instruction to Timothy. "Supplications" in the verse above, means prayers, or requests. In this particular usage, "intercessions" means prayers. Intercessory prayer is generally when you are praying for someone else, not yourself. This would be the proper usage here, since the prayers were for all men.

There are many different types of prayer, and perhaps, that is what is intended here. There is prayer of adoration to God, there is prayer for a specific request, and there is prayer for others. There are many other prayers. I think I love the prayer where I do not want anything from God, but just to visit with Him. These are usually the sweetest times.

Paul possibly, is telling Timothy here, that the church will be just as strong as the prayers that are prayed for it.

Verses 2-3: There are three reasons why the prayers of verse 1 are to be offered "for all men":

(1) That Christians may enjoy a tranquil life (verse 2);

(2) Such praying is "good and acceptable" to "God" (verse 3);

(3) Such prayers help bring about the salvation of men (verse 4).

1 Timothy 2:2 "For kings, and [for] all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty."

"Kings, and for all that are in authority": Because so many powerful and influential political rulers are hostile to God, they are often the targets of bitterness and animosity. But Paul urges believers to pray that these leaders might repent of their sins and embrace the gospel. Which meant that the Ephesians were even to pray for the salvation of the Roman emperor, Nero, a cruel and vicious blasphemer and persecutor of the faith.

"A quiet and peaceable life": "Quiet" refers to the absence of external disturbances; "tranquil" refers to the absence of internal ones. While it remains uncompromising in its commitment to the truth, the church is not to agitate or disrupt the national life.

The word "quiet" means "not troubled from without"; that is, intercessory prayer enables good government to ensure that its citizens are not troubled by enemies or forces outside its borders.

"Peaceable" means "not troubled from within"; that is, the church's prayer also aids competent government in maintaining law and order within its own borders. The translation "godliness and honesty" is unfortunate, for the exercise of these virtues is not dependent upon good government; they can be cultivated even in poor political management and persecution.

The text should read, "That we may lead a quiet and peaceable life with the utmost reverence and respect." This respect is for government authority. Respect can best be realized when rulers are competent and rightly discharging their duties. Otherwise, it is difficult to respect rulers when they are incompetent and unjust.

"Godliness and honesty": "Godliness" is a key word in this letter (3:16; 4:7-8; 6:3, 5-6, 11; 2 Tim. 3:5; Titus 1:1), indicating that there needed to be a call back to holy living, which had been negatively affected by the false doctrine. Godliness refers to having the proper attitude and conduct before God in everything; "dignity" can be translated "moral earnestness," and refers to holy behavior before men.

When it manifests love and goodness to all and prays passionately for the lost, including rulers, the church may experience a certain amount of religious freedom. Persecution should only be the result of righteous living, not civil disobedience (see notes on Titus 3:1-4; 1 Pet. 2:13-23).

It is especially important to pray for those who rule over us. If the leader of the country is a tyrant, it is not very likely that you would live a peaceable life. Pray for the Lord to lead the king to peace in the country. A godly king makes it pleasant for all his subjects.

At the time this was written there was much persecution of the Christians. Leaders, who were led by every little whim of circumstance, could make it very difficult to be a Christian. It was important to pray for the king to be fair and godly in his dealings with the Christians. Paul would know of the hardships of kings who were influenced by ungodly people.

He had been imprisoned several times. Sometimes he was held for a long time in prison because the ruler would not make a decision to release him, fearing the people or rulers over them. Paul used the fact that he was a Roman to save himself several times.

1 Timothy 2:3 "For this [is] good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior;"

"God our Savor" (see note on 1:1).

We had said in an earlier lesson, that even though we could not respect the man in office, we must respect the office. Really men are in office, because God allowed it for a reason. We should not speak against those God has put in power.

1 Timothy 2:4 "Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth."

"Have all men to be saved": The word for "have", is not that which normally expresses God's will of decree (His eternal purpose), but God's will of desire. There is a distinction between God's desire and His eternal saving purpose, which must transcend His desires.

God does not want men to sin. He hates sin with all His being (Psalms 5:4; 45:7); thus, He hates it consequences, eternal wickedness in hell. God does not want people to remain wicked forever in eternal remorse and hatred of Himself.

Yet God, for His own glory and to manifest that glory in wrath, chose to endure "vessels" ... fitted to destruction" for the supreme fulfillment of His will (Rom. 9:22). In His eternal purpose, He chose only the elect out of the world (John 17:6), and passed over the rest, leaving them to the consequences of their sin, unbelief, and rejection of Christ (Rom. 1:18-32).

Ultimately, God's choices are determined by His sovereign, eternal purpose, not His desires (see note on 2 Pet. 3:9).

"The knowledge of the truth": Meaning "to be saved" (see note on 2 Tim. 3:7).

We will see from the following Scriptures just how important it is to the Lord for all to be saved.

John 3:17 "For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved."

2 Peter 3:9 "The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance."

What is the knowledge of the Truth? It is to know Jesus Christ who is the Truth. It is God Himself who wants all men to be saved.

Verses 5-7: These verses provide a threefold evidence confirming the assertion (in verse 4), that God does indeed want all to be saved.

1 Timothy 2:5 "For [there is] one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;"

"There is one God": There is no other way of salvation (Acts 4:12); hence there is the need to pray for the lost to come to know the one true God (Deut. 4:35, 39; 6:4; Isa. 43:10; 44:6; 45:5-6, 21-22; 46:9; 1 Cor. 8:4, 6).

"Mediator": This refers to someone who intervenes between two parties to resolve a conflict or ratify a covenant. Jesus Christ is the only "mediator" who can restore peace between God and sinners (Heb. 8:6; 9:15; 12:24).

"The man Christ Jesus": The absence of the article before "man" in the Greek suggests the translation, "Christ Jesus, Himself a man." Only the perfect God-Man could bring God and man together (Job 9:32-33).

Before the cross of Christ, there was no way for man to go directly to the Father, God. The temple curtain was closed, and no one could enter in except the high priest. He could enter only when he was accompanied by the blood of the sacrifice. God was away from man, and it seemed impossible to reach God.

When Jesus was crucified on the cross, the veil of the temple was torn from the top to the bottom opening the way to the common Christian to God. Jesus is the door. He is the Way. He is the only thing we need to reach the Father. We can pray directly to the Father in the name of Jesus Christ and God will hear our prayer.

The man Christ Jesus is mentioned here because the veil of separation in the temple was symbolic of the flesh of Jesus. It is the crucifixion of the flesh of Jesus that opened the way for you and me. Jesus is our Mediator. He is our High Priest, He is our intercessor.

Hebrews 7:25 "Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them."

Hebrews 8:6 "But now hath he obtained a more excellent ministry, by how much also he is the mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon better promises."

It is the blood of the Lord Jesus Christ that puts us in right standing with the Father.

1 Timothy 2:6 "Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time."

"A ransom": This describes the result of Christ's substitutionary death for believers, which He did voluntarily (John 10:17-18), and reminds one of Christ's own statements (in Matt. 20:28), "a ransom for many."

The "all" is qualified by the "many." Not all will be ransomed (though His death would be sufficient), not only the many who believe by the work of the Holy Spirit and for whom the actual atonement was made (see note on 2 Pet. 3:9).

Christ did not pay a ransom only; He became the object of God's just wrath in the believer's place, He died his death and bore his sin (2 Cor. 5:21; 1 Pet. 2:24).

"For all": This should be taken in two senses:

(1) There are temporal benefits of the atonement that accrue to all people universally (see note on 4:10); and

(2) Christ's death was sufficient to cover the sins of all people. Yet the substitutionary aspect of His death is applied to the elect alone (see above and notes on 2 Cor. 5:14-21).

Christ's death is therefore unlimited in its sufficiency, but limited in its application. Because Christ's expiation of sin is indivisible, inexhaustible, and sufficient to cover the guilt of all the sins that will ever be committed, God can clearly offer it to all. Yet only the elect will respond and be saved, according to His eternal purpose (John 17:12).

"To be testified in due time" (or, "the proof given at the right time"): At the appropriate time in God's redemptive plan (see note on Gal. 4:4). Jesus' sacrifice is "proof" of God's wish for all to be converted.

"Ransom" in the verse above, has to do with Jesus being the substitute for our sin. He purchased our salvation for us with His precious blood. We were captive of sin, until He took our sin upon His body on the cross and sin for us died on the cross.

To "testify" means to tell something, because you know it to be a fact. All who have been saved can testify of Jesus. Paul could definitely testify of Jesus. He met Him on the road to Damascus. Paul was to testify to the Gentiles of the fact that Jesus had purchased all who would receive Him with His precious blood.

1 Timothy 2:7 "Whereunto I am ordained a preacher, and an apostle, (I speak the truth in Christ, [and] lie not;) a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and verity."

"Whereunto": Paul's divine commission was based on the truths delineated (in verses 3-6).

"Preacher": The Greek word derives from the verb that means "to herald," "to proclaim," or "to speak publicly." Paul was a public herald proclaiming the gospel of Christ.

"Apostle" (see note on 1:1).

"I speak the truth ... and lie not": Paul's emphatic outburst of his apostolic authority and integrity is to emphasize that he was a teacher of the Gentiles.

"Teacher of the Gentiles": The distinctive feature of Paul's apostolic appointment, which demonstrates the universal scope of the gospel. Paul's need to make this distinction suggests he was dealing with some form of Jewish exclusivism that had crippled the Ephesians' interest in praying for Gentiles to be saved.

Paul was ordained by the Lord Jesus Christ to preach the gospel message to the Gentiles.

Acts 9:15 "But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel:"

"Verity" means truth. This then is saying that Paul brought the Truth to the Gentiles. Paul teaches them that faith alone, and not works, will save a man. Possibly, the reason that Paul is saying this again, is because the Judaizers were not pleased with the message that Paul brought.

They wanted the Christians to keep the old Mosaic Law, even though they were believers in Christ. Paul was reminding Timothy, the message of salvation through faith was the Truth.

1 Timothy 2:8 "I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting."

"Men": The Greek word for "men" as opposed to women. God intends for men to be the leaders when the church meets for corporate worship. When prayer for the lost is offered during those times, the men are to lead it.

"Everywhere": Paul's reference to the official assembly of the church (1 Cor. 2:14; 1 Thess. 1:8).

"I will ... that men pray every where" (or, "I intend ... that men in every locality pray"): The Greek word andres means "manly." Men are to lead audibly in public prayer; women are to pray silently. This directive remains the same "in every locality," geography being no factor.

"Lifting up holy hands": Paul is not emphasizing a specific posture necessary for prayer, but a prerequisite for effective prayer (Psalm 66:18). Though this posture is described in the Old Testament (1 Kings 8:22; Psalms 8:2; 63:4; 134:2), so are many others.

The Greek word for "holy" means "unpolluted" or "unstained by evil." "Hands" symbolize the activities of life; thus "holy hands" represent a holy life. This basis of effective prayer is a righteous life (James 5:16).

"Without wrath and doubting": "Wrath" and righteousness are mutually exclusive (James 1:20; Luke 9:52-56). "Dissension" refers to a hesitant reluctance to be committed to prayer.

The manner in which men are to pray is that of "lifting up holy hands," that is, with a pure life which is "without wrath and doubting" (disputes).

To lift the hands up to heaven when you pray is a humbling experience. It is just recognition of where the answers to prayers come from. We humble our self to God in this process, and accept the answer He has for us. To receive answers to prayer, we must not have wrath in our life toward anyone. We must forgive to be forgiven.

We must also, believe that we receive when we pray, and we shall receive. Look with me, at what Jesus had to say about this.

Mark 11:24 "Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive [them], and ye shall have [them]."

Verses 9-15: Women in the church were living impure and self-centered lives (5:6, 11-15; 2 Tim. 3:6), and that practice carried over into the worship service, where they became distractions. Because of the centrality of worship in the life of the church, Paul calls on Timothy to confront the problem.

These verses give guidelines for the woman's place in public worship. "With shamefacedness and sobriety" (or, "with modesty and discretion"): The female has a divinely implanted desire to have a good appearance, and Paul is not discouraging this. Rather, he is speaking against extravagant and ostentatious dress.

1 Timothy 2:9 "In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with braided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array;"

"Adorn ... modest apparel": The Greek word for "adorn" means "to arrange," "to put in order," or "to make ready." A woman is to arrange herself appropriately for the worship service, which includes wearing decent clothing which reflects a properly adorned chaste heart.

"Shamefacedness and sobriety": "Shamefacedness" refers to modesty mixed with humility, which carries the underlying idea of shame. It can also refer to a rejection of anything dishonorable to God, or refer to grief over sin.

"Sobriety" basically refers to self-control over sexual passions. Godly women hate sin and control their passions so as not to lead another into sin (see notes on 1 Pet. 3:3-4).

Women are neither to dress immodestly, so as to exploit their feminine charm, hindering their brethren from worship. Nor are they to overdo their dress, provoking their Christian sisters to jealousy.

"Braided hair, or gold or pearls, or costly array": Specific practices that were causing distraction and discord in the church. Women in the first century often wove "gold or pearls" or other jewelry into their hair styles ("braided hair"), to call attention to themselves and their wealth or beauty.

The same was true for those women who wore "costly garments." By doing so they would draw attention to themselves and away from the Lord, likely causing the poorer women to be envious. Paul's point was to forbid the preoccupation of certain women with flaunting their wealth and distracting people from worshiping the Lord.

Church is a place to go and worship God. It is very important for women to dress in a manner not to draw attention to their selves. A woman's beauty should not be her outward appearance of gold, or pearls, or fancy clothes. Her beauty should be from within. Women, who are modest in apparel and in their behavior, are a blessing in the church.

1 Timothy 2:10 "But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works."

Those women who have publicly committed themselves to pursuing godliness should support that claim not only in their demeanor, wardrobe and appearance, but by being clothed with righteous behavior.

This verse could be rendered: "But let them dress themselves with that which is proper for women who profess, by their good works, reverence for God." For such women, proper dress should conform to their Christian testimony and behavior.

Godly women are a real blessing to the church.

1 Timothy 2:11 "Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection."

"The woman ... learn in silence": Women are not to be the public teachers when the church assembles, but neither are they to be shut out of the learning process. The form of the Greek verb translated "learn" is an imperative: Paul is commanding that women be taught in the church.

That was a novel concept, since neither first century Judaism nor Greek culture held women in high esteem. Some of the women in Ephesus probably overreacted to the cultural denigration they had typically suffered and took advantage of their opportunity in the church by seeking a dominant role in leadership.

"Silence ... subjection" ("to line up under"), were to characterize the role of a woman as a learner in the context of the church assembly. Paul explains his meaning (in verse 12): Women are to be silent by not teaching, and they are to demonstrate submission by not usurping the authority of the pastors or elders.

In public worship services women are to learn "in silence with all" [the fullest] "subjection" to church leadership.

1 Timothy 2:12 "But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence."

"I suffer not" The Greek word for "suffer not" is used in the New Testament to refer to allowing someone to do what he desires. Paul may have been addressing a real situation in which several women in Ephesus desired to be public preachers.

"To teach": Paul used a verbal form of this Greek word that indicates a condition or process and is better translated "to be a teacher." This was an important, official function in the church (Acts 13:1; 1 Cor. 12:28; Eph. 4:11). Thus, Paul is forbidding women from filling the office and role of the pastor or teacher.

He is not prohibiting them from teaching in other appropriate conditions and circumstances (Acts 18:26; Titus 2:3-4).

"Usurp authority": Paul forbids women from exercising any type of authority over men in the church assembly, since the elders are those who rule (5:17). They are all to be men (as is clear from the requirements in 3:2, 5).

"Be in silence" (see note on verse 11).

Verses 13-14: A woman's subordinate role did not result after the Fall as a cultural, chauvinistic corruption of God's perfect design; rather, God established her role as part of His original creation (verse 13). God made woman after man to be his suitable helper (see note on Gen. 2:18; 1 Cor. 11:8-9).

The Fall actually corroborates God's divine plan of creation (see notes on Gen. 3:1-7). By nature, Eve was not suited to assume the position of ultimate responsibility.

By leaving Adam's protection and usurping his headship, she was vulnerable and fell, thus confirming how important it was for her to stay under the protection and leadership of her husband (see notes on 5:11-12; 2 Tim. 3:6-7).

Adam then violated his leadership role, followed Eve in her sin, and plunged the human race into sinfulness, all connected with violating God's planned roles for the sexes. Ultimately, the responsibility for the Fall still rests with Adam, since he chose to disobey God apart from being deceived (Rom. 5:12-21; 1 Cor. 15:21-22).

The prohibition against women teaching in the church is qualified (by Titus 2:4), which allows them to instruct other women (and probably children also).

1 Timothy 2:13-14 "For Adam was first formed, then Eve." "And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression."

Two reasons are given for the apostolic command of verse 12.

(1) Priority in Creation denotes man's authority over woman (verse 13). God could have created the woman first or both simultaneously; but He did not, as it was always His intention for man to lead and woman to follow.

(2) In the serpent's temptation (Genesis 3). The sad thing is that Adam was not deceived. He sinned in full knowledge.

1 Timothy 2:15 "Notwithstanding she shall be saved in childbearing, if they continue in faith and charity and holiness with sobriety."

"She": That Paul does not have Eve in mind here is clear because the verb translated "shall be saved" is future, and he also uses the plural pronoun "they." He is talking about women after Eve.

"Shall be saved": The Greek word can also mean "to rescue," "to preserve safe and unharmed," "to heal," or "to deliver from." It appears several times in the New Testament without reference to spiritual salvation (Matt. 8:25; 9:21-22; 24:22; 27:40, 42, 49; 2 Tim. 4:18).

Paul is not advocating that women are eternally saved from sin through childbearing or that they maintain their salvation by having babies, both of which would be clear contradictions of the New Testament teaching of salvation by grace alone through faith alone (Rom. 3:19-20), sustained forever (Rom. 8:31-39).

Paul is teaching that even though a woman bears the stigma of being the initial instrument who led the race into sin, it is women through childbearing who may be preserved or freed from that stigma by raising a generation of godly children (5:10).

"Saved in childbearing": Because mothers have a unique bond and intimacy with their children, and spend far more time with them than do fathers, they have far greater influence in their lives and thus a unique responsibility and opportunity for rearing godly children.

While a woman may have led the human race into sin, women have the privilege of leading many out of sin to godliness. Paul is speaking in general terms; God does not want all women to be married (1 Cor. 7:25-40), let alone bear children.

"If they continue in faith and charity and holiness with sobriety": The godly appearance, demeanor, and behavior commanded of believing women in the church (verses 9-12), is motivated by the promise of deliverance from any inferior status and the joy of raising godly children.

This verse is amphibological, that is, it means two different things concurrently, both of which are correct. "She shall be saved" has a soteriological and an ecclesiastical meaning.

The former means that although Eve fell "in the transgression" (verse 14), women can be spiritually saved from sin, provided they persevere "in faith and charity" [love] "and holiness with sobriety" (chastity). The ecclesiastical meaning indicates the woman "shall be saved" from having no role or significance in the local church.

Her primary ministry is that of "childbearing" and the rearing of children who will become godly adults and leaders. "The hand that rocks the cradle rules the world."

1 Timothy Chapter 2 Questions

1. What are several different words that all mean prayer in verse 1?
2. Who did Paul instruct Timothy to pray for?
3. What makes the church strong?
4. What kind of life should we live?
5. What is the difference between serving a godly king, and one who is not godly?
6. Who does God want to be saved?
7. Why is the Lord delaying His coming?
8. What is the knowledge of the Truth?
9. Who is the mediator between God and man?
10. When was the veil of the temple torn from the top to the bottom?
11. What is "ransom" in verse 6 speaking of?
12. What does "testify" mean?
13. What 2 things did Paul call himself in verse 7?
14. What does "verity" mean?
15. Which message was Paul telling Timothy was the Truth?
16. In verse 8, Paul said to do what when you pray?
17. How are the women to dress?
18. What beauty should the woman have?
19. About what is the ratio of women to men in the churches today?
20. Why does the author believe verse 11 was given to Timothy here?
21. Why do we know that Paul really did not believe what he said to these people in verse 12?
22. Then why did Paul say this?
23. Adam was first formed , then ______.
24. Adam was not deceived, he _________ in ______ _________.
25. Eve was __________.
26. What does Adam symbolize here?
27. What does Eve symbolize?
28. Who is the Savior of the world?
29. How do we know that verse 15 is not to be taken literally?

1 Timothy Chapter 3

Verses 1-13: Paul's purpose in writing this letter was to instruct Timothy regarding the church (verses 14-15). Of primary importance to any church is that its leaders be qualified to teach and set the example for the rest. These verses delineate those qualifications for pastors and deacons (see also notes on Titus 1:5-9).

1 Timothy 3:1 "This [is] a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work."

"This is a true saying" (see note on 1:15).

"Desire ... desireth": Two different Greek words are used. The first means "to reach out after." It describes external action, not internal motive. The second means "a strong passion," and refers to an inward desire. Taken together, these two words aptly describe the type of man who belongs in the ministry, one who outwardly pursues it because he is driven by a strong internal desire.

"Bishop": The word identifies the men who are responsible to lead the church (5:17; 1 Thess. 5:12; Heb. 13:7). In the New Testament, the words "bishop," "elder," "overseer", and "pastor" are used interchangeably to describe the same men (Acts 20:17, 28; Titus 1:5-9; 1 Pet. 5:1-2).

Bishops (pastors, overseer, elders), are responsible to lead (5:17), preach and teach (5:17), help the spiritually weak (1 Thess. 5:12-14), care for the church (1 Pet. 5:1-2), and ordain other leaders (4:14).

We could render the verse as follows: "This is a reliable statement: if anyone strives for the position of overseer, he desires a noble task" (see the note on Philippians 1:1 for "bishops" and "overseers)."

The pastor, who shepherds today's church, also fulfills the New Testament role of elder and bishop (overseer), and is responsible to God for the spiritual welfare of the church (Acts 20:28). When Christ returns, He will judge and reward these pastors (elders), according to their faithfulness in leading the church to accomplish God's will (1 Peter 5:4).

There are at least seven different titles for the New Testament pastor. The term elder is used over 20 times, emphasizing the pastor's wisdom and maturity. The title bishop emphasizes the administrative function of the office. The word pastor emphasizes the responsibility of caring for the church, as a shepherd cares for the sheep.

The word preacher emphasizes the ministry of publicly proclaiming God's Word. The title teacher emphasizes that the pastor should be "apt to teach." The pastor is also called a servant, reminding him that he is to minister to others; and he is a steward, managing the property of others (the church of Christ).

Both Timothy and Titus were pastors of churches started by Paul, who wrote Pastoral Epistles to them.

Christians should be supportive of their pastors, as they attempt to fulfill their biblical ministry (Jer. 2:8; 1 Tim. 3:1-7).

1 Timothy 3:2 "A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behavior, given to hospitality, apt to teach;"

"Must" The use of this Greek particle stresses emphatically that living a blameless life is necessary for church leaders.

"Blameless": Literally "not able to be held" in a criminal sense; there is no valid accusation of wrongdoing that can be made against him. No overt, flagrant sin can mar the life of one who must be an example for this people to follow (verse 10; 4:16; 5:7; Psalm 101:6; Philippians 3:17; 2 Thess. 3:9; Heb. 13:7; 1 Pet. 5:3).

This is the overarching requirement for elders. The rest of the qualifications elaborate on what it means to be blameless. Titus (1:6-7), uses another Greek word to mean the same thing.

"The husband of one wife": Literally in Greek a "one woman man." This says nothing about marriage or divorce (for comments on that see verse 4). The issue is not the elder's marital status, but his moral and sexual purity. This qualification heads the list, because it is in this area that leaders are most prone to fail.

Various interpretations of this qualification have been offered. Some see it as a prohibition against polygamy. An unnecessary injunction since polygamy was not common in Roman society and clearly forbidden by Scripture (Gen. 2:24), the teaching of Jesus (Matt. 19:5-6; Mark 10:6-9), and Paul (Eph. 5:31).

A polygamist could not even have been a church member, let alone a church leader. Others see this requirement as barring those who remarried after the death of their wives. But, as already noted, the issue is sexual purity, not marital status. Further, the Bible encourages remarriage after widowhood (5:14; 1 Cor. 7:39).

Some believe that Paul here excludes divorced men from church leadership. That again ignores the fact that this qualification does not deal with marital status. Nor does the Bible prohibit all remarriage after divorce (see notes on Matt. 5:31-32; 19:9; 1 Cor. 7:15).

Finally, some think that this requirement excludes single men from church leadership. But if that were Paul's intent, he would have disqualified himself (1 Cor. 7:8). A "one-woman man" is one totally devoted to his wife, maintaining singular devotion, affection and sexual purity in both thought and deed. To violate this is to forfeit blamelessness and no longer be "above reproach" (Titus 1:6-7; Proverbs 6:32-33).

"Sober": The Greek word means "wineless," but is here used metaphorically to mean "alert," "watchful", "vigilant" or "clear-headed." Elders must be able to think clearly.

"Vigilant": A "vigilant" man is disciplined, knows how to properly order his priorities, and is serious about spiritual matters.

"Good behavior": The Greek word means "orderly." Elders must not lead chaotic lives; if they cannot order their own lives, how can they bring order to the church?

"Hospitality": From a compound Greek word meaning "love of strangers" (see notes on Rom. 12:13; Heb. 13:2; 1 Pet. 4:9). As with all spiritual virtues, elders must set the example; their lives and homes are to be open so all can see their spiritual character.

"Apt to teach": Used only here and (in 2 Tim. 2:24). The only qualification relating to an elder's giftedness and spiritual ability; and the only one that distinguishes elders from deacons. The preaching and teaching of God's Word is the overseer/pastor/elder's primary duty (4:6, 11, 13; 5:17; 2 Tim. 2:15, 24; Titus 2:1).

We see that the leader of the church must be someone who has a very high moral character. "Vigilant" means sober. The reason sober is mentioned twice is, possibly, because it means to be sober in spirit and in flesh.

Given to hospitality is a description of what every Christian should be. You may read of this (in Romans chapter 12 beginning with verse 5). To teach the Word of God is a high calling. The great powers in this world are the written and the spoken Word of God.

1 Timothy 3:3 "Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous;"

"Not given to wine": More than a mere prohibition against drunkenness (see note on Eph. 5:18). An elder must not have a reputation as a drinker; his judgment must never be clouded by alcohol (Prov. 31:4-5; 1 Cor. 6:12), his lifestyle must be radically different from the world and lead others to holiness, not sin (Rom. 14:21; see note on 5:23).

"No striker" means not physically violent. Literally not a giver of blows. Elders must react to difficult situations calmly and gently (2 Tim. 2:24-25).

Not greedy" means not fond of dishonest gain. Literally, "not a lover of money": His main priority is not the acquisition of money. Materialism ill befits one called above all to care for the spiritual welfare of souls.

"Patient" means not quarrelsome, peaceable; that is, does not argue over minor matters or always seeks to have his way. But defers to the wishes of others when no cardinal doctrine or policy is sacrificed.

"Patient": "Peaceful," "reluctant to fight"; one who does not promote disunity or disharmony.

"Not a brawler": Considerate, genial, gracious, quick to pardon failure, and one who does not hold a grudge.

"Not covetous," These are more things showing that the character of the leader of the church must be an example to the members. Strong drink causes the person drinking to not be able to make sound judgments. Some of the things here mentioned come from losing control of your own will.

Elders must be motivated by love for God and His people, not money (Titus 1:7; 1 Pet. 5:2). A leader who is in the ministry for money reveals a heart set on the world, not the things of God (Matt. 6:24; 1 John 2:15). Covetousness characterizes false teachers (1Titus 1:11; 2 Pet. 2:1-3, 14; Jude 11), but not Paul's ministry (Acts 20:33; 1 Cor. 9:1-16; 2 Cor. 11:9; 1 Thess. 2:5).

We should be careful to note (not greedy for filthy lucre). Greed for money has been the downfall of many. To covet is specifically spoken against in the 10 commandments. When you want anything that belongs to someone else, you are coveting.

Fighting should not be part of the minister's vocabulary. These things go against a tender kind, patient spirit that the minister needs.

1 Timothy 3:4 "One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity;"

"One that ruleth well his own house": The elder's home life, like his personal life, must be exemplary. He must be one who "manages" (presides over, has authority over), "his own household" (everything connected with his home, not merely his wife and children), "well" (intrinsically good; excellently).

Issues of divorce should be related to this matter A divorced man gives no evidence of a well-managed home, but rather that divorce shows weakness in his spiritual leadership. If there has been a biblically permitted divorce, it must have been so far in the past as to have been overcome by a long pattern of solid family leadership and the rearing of godly children (verse 4, Titus 1:6).

"In subjection": A military term referring to soldiers ranked under one in authority. An elder's children must be believers (see note on "faithful" in Titus 1:6), well-behaved, and respectful.

"Ruleth well his own house" means that he manages his family rightly. "Having his children in subjection" means that he brings about "with all gravity" (in a dignified manner), obedience in his children.

The leadership that the minister would need to lead the church members should be evident in the home, as well. Children obey your parents. Parents, make your children obey you.

1 Timothy 3:5 "(For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?)"

"Take care of the church of God": An elder must first prove in the intimacy and exposure of his own home his ability to lead others to salvation and sanctification. There he proves God has gifted him uniquely to spiritually set the example of virtue, to serve others, resolve conflicts, build unity and maintain love.

If he cannot do those essential things there, why would anyone assume he would be able to do them in the church?

Paul's reasoning is from the lesser to the greater: a man poorly managing his own family is incapable of giving proper leadership to the church family.

This just means that someone who cannot take care of his own personal affairs should not be the leader of the church, because he has proven that he is not leadership material.

1 Timothy 3:6 "Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil."

Not a novice ... lifted up with pride": Putting a new convert into a leadership role would tempt him to pride. Elders, therefore, are to be drawn from the spiritually mature men of the congregation (see notes on 5:22).

"Fall into the condemnation of the devil": Satan's condemnation was due to pride over his position. It resulted in his fall from honor and authority (Isa. 14:12-14; Ezek. 28:11-19; Prov. 16:18). The same kind of fall and judgment could easily happen to a new and weak believer put in a position of spiritual leadership.

"Not a novice:" He is not a new convert or young Christian. We may render the last part of the verse: "lest, being conceited, he fall into judgment incurred by the Devil." As Satan fell through pride, similarly a neophyte could be ruined by pride after being promoted to leadership too swiftly.

This would be someone who had not been grounded in the Word of God. This would be someone who wanted this job for the power to rule over others.

A novice means newly planted. A tree that has been recently planted does not have deep solid roots. The roots that are necessary to lead a church would be grounded solidly in the Word of God. Winds of false doctrine would not be able to uproot him, because he would be solidly planted (over much time), in the teachings of the Word of God.

Lucifer fell to the temptation of pride. This is possibly, what is meant here.

1 Timothy 3:7 "Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil."

"A good report": A leader in the church must have an unimpeachable reputation in the unbelieving community, even though people there may disagree with his moral and theological stands. How can he make a spiritual impact on those who do not respect him? (Matthew 5:48; Phil. 2:15).

The overseer must not be the object of justified criticism (Luke 6:26), by non-Christians ("them that are without"). Otherwise, he is likely to become a target for "reproach" or "disgrace", "and the snare" sprung by "the devil."

"The devil goes around like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour". All eyes will be on the leader of the church. The leader of the church must live without even giving the appearance of evil. Any misconduct upon the part of the leader, opens the gate for the devil to deceive the members.

Paul had said before, to follow him as he followed Jesus. This should be the pattern of all who minister. They should live a life free from sin.

Verses 8-13: The word deacon derives from a Greek word for servant; hence, the deacons are a serving office in the church. In order to free the apostles for the more important duties of prayer and ministry of the word, seven men were appointed to care for the church. These are generally thought to have been deacons (Acts 6:1-4).

While there is no "job description" for a servant, the nature of a deacon's qualifications gives insight into his duties (Acts 6:1-8; 1 Tim. 3:8-13).

The first deacons performed routine labors in the church, and were responsible for promoting harmony among various groups within the assembly. Deacons may also have served in an advisory capacity, and they engaged in spiritual ministries, including preaching and church planting.

In one sense, every Christian should act like a deacon in encouraging church harmony and helping others serve Christ more effectively (Phil. 1:1; 1 Tim. 3:8-13; Eph. 4:11).

1 Timothy 3:8 "Likewise [must] the deacons [be] grave, not double-tongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre;"

"Deacons": from a word group meaning "to serve". Originally referring to menial tasks such as waiting on tables (see notes on Acts 6:1-4), "deacon" come to denote any service in the church.

Deacons serve under the leadership of elders, helping them exercise oversight in the practical matters of church life. Scripture defines no official or specific responsibilities for deacons; they are to do whatever the elders assign them or whatever spiritual ministry is necessary.

"Must be grave": Serious in mind and character; not silly or flippant about important matters and worthy of respect.

"Not double-tongued" means saying the same thing to one party as to the other. Their speech must not be hypocritical, but honest and consistent.

"Not given to much wine": Not preoccupied with drink (see note on verse 3).

"Not greedy of filthy lucre" means not being fond of dishonest financial profits. The same word is used (in verse 3). Deacons must not abuse their office to make money. Such a qualification was especially important in the early church, where deacons routinely handled money, distributing it to those in need.

When we think of someone who is double tongued, we think of a two-faced person. They are unstable in all of their ways. They cannot be trusted, because they say whatever is convenient to say at the time, whether it is true or not. We see from the description above that this person needs to be in full control of his thoughts at all-time (not given too much drink).

Greed certainly must not be a character trait of a deacon. One of the jobs of the deacon of the church is to see to the financial needs of the church. The minister should not be involved with raising money for the church to function on. That is the job of the deacon.

The minister should be interested in the souls of the people. His time should be spent in prayer and the study of the Word of God. He is like the shepherd who sees to the need of the flock.

1 Timothy 3:9 "Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience."

"The mystery" (see notes on Matt. 13:11; 1 Cor. 2:7; Eph. 3:4-5). Appearing frequently in Paul's writings (Rom. 11:25; 16:25; Eph. 1:9; 3:9; 6:19; Col. 2:2), the word "mystery", describes truth previously hidden, but now revealed.

Including Christ's incarnation (verse 16), Christ's indwelling of believers (Cor. 1:26-27), the unity of Jews and Gentiles in the church (Eph. 3:4-6), the gospel (Col. 4:3), lawlessness (2 Thess. 2:7), and the rapture of the church (1 Cor. 15:51-52).

"A pure conscience" (see note on 1:5).

"Holding the mystery of the faith:" As capable apologists and defenders, deacons must preserve the truth as God revealed it.

What is a mystery? Something not understood. We know that Jesus opened our understanding to the mystery of God, when He sent the Holy Spirit to instruct us into all Truth. A Christian with a clear conscience is one who is allowing Christ in them to live through them.

A pure conscience is one not worried over whether you are doing right, or wrong. You know you are doing right, because you have turned your will over to the Lord.

1 Timothy 3:10 "And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, being [found] blameless."

"First be proved": The present tense of this verb indicates an ongoing evaluation of deacons' character and service by the church.

"Found blameless" (see note on verse 2).

The verse may be translated, "and let these too, first be examined; then let them serve as deacon, if found blameless." This probably refers not to a probationary period, but to an examination of the required qualities of character. The word "too" implies that this requirement applies also to overseers (elders).

Some ministers will not let anyone serve as a deacon, until they have attended their church for several years. This is so they can get to know them, and find out how they react in time of crisis. The deacon must be of very high moral character. He must be of such a nature that he will be an upright representative of the church.

Before he is given this office there must be an examination of his character so there will not be something come up unexpected in the future. When found of high moral character, and then he should be awarded the job of deacon.

1 Timothy 3:11 "Even so [must their] wives [be] grave, not slanderers, sober, faithful in all things."

"Even so must their wives be grave": Some scriptures read instead of "wives" or "women" and understand them of deaconesses, such as were in the primitive churches. Regard must also be had for the pastor's and deacon's wives, whose business it was to visit the poor and sick sisters of the church and take care of things belonging to them. But it is better to interpret the words of the wives of the deacons, who must be as their husbands, "grave" in speech, gesture, and dress, of an honest report, a good behavior, and chaste conversation, which will reflect honor and credit to their husbands.

"Grave" (see note on verse 8).

"Not slanderers": Or Malicious gossips. "Malicious gossips are a plural form of diabolos, a title frequently given to Satan (Matt. 4:5, 8, 11; 13:39; Luke 4:3, 5-6, 13; 8:12; 1 Peter 5:8; 1 John 3:8; Rev. 2:10; 12:9, 12; 20:2, 10). The women who serve must not be slanderous and malicious in their speech.

"Sober" (see note on verse 2).

"Faithful in all things": Women servants in the church, like their male counterparts (see note on verse 2), must be absolutely trustworthy in all aspects of their lives and ministries.

We see in this, that the entire family must be godly people for the husband to be deacon. It is always important for the husband and wife to be totally agreed, before a married person answers the call to serve God. It would be impossible to serve the way it is necessary to serve, without this agreement.

There are requirements pertaining to the entire family, when one serves the Lord. Husbands and wives are one in the flesh, so it is absolutely necessary for them to agree. They must both be of very high character.

1 Timothy 3:12 "Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well."

"Husbands of one wife" (see note on verse 2).

"Ruling their children and their own houses" (see note on verse 4).

Again, we see the necessity for the home to be on solid ground before one is called to serve. To be in leadership in the church, it is important to show your leadership in the family first.

1 Timothy 3:13 "For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus."

The verse may be translated, "For they who have served well as deacons obtain for themselves a good standing and much joyful confidence in the faith which is in Christ Jesus." This "good standing" is spiritual progress acquired by faithful church service.

It is especially important for the deacon to be bold in the Lord, since he is responsible for seeing to the needs of the church. We do know that men who are chosen out for this job have a big task to do. Their faith in Christ Jesus is extremely important. They must believe in the work that is going on, to be able to feel free to work to keep it going.

Verses 14-16: These verses mark a transition point between the positive instruction of the first 3 chapters and the warnings of the last 3. They reveal the heart of the church's mission (verse 15), and message (verse 16).

In (verses 14-15): "Hoping to come unto thee shortly": The Greek grammar suggests Paul's meaning is "These things I write, although I had hoped to come to you sooner." Delayed in Macedonia, Paul sent Timothy this letter.

1 Timothy 3:14 "These things write I unto thee, hoping to come unto thee shortly:"

Paul loved Timothy, and really wanted to be with him. We think why did Paul not go, if he wanted to? The answer is that Paul followed the will of God, not what he desired to do in the flesh.

1 Timothy 3:15 "But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth."

"How thou oughtest to behave thyself": The second half of this verse expresses the theme of this epistle, setting things right in the church.

"House of God": Believers are members of God's household (Gal 6:10; Eph. 2:19; Heb. 3:6; 1 Pet. 4:17), and must act accordingly. This is not a reference to any building, but to the people who make up the true church.

"Church of the living God": The church is God's possession (Acts 20:28; Eph. 1:14; Titus 2:14; 1 Pet. 2:9). The title "the living God" has a rich Old Testament heritage (Deut. 5:26; Josh. 3:10; 1 Sam. 17:26, 36; 2 Kings 19:4, 16; Psalms 42:4; 84:2; Isa. 37:4, 17; Jer. 10:10; 23:26; Dan 6:20, 26; Hos. 1:10).

"Pillar and ground": Paul's imagery may have referred to the magnificent temple of Diana (Artemis), in Ephesus, which was supported by 127 gold-plated marble pillars. The word translated "support" appears only here in the New Testament and denotes the foundation on which a building rests. The church upholds the truth of God's revealed Word.

"The truth": The content of the Christian faith recorded in Scripture and summed up (in verse 16).

If Paul should delay ("tarry long"), in visiting Timothy, this epistle instructs him how he must "behave" himself "in the house of God." That is, how to properly order his personal conduct in the church, and how to manage church affairs as a leader.

Timothy must comply with Paul's directions because "the church' belongs to "God" and is "the pillar" [support] "and ground" [foundation] "of the truth". If church members and affairs do not conform to the standards set forth in this epistle, the bulwark of the truth (the church), will be seriously undermined.

Paul was aware that he might not be able to go and tell Timothy personally all the things he wanted him to know. The letter would bring instructions to this young minister from his teacher, Paul. We see in this letter, that the meeting place of the believers in Christ was spoken of as the church of the living God.

The Word "living" says a lot in itself. It means that Christians believe the Lord Jesus Christ is alive. We believe he rose from the grave. Paul is explaining to Timothy that he must behave in such a way as to be an example for the others on how they should live. The church is to be the pillar and the truth in this world.

1 Timothy 3:16 "And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory."

This verse contains part of an early church hymn, as its uniformity, rhythm, and parallelism indicate. Its 6 lines from a concise summary of the truth of the gospel.

"Mystery of godliness": "Mystery" is that term used by Paul to indicate truth hidden in the Old Testament age and revealed in the New Testament (see note on verse 9). "Godliness" refers to the truths of salvation and righteousness in Christ, which produce holiness in believers; namely, the manifestation of true and perfect righteousness in Jesus Christ.

"God ... manifest": This reference is clearly to Christ, who manifested the invisible God to mankind (John 1:1-4; 14:9; Col. 1:15; Heb. 1:3; 2 Pet. 1:16-18).

"In the flesh": Not sinful, fallen human nature here (Rom. 17:18, 25; 8:8; Gal. 5:16-17), but merely humanness (John 1:14; Rom. 1:3; 8:3; 9:5; 1 Pet. 3:18; 1 John 4:2-3; 2 John 7).

"Justified in the Spirit": "Justified" means "righteous", so that "spirit" may be written with lower case "S", indicating a declaration of Christ's sinless spiritual righteousness (John 8:46; 2 Cor. 5:21; Heb. 4:15; 5:9; 7:26; 1 Pet. 2:21-22; 1 John 2:1), or it could refer to His vindication by the Holy Spirit (Rom. 1:4).

"Preached unto the Gentiles" (see Matt. 24:14; 26:13; 28:19-20; Mark 13:10; Acts 1:8).

"Received up into glory" (see Acts 1:9-10; Phil. 2:8-11; Heb. 1:3). Christ's ascension and exaltation showed that the Father was pleased with Him and accepted His work fully.

Should he fail to do so, the heralding of the Christian faith will be hindered. "God was manifest in the flesh:" Jesus was revealed in human form. "Justified in the Spirit:" The Holy
Spirit vindicated Jesus in that His true nature was disclosed and His messianic claims substantiated.

"Seen of angels": They witnessed Jesus' whole earthly career. "Preached unto the Gentiles:" The gospel of Jesus has been proclaimed to the nations. "Believed on in the world:" Multitudes have accepted the gospel by trusting in Jesus. "Received up into glory:" Jesus was divinely taken back into heaven.

The mystery of godliness was revealed by Jesus Christ to His followers. The veil to the Scriptures was removed. The Spirit of God opens the understanding of the believers to the godliness, which is still a mystery to those of the world who do not accept Jesus as Savior.

God the Word took on the form of flesh and dwelt among us. His body was crucified on the cross for our sins. He preached the good news of the gospel 40 days on the earth before He went back to heaven. In the book of Acts we read about his heavenward journey.

Acts 1:9-11 "And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight."

The great promise, to me, is what the angels told the disciples as they saw Him going up.

"And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel;" "Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven."

1 Timothy Chapter 3 Questions

1. What is the correct translation of "man" in verse 1?
2. What does "bishop" mean?
3. What are the qualifications of a bishop in verse 2?
4. What does "vigilant" mean?
5. What are the great powers in this world?
6. Some of the things warned against in verse 3 are things causing the person to lose control of his _____.
7. When you want anything that belongs to someone else, you are ____________.
8. What type of spirit does the minister need?
9. Children, obey your ___________.
10. What is a "novice"?
11. What would cause him to fall into the condemnation of the devil?
12. How can a person not be moved by winds of false doctrine?
13. Lucifer fell to the temptation of __________.
14. The devil goes around like a __________ _____, seeking whom he may devour.
15. Describe the deacon from verse 8.
16. A double-tongued person is ___________ in all their ways.
17. What is the job of the deacon?
18. What should the minister spend his time doing?
19. When was, the Christians understanding opened to the mystery of God?
20. What should you do, before you appoint someone to be a deacon?
21. What characteristics should their wives have?
22. Why must a deacon be bold in the faith in the Lord Jesus Christ?
23. Why had Paul sent this letter to Timothy?

1 Timothy Chapter 4

Verses 1-5: After already noting the presence of false teachers at Ephesus (1:3-7; 18-20), and countering some of their erroneous teaching with the positive instruction of chapters 2 and 3, Paul deals directly with the false teachers themselves in this passage, focusing on their origin and content.

1 Timothy 4:1 "Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;"

"Expressly" means clearly. To "depart" means to apostatize. Apostasy is the deliberate and permanent rejection of Christianity after a previous profession of faith in it. "Doctrines of devils," that is, doctrines taught by demons.

Paul repeats to Timothy the warning he had given many years earlier to the Ephesian elders (Acts 20:29-30). The Holy Spirit through the Scriptures has repeatedly warned of the danger of apostasy (Matt. 24:4-12; Acts 20:29-30; 2 Thess. 2:3-12; Heb. 3:12; 5:11 - 6:8; 10:26-31; 2 Pet. 3:3; 1 John 2:18; Jude 18).

"In the latter times": The period from the first coming of Christ until His return (Acts 2:16-17; Heb. 1:1-2; 9:26; 1 Pet. 1:20; 1 John 2:18). Apostasy will exist throughout that period, reaching a climax shortly before Christ returns (Matt. 24:12).

"Shall depart from the faith": Those who fall prey to the false teachers will abandon the Christian faith. The Greek word for "fall away" is the source of the English word "apostatize," and refers to someone moving away from an original position.

These are professing or nominal Christians who associate with those who truly believe the gospel, but defect after believing lies and deception, thus revealing their true nature as unconverted (see notes on 1 John 2:19; Jude 24).

"Seducing spirits": Those demonic spirits, either directly or through false teachers, who have wandered away from the truth and lead others to do the same. The most defining word to describe the entire operation of Satan and his demons is "deception" (John 8:44; 1 John 4:1-6).

"Doctrines of devils": Not teaching about demons, but false teaching that originates from them. To sit under such teaching is to hear lies from the demonic realm (Eph. 6:12; James 3:15; 2 John 7:11). The influence of demons will reach its peak during the Tribulation (2 Thess. 2:9; Rev. 9:2-11; 16:14; 20:2-3, 8, 10). Satan and demons constantly work the deceptions that corrupt and pervert God's Word.

Expressly speaks of something that is beyond question, or definite. "Spirit", of course, is the Holy Spirit of God. There has been so much discussion about when the latter times come into reality. Actually, the beginning of the latter times was at the resurrection of Jesus.

When we look at "giving heed to seducing spirits" we see that the people are willingly listening to these spirits that draw people away from God's teachings. We read in a previous lesson, that before the coming of the Lord, there will be a great falling away from the church. We are also, told that in the latter days, it will be like it was in the days of Sodom and Gomorrah.

This means that the homosexual life style will be practiced. That is the reason Sodom was destroyed. The word sodomy comes from that name.

In the instance of this verse, there is a specific false doctrine that is being widely accepted. Notice with me, before we get into the details, it is a doctrine of devils. This doctrine goes directly in opposition to God's teaching.

Demons are real, incorporeal beings, probably fallen angels who rebelled against God in heaven and were cast out of His presence. Thus, much of what is true of angels is also true of demons. They however, appear to be evil in nature and loyal to Satan. Underestimating their immense power would be a grave mistake.

Christians who believe they can "wrestle" with demons without using "the whole armor of God" are seriously deluded. While apparently, some demons are currently confined (2 Pet. 2:4; Jude 6), most are not and will not be finally punished until the Millennium (Rev. 20:3).

After a brief period of freedom at the end of the Millennium (during which they inspire a final rebellion), they will be eternally confined to hell, which was originally prepared for them (Matt. 25:41; also see 2 Peter 2:4; 1 Tim. 4:1; Eph. 6:12).

1 Timothy 4:2 "Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron;"

"Speaking lies in hypocrisy" (or, "by the hypocrisy of liars"): These are the human false teachers who propagate demon doctrine (1 John 4:1).

"Seared": A medical term referring to cauterization. False teachers can teach their hypocritical lies because their consciences have been desensitized (Eph. 4:19), as if all the nerves that make them feel had been destroyed and turned into scar tissue by the burning of demonic deception.

"Conscience" (see note on 1:5).

The demons of (verse 1), further described as "having their conscience seared with a hot iron," that is, branded (scarred), in their conscience. Permanently defaced, the moral life of these hypocrites is scarred by sin as they carry around the awareness of their guilt, yet continue preaching to others.

These people must have been at some time believers and have turned away from that teaching, because they are hypocrites. They are actually lying about God's teachings. The worst thing of all, they feel no guilt for what they are teaching.

Since their conscience is not working properly, it appears they got into this false doctrine gradually. Each falsehood made them a little less conscience of their sin.

1 Timothy 4:3 "Forbidding to marry, [and commanding] to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth."

"Forbidding to marry ... abstain from meats": A sample of the false teaching at Ephesus. Typically, it contained elements of truth, since Scripture commends both singleness (1 Cor. 7:25-35), and fasting (Matt. 6:16-17; 9:14-15). The deception came in making such human works a prerequisite for salvation, a distinguishing mark of all false religion.

This ascetic teaching was probably influenced both by the Jewish sect known as the Essenes, and contemporary Greek thought (which viewed matter as evil and spirit as good). Paul addressed this asceticism (in Col. 2:21-23; see notes there). Neither celibacy nor any form of diet saves or sanctifies.

Two examples of demonic doctrines are cited here:

(1) Prohibition against marriage, and

(2) Abstaining from certain foods.

Now we get into the specifics of the doctrine of devils. God made male and female to marry, and with Him, create Him a family. You can see why it would be wrong to teach people not to marry. They would not fulfill their reason for being males and females in the flesh.

There are many people in our society today who have elevated animals up to a position where they do not belong. It is almost animal worship. God created animals for man. He intended men to eat the flesh of animals. That was their purpose for being.

We will see, as we go along, that meats here is referring to the flesh of an animal. The only restriction for eating even the animals that were classified as unclean in the Old Testament, is that you pray over the food before you eat it.

When Jesus raised the 12 year old girl to life, He said, feed her some meat. This was the flesh of an animal. There is a movement going through our land not to use the hide of an animal for coats. The first thing God did for Adam and Eve, after their fall, was to kill an animal and make clothing for them of the hide of the animal.

We should not get away from using the animal for the purpose God made him for. He has a purpose that fits in with the plans of God. God does not need our help to decide what the animal is used for. Animals are not people. People are made in the image of God.

1 Timothy 4:4 "For every creature of God [is] good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving:"

"Every creature of God is good" The false teacher's asceticism contradicted Scripture, which teaches that since God created both marriage and food (Gen. 1:28-31; 2:18-24; 9:3), they are intrinsically good (Gen. 1:31), and to be enjoyed with gratitude by believers. Obviously, food and marriage are essential for life and procreation.

(or, "Everything created by God is good"): This substantiates the remark (in verse 3), that God created foods to be eaten, not abstained from.

The word "creature", in the verse above, lets you know that this is animal flesh they are speaking of. Everything God created was followed by saying, and it is good. Remember though, whatever you eat, must be prayed over, thanking God before you eat it.

1 Timothy 4:5 "For it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer."

"Sanctified": Set apart or dedicated to God for holy use. The means for so doing are thankful prayer and an understanding that the Word of God has set aside the temporary Mosaic dietary restrictions (Mark 7:17; Acts 10:9-15; Rom. 14:1-12; Col. 2:16-17). Contrast the unbeliever whose inner corruption and evil motives corrupt every good thing (Titus 1:15).

By divine statements ("By the word of God"), declaring all foods fit for man, and by the believer's giving of thanks before means ("by ... prayer"), food "is sanctified." This means food is set apart (reserved), for consumption by Christians.

"Sanctified", in this particular sense, means made holy. It is very important for us to remember that God made the earth and everything on it, and all the animals, fishes, and fowl, before He made man. He made all of this for the use of man.

He made it not to use as we see fit, but as He planned for us to use it. It was the Word of God that made all of it. It was made good from the beginning.

1 Timothy 4:6 "If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained."

"Nourished up in" (or, "being trained in"): Continual feeding on the truths of Scripture is essential to the spiritual health of all Christians (2 Tim. 3:16-17), but especially of spiritual leaders like Timothy. Only by reading the Word, studying it, meditating on it, and mastering its contents can a pastor fulfill his mandate (2 Tim. 2:15).

Timothy had been doing so since childhood (2 Tim. 3:15), and Paul urged him to continue (verse 16; 2 Tim. 3:14). "Words of the faith" is a general reference to Scripture, God's revealed truth. "Good doctrine" indicates the theology Scripture teaches.

As Timothy teaches "the brethren" God's word, he also instructs himself. Good doctrine helps make a "good minister. Whereunto thou has attained", (or "which good doctrine you have followed"). Timothy has faithfully conformed to the truth Paul taught him.

Timothy needs to remind these people of the falsehood of teaching doctrines of devils. Any use of anything on this earth for other purposes than what God made them for in the beginning, would be as if we were saying God made a mistake. You can see the error in this.

The brethren" speaks of all believers in Christ. Notice, he is a minister of Jesus Christ. He is under direct orders of Jesus. Paul just reminds Timothy that he had been taught correctly from the beginning, now stay with that teaching.

1 Timothy 4:7 "But refuse profane and old wives' fables, and exercise thyself [rather] unto godliness."

"Refuse profane and old wives fables": In addition to being committed to God's Word (see note on verse 6), believers must avoid all false teaching. Paul denounced such error as "worldly" (the opposite of what is holy). "Fables" (muthos, from which the English word "myths" derives), fit only for "old women". A common epithet denoting something fit only for the uneducated and philosophically unsophisticated (see notes on 2 Tim. 2:14-18).

"Exercise ... godliness": "Godliness", a proper attitude and response toward God (see note on 2:2), is the prerequisite from which all effective ministry flows. "Exercise" is an athletic term denoting the rigorous, self-sacrificing training an athlete undergoes. Spiritual self-discipline is the path to godly living (1 Cor. 9:24-27).

We may read the verse, "But avoid profane and fabricated myths, and exercise yourself to be godly." These false doctrines, called "myths," are described as "profane" because they promote ungodliness. And "fabricated" because they, like modern-day soap operas, are silly and flighty in character.

Not only must Timothy avoid false teaching, he must spare himself no pain and effort to be pious. Godliness does not come automatically. To attain holiness, he must be diligent in prayer, Bible study, obedience, fellowshipping with other believers, and Christian service.

Some of the writers spoke of the Talmud as fables. I do not think that to be what Paul is saying here, however. He is saying, don't listen to people but learn from the Word of God. The best exercise a person can get is in the Word of God.

Perhaps, there was a great deal of small talk in the church. It is best to stick to the study of God's Word in the church, and not have profane parties there.

1 Timothy 4:8 "For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come."

"Profiteth little": Bodily exercise is limited both in extent and duration; it affects only the physical body during this earthly life.

"Profitable unto all things" In time and eternity.

The verse may be paraphrased, "For physical exercise is of limited value, but godliness, the result of spiritual exercise, has unlimited value, since it brings blessings for both now and eternity."

The most a person can do with bodily exercise is to improve the flesh of man a little. The study of God's Word builds up the spirit of man. The flesh will pass away, but the spirit is eternal. The best preparation that we can make, is for the everlasting life.

1 Timothy 4:9 "This [is] a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptation."

"Faithful saying" (see note on 1:15).

This is just saying to Timothy, I am saying this in all good faith. It will be beneficial to you.

1 Timothy 4:10 "For therefore we both labor and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, specially of those that believe."

"Trust": Believers are saved in trust and live and serve in light of that trust of eternal life (Titus 1:2; 3:7; see note on Rom. 5:2). Working to the point of exhaustion and suffering rejection and persecution are acceptable because believers understand they are doing God's work, which is the work of salvation. That makes it worth all the sacrifices (Phil. 1:12-18, 27-30; 2:17; Col. 1:24-25; 2 Tim. 1:6-12; 2:3-4, 9-10; 4:5-8).

"The Savior of all men, specially of those that believe": Paul is obviously not teaching universalism, that all people will be saved in the spiritual and eternal sense, since the rest of Scripture clearly teaches that God will not save everyone. Most will reject Him and spend eternity in hell (Matt. 25:41, 46; Rev. 20:11-15).

Yet, the Greek word translated "especially" must mean that all people enjoy God's salvation in some way like those who believe enjoy His salvation. The simple explanation is that
God is the Savior of all people, only in a temporal sense, while of believers in an eternal sense.

Paul's point is that while God graciously delivers believers from sin's condemnation and penalty because He was their substitute (2 Cor. 5:21), all people experience some earthly benefits from the goodness of God. Those benefits are:

(1) Common grace, a term that describes God's goodness shown to all mankind universally (Psalm 145:9), in restraining sin (Rom. 2:15), and judgment (Rom. 2:3-6). Maintaining order in society through government (Rom. 13:1-5), enabling man to appreciate beauty and goodness (Psalm 50:2), and showering him with temporal blessings (Matt. 5:45; Acts 14:15-17; 17:25);

(2) Compassion, the broken-hearted love of pity God shows to underserving, unregenerate sinners (Exodus 34:6-7; Psalm 86:5; Dan. 9:9; Matt. 23:37; Luke 19:41-44; Isa. 16:11-13; Jer. 48:35-37);

(3) Admonition to repent, God constantly warns sinners of their fate, demonstrating the heart of a compassionate Creator who has no pleasure in the death of the wicked (Ezek. 18:30-32; 33:11);

(4) The gospel invitation, salvation in Christ is indiscriminately offered to all (Matt. 11:28-29; 22:2-14; John 6:35-40; Rev. 22:17; John 5:39-40).

God is, by all nature, a saving God. That is, He finds no pleasure in the death of sinners. His saving character is revealed even in how He deals with those who will never believe, but only in those 4 temporal ways (see notes on 2:6).

"For therefore we both labor and suffer reproach" (or, "For we both toil and labor to attain this goal"). That is, Paul and associates exercise themselves spiritually to be godly, so they may realize the promise of abundant life and blessings (verse 8). "God ... is the Savior of all men" in that He has provided salvation for all. But only "those that believe" are actually saved.

This Scripture is the one many use to say that all mankind will be saved. That is really not what it is saying. Jesus is the Savior of all mankind, if they accept the salvation He provided for them. Jesus suffered for every individual who ever lived. In that sense, He is the Savior of us all. How can we receive something we do not believe in?

The key that turns the lock to save each of us, is our acceptance of that free gift of salvation.

John 3:16 "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."

Mark 16:16 "He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned."

Paul believed so strongly, he would spend the rest of his life laboring for the gospel. Paul was so thoroughly convinced when he saw the Light of Jesus, that no scorn of man could turn him away. He was willing to suffer anything to be able to bring the gospel message to the lost. Paul admits that he believes Jesus rose from the grave, when he calls Him "Living God".

1 Timothy 4:11 "These things command and teach."

"Command and teach": Chronologically, teaching precedes commanding, but "command" is put first to remind timid Timothy, who is eager to teach but hesitant to exercise authority, that this is also one of his responsibilities as a leader.

Command is a strong word that shows it is absolutely necessary to believe, to be saved. You could say, require this of all who accept Jesus as Savior. Timothy will be acting as the pastor of the church here. One of the duties of the pastor of the church is to teach the people how to apply the Word of God to their daily lives. Christianity is a walk, not a one-time experience.

1 Timothy 4:12 "Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity."

"Let no man despise thy youth": Greek culture placed great value on age and experience. Since Timothy was in his thirties, still young by the standards of that culture, he would have to earn respect by being a godly example. Because he had been with Paul since a young teenage, Timothy had much experience to mature him, so that looking down on him because he was under 40 was inexcusable.

"Be thou an example": Paul lists 5 areas (the better manuscripts omit "in spirit"), in which Timothy was to be an example to the church;

"Speech (Matt. 12:34-37; Eph. 4:25, 29, 31); "Conduct" (righteous living; Titus 2:10; 1 Pet. 1:15; 2:12: 3:16); "Love" (self-sacrificial service for others; John 15:13); "Faith" (not belief, but faithfulness or commitment; 1 Cor. 4:2); "Purity" (especially sexual purity; 3:2). Timothy's exemplary life in those areas would offset the disadvantage of his youth.

"Youth": This Greek word was applied to men 40 years of age and younger.

To help prevent some from despising his "youth," Timothy is to "be ... an example of" [for] "the believers" in the areas of "word" (conversation). "Conversation" (conduct); "charity" (love for those treating him well and ill), "spirit" (proper attitude); "faith" (trusting God in good and bad times), and "in purity" (sexual purity and integrity of life).

Paul is saying to Timothy, do not wander from the teachings, because of your youth and give the Christians any reason to question your teachings. He is saying to Timothy, live above reproach. Do everything as a seasoned man of God. The pastor of any church must live an example before his people. Sin should not be even in his thoughts whether he is young or old.

Notice, that Paul cautions him first about the Word of God. The Word must not be compromised. He is also telling Timothy to be a doer of the Word of God, not just a speaker of the Word. Let Christ in you be so great that they will not be able to find any flaw in your way of life. Be strong in the faith and in the power of the Spirit.

1 Timothy 4:13 "Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine."

"Till I come" (see note on 3:14).

"Give attendance to ... doctrine": These things were to be Timothy's constant practice; his way of life. "Reading" refers to the custom of public reading of Scripture in the church's worship service, followed by the exposition of the passage that had been read (Neh. 8:1-8; Luke 4:16-27).

"Exhortation" challenges those who hear the Word to apply it in their daily lives. It may involve rebuke, warning, encouragement, or comfort. "Teaching" refers to systematic instruction from the word of God (3:2; Titus 1:9).

In his Ephesian ministry Timothy is to read and teach the Scriptures, and exhort God's people to obey the truths learned.

Notice, that even Timothy needs to study the Word of God. Paul is saying; spend much time in reading your Bible. Preach (exhort), every time you have the opportunity, and stay with the doctrine we have established.

1 Timothy 4:14 "Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery."

"The gift": That grace given to Timothy and to all believers at salvation which consisted of a God-designed, Spirit-empowered spiritual ability for the use of ministry (see notes on Rom. 12:4-8; 1 Cor. 12:4-12; 1 Peter 4:1-11). Timothy's gift (2 Tim. 1:6), was leadership with special emphasis on preaching (2 Tim. 4:2), and teaching (verses 6, 11, 13; 6:2).

"By prophecy": Timothy's gift was identified by a revelation from God (see note on 1:18), and apostolic confirmation (2 Tim. 1:6). Probably when he joined Paul on the apostle's second missionary journey (Acts 16:1-3).

"Neglect not the gift that is in thee" (or, "Stop neglecting the spiritual gift which is in you"): Evidently, he had not been fulfilling all the responsibilities (of verse 13). This "gift ... was given" Timothy "by prophecy;" that is, through utterance of some New Testament prophet(s), the church was informed of the divine enablement granted him.

"Laying on of the hands of the presbytery" (see note on 5:22). This public affirmation of Timothy's call to the ministry likely took place at the same time as the prophecy (2 Tim. 1:6). His call to the ministry was thus confirmed subjectively (by means of his spiritual gift), objectively (through the prophecy made about him), and collectively (by the affirmation of apostles and the church, represented by the elders).

This was accompanied by "the laying on of the hands" of the church elders in recognition of the fact that God had called Timothy to the ministry and had gifted him for it.

This is speaking of the special gift of the Holy Spirit that was given Timothy, when he was baptized in the Spirit of God. Paul is reminding Timothy that this gift was given him to use in the ministry.

1 Corinthians 12:28 "And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues."

This does not specifically say which Timothy received, but we know the purpose of these gifts of the Spirit is to help in the church. The laying on of the hands of the presbytery was to anoint Timothy for the ministry. We do not all have the same gift, but we must use the gift that God has given us to minister with.

The main reason Timothy is not to neglect the gift the Lord gave him, is because that is his individual power to minister. Each ministry is different. He is to minister in the area where the Lord called him.

1 Timothy 4:15 "Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all."

"Profiting": The word was used in military terms of an advancing force and in general terms of advancement in learning, understanding, or knowledge. Paul exhorted Timothy to let his progress toward Christlikeness be evident to all.

"Meditate upon these things" could be rendered, "Take pains with these things." "Give thyself wholly to them" could be rendered, "Be completely absorbed in them". Timothy can prevent the neglect of his gift (verse 14), by totally giving himself to carry out the tasks at hand. He is to do this for the purpose "that thy profiting" [spiritual progress], "may appear to all."

Paul is expressing to Timothy the necessity to give all of his attention to the ministry. Timothy will be a blessing to the people he ministers to, if he ministers in the area the Lord has anointed him to minister in. Those called of God are called to serve others, not themselves. Paul wants all to realize that Timothy is called of God, and will do a good job in spite of his youth.

1 Timothy 4:16 "Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee."

"Unto thyself, and unto the doctrine": The priorities of a godly leader are summed up in his personal holiness and public teaching. All of Paul's exhortations (in verses 6-16), fit into one or the other of those two categories.

"Thou shalt both save thyself ... them that hear": Perseverance in believing the truth always accompanies genuine conversion (see note on Matt. 24:13; John 8:31; Rom. 2:7; Phil. 2:12-13; Col. 1:23).

"That hear thee": By careful attention to his own godly life and faithful preaching of the Word. Timothy would continue to be the human instrument God used to bring the gospel and to save some who heard him. Tough salvation is God's work; it is His pleasure to do it through human instruments.

Timothy is to keep constant watch ("take heed"), over both his own spiritual life ("thyself"), and what he teaches others ("doctrine"). He must "continue in" these two activities, "for in doing" so, he will "both save" himself from the coming apostasy (verse 1), "and them that hear" him.

Timothy, or for that fact, any minister, must know the Truth himself, before he can lead others to the Truth. If the blind lead the blind, they both fall into the ditch. Timothy, must not only teach the correct doctrine, but live it, as well. The shepherd, who leads the flock, must teach Truth. If he does not, the entire flock will be lost.

The salvation of his own soul has to do with what he believes as an individual, but the salvation of the congregation depends upon what each individual has been taught and accepted as Truth.

Romans 10:14 "How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?"

1 Timothy Chapter 4 Questions

1. What does the word "expressly" mean?
2. The Spirit is what?
3. When did the latter times begin?
4. What is meant by "giving heed to seducing spirits"?
5. When will the great falling away of the church occur?
6. What will it be like in the latter days?
7. The doctrine Paul was warning of was a doctrine of _________.
8. What makes the author believe they were Christians?
9. What are they lying about?
10. How had they gotten into this false doctrine?
11. In verse 3, what specific false things were they teaching?
12. Why did God make males and females in the flesh?
13. What has our society done regarding animals that God would not approve of?
14. What is the only restriction for eating meat?
15. What did Jesus say to do for the 12 year old girl he raised?
16. Why do we know it is alright to wear coats made from the skin or hide of an animal?
17. Every creature of God is _______.
18. What word leaves no doubt that this is speaking of the flesh of an animal?
19. The meat is sanctified by what?
20. What does "sanctified" in verse 5 mean?
21. If Timothy does what, he will be a good minister of Jesus Christ.
22. Who are the "brethren" spoken of here?
23. Refuse profane and old wives' _________.
24. What is the best exercise we can get?
25. What is the most a person can do with bodily exercise?
26. Who is the Living God?
27. Christianity is a ________, not a ____ time experience.
28. What did Paul caution Timothy against in verse 12?
29. What 3 things did Paul tell Timothy to give attendance to?
30. What was Timothy cautioned not to neglect?
31. What is the purpose of the gifts of the Spirit?
32. Timothy must give all of his attention to the ____________.

1 Timothy Chapter 5

1 Timothy 5:1 "Rebuke not an elder, but intreat [him] as a father; [and] the younger men as brethren;"

"Rebuke": Some translations add "sharply to the word "rebuke," which fills out the intensity of the Greek term. An older sinning believer is to be shown respect by not being addressed with harsh words (2 Tim. 2:24-25).

"An elder": In this context, the Greek is indicating older men generally, not the office of elder. The younger Timothy was to confront sinning older men with deference and honor, which is clearly inferred from Old Testament principles (Lev. 19:32; Job 32:4, 6; Prov. 4:1-4; 16:31; 20:29).

"Intreat": This Greek word, which is related to a title for the Holy Spirit (paracletos; John 14:16, 26; 15:26; 16:7), refers to coming alongside someone to help. It may best be translated strengthen. We are to strengthen our fellow believers (Gal. 6:1-2), in the same way the Scripture (Rom. 15:4), and the Holy Spirit do.

"Elder" here denotes, not a man holding the church office of overseer or elder, but a man older than Timothy. He is to deal with older men as though each were his father.

Paul spoke of Timothy's youth in the last chapter. This is saying since Timothy is young, he must have respect for those older than himself. It is saying also, not to come against this older person in a sharp manner. We are taught throughout the Bible, to honor our father and mother.

In saying to treat him like a father, he is saying, honor his old age. Timothy is to look on others as his equal and not look down on them. All believers are brothers in Christ.

1 Timothy 5:2 "The elder women as mothers; the younger as sisters, with all purity."

This is just explaining the role Timothy is to take with all of the congregation. He should not be looking on the young women to lust after them, but should think of them as his sisters. The older women are to be held in respect, as if they were his mother.

Verses 3-16: This section supports the mandate of Scripture that women who have lost the support of their husbands are to be cared for (Exodus 22:22-24; Deut. 27:19; Isa. 1:17). God's continual compassion for widows only reinforces this command (Psalms 68:5; 146:9; Mark 12:41-44; Luke 7:11-17).

1 Timothy 5:3 "Honor widows that are widows indeed."

"Honor" "To show respect or care," "to support," or "to treat graciously." Although it includes meeting all kinds of needs, Paul had in mind here not only this broad definition, but primarily financial support (Exodus 20:12; Matt. 15:1-6; 27:9). Not all widows are truly alone and without resources. Financial support from the church is mandatory only for widows who have no means to provide for their daily needs.

"Honor" in this context signifies the expressing of esteem by material and financial support. "That are widows indeed" (or, "who are real widows"): The following verses set forth three prerequisites for a widow to qualify for church aid:

(1) She must be desolate, having no family to care for her;

(2) She must possess certain spiritual qualities;

(3) She must be a certain age.

God has always provided for the widows and orphans. If we are to be like Christ, then we must help them too. Paul is saying, not all women who have lost their husbands are truly widows. Honor those who are really widows.

1 Timothy 5:4 "But if any widow have children or nephews, let them learn first to shew piety at home, and to requite their parents: for that is good and acceptable before God."

"If any widow have children or nephews": Families, not the church, have the first responsibility for their own widows. Children and grandchildren are indebted to those who brought them into the world, reared them, and loved them. Fulfilling this responsibility is a mark of godly obedience (Exodus 2:12).

A widow's "children" or "nephews" (grandchildren), are to show respect ("show piety at home"), by caring for her ("requite their parents"). This prevents the church from being unnecessarily burdened financially. The responsibility for supporting a widow lies first with her family, second with the church.

This is far from what is going on in our society today. Children are neglecting their parents. We see so many young people who do not want the bother, or the expense, of caring for their elderly parents. Children should honor their parents and show love and charity toward them.

Parents should not be the responsibility of the outside world or the church, to care for. This should be thought of as an honor to do for your parent. The church should help, when they are without children to help.

1 Timothy 5:5 "Now she that is a widow indeed, and desolate, trusteth in God, and continueth in supplications and prayers night and day."

"Desolate" (See note on verse 3). The form of the Greek word denotes a permanent condition of being forsaken and left without resources. She is "really" a widow, since there is no family to support her.

"Trusteth in God": A continual state or settled attitude of hope in God (1 Kings 17:8-16; Jer. 49:11). Since she has no one else, she pleads with God as her only hope.

A widow deserving of church aid is "desolate" (has no family to care for her); "trusteth in God" (lives the Christian life faithfully); "continueth in supplications" (constantly prays for her support and for the church's ministry).

This is speaking of a widow, such as Anna, who was in the temple in Jerusalem when Jesus was carried there for dedication. True widows are not interested in dating or getting married again. They will probably remain single.

In this case, they are a great help to the church, because they pray for the church. I have said before; the church is just as strong as the prayers that go up for it. These widows are ministers in the church and the church should support them.

1 Timothy 5:6 "But she that liveth in pleasure is dead while she liveth."

"Dead while she liveth": A widow who lives a worldly, immoral, ungodly life may be alive physically, but her lifestyle proves she is unregenerate and spiritually dead (Eph. 2:1).

This may be paraphrased, "But the widow who indulges in luxurious living, though physically alive, is spiritually dead."

1 Timothy 5:7 "And these things give in charge, that they may be blameless."

"Above reproach" (see notes on 3:2; Phil. 2:15). "Above reproach" means "blameless," so that no one can fault their conduct.

Timothy is to ensure that the church complies with the directives of (verses 3-6), so "they" [the widow and her relatives], "may be blameless" in the matter of widow care.

As we have said so many times before, this was the beginning of the church, and they had to deal with each problem that arose without too much guideline. This is something Paul wants Timothy to teach in the church as a doctrine.

1 Timothy 5:8 "But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel."

"If": Better translated, "since." Paul negatively restated the positive principle of (verse 4), using the Greek construction that implies the condition is true, suggesting that there were numerous violations of that principle at Ephesus.

Any believer who fails to obey this command is guilty of

(1) Denying the principle of compassionate Christian love (John 13:35; Rom. 5:5; 1 Thess. 4:9); and

(2) Being "worse than an unbeliever." Most pagans naturally fulfill this duty, so believers who have God's command and power to carry it out and do not, behave worse than pagans (1 Cor. 5:12).

"Any" family member or relative who fails to care "for his own" widow, especially "for those of his own house" (in his immediate family), disavows Christianity ("hath denied the faith"). He is morally "worse than an infidel" (unbeliever), for even unbelievers generally assume responsibility for aged parents.

By not caring for your mother or father who was elderly and could not help themselves, you would actually be going against the teachings of the Bible. This is a strong statement about denying the faith, but we cannot take part of God's teachings and leave the rest behind.

God teaches to honor our parents. This would include caring for their needs that they could not provide for themselves. An infidel is someone who does not believe. If we do not heed God's Word, we really do not believe.

Verses 9-10: A widow qualifies for church aid is she;

(1) Is at least 60 years in age,

(2) Was faithful to her husband, and

(3) Has done good works. "The wife of one man" does not forbid remarriage.

For Paul would hardly exclude here a widow from receiving church assistance who; on his advice (in verse 11), had remarried and later become a widow again. This phrase denotes marital fidelity.

1 Timothy 5:9 "Let not a widow be taken into the number under threescore years old, having been the wife of one man,"

"Let not a widow be taken": This was not a list of those widows eligible for specially recognized church support (all widows in the church who had no other means of support were; verse 3), but rather those eligible for specially recognized church ministry (Titus 2:3-5).

"Under threescore years old": In New Testament culture, 60 was considered retirement age. By that age, older women would have competed their child rearing and would have the time, maturity and character to devote their lives in service to God and the church. They also would not be likely to remarry and become preoccupied with that commitment.

"The wife of one man": Literally "one-man woman" (3:2, 12). It does not exclude women who have been married more than once (verse 14; 1 Cor. 7:39), but it refers to a woman totally devoted and faithful to her husband. A wife who had displayed purity of thought and action in her marriage.

It appears that Paul is saying, the widow must be 60 years old, before she would classify as a widow. I believe he is saying, they would probably still be interested in marrying again before that age. It does not mean that a woman must be over 60 years old before she can join the church. It means for the church to take over her support as a widow, she must be over 60.

The wife of one man means that she has not been jumping from one marriage to the other. She has been a faithful wife.

1 Timothy 5:10 "Well reported of for good works; if she have brought up children, if she have lodged strangers, if she have washed the saints' feet, if she have relieved the afflicted, if she have diligently followed every good work."

"Have brought up children": This views the godly widow as a Christian mother who has nourished or reared children that have followed the Lord (see note on 2:15).

"Washed the saints' feet": The menial duty of slaves. It is used literally and metaphorically of widows who have humble servants' hearts (see notes on John 13:5-17).

"Every good work" (Dorcas in Acts 9:36-39).

Let your light so shine before men that they can see your good works and glorify the Father. We see in all of Paul's teachings, and in fact, throughout the Bible, that if a person is a Christian, it will be obvious to the world by the good works they do. These restrictions, again, are for being taken care of as a widow by the church.

All the things mentioned above make up the personality of a humble servant of God. You may tell me that you are a Christian, but if I do not see some of these things in your life, I would doubt that you are truly a Christian.

1 Timothy 5:11 "But the younger widows refuse: for when they have begun to wax wanton against Christ, they will marry;"

"Wax wanton": This is an expression that includes all that is involved in the marriage relationship, including sexual passion.

Paul saw the danger that younger widows might want to escape from their vows to remain single (see note on verse 12), and be devoted only to God's service (Num. 30:9). He knew the negative impact such feelings could have on your widows' personal lives and ministry within the church.

Such women were also marked out by false teachers as easy prey (2 Tim. 3:6-7), causing them to leave the truth (verse 15).

The church is to "refuse" to financially support "younger widows," that is, those below 60 years of age. "Wax wanton" means that some younger widows rebel "against Christ", in that "they will marry" outside of His will. That is, marry people of whom He disapproves.

This is speaking of the younger woman desiring to be married again. There is nothing wrong in wanting to be married again. There is something wrong with putting your hand to the plough and turning back. This is speaking of someone, who in their grief had dedicated themselves to the work of God in the church.

When their grief for their loved one is over, they start yearning to be married again. It is not wrong to want to be married. It is wrong to proclaim yourself as a widow who will never marry, and then want to turn back into a worldly life.

1 Timothy 5:12 "Having damnation, because they have cast off their first faith."

"Cast off their first faith": This refers to a specific covenant young widows made when asking to be included on the widows' list. Likely, they promised to devote the rest of their lives in service to the church and the Lord. Though well-meaning at the time of their need and bereavement, they were surely to desire marriage again (see verse 11), and thus renege on their original pledge.

When a widow marries outside of Christ's will (verse 11), she then incurs judgment ("damnation"), from others "because" she has broken ("cast off"), her "first faith," or primary pledge to obey Him.

This is speaking of someone who has vowed to live single and work for God, and have gone back on that promise. They have turned away from their faith in God to go back into a world of sin and lust.

1 Timothy 5:13 "And withal they learn [to be] idle, wandering about from house to house; and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which they ought not."

"Tattlers" are gossips. Such people speak nonsense, talk idly, make empty charges, or even accuse others with malicious words. This idleness and talk also made them suitable targets for the false teachers (1:6). With time on her hands and no responsibilities, a young widow financially supported by the church is likely to illustrate that "idleness is the Devil's workshop."

"Busybodies": Literally "one who moves around." The implication is that such people pry into things that do not concern them; they do not mind their own business.

Anyone who does not stay busy doing constructive things has too much time to get into trouble. Those who gossip, whether married or unmarried, need to get busy doing something constructive, and they will not have time to gossip. If you are idle, you are wasting your time.

You can never get those moments back. Be sure to use every moment of your time constructively. Tattlers and busybodies are not busy at doing anything, but wagging their tongue.

1 Timothy 5:14 "I will therefore that the younger women marry, bear children, guide the house, give none occasion to the adversary to speak reproachfully."

"I will" denotes strong intention based on thorough deliberation.

"Bear children": The younger widows were still of childbearing age. Although they had lost their first husbands, there was still the potential privilege and blessing of remarrying and having children (see notes on 2:15; Psalm 127:3, 5).

"Guide the house": The Greek term denotes all the aspects of household administration, not merely the rearing of children. The home is the domain where a married woman fulfills herself in God's design (see notes on Titus 2:4-5).

This is speaking of young widows, not women in general. These young women have experienced family life, and will probably not be happy single. The devil is the adversary spoken of here. He goes about seeking every Christian he can to accuse of anything. He accuses us before the Father, but we have a High Priest (Jesus Christ), who represents us before the Father.

It is best to stay as far away from sin as possible. Paul says then, it would be better to marry again than to burn with desire for a man.

1 Timothy 5:15 "For some are already turned aside after Satan."

Some of the young widows had given up their commitment to serve Christ (see notes on verses 11-12). Perhaps either by following false teachers and spreading their false doctrine or by marrying unbelievers and bringing disgrace upon the church.

"Satan": The devil, the believer's adversary (see notes on Job 1:6-12; 2:1-7; Isa. 14:12-15; Ezek. 28:12-15; Rev. 12:9).

"Turned aside after Satan:" Some younger widows have rejected chaste living, propriety, and a proper second marriage. Pursuing, in accord with Satan's wishes, a carnal, self-indulgent, self-willed life.

The battle has always been between the desires of the flesh, and the spirit. Those who do not get their flesh under obedience to the spirit will finally listen to the flesh and sin.

When you obey the flesh and not the spirit, you have turned aside after Satan. The very best thing to do is to make Jesus not only your Savior, but your Lord. Then the spirit will rule over the flesh. Let Christ live in you.

1 Timothy 5:16 "If any man or woman that believeth have widows, let them relieve them, and let not the church be charged; that it may relieve them that are widows indeed."

"Woman": Paul restates the message of (verses 4-8), with the addition that as the situation warrants, Christian women are included in this responsibility for support of widows.

A Christian "man" or "woman" with a widow in the family is to support ("relieve"), her. This prevents "the church" from being unnecessarily burdened ("charged"), freeing it to aid widows in more dire need.

This is just saying, if you can help your relative who is a widow, do not put this burden off on the church. There will be enough widows who have no one to help them for the church to take care of.

Verses 17-25: The source of much of the Ephesian church's difficulties was the inadequacy of the pastors. So, Paul explains to Timothy how to restore proper pastoral oversight. He sets forth the church's obligations regarding honoring, protecting, rebuking, and selecting elders.

1 Timothy 5:17 "Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially they who labor in the word and doctrine."

"Elders": This identifies the "overseer" (3:1), or bishop, who is also called pastor (Eph. 4:11; see notes on 3:1-7; Titus 1:6:9).

"Rule well": Elders are spiritual rulers in the church (1 Thess. 5:12-13; Heb. 13:7, 17).

"Double honor": Elders who serve with greater commitment, excellence, and effort should have greater acknowledgment from their congregations. This expression does not mean such men should receive exactly twice as much remuneration as others, but because they have earned such respect they should be paid more generously.

"Especially": Means "chiefly" or "particularly." Implicit is the idea that some elders will work harder than others and be more prominent in ministry.

"Who labor": Literally "work to the point of fatigue or exhaustion." The Greek word stresses the effort behind the work more than the amount of work.

"Word and doctrine" (see note on 4:13). The first emphasizes proclamation, along with exhortation and admonition, and calls for a heart response to the Lord. The second is an essential fortification against heresy and puts more stress on instruction.

"Elders" are the same as the "bishops" or overseers of (3:1-7), who are charged with the spiritual oversight of the church. Those devoting full time to the ministry are to receive "double honor." That is, esteem for the office held, as well as financial remuneration compensating for the loss of income sustained in fulfilling their duties.

This is speaking of the respect that should be shown to those who have spent their time serving others in the church. It seems Paul is saying that teachers of the Word of God and the doctrine of the church should be held in very high esteem.

We have mentioned before the self-sacrifice that is necessary to do these things. That should not go unnoticed by the members. Elders in a church watch over the spiritual health of the church. They must be very familiar with the Word of God to do this.

1 Timothy 5:18 "For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The laborer [is] worthy of his reward."

"For the scripture saith": A typical formula for introducing biblical references. In this instance both an Old Testament (Deut. 25:4), and New Testament (Luke 10:7), one. It is also very significant that this is a case of one New Testament writer (Paul), affirming the inspiration of another by referring to Luke's writing as "Scripture" (2 Pet. 3:15-16). Which shows the high view that the early church took of New Testament Scripture.

Those that serve of the temple should of the temple receive their living. This past statement was true in the Old Testament. It should be the rule for the church, as well. A minister of the Word of God needs to spend his time in prayer and study of the Word of God. He would have to take time away from the things of God to make a living if he did not live of the church.

The minister, laboring for the church should be paid by the church. It is not a sin to take a salary from the church. It would be a sin to take an extravagant amount that the church could not afford. We should be good stewards of God's money. Pay your preacher well, but not so much as to cause him or her to sin.

1 Timothy 5:19 "Against an elder receive not an accusation, but before two or three witnesses."

"Two or three witnesses": Serious accusations against elders must be investigated and confirmed by the same process as established (in Matt. 18:15-20; see notes there). This process for the whole church also applies to elders. This demand does not place elders beyond accusation, but protects them from frivolous, evil accusers, by demanding the same process of confirmation of sin as for all in the church.

We may translate the verse: "Don't ever accept [as true], an accusation against an elder, unless verified by the evidence of two or three witnesses."

First, an elder is very familiar with the Word of God and would know the consequences of sin. It would be highly unlikely this person would be involved in sin. Secondly, someone might have a personality conflict with someone and use accusations against that person to get back at them. Thirdly, what someone sees or thinks he sees or hears, may not be what it appears.

This then is saying, to be sure of the error, before you accept the accusation. Two or three different people are more apt to be accurate in their accusations.

1 Timothy 5:20 "Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear."

"Them that sin" refers to elders guilty of persistent, flagrant sin, and against whom an accusation has been proven (verse 19). Such are to be publicly censured before the church, "that others" (the remaining elders and all believers), may not sin.

Elders who continue in any kind of sin after the confrontation of 2 or 3 witnesses, especially any that violates the qualifications to serve (3:2-7).

"Before all": The other elders and the congregation. The third step of confrontation, established (in Matt. 18:17), is to tell the church, so that they can all confront the person and call him to repentance.

Public reprimand would be the thing to do, because it would keep someone else from doing the same thing. It is worse for an officer of the church to be caught up in sin. The elders should know better.

One important reason for the public rebuke is that others would not think the elder was getting away with the sin. It would show that they are subject to God, as well as the member of the church. To be chosen out for special greatness brings great obligation with it.

1 Timothy 5:21 "I charge [thee] before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels, that thou observe these things without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality."

"Charge ... God ... Jesus Christ" (6:13; see note on 2 Tim. 4:1).

"The elect angels": The unfallen angels, as opposed to Satan and his demons. This indicates that
God's sovereign purpose to choose those beings who would be part of His eternal kingdom included angels whom He chose to eternal glory. Christians are also called "elect" (Rom. 8:33).

All discipline of elders is to be done fairly, without prejudgment or personal preference, according to the standard of Scripture.

The apostle strictly commands Timothy to comply with ("observe"), the directives (of verses 1-20). He is to do so both "without preferring one before another" (without prejudging a matter ahead of the facts), and without "partiality" (preferential treatment is to be shown no one).

Just because someone is a good friend, or because they are in high position in the church, does not excuse sin. The punishment must be totally impartial for it to be just. We must remember the fact that Timothy is very young. He would probably hesitate to reprove someone who was his elder in the service of the church.

Paul makes it very clear that this cannot be the reason for not reproving them. Paul mentions God, The Lord Jesus, and the elect angels to show the seriousness of not letting someone off because of position of importance. They must be judged fairly, but justly.

1 Timothy 5:22 "Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men's sins: keep thyself pure."

"Lay hands suddenly on no man" cautions Timothy against hastily ordaining a man as elder. Otherwise Timothy will "be partaker of" this unqualified elder's "sin" if he acts irresponsibly in office. Timothy can "keep" himself "pure" by not putting such men into office prematurely.

The ceremony that affirmed a man's suitability for and acceptance into public ministry as an elder/pastor/overseer.

This came from the Old Testament practice of laying hands on a sacrificial animal to identify with it (Exodus 29:10, 15, 19: Lev. 4:15; Num. 8:10; 27:18-23; Deut. 34:9; Matt. 19:15; Acts 8:17-18; 9:17; Heb. 6:2). "Hastily", refers to proceeding with this ceremony without a thorough investigation and preparation period to be certain of the man's qualifications (as in 3:1-7).

"Neither ... partaker ... other men's sins": This refers to the sin of hasty ordination, which makes those responsible culpable for the man's sin of serving as an unqualified elder, and thus misleading people.

"Keep thyself pure": Paul wanted Timothy, by not participating in the recognition of unqualified elders, to remain untainted by others' sins. The church desperately needed qualified spiritual leaders, but the selection had to be carefully executed.

"Laying on of hands" has to do with the baptism of the Holy Spirit, and the ordaining of someone to an office in the church. Quick decisions are sometimes repented in leisure. You must know a person for a good while, before you can understand what type of a person they really are. Sometimes a person's true character takes a little time to surface.

Another way to look at this would be, if this person were giving Timothy trouble over the reprimand and wanted to fight. Paul could be saying, Timothy, don't let your temper get out of control and hit someone, you would be guilty of sin along with them in that case.

Perhaps his advice, is for Timothy to stay above sin of this nature. Timothy would also, have to try to stay neutral so he could give an unbiased judgment.

1 Timothy 5:23 "Drink no longer water, but use a little wine for thy stomach's sake and thine often infirmities."

"Drink no longer water": "Water" in the ancient world was often polluted and carried many diseases. Therefore, Paul urged Timothy not to risk illness, not even for the sake of a commitment to abstinence from wine. Apparently, Timothy avoided wine, so as not to place himself in harms' way (see note on 3:3).

"Use a little wine ... infirmities": Paul wanted Timothy to use wine which, because of fermentation, acted as a disinfectant to protect his health problems due to the harmful effects of impure water. With this advice, however, Paul was not advocating that Timothy lower the high standard of behavior for leaders (Num. 6:1-4; Prov. 31:4-5).

This verse may be rendered, "Stop drinking only water, but periodically use a little wine for the sake of your digestion and frequent sicknesses."

This is like many of the things Paul said in his writings. This drinking of wine was not for all ministers of the Word of God to do, but was for Timothy. Timothy was to stay away from the foul water that was in the area. Bad water brings stomach problems. Paul is advising Timothy not to drink the water to keep from getting the virus.

In an area where the water was good, this would certainly not be good advice. It appears that Timothy had been sick quite a bit. This stops all this present day talk of those who are right with God never being sick. The sickness was not because of sin Timothy had committed, but because the water was bad. Notice also, the word "little".

Verses 24-25: Reinforcing the command to "suddenly" ordain no one to leadership (verse 22), these verses are applied to Timothy by analogy.

The "sins" of some men are obvious ("open"), declaring in advance ("beforehand"), the judicial decision to be passed upon them by God in "judgment;" the sins of others are not so obvious, but will catch up ("they follow after"), with them in judgment. Whether sins are conspicuous or inconspicuous, God will find them out.

Similarly, the "good works" of some are easily seen ("manifest"), while those of others are not. Nevertheless, ever good works that are undetected by man will eventually be made known in judgment.

The point is that thorough examination exposes all deeds, good and bad, known, and unknown. The application is that if Timothy and the church will not hastily install men into office, but carefully examine each elder candidate, his true character and fitness for office can eventually be determined.

1 Timothy 5:24 "Some men's sins are open beforehand, going before to judgment; and some [men] they follow after."

"Sins ... are open beforehand": The sins of some people are manifest for all to see, thus disqualifying them out of hand for service as elders.

"Going before to judgment": The known sins of the unqualified announce those men's guilt and unfitness before all. "Judgment" refers to the church's process for determining men's suitability to serve as elders.

"Follow after": The sins of other candidates for elder will come to light in time, perhaps even during the scrutiny of the evaluation process.

We see that some people who sin, do a good job of covering up their sin for a while. Their sin will be found out, but it may be found out long after the sin was committed. On the other hand, some sins are obvious to everyone even as they are being committed.

It is best not to make quick judgments. Wait until all the facts are in, then judge. All sins will be revealed when we stand before the Lord in judgment.

1 Timothy 5:25 "Likewise also the good works [of some] are manifest beforehand; and they that are otherwise cannot be hid."

The same is true of good works. Some are evident; others come to light later. Time and truth go hand in hand. The whole emphasis in this instruction regarding choosing elders, according to the qualifications of (3:1-7), is to be patient, fair, impartial, and pure (verses 21-25). Such an approach will yield the right choices.

This is just saying that some deeds are obviously good as they are being done, and they are no secret. Other good deeds may never be recognized until we stand before the Lord Jesus and hear Him say, well done, thy good and faithful servant. This type of good deeds, are laying up treasures in heaven where they will be waiting for us.

1 Timothy Chapter 5 Questions

1. Rebuke not an _______, but entreat him as a _________.
2. What was he honoring when he honored him as a father?
3. The elder women as __________.
4. Why did he use the term "widows indeed"?
5. Who should take care of the elderly?
6. Why do people today not care for their parents generally?
7. Those who are widows indeed, trusts in ____.
8. Who was a widow like the one in verse 5?
9. The church is as strong as what?
10. What kind of woman is verse 6 describing?
11. Why was Paul sending all of these details of controlling a church to Timothy?
12. Those who will not provide for their own are worse than an ______.
13. How old must a widow be for the church to take over her support?
14. Describe the character of the woman that the church would provide for?
15. Why did they not take in younger women who had lost their husbands?
16. What do the idle do in verse 13?
17. Paul suggested that the younger women _________.
18. Who is the adversary spoken of in verse 14?
19. Who accuses us before the Father?
20. Who is our High Priest?
21. What has the battle been between?
22. Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of ________ honor.
23. Who were those who were especially mentioned in verse 17?
24. Thou shalt not ________ the ox that treadeth out the corn.
25. Where should the minister earn his living?
26. How many witnesses must you have against an elder?
27. What should be done to elders who sin?
28. Why should it be public?
29. Do nothing by _______________.
30. Why is partiality wrong?
31. What two things could "lay hands suddenly on no man" mean?
32. What did Paul tell Timothy to do for his infirmities?
33. Is this Scripture instruction for all ministers?
34. Why did Paul tell Timothy to do this?

1 Timothy Chapter 6

Verses 1-2: The Ephesian believers may have been struggling to maintain a biblical work ethic in the world of slavery, so these verses form Paul's instruction on that subject. Essentially, first century slaves resembled the indentured servants of the American colonial period.

In many cases, slaves were better off than day-laborers, since much of their food, clothing, and shelter were provided. The system of slavery served as the economic structure in the Roman world, and the master-slave relationship closely parallels the twentieth-century employer-employee relationship.

1 Timothy 6:1 "Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honor, that the name of God and [his] doctrine be not blasphemed."

"Under the yoke": A colloquial expression describing submissive service under another's authority, not necessarily describing an abusive relationship (Matt. 11:28-30).

"Servants": They are in submission to another. It carries no negative connotation and is often positive when used in connection with the Lord serving the Father (Phil. 2:7), and believers serving God (1 Pet. 2:16), the Lord (Rom. 1:1; Gal. 1:10; 2 Tim. 2:24; James 1:1), non-Christians (1 Cor. 9:19), and other believers (Gal. 5:13).

"Masters": The Greek word for "master," while giving us the English words "despot," does not carry a negative connotation. Instead, it refers to one with absolute and unrestricted authority.

"All honor": This translates into diligent and faithful labor for one's employer (see notes on Eph. 6:5-9; Col. 3:22-25).

"Doctrine": The revelation of God summed up in the gospel. How believers act while under the authority of another affects how people view the message of salvation Christians proclaim (see notes on Titus 2:5-14). Displaying a proper attitude of submission and respect, and performing quality work, help make the gospel message believable (Matt. 5:48).

"Let as many servants as are under the yoke" (or, "let all those who are under the yoke as slaves"): This gives instructions to slaves of unbelieving masters, while (verse 2), instructs slaves under Christian masters. "The name of God" refers to His reputation.

"Servants", in the verse above, could have been translated slaves, as well as servants. It is the same suggestions either way. Many persons who had been slaves came to the knowledge of Christ in the early days of Christianity. Christianity has always been evident among working people and slaves.

I believe this Scripture is expressing the fact that just because a person comes to Christ, it does not free them from their other obligations. In fact, a person who has received Christ as his Savior should do an even better job at the things he is obligated to do, because they are doing it as unto Christ. True Christianity teaches loyalty and honor.

Paul is saying that they might even win their master to Christ, if they show him it makes a difference for the better being saved. Christianity is not a crutch to be used to get a person relieved from their duties. It should make a person more productive, because of the peace and happiness it brings to the individual.

1 Timothy 6:2 "And they that have believing masters, let them not despise [them], because they are brethren; but rather do [them] service, because they are faithful and beloved, partakers of the benefit. These things teach and exhort."

"Believing masters": The tendency might be to assume one's equality in Christ with a Christian master, and disdain the authority related to work roles. On the contrary, working for a Christian should produce more loyal and diligent service out of love for the brethren.

"Exhort": Literally "to call to one's side." The particular emphasis here is on a strong urging, directing, and insisting on following the principles for correct behavior in the workplace.

Christianity creates equality of standing before God. Because some believing slaves felt there should also be social equality, they despised their Christian masters. Christian slaves are "not" to despise" their believing masters; "rather do them service" [but serve them all the better].

"Because they are faithful," and so on, may be translated, "Because those who partake of this good service [the slaves' fine work], are believers and dear to God." The phrase "these things" refers to the contents of this epistle. Timothy is to "teach" (explain the letter's truths to the church), and "exhort" (urge the people to comply with Paul's instructions).

Paul is explaining that even though you are a brother in Christ with your believing master, you should still give him the respect he is due because of his position. We said before, Christianity should not be used to get you special rights and privileges. God is the one who put us in the position we are in on the earth.

Whatever place we find ourselves in, we must do the best job we can. Paul is explaining little problems that might occur. Since these things had not been mentioned earlier, he was covering as many as he could. You are not to change your station in life, because you are saved. You are to serve God where He called you.

1 Timothy 6:3 "If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, [even] the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness;"

Paul identifies 3 characteristics of false teachers:

(1) They "advocate a different doctrine", a different teaching that contradicts God's revelation in Scripture (see notes on Gal. 1:6-9);

(2) They do "not agree with sound words", they do not accept sound, healthy teaching, specifically the teaching contained in Scripture (2 Pet. 3:16); and

(3) They reject "doctrine conforming to godliness", teaching not based on Scripture will always result in an unholy life. Instead of godliness, false teachers will be marked by sin (see notes on 2 Peter. 10:22; Jude 4:8-16).

"Consent not" means that one does not agree with or adhere to. "Wholesome words" are teachings that are sound (correct), and promote spiritual health. "Doctrine which is according to godliness", is doctrine that is in accord with, and leads to, godliness.

This is not a complete sentence above, but we know what it is saying, do we not? Just proclaiming yourself a Christian does not make you a Christian. A Christian is Christ-like. Jesus said, serving others should not be thought of as an obligation, but a privilege. He spoke of how the servant would be the greatest.

Matthew 23:11 "But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant."

We must remember that the Jews who had converted to Christianity were extremely class conscious. Jesus served mankind. If we are to be like Him, we will do likewise. Paul is warning Timothy, that the Judaizers will teach a false doctrine which is caught up in class.

Verses 4-5: These verses may be rendered, "He is conceited, understanding nothing, but has a morbid interest about controversies and disputes over words, from which come envy, strife, defamation, evil suspicions, constant irritations between men. Who are morally corrupt in thinking, bereft of the truth, and who suppose that godliness is a means of financial profit."

1 Timothy 6:4 "He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings,"

Questions and strifes of words": "Questions" refers to idle speculation; "disputes about words" literally means word battles." Because proud, ignorant false teachers do not understand divine truth (2 Cor. 2:14), they obsess over terminology and attack the reliability and authority of Scripture. Every kind of strife is mentioned to indicate that false teachers produce nothing of benefit out of their fleshly, corrupt and empty minds (verse 5).

The humble servant accepted Christianity willingly with the doctrine of serving. The converted Jews were constantly questioning the doctrine of the Christians. The law, with its class separations, had caused many to reject Jesus and His teachings, because they did not conform to what they had been taught.

This Jewish element in the Christian movement, questioning at every turn, were causing strife among the brethren. They were arguing to keep all the customs of the law. This caused problems with the new Christian converts.

1 Timothy 6:5 "Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself."

The word translated "perverse" here, means misemployment, or meddlesome. My own personal belief about the Scripture above is that Paul is warning Timothy to tell the people not to use God for personal gain.

The fact that they have corrupt minds, means that they had the truth and wandered away from it, teaching that if you were where you should be with God, you would also be financially better off. They were connecting their position with God with having earthly wealth.

"Destitute of the truth": False teachers are in a state of apostasy; that is, although they once knew and seemed to embrace the truth, they turned to openly reject it.

The Greek word for "deprived" means "to steal" or "to rob." And its form here indicates that someone or something was pulled away from contact with the truth. It does not mean they were ever saved (see note on 1:19; 2 Tim. 2:18; 3:7-8; Heb. 6:4-6; 2 Pet. 2: 4-9).

Although most always behind all the efforts of the hypocritical, lying (4:2), false teachers is the driving motivation of monetary gain (Acts 8:18-23; 2 Pet. 2:15).

Notice the stern warning; from such withdraw thyself. Sometimes people who are godly have money. It does not mean if you have money, it is a sin. It is saying to use God to get great wealth is sin.

1 Timothy 6:6 "But godliness with contentment is great gain."

"Contentment": This Greek word means "self-sufficiency," and was used by Stoic philosophers to describe a person who was unflappable and unmoved by external circumstances. Christians are to be satisfied and sufficient, and not to seek for more than what God has already given them. He is the source of true contentment (2 Cor. 3:5; 9:8; Phil. 4:11-13, 19).

I love what Paul said in another Scripture about this.

Philippians 4:11-12 "Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, [therewith] to be content." "I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need."

We will find that it is not how much we have, or how well thought of we are, that makes us happy. It is our attitude toward life. If I put my faith and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ, I should be content knowing whatever is happening to me, is for my good.

In Proverbs, we read a lot about what makes a man happy. It is not wealth or fame, it is attitude. When we have food and a place to lay our head at night, it is enough, if we have Jesus.

Philippians 4:13 "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me."

1 Timothy 6:7 "For we brought nothing into [this] world, [and it is] certain we can carry nothing out."

"And it is certain we can carry nothing out" (or, "because we are unable to carry anything out"): Man enters the world at birth possessing nothing, in order to teach him that he will exit the world in the same manner, taking nothing with him. This is a divine means of showing man that since material wealth is relatively insignificant, he should pursue the important things mentioned (in verse 11).

The only true riches are the ones we lay up in heaven. This world and the people on it are temporary tenants. It all belongs to God. We are travelling through this land on the way to our Promised Land. The world is like Egypt was for the Israelites. It is a place of dwelling that we do not own.

We come into the world naked. It is for sure we cannot take our big cars and fine homes with us to heaven. They would pale by comparison to what God has in store for us, even if you could carry them. Jesus has gone ahead and prepared a place for us. We will not need anything from this earth. He has made provision for us.

1 Timothy 6:8 "And having food and raiment let us be therewith content."

"Having food and raiment ... be therewith content": The basic necessities of life are what ought to make Christians content. Paul does not condemn having possessions, as long as God graciously provides them (verse 17). He does, however, condemn a self-indulgent desire for money, which results from discontentment (see note on Matt. 6:33).

This verse prevents the wrong understanding (of verse 7), that material possessions have no place in the Christians' life. By figure of speech "food and raiment" stand for all of life's basis necessities. These are all the believer needs, and having these he can be "content."

These are basic things to live on. In the 6th chapter of Matthew (beginning with the 25th verse), you will find the teachings of Jesus on this very thing. There is just one verse there that says what we must keep our mind on.

Matthew 6:33 "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you."

Our heart and mind should not be stayed on material things of this world. God will take care of that, if we will just worship and serve Him.

1 Timothy 6:9 "But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and [into] many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition."

"They that will be rich fall into temptation": Greedy people are compulsive, they are continually trapped in sins by their consuming desire to acquire more.

"Destruction and perdition": Such greed may lead these people to suffer the tragic end of destruction and hell. These terms refer to the eternal punishment of the wicked.

"They that will be rich" are those whose ambition is to be rich.

Notice the key words in this: will be. In other words, he is not already rich, he wants to be rich. This means that the person has his mind stayed upon being rich. Sometimes it is a temptation to take short-cuts to get to where you want to be financially. It is not riches that send a person to hell, but the lust of riches.

This type of lust causes a person to totally disregard others to acquire their own selfish desires. It is very important to know how to deal with riches, if you find yourself in that position in life.

1 Timothy 6:17-18 "Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy;" "That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate;"

It is not a sin to be rich. It is a sin to lust to be rich.

1 Timothy 6:10 "For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows."

"Love of money": Literally "affection for silver." In the context, this sin applies to false teachers specifically, but the principle is true universally. Money itself is not evil since it is a gift from God (Deut. 8:18); Paul condemns only the love of it (Matt. 6:24), which is so characteristic of false teachers (see notes on 1 Pet. 5:2; 2 Pet. 1-3, 15).

"Erred from the faith": From the body of Christian truth. Gold has replaced God for these apostates, who have turned away from pursuing the things of God in favor of money.

"The root of all evil" means a root or source of all kinds of evil. The love for money is not the only source from which evils come. "Coveted after", means that some have "striven after" money as the goal of life.

When you covet, you want something that does not belong to you. Notice again, the money is not the root of all evil. It is the love of money. It is our attitude toward the riches that either condemns us, or saves us.

One of the best examples of this in all the Bible, is the rich young ruler that comes to Jesus and asks what he must do to be saved. Throughout the Bible we are told that we must believe in Jesus to be saved. In this particular instance Jesus told him to go and sell what he had and give it to the poor if he wanted to be perfect.

Why was Jesus' answer different to this young man? It is simple. The man's money was his god. He went away sorrowful. He chose to keep his money over turning to God.

Anything, whether money or something else, that comes ahead of God with us, is our god. Money should not come before God. God said: Thou shalt have no other gods before me. Those who do this are lost.

1 Timothy Chapter 6 Questions

1. How is a servant to treat his master?
2. Why is he to do this?
3. What is another word that "servants" could have been translated in verse 1?
4. Because a person comes to Christ, does not free them from their _____________.
5. Why should the servant do a better job after he, or she, comes to Christ?
6. When the master and the servant both are Christians, what effect should that have on their positions?
7. Why is Paul getting into all these details?
8. Proclaiming yourself a Christian does not mean you are a _________.
9. The Jews that had come to Christ were extremely _______ conscious.
10. What were the converted Jews constantly questioning?
11. What caused much of the strife in the early church?
12. Those with corrupt minds supposed what was godliness.
13. We must not use God for __________ ____.
14. What are the only true riches?
15. The people in this world are temporary _________.
16. If we could take our big cars and our fine homes to heaven with us, what would we discover?
17. Having _______ and _________ let us be therewith content.
18. What are the key words in verse 9?
19. What is his mind stayed upon?
20. It is not riches that send a person to hell, but what?
21. What does this type of lust cause a person to do?
22. How must we deal with riches, if we find ourselves in that position?
23. For the ______ of money is the root of all evil.
24. What are you doing, when you covet?
25. What really condemns us or saves us regarding money?
26. Why did Jesus require more of the rich young ruler?
27. Did he fulfill the requirements?
28. Anything that we put ahead of God, is our _____.

1 Timothy Chapter 6 Continued

1 Timothy 6:11 "But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness."

"These things": Love of money and all that goes with it (verses 6-10), along with the other proud obsessions of false teachers (verses 3-5).

"O man of God": 2 Tim. 3:17 This is a term used in the New Testament only for Timothy; as a technical term. It is used about 70 times in the Old Testament, always to refer to a man who officially spoke for God (see note on Deut. 33:1).

This (along with 1:2; 2:1), indicates that the letter is primarily directed to Timothy, exhorting him to be faithful and strong in light of persecution and difficulty, and particularly with Paul's death near. The man of God is known by what he:

(1) Flees from (verse 11);

(2) Follows after (verse 11);

(3) Fights for (verse 12); and

(4) Is faithful to (verses 13-14).

The key to his success in all these endeavors is the perfection produced in him by the Scripture (2 Tim. 3:16-17).

"Righteousness, godliness": "Righteousness" means to do what is right, in relation to both God and man, and it emphasizes outward behavior. "Godliness" (see note on 2:2), refers to one's reverence for God, and could be translated "God-likeness."

"Flee these things" means shun a love for money (verse 10), and the striving for material wealth (verse 9), with all its resulting woes. "Follow after" means pursue. "Righteousness" is practical correctness, confirming to God's will in one's thinking and acting.

"Godliness" is proper reverence for, and obedience to God. "Faith" is a trust in God that grows stronger. "Love" is a maturing affection for God and man. "Patience" is perseverance or steadfastness in life and service. "Meekness" is gentleness.

Paul is stressing to Timothy here, the importance of teaching the people to seek godly things, and not things pleasing unto the flesh. We must remember along with this, that all of these people professed Christianity. "O man of God" lets us know that those who are God's live a different life, with different goals than that of the men of the world.

The godly do not follow after riches, they follow after righteousness. Those, who are seeking wealth, have no time for other things. Not only are we not to seek riches, but we are to flee from the lust of riches. These things (in verse 11 above), that are mentioned, are opposite of lust for riches. These are things that come from a humble heart stayed upon God.

To be "righteous" means we are in right standing with God. "Godliness" means that we have patterned our life after His life. Faith is the ingredient that pleases God. To have faith and trust in God means that we are satisfied with the position He has placed us in.

Love causes us to give, not to take from our fellowman. Patience comes as a gift from God. Most men in a hurry to get rich have no patience. You can easily see why this would be important to mention of the godly. Meekness and the personality of the proud are the opposites, as well.

1 Timothy 6:12 "Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses."

"Fight the good fight of faith": The Greek word for "fight" gives us the English word "agonize," and was used in both military and athletic endeavors to describe the concentration, discipline, and extreme effort needed to win.

The "good fight of faith" is the spiritual conflict with Satan's kingdom of darkness in which all men of God are necessarily involved (see notes on 2 Cor. 10:3-5; 2 Tim. 4:2). The good fight concerns the daily struggle with sin in the Christian life, and the hardships and adversities in the ministry. A genuine believer demonstrates the reality of his faith by being engaged in this warfare.

"Lay hold on eternal life": Paul is here admonishing Timothy to "get a grip" on the reality of the matters associated with eternal life, so that he would live and minister with a heavenly and eternal perspective (Phil. 3:20; Col. 3:2). Laying hold on eternal life does not negate the fact that a believer now possesses spiritual life (John 3:36); rather, it speaks of fully realizing or appropriating salvation as the believer matures.

"Thou are also called": Refers to God's effectual, sovereign call of Timothy to salvation (see note on Rom. 1:7).

"Good profession": Timothy's public confession of faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, which likely occurred at his baptism and again when he was ordained to the ministry (4:14; 2 Tim. 1:6).

Every minister I have ever known must go back and look at this statement that Paul made to Timothy. Sometimes, the fight becomes so difficult, that in the natural we want to stop. The advice was good for Timothy, and it is good for us as well.

We cannot give up the fight, because the way is hard. When you receive your salvation, hang on to it, do not let it slip away.

Romans 8:35-39 "Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? [shall] tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?" "As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter." "Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us." "For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come," "Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."

Paul reminds Timothy that it is for his own benefit to hang on to eternal life, and it is also to the benefit of those who knew of Timothy's love of God, as well.

1 Timothy 6:13 "I give thee charge in the sight of God, who quickeneth all things, and [before] Christ Jesus, who before Pontius Pilate witnessed a good confession;"

"Charge ... God ... Christ Jesus" (5:21; see note on 2 Tim. 4:1).

"Who before Pontius Pilate": Knowing that such a confession would cost Him His life, Jesus nevertheless confessed that He was truly the King and Messiah (John 18:33-37). He rarely evaded danger (John 7:1); He boldly and trustfully committed Himself to God who raises the dead (Col. 2:12).

A "charge" is a command. "Quickeneth" contains the idea of giving life to. Since God gives life to all things, He can also enable Timothy to "fight the good fight" (verse 12).

If our leader (Jesus Christ), witnessed a good confession before the world, we can do no less. Christians must be Christ-like. Paul encourages Timothy to not be overcome by the opposition. He reminds him that the world was opposed to Christ Jesus.

Timothy is young and needs this word of encouragement. Paul is explaining how truthful this statement is when he says, in the sight of God, and before Jesus Christ.

1 Timothy 6:14 "That thou keep [this] commandment without spot, unrebukable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ:"

"This commandment": The entire revealed Word of God, which Paul charged Timothy to preach (2 Timothy 4:2). Paul also repeatedly encouraged Timothy to guard it (verse 20; 1:18-19; 4:6, 16; 2 Tim. 13-14; 2:15-18).

This refers to the charge (in verse 13), which embraces the injunctions of (verses 11-12). Thus, "this commandment" is the charge to pursue godliness (verse 11), and to fulfill one's ministry (verse 12). "Without spot, unrebukable" means Timothy is to be meticulous in his obedience of (verses 11-13), that is, without fault and failure in compliance.

"Appearing": When the Lord returns to earth in glory (2 Tim. 4:1, 8; Titus 2:13), to judge and to establish His kingdom (Matt. 24:27, 29-30; 25:31). Because Christ's return is imminent, that ought to be motivation enough for the man of God to remain faithful to his calling until he dies or the Lord returns (Acts 1:8-11; 1 Cor. 4:5; Rev. 22:12).

Christianity is not something we put on and take off at our convenience. It is a daily walk. Paul is saying, stay in that narrow path of righteousness that leads to eternal life. This just means that he must never turn back into the world.

Jesus will appear unto those who are looking for Him. We must live everyday as if today was the day of His coming. Stay faithful until Jesus takes us home.

1 Timothy 6:15 "Which in his times he shall shew, [who is] the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords;"

"In his times": The time, known only to Him, that God established in eternity past for Christ to return (Mark 13:32; Acts 1:7).

"Potentate": This word comes from a Greek word group that basically means "power." God is sovereign and omnipotently rules everything everywhere.

"King of kings, and Lord of lords": A title used of Christ (Rev. 17:14; 19:16), is here used of God the Father. Paul probably used this title for God to confront the cult of emperor worship, intending to communicate that only God is sovereign and worthy of worship.

We may read the first part of the verse, "Which [Jesus' appearing of 6:14], He will make visible at the proper time." A "Potentate" is a sovereign ruler.

When Jesus returns to this earth, it will not be as Savior. His name will be King of kings, and Lord of lords. The lords and kings of this earth must step aside, because the true King will be here. At the name of Jesus every knee will bow and every tongue confess.

Philippians 2:10-11 "That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of [things] in heaven, and [things] in earth, and [things] under the earth;" "And [that] every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ [is] Lord, to the glory of God the Father."

He is not King of the few, but King of all.

1 Timothy 6:16 "Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom [be] honour and power everlasting. Amen."

"Whom no man hath seen, nor can see": God in spirit is invisible (1:17; Job 23:8-9; John 1:18; 5:37; Col. 1:15), and therefore, unapproachable in the sense that sinful man has never seen nor can he ever see His full glory (Exodus 33:20; Isa 6:1-5).

Jesus is not a light, He is the Light. He is the source of all Light. It is His Light that gives all things the power to be. The things we call light here upon the earth, such as the sun and the moon, are not creative Light. They are only fixtures that we see Light in. He is the everlasting One. He is Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End.

Immortality means unending existence. He is the great I AM. No man can see this with his natural body, or he would be totally consumed.

Hebrews 12:29 "For our God [is] a consuming fire."

Jesus, and the Father, and the Spirit are somehow all of this. If we could ever get to the point that we understand all there is to know about God. Currently we cannot fully understand. We can just know some things, and that is enough. He is Power. He is Everlasting God. Amen, "so be it".

Verses 17-18: Paul charges wealthy believers

(1) Not to be proud and look down on those who are not rich,

(2) To confide in God rather than in unstable riches,

(3) "To be rich in good works" by generously sharing their surplus of financial resources with the needy. To be "ready to distribute" is to be generous in sharing. To be "willing to communicate" is to be liberal in giving.

In (17-19), Paul counsels Timothy what to teach those who are rich in material possessions, those who have more than the mere essentials of food, clothing, and shelter. Paul does not condemn such people, nor command them to get rid of their wealth. He does call them to be good stewards of their God-given resources (Deut. 8:18; 1 Sam. 2:7; 1 Chron. 29:12).

1 Timothy 6:17 'Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy;"

"Highminded": "To have an exalted opinion of oneself." Those who have an abundance are constantly tempted to look down on others and act superior. Riches and pride often go together, and the wealthier a person is, the more he is tempted to be proud (Proverbs 18:23; 28:11; James 2:1-4).

"Uncertain riches ... giveth us richly": Those who have much tend to trust in their wealth (Prov. 23:4-5). But God provides far more security than any earthly investment can ever give (Eccl. 5:8-20; Matthew 6:19-21).

Considering (verse 16), how could they be highminded? This world and all its riches shall pass away. Riches, life, and many other things in this life are uncertain. They are here today and gone tomorrow.

2 Peter 3:10-11 "But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up." "[Seeing] then [that] all these things shall be dissolved, what manner [of persons] ought ye to be in [all] holy conversation and godliness,"

We see from all of this, how silly it would be to place your faith in something so temporary. The only truly lasting thing, that we can put our trust in, is God. God allows some of us to use a great deal of material things in this earth. They are not ours, they are His. We should act accordingly.

1 Timothy 6:18 "That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate;"

"Ready to distribute": The Greek word means "liberal," or "bountiful." Those believers who have money must use it in meeting the needs of others, unselfishly and generously (see notes on Acts 4:32-37; 2 Cor. 8:1-4).

Seeing that these things are just here for us to manage for the Lord, they should be used for good. Possibly, Paul placed this in this letter to Timothy, because the Jews really thought themselves to be better than other people. He is telling Timothy; teach them that these earthly treasures really do belong to God. Teach them to use the treasures the way Jesus would use them, if He were here.

Willing to communicate means not thinking themselves too good to talk to someone they think to be their underling. They must use what God has entrusted to them in a manner pleasing unto God.

1 Timothy 6:19 "Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life."

"Laying up in store ... a good foundation": "Storing up" can be translated "amassing a treasure," while "foundation" can refer to a fund. The idea is that the rich in this world should not be concerned with receiving a return on their earthly investment. Those who make eternal investments will be content to receive their dividends in heaven (see notes on Luke 16:1-13).

"Lay hold on eternal life" (see note on verse 12).

When wealthy believers generously share (verse 18), they secure an assurance ("laying up in store for themselves a good foundation"). that in the future ("against the time to come"), they will indeed enter heaven ("lay hold on eternal life").

Salvation is not purchased by the giving of money, but generosity demonstrates the reality of one's faith. Since the believer trusts God and not money, he gives. This giving shows where his heart is and that he views his wealth considering eternity.

This laying up in store for themselves has to do with storing our treasures in heaven.

Matthew 6:19-20 "Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:" "But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:"

We remember back to the last lesson, we discovered that God and money could not both be our God. If money is our god, we will wind up in hell. If God is our God, we are not in love with the money.

Verses 20-21: The church's main responsibility is to guard and proclaim the truths of Scripture, so Paul here instructs Timothy on how to guard and protect the Word of God.

1 Timothy 6:20 "O Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding profane [and] vain babblings, and oppositions of science falsely so called:"

"That which is committed to thy trust": This translates one Greek word, which means "deposit." The deposit Timothy was to guard is the truth, the divine revelation that God committed to his care. Every Christian, especially if he is in ministry, has that sacred trust to guard the revelation of God (1 Cor. 4:1; 1 Thess. 2:3-4).

"Oppositions of science falsely so called": False doctrine, anything claiming to be the truth that is in fact a lie. False teachers typically claim to have the superior knowledge (as in Gnosticism). They claim to know the transcendent secrets, but actually are ignorant and infantile in their understanding (see notes on Col. 2:8).

"That which is committed to" Timothy's "trust" is a knowledge of the truth imparted by Paul. He is to "keep" or guard it. To ensure this, Timothy must turn away from "vain babblings" [empty talk devoid of truth], "and oppositions" (heretical arguments used to oppose the truth).

So many people try to prove the Bible technically with scientific books. The Bible is the Word of God. It does not have to be proved. It is the standard that we should judge all else by. Faith is not fact. If you could prove something, it would take no faith to believe it.

Hebrews 11:1 "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen."

Vain babblings are false doctrines that are brought for consideration. Paul tells Timothy, keep the Truth that you already have. You cannot improve the Truth.

1 Timothy 6:21 "Which some professing have erred concerning the faith. Grace [be] with thee. Amen."

Those who "erred" went astray from the truth.

It appears that some had listened to the vain babblings, and believed them. This would be a terrible error on anyone's part. Paul prays that the unmerited favor of God (grace), will be Timothy's.

"Grace be with thee": All believers require the grace of God to preserve the truth and pass it on to the next generation.

1 Timothy Chapter 6 Continued Questions

1. Why did the author feel it important to repeat verse 10 from the last lesson?
2. The ______ of _______ is the root of all evil.
3. It is not the fact that you have money that is evil; it is your _________ toward the money,
4. How much money would you sell your soul for?
5. What did Paul say, in verse 11, to follow when you fled the temptation of riches?
6. What separates someone as a man of God?
7. To be a "righteous" man means what?
8. What does "godliness" mean?
9. Fight the good fight of _________.
10. Lay hold on __________ ________.
11. In Romans chapter 8 verses 35 through 39, what can separate a true Christian from God?
12. Who quickeneth all things?
13. How does Paul express how truthful his statement is in verse 13?
14. How long is he to keep this commandment?
15. Who will Jesus appear to at the end?
16. Who is the blessed and only Potentate?
17. What will Jesus be, when He returns to the earth?
18. Jesus is the _______.
19. He is the __________ of all Light.
20. What are the sun and moon?
21. What are some words that show His eternity?
22. What are the rich in this world charged to be?
23. Who are the rich, as well as the poor, to trust in?
24. What is willing to communicate telling Timothy?
25. Where are they to lay up in store for the days to come?
26. What did Paul tell Timothy to avoid in verse 20?
27. The Bible is the __________ that everything else should be judged by.