1 Timothy Bible Study Notes- Chapter 6

1 Timothy 6

 

-Paul’s last chapter in this letter focuses primarily on contentment and keeping unstained from the love of money in ministry. Before he delves into that though, he speaks on proper respect for authority towards masters, especially those who believe in Christ Jesus (1 Timothy 6:1-3). *Application* Our bosses and those in charge of us in society have a duty and responsibility to us, but we have one to them as well. Properly respect those whom you serve as pleasing unto God because He is ultimately who you serve (Colossians 3:22-24).

-Paul again focuses on proper doctrine and sound words of wisdom from the Lord to his pupil Timothy. Those who reject sound teaching are puffed up with conceit and understand nothing (1 Timothy 6:4). “These have an unhealthy craving for controversy and quarrels about words, which produce envy, dissension, slander, evil suspicions, and constant friction among people who are depraved in mind and deprived of the truth (1 Timothy 6:4-5).” These are the ones who are in the ministry for sordid gain and are on the path to a shipwrecked faith because they seek lucre (money, wealth, profit) rather than contentment (1 Timothy 6:5-10). *Application* When money becomes our god, we will fall into temptation, ruin, destruction, falling from the faith, and many sorrows (griefs, pangs). Be content with food and clothing. God does not like worry and commands us not to do it (Matthew 6:25-34).

-Rather than being consumed with wealth, Paul instructs his spiritual son, and us, to pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, and gentleness, which are all fruits of the Holy Spirit. We are to fight the good fight of faith and take hold of our confession, just like Jesus did who deserves all glory and praise. He will adequately provide for us according to His riches in glory. We are to do good, be rich in good works, be generous, and ready to always share storing up treasure in a good foundation for the future, which takes hold of that which is truly life (1 Timothy 6:11-19). Guard the deposit entrusted to you and avoid irreverent babble and contradiction of what is falsely called knowledge. Don’t swerve from the faith (1 Timothy 6:20-21). *Application* These are great exhortations to live by. Live a life that you can have peace with. Live by the Holy Spirit who indwells you as a New Covenant believer. Don’t drift into worldly desires and pleasures. You’ll be sad you did in the long run.

 

Verse to Memorize- 1 Timothy 6:10

1 Timothy Bible Study Notes- Chapter 5

1 Timothy 5

 

-Paul gives further instructions on a variety of issues in the church for the young pastor in this chapter. First, he give instructions on how to correct, or rebuke people. Older men are to encouraged and respected as a father when correcting. Younger men are to be rebuked as brothers, older women as mothers, and younger women as sisters, in all purity (1 Timothy 5:1-2). *Application* The prepositional phrase “in all purity” is key for helping those in the church know how to treat members of the opposite sex. If we will take Paul’s advice and treat these like we would a sister or a brother, it will lead to the proper relationship without flirtatious and enticing come ons that lead to impurity and even immorality. God expects His church to be pure and without the stains of the world (James 1:27).

-The next order of business is with the handling of widows. Paul tells the young disciple, and the church, to honor widows that are truly widows. He lays out some general qualifications for being a true widow including: has been left all alone has her hope set on God, is a prayer warrior night and day, over 60 years of age, the wife of one husband, a reputation for good works, has raised children, has shown hospitality, has washed the feet of the saints, has cared for the afflicted, has been devoted (1 Timothy 5:3-10). He also lists some things that may exclude these widows from receiving support so as to not be a burden on the church and keep the church pure and untainted. These things include: having relatives who can and should care for them, self-indulgence, younger women with a desire to remarry (1 Timothy 5:4, 6-7, 11-12). These that are not truly widows will have a tendency and temptation to be idlers, gossips, and busybodies saying things that they shouldn’t (1 Timothy 5:13). This is why Paul encourages them to marry in this instance, bear children, and manage their own households with dignity and proper focus. This, the apostle says, will give the adversary (the devil) no occasion for slander (1 Timothy 5:14). Some apparently had already strayed from the faith in this area and gone after Satan (1 Timothy 5:15). *Application* True and undefiled religion before the Lord includes caring for the widows as we see here in this passage (James 1:27 again). However, as we also see here, there may need be some qualifications to this benevolence. The church has a responsibility to do what is right in a case by case analysis when it comes to these types of decisions. Making decisions like this is not always easy and may at times not be well received in a self-indulgent society like the one in which we live. Paul’s admonition is that we be prudent and evaluate all the different angles to make sure that the church is helping true widows, and not be unnecessarily burdened when others within the family unit should be providing.

-Now Paul talks briefly about elders and their worthiness to be compensated in the body of believers for their work if they rule well (1 Timothy 5:17-18). When an elder is charged with wrongdoing, it should have a consensus of at least two or three witnesses (1 Timothy 5:19). As for those elders who persist in sin, they should be rebuked in the corporate gathering so that accountability and the fear of God may preside over the congregation (1 Timothy 5:20). This is to be administered in total impartiality under the Headship of Christ without prejudging (1 Timothy 5:21). *Application* This is an interesting section when we consider the unquestioned power and authority in the modern church as it pertains to leadership. Have we become so respectful and honoring of our spiritual leaders that we never question or challenge things that may be unbiblical and contrary to the cause of the Kingdom within the local church? When elders rule well, they should be honored with double portions. When they do wrong, they too should be corrected with respect and dignity with reconciliation and restoration the goal. Sadly, we often do not address sin in the church the proper way and have become weakened as a result. Standing up in these types of situations will require courage, but the ungodly things in the church will prosper if we don’t do anything. Resist blind obedience and seek the truth in love for a healthy and Spirit-filled church. The key point here that Paul is promoting is accountability, which the American church desperately needs. We usually don’t confront enough because we don’t care enough, and are probably not listening to God’s voice enough. If we are not careful, the leaders in our churches can rule and domineer with pride and contempt over their flock, which are also priests and filled with discernment (1 Thessalonians 5:20, 1 Peter 2:9, Revelation 1:6). This accentuates the decline of the prophetic ministry in the modern church, which is an essential check and balance system that the Lord has ordained.

-The final instruction deals with not being too quick to lay hands on others to bless them when you really don’t know their spirit (1 Timothy 5:22a). Paul implores his young leader to not take part in the sins of others, but to keep himself pure (1 Timothy 5:22b). He warns against asceticism more than likely in commanding that he take a little wine for his stomach and frequent ailments. He warns that some sins are conspicuous (easy to notice), but some are hidden and will come out later. This applies to good works as well, but one day all will come to light (1 Corinthians 4:5). *Application* The intentions of the heart God will judge. We need to be careful not to pass judgment quickly or in haste. Assess situations that you are unsure of and be careful of your blessings and partnerships. Ask the Lord for discernment and wisdom (James 1:5).

 

Verse to Memorize- 1 Timothy 5:17

1 Timothy Bible Study Notes- Chapter 4

1 Timothy 4

 

-Paul lets his spiritual son Timothy know exactly what the latter days would be like as some will depart from the faith devoting themselves to deceitful spirits (temporary pleasures, materialism, false teaching, etc.) and teachings of demons (obsession with occultic phenomenon, etc.). This happens through insincere liars whose consciences are seared (1 Timothy 4:1-2). Remember how Paul earlier told Timothy that the goal of real Christian ministry is love that comes from a pure heart, a good conscience, and a sincere faith (1 Timothy 1:5)? This is the contrast between the good and the evil. Notice it here in the text. These unbelievers in the true God will do unbiblical things like forbid marriage (Catholic church take notice), require abstinence from God ordained foods (Vegans take notice, 1 Timothy 4:3-4). God created everything to be received with thanksgiving and nothing is to be rejected if we know the truth for it is made holy by the Word of God and prayer (1 Timothy 4:5). *Application* This is good and sensible doctrine that Paul purports for the young disciple of Jesus Christ. We need to have good training and be aware of the false imposters who are out there in the world to deceive and lead astray. Stay tuned into the Word of God and His righteousness and you will not be misled. Have nothing to do with the irreverent and silly myths (new fangled fads). Rather train yourself for godliness, which holds its value now and for the age to come (1 Timothy 4:6-9). Hope in the Living God, who is the Savior of all people of faith in Him (1 Timothy 4:10).

-Paul instructs Timothy to command and teach these things (1  Timothy 4:11). Timothy is told to let no one look down on (despise) his youthfulness, but instead set an example to those who believe in the areas of speech, conduct, love, faith, purity, devotion to reading Scripture publically, exhortation (challenges, motivations), and teaching (1 Timothy 4:12-13). An imperative command is given to not neglect the spiritual gift imparted to him by the laying on of hands and prophesy by the elders (presbuterion). Timothy is commanded to practice these things and immerse himself in them so that his progress and spiritual growth would be evident to everyone. It was imperative that he keep a close watch of himself and on his teaching with persistence for the salvation of himself and his hearers (1 Timothy 4:14-16). *Application* These are vital instructions for the minister of the gospel to heed. Spiritual oversight of people is a serious business and few should really choose it, unless God is absolutely calling and guiding. The responsibility for souls is weighty and should be considered with extreme caution and diligence. How do you think you are doing in this area? How do you think pastors and overseers in the American church are doing? Where we are lacking, may the Lord convict and challenge us to be more progressive in our spiritual earnest and devotion. Eternity is truly at stake!

 

Verses to Memorize- 1 Timothy 4:12-16

1 Timothy Bible Study Notes- Chapter 3

1 Timothy 3

 

-The instructions for overseers and deacons in the church offices are given in this informative chapter of Scripture for Godly leadership. It is a noble task to aspire to oversight and supervision in the church of the Living God, which is the pillar and buttress of the truth (1 Timothy 3:1, 15). The list for elders (episkopa) in the church include: being above reproach, husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable hospitable, able to teach, not a drunkard, not violent, being gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money ($), good manager of his home (wife and children), keep children submissive with dignity, not be a recent convert (new Christian), not conceited or puffed up in arrogance, and well thought of by outsiders (1 Timothy 3:2-7). Having pride will bring the condemnation of the devil and disgrace will bring the snare of the devil Paul expresses (1 Timothy 3:6-7). Deacons are given similar qualifications, which include: being dignified, not double-tongued (talking out of both sides of your mouth one way to someone and changing your tune or tone to someone else), not addicted to much wine, not greedy for dishonest gain, having a clear conscience, tested, blameless, having wives that are dignified, not slanderers, sober-minded, faithful in all things, the husband of one wife, good household manager of wife and children (1 Timothy 3:8-12). “Those who serve well as deacons gain a good standing for themselves and also great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus (1 Timothy 3:13).” *Application* The main ingredient in all of these qualifications is being filled with the Holy Spirit of the Living God. Apart from His presence in one, the task of leadership in the body of Christ is impossible. We must have Christ’s righteousness in us if we are to live up to these standards that the apostle describes. In the natural this is impossible, but with God all things are possible (Matthew 19:26, Mark 10:27). Walk blamelessly!

-Here is the mystery of Godliness: “He (Jesus Christ, the Messiah, the Anointed One) was manifested in the flesh, vindicated (justified) by the Spirit, seen by angels, proclaimed among the nations, believed on in the world, taken up in glory (1 Timothy 3:16).” *Application* Jesus Christ was a real person. He was filled with the Spirit of God in perfection and He was a fully human manifestation as the incarnate God on earth. He is to be proclaimed for who He truly is among the nations of the world and believed in by faith. He is now in glory at the right Hand of the Father making intercession and awaiting His return to earth (Romans 8:34, Hebrews 7:25). He is our Savior! He is reality! Accept Him!

 

Verse to Memorize- 1 Timothy 3:1

1 Timothy Bible Study Notes- Chapter 2

1 Timothy 2

 

-Paul’s instruction for the young pastor here in chapter two begins with prayer. Supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings should be made for all people, not just church folks, not just people we like, but ALL people saved and lost. Pray for king and rulers in authority that they may lead quiet and peaceful lives, Godly and dignified in every way (1 Timothy 2:1-3). Praying like is good in the sight of the Lord who desires ALL people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth (a proof against double predestination, God has a general call on everyone’s life, 1 Timothy 2:4). Paul gets theological for a moment and announces the oneness of the Godhead with the mediator Jesus Christ who gave Himself for ALL as a testimony at the proper time (1 Timothy 2:5-6). For this Paul was made an apostle and preacher to the Gentiles in faith and truth (1 Timothy 2:7). *Application* God’s will for us is that we be inclusive rather than exclusive. He personally welcomes ALL His creation into relationship and desperately wants us to be joined to Him. This recognition of His great and awesome love should not only inspire our devotion to Him because of His mercy and gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ on the basis of faith, but it should motivate our attitude and witness towards others, even those we don’t naturally care for or think could ever become a part of His Kingdom. Have complete love for your neighbor and lift them up to the Father for a better existence in Him.

-Paul desires unity in prayer as evidenced by verse eight of chapter two. We should pray lifting holy (not profane) hands without anger, dissension, or quarreling. The women are to adorn themselves properly in modesty and with respect using self-control. He lists braided hair, gold, pearls, and costly attire as considerations to avoid when coming to worship the Lord corporately. This is Paul’s desire, which should be taken not as regulations, but as sensible and practical advice for coming before the Lord publically. *Application* The issue here is on who we want to draw attention to. Is it the Lord or ourselves? Lest we think this is just an issue of thousands of years ago, let me offer a modern day example. Led Zeppelin, the classic rock band, writes this in a song called “Hey, Hey, What Can I Do” concerning a woman who can’t stay true.

 

“Sunday morning when we go down to church
See the menfolk standin' in line
Said they come to pray to the Lord
But my little girl, looks so fine”

 

The eyes of men are still fleshly and women need to adorn themselves properly in the Lord’s House with modesty and discreetness, not drawing attention to themselves.

-Paul then goes into what is proper for a woman in the church. She is to profess godliness with good works (1 Timothy 2:10). She is to learn quietly with all submissiveness, not teaching or exercising biblical authority over a man (1 Timothy 2:11-12). Paul has reservations about this issue because of Eve’s deception in the garden, and promotes the woman’s salvation through childbearing, continuing in faith, love, holiness, and self-control, which are all fruits of the Holy Spirit (1 Timothy 2:13-15). *Application* Obviously we have to interpret Scripture with Scripture here and see what the apostle means in totality. In other places Paul has expectations that women will pray, prophesy, and communicate in the public arena of corporate worship (1 Corinthians 11:4). What I believe Paul is getting at here is the issue of headship and submission to authority. This should be clearly evident from the text. This prevents the Jezebel spirit of control from coming in and destroying the order of God’s House with idolatry and pagan forms of worship that are seductive taking the focus off of the LORD. The context seems to indicate that this is the main issue. Women tend to talk more naturally than men and this can become a problem in the church when they want to take over and take control of the order of service or run the program. As long as they are submissive to the God ordained authorities in the church which are male as we will see as the letter continues (1 Timothy 3:2, 12), they should have no problems or issues with communication in the corporate setting. In short, we can see that it is the will of God that He be the center of attention rather than any human form.

 

Verses to Memorize- 1 Timothy 2:3-4

1 Timothy Bible Study Notes- Chapter 1

1 Timothy 1

 

Overview of 1 & 2 Timothy for New Testament Reading

 

            We can all look back to mentors and teachers in our lives and the impact that they had on our values and world-view. Timothy was a young man who had the benefit of a believing mom and grandmother, plus he was discipled by the Apostle Paul in the Christian faith. These two letters, along with Titus, are known as the pastoral epistles because of their instruction for young men in the ministry of Jesus Christ. It gives us a look into the intense training system in the 1^st century as the fledging church of the Living Savior got under way. Paul’s tone changes between the first and second letter as he become acutely aware of his impending earthly death for the cause of Christ. He writes the first letter probably around AD 64 right before his final imprisonment in Rome. The second letter was written from a Roman prison somewhere around AD 67, shortly before his martyrdom. These letters provide much valuable information for leaders in the church and the qualifications of being a man of God in management. As you read 2 Timothy remember that you are reading the final earthly words of a great man of God who sacrificed everything to promote the Kingdom of the Lord. Remember that you, just like Timothy, have a responsibility to commit yourself to stand courageously for the truth, knowing the Word and being empowered by His Holy Spirit to do what He has gifted you to do.

 

Major Themes:

 

Mentors- Paul provided instruction to this young leader of the church as an example for us today. We are to train up the next generation in the truths of Christian leadership so that the work will continue to grow and prosper in Christ Jesus.

 

Sound Doctrine, Faith and Teaching- Paul was not writing this text strictly on church administration; instead, he was primarily preparing young Timothy to deal wisely with false teachers who were threatening the vitality and accomplishments of the true body of Christ in the Ephesian church.

 

Godliness and Personal Discipline- (1 Tim. 2:2) There is much practical instruction about how leaders in the church of the Living God are to act and demonstrate their walk with Christ. Holy living as examples to the brothers and sisters in the Lord is a main point in Paul’s writing in these pastoral letters. This implies a deep reverence for God and the things of God. It stresses a disciplined life that will persevere through difficulty.

 

Handling Controversies- We are not to devote ourselves to myths or endless genealogies, which produce controversies (1 Tim. 1:4). Controversies and quarrels about words result only in envy, strife, malicious talk, evil suspicions, and constant friction between men of corrupt minds (1 Tim. 6:4, 2 Tim. 2:23-24). The way we handle conflict is important to the Lord and to His church. 1 & 2 Timothy focus on this theme.

 

Trustworthy Sayings- This phrase is used five times in the pastoral epistles, but found nowhere else in the New Testament (1 Tim. 1:15; 3:1; 4:9, 2 Tim. 2:11, Titus 3:8). These are words we can count on from the Lord, which necessitates our obedience in practical ways as we go through life. Research these “trustworthy sayings” and make them a part of who you are.

 

Boldness- In the face of opposition and persecution, Timothy was to carry out his ministry without fear or shame. Paul urged him to utilize to his fullest the gifts of preaching and teaching that the Holy Spirit had given him. We, through the power of God, can be wise and strong. God honors our confident testimony even when we suffer. We must get over our fear of what people might say or do, keep your eyes on Jesus Christ.

 

Structure:

 

1 Timothy- Paul affirms his relationship with the young Timothy (1:2). Paul begins his fatherly advice, warning Timothy about false teachers (1:3-11) and urging him to hold on to his faith in Christ (1:12-20). Next, Paul considers public worship, emphasizing the importance of prayer (2:1-7) and order in church meetings (2:8-15). This leads to a discussion of the qualifications of church leaders—elders and deacons. Here Paul lists specific criteria for each office (3:1-16).

Paul speaks again about false teachers, telling Timothy how to recognize them and respond to them (4:1-16). Next, he gives practical advice on pastoral care to the young and old (5:1-2), widows (5:3-16), elders (5:17-25), and slaves (6:1-2). Paul concludes by exhorting Timothy to guard his motives (6:3-10), to stand firm in his faith (6:11-12), to live above reproach (6:13-16), and to minister faithfully (6:17-21).

 

2 Timothy-Paul provides expressions of love and tenderness for Timothy (1:1-5). Then Timothy is reminded of the qualifications and qualities necessary for a faithful minister of Jesus Christ (1:6-2:12). Timothy should remember his call and use his gifts with boldness (1:6-12), keep to the truth (1:13-18), prepare others to follow him in the ministry (2:1-2), be disciplined and ready to endure suffering (2:3-7), and keep his eyes and mind focused on Christ (2:8-13). Paul challenges Timothy to hold to sound doctrine, reject error and avoid godless chatter, correctly handle the word of truth (2:14-19), and keep his life pure (2:20-26).

Next, Paul warns Timothy of the opposition that he and other believers would face in the last days from self-centered people who use the church for their own gain and teach false doctrines (3:1-9). Paul warns Timothy that there will be unfaithful people, and that he is to follow Paul’s example (3:10-11), understanding the real source of the opposition (3:12-13), and finding strength and power in the Word of God (3:14-17). Then Paul gives Timothy a stirring charge: to preach the Word (4:1-4) and to fulfill his ministry until the end (4:5-8).

Paul concludes with personal requests and items of information. In these final words, he reveals his loneliness and his strong love for his brothers and sisters in Christ (4:9-22).

 

Key Verses:

1 Timothy 4:12- “Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but rather in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity, show yourself an example of those who believe.”

 

2 Timothy 2:15- “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth.”

 

*Notes from this overview were aided by:

New American Standard Bible: Life Application Study Bible, Zondervan, Grand Rapids, Mich.: 1995, pgs. 2126-2127, 2138-2139.

 

-There is much that the Apostle Paul wants to share with his young spiritual son in the faith as he sees his time on earth is growing short and the Kingdom must be advanced through the younger generation in the body of Christ. Paul calls Timothy his “true child in the faith (1 Timothy 1:2).” He pronounces not just the useful grace and peace upon him, but also adds mercy in this letter. There is a constant thread of God’s mercy as Paul writes recognizing the gift God has given him to humbly serve the King after being truly converted from his old ways which he calls himself, the foremost sinner (1 Timothy 1:15). The new life is different by the mercies of Christ Jesus given through His work on the cross and appropriated by our faith in Him. Out of this “rule of faith” comes correct doctrine for the church, which Paul wants to impart to young Timothy in this pastoral epistle. No longer is the church to be guided by false doctrines as traditions of men, myths, or endless genealogies, which promote speculations, intrigue, vain discussions, and pride in confident man-made assertions rather than stewardship from God (1 Timothy 1:3-4, 6-7). The aim of the genuine charge in the faith is love that comes from a pure heart, a good conscience, and a sincere faith with great understanding spiritually from the Holy Spirit of God. *Application* Our ministry in the Lord Jesus Christ should be characterized by these three traits continually. A pure heart is wholly God’s and without deceit. This is the heart that will see God in His Spirit and His Truth (Psalm 73:1, Matthew 5:8, John 4:23-24, Hebrews 10:22). A good conscience means that you have taken the righteousness of Christ and desire nothing else but His best for your life not turning to the right or to the left. It is the straight and narrow way to life (Deuteronomy 5:32; 17:11, 20; 28:14, Joshua 1:7; 23:6, 2 Kings 22:2, 2 Chronicles 34:2, Isaiah 30:21, Matthew 7:13-19). A sincere faith is one that lasts in truth and does not turn away to falsehood at any point. It is genuine without reproach (Philippians 2:15, 1 Timothy 3:2; 5:7, Titus 1:6-7).

-Paul recounts what he was saved from as he reminisces to the young Timothy concerning the mercies of God in his life. God entrusts His stewardship to the faithful and obedient. God is patient and waits for us to come to Him for deliverance and eternal life. He is the King of the ages, immortal, invisible, the only God deserving of honor and glory forever truly (1 Timothy 1:8-17). *Application* It is good practice for us all to recount the grace and mercy of God often in our lives. He is worthy of all our praise every single day and every moment of those days. This is what life in His Presence is all about. His goodness is astounding!

-Paul now charges Timothy with great encouragement and exhortation as he entrusts Timothy to the work of the Lord according to the prophecies previously made about him (1 Timothy 1:18). Timothy is charged to wage the good warfare holding faith and a good conscience avoiding the destruction of some like Hymenaeus and Alexander, who rejected the right way and made shipwreck of their faith being handed over to Satan so that they may learn not to blaspheme. *Application* Here we see the perseverance of the believer extended as one of the greatest virtues in the Christian faith. Shrinking back draws no pleasure from the Lord (Hebrews 10:38-39). A steadfast spirit is what the Lord requires (Psalm 51:10). This is only attained by having His Holy Spirit within you and complete life change as a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17). People like Hymenaeus and Alexander here in the text can pretend for a while tasting and partaking of the Holy Spirit, but until you completely receive Him and His permanent salvation you are blaspheming God because of unbelief and waywardness off the path of truth (Hebrews 6:1-6). I don’t believe in this particular situation Paul is totally giving up on these two men. I believe he is still hopeful they will recognize their error and turn back to Christ. Whatever the case with these two, the situation is not good and they need a cleansing and regenerating by the Lord.

 

Verse to Memorize- 1 Timothy 1:5