The First Epistle of Paul to Timothy
Written by Paul from Macedonia, c. AD 62-63
Informing Timothy of his delay in Macedonia, Paul wrote this letter encouraging him to take care of various administrative matters and the problems resulting from the rise of false doctrine and a leadership vacuum of the church in Ephesus.
Chapter 1:1-20 The Problem of False Doctrine
After a brief greeting, Paul addresses the false (Jewish?) doctrine of “myths and genealogies” infiltrating the church. He addresses the problem by explaining that the goal of instruction is “love” (1:5), achieved by a teacher with a “pure heart, a good conscience, and sincere faith”. This abuse of the law gives rise only to argument and judgment rather than love. The contrast is clearly seen when compared to the message of God’s grace, to which Paul and Timothy have been appointed (1:16-20). Paul encourages Timothy to keep the faith and maintain a good conscience as he ministers the message of God’s grace and mercy to sinners.
Chapter 2:1—3:16 Policies to be Practiced in the Church
Paul addresses various issues facing the church. The matter of first importance is public prayer (2:1-7). The focus of this prayer is tranquility, both for civil authorities and within the church, for the furtherance of the gospel and of God’s desire “wishing all men to be saved” (2:4). In this local church context, Paul addresses the responsibilities of men, who are to pray, and of woman, who are to adorn themselves with good works. Furthermore, Elders are to meet certain requirements demonstrating maturity and carry out spiritual oversight, whereas deacons\deaconesses (?), after also meeting certain requirements, are to serve the church. Paul explains why he writes of these important matters: the local church is the “pillar and support of the truth” (3:15)
Chapter 4:1—6:21 Personal Advice to Leadership
Paul warns Timothy that some will fall away from the faith in these last days. Yet he is to treat all fairly, whether elders (5:1-2), widows who need support (5:3-8), who can work (5:9-10), or who are young (5:11-16). He addresses the treatment of elders, including financial remuneration (!) and discipline by the church if necessary, and the treatment of slaves (6:1-2). Paul ends by encouraging Timothy to flee from the attitude of serving for financial gain, but serve in godliness, faith, love and gentleness 6:11-21).
Quine's view of the Key Verse: 1 Timothy 6:20
“O Timothy, guard what has been entrusted to you, avoiding worldly and empty chatter and the opposing arguments of what is falsely called knowledge, which some have professes and thus gone astray from the faith.”
