Introduction to the Epistle Read 1 Timothy 1:1–2 To Timothy my true son in the faith. 1 Timothy 1:2 Many biblical scholars believe that after the close of the book of Acts, the apostle Paul was released from prison and from about a.d. 62 to 68 went on a fourth missionary journey. The route of this journey can be pieced together from references in his later epistles. On this trip, Paul visited the wealthy port city of Ephesus, which he had also visited on his third missionary journey (Acts 19). He left Timothy there and went on to Macedonia, hoping to return soon (v. 3; 3:14). When he was delayed, he wrote in about a.d. 64 the letter of 1 Timothy to his “true son in the faith” back in Ephesus (v. 2). The purpose of this epistle was to encourage Timothy to guard and live out the gospel. The true gospel was to be championed against false teachings that were then gaining adherents. Even more importantly, the gospel was to be lived out by Timothy and the Ephesian believers as a witness to its truth and power. For these reasons, we’ve entitled this month’s book study of 1 and 2 Timothy. This month’s themes also include godliness, the profound responsibility of teaching and preaching, congregational life and leadership, and suffering for Christ. First Timothy is an epistle, a letter written by Paul to his younger ministry partner. It was not a private document, as we think of letters today, but rather was intended to be read aloud to the believers at Ephesus. Knowing this, Paul called Timothy his “true son in the faith” not only to reflect their close personal relationship, but also to remind listeners that Timothy ministered under the Apostle’s blessing and authority. Never one to miss an opportunity, Paul also used his greeting to exalt Christ, in whom we have the hope of salvation (v. 1). Hope is a significant biblical term. It doesn’t mean “wish” or “dream,” as in American culture. It indicates a certainty that lies in the future. Our salvation in Christ was accomplished at the cross in the past (Heb. 10:10), but it is also being worked out in the present (Phil. 2:12) and will one day be completed (Phil. 1:6). We should be encouraged by this truth!
Posted on: Fri, 05 Jul 2013 20:00:16 +0000
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