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Author |
Paul the Apostle |
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Date |
Between A.D. 62 and 64 |
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Title |
From Paul's first recorded letter to his associate: Timothy |
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Background |
Timothy, born in Lystra, is the son of a devout Jewish woman named Eunice. His spiritual strength and physical weakness, make him an ideal co-laborer with Paul. Paul leaves Timothy in Ephesus to give guidance to the church there, which is experiencing some problems. The young Timothy is inexperienced, however, so Paul writes this letter to encourage Timothy and to give his “beloved son” advice on spiritual leadership and development of a godly church. |
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Where |
Possibly the Macedonian city of Philippi |
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To Whom |
Timothy |
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Content |
This personal letter from Paul to his close ally Timothy serves several purposes. It offers hope and comfort to keep young Timothy on the right path and is a sign for the church that Timothy has the express backing and support of the Apostle Paul. Paul offers Timothy advice for a congregation in these concerns: proper worship, qualifications for the church officers, relationships with widows, elders, and slaves; and the evil of loving money. Admonitions permeate the letter with counsel to help the Christians live godly lives in a healthy church committed to following good and fleeing evil. |
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Themes |
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Key |
“Doctrine”; “Qualifications.” Paul exhorts Timothy to remain true to God's ways and to follow no other “doctrine.” Specific examples of God's ways include a list of the “qualifications” which the Lord has given for the church's leadership. |
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Outline |
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