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This study on 1 Timothy is based on the 2011 New International Version of the Bible.
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Living i God s household
9 Studies from 1 Timothy
Davide Verlingieri
God’s Eco o y
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God s E o o
Contents
Study 1 Acts 19 Setting the Stage
1 Timothy 1:1-2 Word From the CEO 4
Study 2 1 Timothy 1:3-20 False Economists 7
Study 3 1 Timothy 2:1 - 3:1a G o i g God s E o o 9
Study 4 1 Timothy 3:1b-13 Resume`s Please 12
Study 5 1 Timothy 3:14-16 Mission Statement 14
Study 6 1 Timothy 4:1-16 Ongoing Training 16
Study 7 1 Timothy 5:1 – 6:2b Policies and Procedures 18
Study 8 1 Timothy 6:2c – 10 Beware! Embezzlers About 21
Study 9 1 Timothy 6:11-20 Work Toward the Goal 23
Leader’s Notes 25
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Read: Acts 19 - Try to picture the life, culture and values present in Ephesus.
1
Setting the Stage
Word From the CEO
A c t s 19 & 1 T i m o t h y 1 : 1 – 2
Setting the Stage
The year is A.D.63,1 Paul is in Macedonia2 and writes this letter to his younger companion
Timothy. Paul has sent Timothy to look after the church in Ephesus, which is made up of
many different house churches that each have their own pastoral leadership.3 Ephesus is
the most important Roman city in Asia Minor - It is the capital of proconsular Asia, and a
major centre of commerce and influence.4 It was roughly 9 years ago that Paul first
proclaimed the gospel in the city and many people had believed.5 The church in Ephesus is
now facing serious issues because of false teachers who are leading some of the house
churches astray. Ordinarily this danger came by external influences, however in Ephesus it
seems like the false teaching is coming from within the church itself!6 Paul tells Timothy to
counter this danger by sound teaching and also by giving an example of how Christians
ought to o du t the sel es i God s household - of ho thi gs o k i God s e o o .7
1
Paul Kent, Know Your Bible - All 66 Books Explained and Applied (Uhrichsville, Ohio 44683: Barbour
Publishing, Inc., 2008).81.
2
Gordon D Fee and Douglas Stuart, How to Read the Bible Book by Book: A Guided Tour (Zondervan,
2002).373.
3
Henry Hampton Halley, Halley's Bible Handbook : An Abbreviated Bible Commentary, 24th ed. (Grand Rapids,
Mich.: Zondervan Pub. House, Academic and Professional Books, 1965).632.
4
Geography Strabo, "Loeb Classical Library," Harvard University Press (volume 1-7) 14.1.24 (1930).
5
Halley, Halley's Bible Handbook : An Abbreviated Bible Commentary.632.
6
David S Dockery, Trent C Butler, and Christopher L Church, Holman Bible Handbook (Holman Bible Publishers,
1992).736. Fee and Stuart, How to Read the Bible Book by Book: A Guided Tour.373. Craig S. Keener and
InterVarsity Press., The Ivp Bible Background Commentary : New Testament (Downers Grove, Ill.: InterVarsity
Press, 1993).606.
7
Dockery, Butler, and Church, Holman Bible Handbook.736.
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1. What are your observations about the different groups of people who lived in
Ephesus? (Acts 19:1-3, 13, 17, 19, 24, 35)
2. What are some of the obstacles that Paul would have faced when preaching the
gospel in Ephesus?
3. What were the attitudes or motivation of those ho opposed Paul s essage? A ts
19:8-9, 24-25)
4. What was the potential problem if the events of verse 13 continued to occur? (Read
this i light of the people s espo se i e ses -19)
5. What was Ephesus famous for? (Acts 19:35)
6. As a esult of Paul s p ea hi g i Ephesus, ho had hea d the gospel essage? A ts
19:10)
7. How would this impact the reputation of the city, and how then would Christians
have been perceived?
8. What e e Paul s i st u tio s to the elde s, a d his o e s ega di g the Chu h i
Ephesus? (Acts 20:28-31)
Discuss: In what ways was Ephesus similar or different to our city?
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Word From the CEO
9. By whose authority is Paul deemed an Apostle?
10. What is the sig ifi a e of add essi g Ti oth as t ue so i the faith ?
11. Is Timothy the only intended recipient of this letter? (See also 1 Timothy 6:21b)
12. What importance would these descriptions of Paul and Timothy have for the hearers
of the letter?
13. Who then is the ultimate authority that determines the content of the letter? (Who
is the CEO?)
Read: 1 Timothy 1:1-2
Discuss:
How can we be certain that the teaching and instructions we receive
are gi e ith God s ulti ate authority? See Ti othy : 6
How does this affect our interaction with other people in our city?
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2
False Economists
1 T i m o t h y 1 : 3 – 2 0
In our world many people, businesses and even entire governments base their decisions and
actions on advice from economists. Unfortunately there are some economists who give bad
advice. Often they are simply mistaken, but sometimes they have their own self-seeking
motives. The end result can be disastrous for all involved! The church in Ephesus also had a
p o le ith false e o o ists; although ot i the se se that e u de sta d e o o ist .
These people claimed to be teachers giving advice about the things of God, but were
teaching false doctrines that just promoted controversial speculations. Paul gives Timothy
specific instructions to command those who are doing so, to stop teaching false doctrines.
1. What is the goal of Paul s o a d to Ti oth ? : )
2. How do a pure heart, a good conscience, and a sincere faith contribute to a
demonstration of love?
3. What can be the outcome of an unloving attitude, lack of conscience and insincere
faith? What becomes the motive of people who practice these things? (verses 4, 6-7,
19)
Read: 1 Timothy 1:3-20
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4. What is it that Paul says should be promoted instead of
controversial speculations? (vs 4)1
5. What did God entrust to Paul and to what service was he
appointed? (vvs 11, 16)
6. What is the trustworthy saying that is a foundational truth of
God s e o o ?
7. Ho does Paul s life help people to u de sta d this t uth?
8. What should the focus of our speech and teaching be?
1
Philip H. Towner, The Letters to Timothy and Titus, The New International Commentary on the New
Testament (Grand Rapids, Mich.: William B. Eerdmans Pub. Co., 2006).68-69.
2
D. A. Carson, New Bible Commentary : 21st Century Edition, 4th ed. (Leicester, England ; Downers Grove, Ill.,
USA: Inter-Varsity Press, 1994).1296.
Handed Over to Satan
This short but troubling
statement simply means
that their right to remain
within the Christian
community is forfeited. In
this picture the Church is
see as God s do ai a d
the unbelieving world as
“ata s. Note: the doo is
still open for them if they
can be taught not to
blaspheme.2
Discuss: Have you experienced a conversation
a out spiritual atters that seemed to focus
more on things that were controversial,
speculative and divisive, rather than
emphasising the mercy, patience, grace and
love of Jesus? How did you feel afterwards?
How can we gently and lovingly instruct people
ho see to ho er o these faith-eroding
topics?
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3
G o i g God s E o o
1 T i m o t h y 2 : 1 – 3 : 1 a
1. What attitudes are developed by praying for all people, for kings and for those in
authority?
2. How may the non-Christian Ephesian community have viewed the church s devotion
to praying for their benefit and that of their leaders?
3. What would the outcome be for the church? (vs 2)
4. What other reason is given to pray? (vvs 3-4)
Read: 1 Timothy 2:1 – 3:1a
During one particular time of my life I witnessed the havoc that can enter a church as a
result of false teaching and divisive doctrines. What began as local squabbles over various
doctrines, began to effect the whole church, and eventually spilled over into the
community. They became famous when they were awarded a bold heading and massive
photo o the f o t page of the it s ai e spape ; a d this as ot a s all ou t
to , ut o e of Aust alia s apital ities! A hu h that had o e ee i edi l effe ti e
at sharing the good news, and through whom many were saved, was now cloaked in shame.
I stead of God s household ei g p aised the o ld, it as ought i to dis epute! Paul
gives specific instructions to the church in Ephesus on how they ought to conduct
themselves when they meet together. His purpose is so that nothing will hinder all people
coming to a knowledge of the truth.
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5. To ho does God s desi e a d edeeming work extend? (vvs 4-6, 7, 15)
6. What is demonst ated a out God s e o o he Ch istia s
can worship together without anger or dispute?
7. What are the motives behind the instructions in verses 9 – 12?1
Do these principles apply exclusively to women?
8. What is the ele a e of E e s si to the i st uctions Paul is
giving to women in Ephesus?
9. Considering your answers to questions 7 and 8, what is your
opinion on whether it is Biblically permissible for women to
teach at church in our current culture?
1
beautiaful, "The Mistranslation of 1 Timothy 2:11-12,"
https://christianfeminism.wordpress.com/2008/07/04/the-mistranslation-of-1-timothy-211-12/.
2
M. Henry and L.F. Church, Commentary on the Whole Bible: Genesis to Revelation (S+U Publishers, 1982).11,
J.E. Hartley, Genesis (Hendrickson Publishers, 2000).70.
3
Towner, The Letters to Timothy and Titus.233-35.
Women Saved Through Childbearing
To be saved through childbearing does not mean that a woman is saved only once she
has borne children. Although there are several different views on how to understand
this verse, the most logical and probable, (given the discussion about Eve in vs 14), is
that hild ea i g is a e ho of the u se pla ed o o e as a esult of E e s si i
Eden. The pain in child birth is a constant reminder of the effect of sin. Perhaps some
questioned if women are truly saved from sin and death given they still experienced
pain in labour – the evidence of the curse. Paul essentially is saying that women will be
saved despite the perils of the fallen world (epitomised by pain in childbirth), if they
o ti ue i faith, lo e a d holi ess ith p op iet …. a d THI“ I“ a t ust o th sa i g!3
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10. What is Paul s o e all o je ti e in giving the instructions in 1 Timothy 2:1 – 3:1a?
Co side the use of the o d the efo e i e se
Discuss:
What negative attitudes can we hold against certain types of people that
prevent us from sharing the gospel with them in love?
What aspects of our conduct as individuals and as a church, can give a
negative impression within our society, and act as an obstacle to the gospel?
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4
Resume`s Please
1 T i m o t h y 3 : 1 b – 1 3
1. What characteristics does Paul say are to be evident in overseers and deacons?
2. What are the duties that Paul assigns to leaders of the church?
3. By looking at the number of characteristics versus the number of duties assigned to
church elders, hat a e lea a out God s p io ities fo leade s of His Chu h?
Read: 1 Timothy 3:1b-13
Most o pa ies ill ask to see a pe so s esu e` he o side i g offe i g the
employment. It is important they find a person with the right qualifications to do the job
required, and they understand that whoever they hire becomes a representative of their
company. Choosing the wrong person could not only affect the performance of the
company, but also its reputation. Likewise in this letter, Paul lists the qualifications required
for leaders within the church.
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4. Many of these characteristics listed formed part of the Roman ideal for their leaders.
Can you think of any other characteristics which are desirable in our culture?
5. What risks are involved in placing a new Christian in a position of church leadership?
6. Why is it so important that church leaders have a good reputation with outsiders?
Discuss:
What message does the character and behaviour of church leaders convey
a out God s e o o y to the people arou d us?
To what extent is it important to conform to the ideals of our society for the
sake of reaching them for the gospel?
Ca you thi k of a y ultural ideals that etray the hara ter of God s
household?
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5
Mission Statement
1 T i m o t h y 3 : 1 4 – 1 6
I remember once when my boss called me away from the work I was doing, and began to
demonstrate how to use a new computer program he had acquired. As he was explaining
ho the soft a e o ks I fou d it diffi ult to o e t ate o hat he as sa i g. I did t
understand the reason why he as tea hi g e. It as t u til I i te upted hi to ask,
Wh a e ou sho i g e this? that he explained to me that my goal from now on was to
sell this product to our customers. Having clarified this, I found it much easier to focus. The
mission gave the reason for his instructions greater clarity. In this section of the epistle,
Paul takes a moment explain the purpose for his instructions. In doing so he clarifies the
goal of his letter – this is the mission statement.
1. What reason is given for writing this letter?
2. In what ways is the church described? (vs 15)
3. Based on these descriptions what images for the church does Paul draw to mind?
(see also 3:5) How do they help to inform our understanding of what the church is?1
1
A. Knowles, The Bible Guide: An All-in One Introduction to the Book of Books (Lion, 2006).649, Keener and
InterVarsity Press., The Ivp Bible Background Commentary : New Testament.637.
In Roman society duties that fell within the framework of the household extended beyond just the
treatment of wives and children, but also to the treatment of parents, servants, the state and the
gods. Whe ep ese ti g God s household, it as e essa fo Ch istia s to de o st ate
behaviour which would be held in higher esteem than the norm. After all, the manner in which
the church would meet within the homes of the believers would be comparable to an extended
Roman family. The conduct of the church should represent the high standard that one would
e pe t f o God s fa il .1
Read: 1 Timothy 3:14-16
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4. What is the responsibility of the church as the pillar and foundation of the truth?
(Consider the function of these in buildings)
5. What is the truth, from which godliness springs, that the church must hold firm and
support?
6. Contrast the outcome of upholding this simple truth verses the outcome of the false
tea he s do t i es in chapter 1. (see especially 1:4, 19)
7. Why is our conduct so important to the promotion of the gospel?
8. Considering your answers to questions 1, 4 and 7, what is the purpose of the mission
statement Paul gives Timothy?
Discuss:
How does a clear understanding of the mission statement and its purpose
help to transform the way we live?
What is the likely outcome when there is a disconnect between our conduct
as God s fa ily, a d the gospel e pro lai ?
What kind of conduct will help ensure the truth about Jesus will be openly
received in our community?
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6
Ongoing Training
1 T i m o t h y 4 : 1 – 16
A certain CEO once said, What ou do 't k o a ake ou fail! Pe haps the o l easo
why you are where you are is that, you've not known what you have to know... Go, learn
a d take the lead! 1 He recognised the importance of ongoing training and the dangers of
failing to do so. Just as this is true for companies, organisations and individuals, it is also
i gs t ue fo God s e o o . Paul e plai s the i po ta e of t ai i g i this se tio a d
even goes as far as saying that by doing so ensures the security of their salvation.
1. What reason does the Apostle Paul give for some people abandoning the faith?
(vvs1-2)
2. What factors would render someone susceptible to being deceived by lies?
3. What were some of the false teachings that certain people were following? (vs 3)
4. Why does Paul use such strong language, claiming that these teachings come from
demons? What is at risk?
5. What is the source of spiritual nourishment?
1
Israelmore Ayivor – CEO and founder of More-talk Leadership Training and Consultancy
Read: 1 Timothy 4:1-16
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6. What is the value of training in godliness? What promise does it hold?
7. What is godliness? (vs 12) What does Paul have to say about its aspect relating to
faith? What does Paul have to say about its aspect relating to conduct? (vvs 4, 6, 10,
12, 16)
8. Using what methods must Timothy train the church in Ephesus? (vvs 6, 11, 12, 13,
15, 16)
9. By persevering in these things what is the outcome?
10. After hearing this portion of the letter, what view of Timothy would the Ephesian
Christians have? (see especially vvs 12-15)
Discuss:
What begins to happen if we deprive ourselves of spiritual nourishment?
What actions do we need to take in our lives to ensure we are constantly
training in godliness?
What opportunities do we have in our day-to-day lives to give a godly
example to others?
How do we view people in our church who have the responsability of
spiritual leadership?
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7
Policies and Procedures
1 T i m o t h y 5 : 1 – 6 : 2 b
1. Paul addresses three main issues in this section. Who do they concern?
2. What problems was the church in Ephesus experiencing? (see vvs 3-16, 17-25, 6:1-
2b)
3. In verses 3- hat a e Paul s o e s?
Read: 1 Timothy 5:1 – 6:2b
Whe ‘a K o , o e of the fou de s of M Do ald s , sta ted out he as dete i ed that ea h
restaurant in the chain be consistent in its level of quality, service, cleanliness and value. This
commitment to consistency has been one of the three keys that led to the world-wide success of
the M Do ald s e pi e. “o hat is it that M Do ald s do that keeps thi gs u i g consistently?
They have a procedure for absolutely every task; making burgers, serving customers, even
mopping the floor and how to walk out the door at closing time. The church in Ephesus was in
desperate need for some policies and procedures to deal with some of the problems they were
e pe ie i g, so i this se tio of the lette Paul gets e spe ifi . Ho e e , God s e o o is
not about having a policy or procedure for absolutely everything. It operates more on the basis
of universal principles that can be applied to everyday situations. What principles can we find
here?
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4. What are his concerns in verses 17-25?
5. What are his concerns in verses 6:1-2b?
6. Is it appropriate to respond in the same way to these concerns if they arose in our
community? (Why or why not?) How often do we see these problems occur?
7. How should we relate to one another based on verses 1-2?
8. How do the ideas of family (vs 1- a d God s household : o k togethe ?
9. To whom do we all owe our inclusion into this family?
10. In context of the letter so far, what are the sinning elders likely to be guilty of doing?
11. Why is it important that they are reproved before everyone?
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12. Thinking back to 1:4, what is the outcome of their sin? What should they have been
doing? (1:4)
13. What is meant by the laying on of hands and why should Timothy not be hasty to do
so? (compare 4:14)
14. What is a primary o e i Paul s i d that go e s his i st u tio s to the hu h?
(5:14, 6:1)
Discuss:
Think about the various relationships in your life. In what specific ways can
you assist people in need, show honour and respect?
What changes can we make to the way we live that may cause people to
hold the gospel in high esteem?
Ho does the re og itio that e are o e fa ily i God s household pro ide
a framework for addressing modern issues which may not be mentioned in
the Bible?
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8
Beware! Embezzlers About
1 T i m o t h y 6 : 2 c - 1 0
Some of us may remember the Australian electrical and whitegoods retailer, Clive Peeters,
and wonder what ever happened to them. In 2010 Clive Peeters, suddenly ceased trading
from any of their 45 stores. One of the reasons for their downfall was the embezzlement of
$20 million by one of their payroll officers. As a result of the greed of just one employee,
the whole organisation was affected. Unfortunately in the church in Ephesus, there were
certain people who seemed willing to sacrifice the health of God s household for their own
selfish gain. Paul identifies this issue and exposes their true motives.
1. What role has been entrusted to Timothy? (vs 1) (Also 4:11)
2. Some people were teaching differently about God s e o o a d not agreeing with
the sou d i st u tio of ou Lo d Jesus Ch ist. What I“ the sou d i st u tio of our
Lo d Jesus Ch ist? (Look through the trustworthy sayings 1:15; 2:15-3:1a; 4:9-10
also 3:16)
3. How do we e te i to God s e o o a d receive this salvation proclaimed in the
gospel message? (John 3:16, Romans 10:9, Galatians 4:4-7, Ephesians 2:8-9)
Read: 1 Timothy 6:2c-10
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Discuss:
In our society, what well accepted and encouraged values about wealth
should we be wary of embracing?
Ho ould it help to ad a e God s e o o y if Christia s were perceived as
being generous and not eager for financial gain?
4. Without knowing the exact specifics of what doctrines were being taught by the false
teachers, in what fundamental ways did their teaching not agree with that of Jesus?
(1:7; 4:3)
_____________________________________________________________________
5. What does this teaching result in? What were they robbing people of? (1:19, 4:1,16)
6. What is the i o he o t asti g Paul s thoughts a out the false tea he s a d
what they think of themselves? (1:7, 6:4)
7. What was the underlying motivation of the false teachers? (6:4-5)1
8. What do verses 7-9 tell us about WHY godliness with
contentment is great gain?
9. How can an eagerness for money cause some to wander from
the faith?
1
Craig author Blomberg, From Pentecost to Patmos : Acts to Revelation.371.
Most Greco-Roman
religious teachers
received money for
their ministry and it
is highly likely that
these false teachers
were seeking out
patronage (similar to
sponsorship), from
their wealthy
admirers.1
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9
Work Toward The Goal
1 T i m o t h y 6 : 1 1 - 2 0
Most business would agree that without goals they are unlikely to succeed. Having goals
governs the decisions people make and guides the course their lives take. As we come to
the final part of this letter Paul reminds Timothy of the ultimate goal and encourages him to
stay on track.
1. What is the all this that Ti oth is told to flee f o ?
2. What notions are brought to mind by the language Paul uses in verse 12a?
3. What does that tell us about the Christian life?
4. What is the goal that Timothy is told to take a hold of?
5. Starting with Matthew and working your way through to John, what is the good
confession that Jesus made before Pontius Pilate? (Matthew 27:11, Mark 15:2, Luke
23:3, John 18:33-37)
6. Ho does Jesus o fessio ea o e eight o Paul s ha ge to Ti oth ? f Joh
18:36)
Read: 1 Timothy 6:11-20
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7. What does this sa a out God s e o o ?
8. The o ld s e o o is ased o the a uisitio of ealth. What is the u e of
God s economy? (vs11, 17b, 1:4b)
9. How can we use worldly wealth as an in est e t i God s e o o ?
10. What does Paul say is true life, and therefore the goal we work toward?
Discuss:
In what ways can we help each other keep our focus on our eternal goal?
How can we structure our everyday lives so that our eternal goal is evident
by the way we live?
No that e e o e to the e d of Ti othy, riefly share your
u dersta di g of hat it ea s to e part of God s e o o y.
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Leade s Notes
Study 1
Q2. Think about what agendas, objections, vices, religious beliefs etc. this diverse group
would have had.
Q4. Magicians would act as masters to spirits and deities thinking that by invoking their
names, they could coerce them to do their bidding. Jesus will not be manipulated like lower
spirits. He is Lord, not their slave.1
Q7. People from all over the world would come and deposit money to the temple which
served also as a bank. The civic pride of the city was also attached to the temple. The city
stood to lose its good eputatio a d sou e of i o e e ause of pesk Ch istia s.2
Q11. Although addressed only to Timothy, it works as a letter of recommendation intended
for all to hear. It is used to communicate that the addressee is acting under their authority.
The use of the plural in the last verse supports this.3
Study 2
The o ept of ad a i g God s Household, God s E o o y i trodu ed here go er s the
rest of the epistle. 1 Timothy has a very strong missional emphasis throughout the letter
hi h is see y Paul s o er of the pu li life of the o u ity. Keep this i i d as you
work through this whole study.4
Study 3
Q5 & 6. The goal here is to show that God brings unity and accord among all people; Jew,
Gentile, Men, Women, Slave and Free etc. It also demonstrates humility among all believers
who recognise that no-one was able to save themselves, and therefore are any better off
than another.
1
Keener and InterVarsity Press., The Ivp Bible Background Commentary : New Testament.378-79.
2
Ibid.379-80
3
Luke Timothy Johnson, The First and Second Letters to Timothy : A New Translation with Introduction and
Commentary (New Haven, Conn. ; London: Yale University Press, 2008).159-60.
4
Ibid.137-38.
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Q7. To be sensitive to the cultural values of the era, so that nothing will hinder the
advancing of the gospel1
Q8. The o se ue e of E e s si as pai ful la ou , that she ill desi e to do i ate he
husband and that he will rule over her. For a Christian woman to consistently display a
desire to forcefully dominate men casts shadows on the validity of their new creation status.
It suggests that the curse of sin has not been broken in their life. This same logic is why Paul
has to qualify that women can still attain salvation even though the other curse of sin,
(painful labour), still remains upon them.
Q9. Treat this question with great sensitivity. Be aware that there are different views.
Ensure that the opinions of others are respected.
Study 4
Q3. He values good character above personal ability.
Study 5
Q2. Household, Pillar, Foundation.
Q3. Family, Temple.
Q4. Support and hold up the truth.
Q7. Because it either supports or undermines the truth we proclaim.
Study 6
Q2. Lack of knowledge of God s truth.
Q4. These teaching advocate a righteousness attained through strict adherence to
regulations. They undermine God s grace and place the task of salvation into human hands.
1
Risto Saarinen, The Pastoral Epistles with Philemon & Jude, Brazos Theological Commentary on the Bible
(Grand Rapids, Mich.: Brazos Press, 2008).54-6.
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Study 7
Q1. Widows, Elders, Slaves.
Q6. The issues in our day may be different to the issues then.
Q7. Like we are part of one family. Everybody should look out for the benefit of each other
and the family as a whole.
Q10. It s likely the sin in view here is teaching false doctrine, and also other activities
associated with the false teachers.1
Q11. Also so that their erroneous teaching can be refuted and rectified. (It may also be a
good idea to highlight that it is Timothy, Paul s delegate), who does the public reproving,
and not just any random person.)
Study 8
Q2. Salvation through Jesus!!!
Q6. They think they are wise, but really they understand nothing.
Q9. We start to serve money instead of God. We start to put our trust in money instead of
God.
Study 9
Q1. The desire for wealth.
Q3. It s an ongoing wrestle.
Q5. Jesus is king and His kingdom is not of this world.
Q6. It heightens the realisation that we belong to a different kingdom and not this world.
Q7. It s not of this world.
1
G.D. Fee, 1 & 2 Timothy, Titus (Baker Publishing Group, 1989).127.
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Bibliography
beautiaful. "The Mistranslation of 1 Timothy 2:11-12."
https://christianfeminism.wordpress.com/2008/07/04/the-mistranslation-of-1-timothy-211-
12/.
Blomberg, Craig author. From Pentecost to Patmos : Acts to Revelation.
Carson, D. A. New Bible Commentary : 21st Century Edition. 4th ed. Leicester, England ; Downers
Grove, Ill., USA: Inter-Varsity Press, 1994.
Dockery, David S, Trent C Butler, and Christopher L Church. Holman Bible Handbook. Holman Bible
Publishers, 1992.
Fee, G.D. 1 & 2 Timothy, Titus. Baker Publishing Group, 1989.
Fee, Gordon D, and Douglas Stuart. How to Read the Bible Book by Book: A Guided Tour. Zondervan,
2002.
Halley, Henry Hampton. Halley's Bible Handbook : An Abbreviated Bible Commentary. 24th ed.
Grand Rapids, Mich.: Zondervan Pub. House, Academic and Professional Books, 1965.
Hartley, J.E. Genesis. Hendrickson Publishers, 2000.
Henry, M., and L.F. Church. Commentary on the Whole Bible: Genesis to Revelation. S+U Publishers,
1982.
Johnson, Luke Timothy. The First and Second Letters to Timothy : A New Translation with
Introduction and Commentary. New Haven, Conn. ; London: Yale University Press, 2008.
Keener, Craig S., and InterVarsity Press. The Ivp Bible Background Commentary : New Testament.
Downers Grove, Ill.: InterVarsity Press, 1993.
Kent, Paul. Know Your Bible - All 66 Books Explained and Applied [in English]. Uhrichsville, Ohio
44683: Barbour Publishing, Inc., 2008.
Knowles, A. The Bible Guide: An All-in One Introduction to the Book of Books. Lion, 2006.
Saarinen, Risto. The Pastoral Epistles with Philemon & Jude. Brazos Theological Commentary on the
Bible. Grand Rapids, Mich.: Brazos Press, 2008.
Strabo, Geography. "Loeb Classical Library." Harvard University Press (volume 1-7) 14.1.24 (1930).
Towner, Philip H. The Letters to Timothy and Titus. The New International Commentary on the New
Testament. Grand Rapids, Mich.: William B. Eerdmans Pub. Co., 2006.

1 Timothy Bible Study

  • 1.
    P a ge | 1 This study on 1 Timothy is based on the 2011 New International Version of the Bible.
  • 2.
    P a ge | 2 Living i God s household 9 Studies from 1 Timothy Davide Verlingieri God’s Eco o y
  • 3.
    P a ge | 3 God s E o o Contents Study 1 Acts 19 Setting the Stage 1 Timothy 1:1-2 Word From the CEO 4 Study 2 1 Timothy 1:3-20 False Economists 7 Study 3 1 Timothy 2:1 - 3:1a G o i g God s E o o 9 Study 4 1 Timothy 3:1b-13 Resume`s Please 12 Study 5 1 Timothy 3:14-16 Mission Statement 14 Study 6 1 Timothy 4:1-16 Ongoing Training 16 Study 7 1 Timothy 5:1 – 6:2b Policies and Procedures 18 Study 8 1 Timothy 6:2c – 10 Beware! Embezzlers About 21 Study 9 1 Timothy 6:11-20 Work Toward the Goal 23 Leader’s Notes 25
  • 4.
    P a ge | 4 Read: Acts 19 - Try to picture the life, culture and values present in Ephesus. 1 Setting the Stage Word From the CEO A c t s 19 & 1 T i m o t h y 1 : 1 – 2 Setting the Stage The year is A.D.63,1 Paul is in Macedonia2 and writes this letter to his younger companion Timothy. Paul has sent Timothy to look after the church in Ephesus, which is made up of many different house churches that each have their own pastoral leadership.3 Ephesus is the most important Roman city in Asia Minor - It is the capital of proconsular Asia, and a major centre of commerce and influence.4 It was roughly 9 years ago that Paul first proclaimed the gospel in the city and many people had believed.5 The church in Ephesus is now facing serious issues because of false teachers who are leading some of the house churches astray. Ordinarily this danger came by external influences, however in Ephesus it seems like the false teaching is coming from within the church itself!6 Paul tells Timothy to counter this danger by sound teaching and also by giving an example of how Christians ought to o du t the sel es i God s household - of ho thi gs o k i God s e o o .7 1 Paul Kent, Know Your Bible - All 66 Books Explained and Applied (Uhrichsville, Ohio 44683: Barbour Publishing, Inc., 2008).81. 2 Gordon D Fee and Douglas Stuart, How to Read the Bible Book by Book: A Guided Tour (Zondervan, 2002).373. 3 Henry Hampton Halley, Halley's Bible Handbook : An Abbreviated Bible Commentary, 24th ed. (Grand Rapids, Mich.: Zondervan Pub. House, Academic and Professional Books, 1965).632. 4 Geography Strabo, "Loeb Classical Library," Harvard University Press (volume 1-7) 14.1.24 (1930). 5 Halley, Halley's Bible Handbook : An Abbreviated Bible Commentary.632. 6 David S Dockery, Trent C Butler, and Christopher L Church, Holman Bible Handbook (Holman Bible Publishers, 1992).736. Fee and Stuart, How to Read the Bible Book by Book: A Guided Tour.373. Craig S. Keener and InterVarsity Press., The Ivp Bible Background Commentary : New Testament (Downers Grove, Ill.: InterVarsity Press, 1993).606. 7 Dockery, Butler, and Church, Holman Bible Handbook.736.
  • 5.
    P a ge | 5 1. What are your observations about the different groups of people who lived in Ephesus? (Acts 19:1-3, 13, 17, 19, 24, 35) 2. What are some of the obstacles that Paul would have faced when preaching the gospel in Ephesus? 3. What were the attitudes or motivation of those ho opposed Paul s essage? A ts 19:8-9, 24-25) 4. What was the potential problem if the events of verse 13 continued to occur? (Read this i light of the people s espo se i e ses -19) 5. What was Ephesus famous for? (Acts 19:35) 6. As a esult of Paul s p ea hi g i Ephesus, ho had hea d the gospel essage? A ts 19:10) 7. How would this impact the reputation of the city, and how then would Christians have been perceived? 8. What e e Paul s i st u tio s to the elde s, a d his o e s ega di g the Chu h i Ephesus? (Acts 20:28-31) Discuss: In what ways was Ephesus similar or different to our city?
  • 6.
    P a ge | 6 Word From the CEO 9. By whose authority is Paul deemed an Apostle? 10. What is the sig ifi a e of add essi g Ti oth as t ue so i the faith ? 11. Is Timothy the only intended recipient of this letter? (See also 1 Timothy 6:21b) 12. What importance would these descriptions of Paul and Timothy have for the hearers of the letter? 13. Who then is the ultimate authority that determines the content of the letter? (Who is the CEO?) Read: 1 Timothy 1:1-2 Discuss: How can we be certain that the teaching and instructions we receive are gi e ith God s ulti ate authority? See Ti othy : 6 How does this affect our interaction with other people in our city?
  • 7.
    P a ge | 7 2 False Economists 1 T i m o t h y 1 : 3 – 2 0 In our world many people, businesses and even entire governments base their decisions and actions on advice from economists. Unfortunately there are some economists who give bad advice. Often they are simply mistaken, but sometimes they have their own self-seeking motives. The end result can be disastrous for all involved! The church in Ephesus also had a p o le ith false e o o ists; although ot i the se se that e u de sta d e o o ist . These people claimed to be teachers giving advice about the things of God, but were teaching false doctrines that just promoted controversial speculations. Paul gives Timothy specific instructions to command those who are doing so, to stop teaching false doctrines. 1. What is the goal of Paul s o a d to Ti oth ? : ) 2. How do a pure heart, a good conscience, and a sincere faith contribute to a demonstration of love? 3. What can be the outcome of an unloving attitude, lack of conscience and insincere faith? What becomes the motive of people who practice these things? (verses 4, 6-7, 19) Read: 1 Timothy 1:3-20
  • 8.
    P a ge | 8 4. What is it that Paul says should be promoted instead of controversial speculations? (vs 4)1 5. What did God entrust to Paul and to what service was he appointed? (vvs 11, 16) 6. What is the trustworthy saying that is a foundational truth of God s e o o ? 7. Ho does Paul s life help people to u de sta d this t uth? 8. What should the focus of our speech and teaching be? 1 Philip H. Towner, The Letters to Timothy and Titus, The New International Commentary on the New Testament (Grand Rapids, Mich.: William B. Eerdmans Pub. Co., 2006).68-69. 2 D. A. Carson, New Bible Commentary : 21st Century Edition, 4th ed. (Leicester, England ; Downers Grove, Ill., USA: Inter-Varsity Press, 1994).1296. Handed Over to Satan This short but troubling statement simply means that their right to remain within the Christian community is forfeited. In this picture the Church is see as God s do ai a d the unbelieving world as “ata s. Note: the doo is still open for them if they can be taught not to blaspheme.2 Discuss: Have you experienced a conversation a out spiritual atters that seemed to focus more on things that were controversial, speculative and divisive, rather than emphasising the mercy, patience, grace and love of Jesus? How did you feel afterwards? How can we gently and lovingly instruct people ho see to ho er o these faith-eroding topics?
  • 9.
    P a ge | 9 3 G o i g God s E o o 1 T i m o t h y 2 : 1 – 3 : 1 a 1. What attitudes are developed by praying for all people, for kings and for those in authority? 2. How may the non-Christian Ephesian community have viewed the church s devotion to praying for their benefit and that of their leaders? 3. What would the outcome be for the church? (vs 2) 4. What other reason is given to pray? (vvs 3-4) Read: 1 Timothy 2:1 – 3:1a During one particular time of my life I witnessed the havoc that can enter a church as a result of false teaching and divisive doctrines. What began as local squabbles over various doctrines, began to effect the whole church, and eventually spilled over into the community. They became famous when they were awarded a bold heading and massive photo o the f o t page of the it s ai e spape ; a d this as ot a s all ou t to , ut o e of Aust alia s apital ities! A hu h that had o e ee i edi l effe ti e at sharing the good news, and through whom many were saved, was now cloaked in shame. I stead of God s household ei g p aised the o ld, it as ought i to dis epute! Paul gives specific instructions to the church in Ephesus on how they ought to conduct themselves when they meet together. His purpose is so that nothing will hinder all people coming to a knowledge of the truth.
  • 10.
    P a ge | 10 5. To ho does God s desi e a d edeeming work extend? (vvs 4-6, 7, 15) 6. What is demonst ated a out God s e o o he Ch istia s can worship together without anger or dispute? 7. What are the motives behind the instructions in verses 9 – 12?1 Do these principles apply exclusively to women? 8. What is the ele a e of E e s si to the i st uctions Paul is giving to women in Ephesus? 9. Considering your answers to questions 7 and 8, what is your opinion on whether it is Biblically permissible for women to teach at church in our current culture? 1 beautiaful, "The Mistranslation of 1 Timothy 2:11-12," https://christianfeminism.wordpress.com/2008/07/04/the-mistranslation-of-1-timothy-211-12/. 2 M. Henry and L.F. Church, Commentary on the Whole Bible: Genesis to Revelation (S+U Publishers, 1982).11, J.E. Hartley, Genesis (Hendrickson Publishers, 2000).70. 3 Towner, The Letters to Timothy and Titus.233-35. Women Saved Through Childbearing To be saved through childbearing does not mean that a woman is saved only once she has borne children. Although there are several different views on how to understand this verse, the most logical and probable, (given the discussion about Eve in vs 14), is that hild ea i g is a e ho of the u se pla ed o o e as a esult of E e s si i Eden. The pain in child birth is a constant reminder of the effect of sin. Perhaps some questioned if women are truly saved from sin and death given they still experienced pain in labour – the evidence of the curse. Paul essentially is saying that women will be saved despite the perils of the fallen world (epitomised by pain in childbirth), if they o ti ue i faith, lo e a d holi ess ith p op iet …. a d THI“ I“ a t ust o th sa i g!3
  • 11.
    P a ge | 11 10. What is Paul s o e all o je ti e in giving the instructions in 1 Timothy 2:1 – 3:1a? Co side the use of the o d the efo e i e se Discuss: What negative attitudes can we hold against certain types of people that prevent us from sharing the gospel with them in love? What aspects of our conduct as individuals and as a church, can give a negative impression within our society, and act as an obstacle to the gospel?
  • 12.
    P a ge | 12 4 Resume`s Please 1 T i m o t h y 3 : 1 b – 1 3 1. What characteristics does Paul say are to be evident in overseers and deacons? 2. What are the duties that Paul assigns to leaders of the church? 3. By looking at the number of characteristics versus the number of duties assigned to church elders, hat a e lea a out God s p io ities fo leade s of His Chu h? Read: 1 Timothy 3:1b-13 Most o pa ies ill ask to see a pe so s esu e` he o side i g offe i g the employment. It is important they find a person with the right qualifications to do the job required, and they understand that whoever they hire becomes a representative of their company. Choosing the wrong person could not only affect the performance of the company, but also its reputation. Likewise in this letter, Paul lists the qualifications required for leaders within the church.
  • 13.
    P a ge | 13 4. Many of these characteristics listed formed part of the Roman ideal for their leaders. Can you think of any other characteristics which are desirable in our culture? 5. What risks are involved in placing a new Christian in a position of church leadership? 6. Why is it so important that church leaders have a good reputation with outsiders? Discuss: What message does the character and behaviour of church leaders convey a out God s e o o y to the people arou d us? To what extent is it important to conform to the ideals of our society for the sake of reaching them for the gospel? Ca you thi k of a y ultural ideals that etray the hara ter of God s household?
  • 14.
    P a ge | 14 5 Mission Statement 1 T i m o t h y 3 : 1 4 – 1 6 I remember once when my boss called me away from the work I was doing, and began to demonstrate how to use a new computer program he had acquired. As he was explaining ho the soft a e o ks I fou d it diffi ult to o e t ate o hat he as sa i g. I did t understand the reason why he as tea hi g e. It as t u til I i te upted hi to ask, Wh a e ou sho i g e this? that he explained to me that my goal from now on was to sell this product to our customers. Having clarified this, I found it much easier to focus. The mission gave the reason for his instructions greater clarity. In this section of the epistle, Paul takes a moment explain the purpose for his instructions. In doing so he clarifies the goal of his letter – this is the mission statement. 1. What reason is given for writing this letter? 2. In what ways is the church described? (vs 15) 3. Based on these descriptions what images for the church does Paul draw to mind? (see also 3:5) How do they help to inform our understanding of what the church is?1 1 A. Knowles, The Bible Guide: An All-in One Introduction to the Book of Books (Lion, 2006).649, Keener and InterVarsity Press., The Ivp Bible Background Commentary : New Testament.637. In Roman society duties that fell within the framework of the household extended beyond just the treatment of wives and children, but also to the treatment of parents, servants, the state and the gods. Whe ep ese ti g God s household, it as e essa fo Ch istia s to de o st ate behaviour which would be held in higher esteem than the norm. After all, the manner in which the church would meet within the homes of the believers would be comparable to an extended Roman family. The conduct of the church should represent the high standard that one would e pe t f o God s fa il .1 Read: 1 Timothy 3:14-16
  • 15.
    P a ge | 15 4. What is the responsibility of the church as the pillar and foundation of the truth? (Consider the function of these in buildings) 5. What is the truth, from which godliness springs, that the church must hold firm and support? 6. Contrast the outcome of upholding this simple truth verses the outcome of the false tea he s do t i es in chapter 1. (see especially 1:4, 19) 7. Why is our conduct so important to the promotion of the gospel? 8. Considering your answers to questions 1, 4 and 7, what is the purpose of the mission statement Paul gives Timothy? Discuss: How does a clear understanding of the mission statement and its purpose help to transform the way we live? What is the likely outcome when there is a disconnect between our conduct as God s fa ily, a d the gospel e pro lai ? What kind of conduct will help ensure the truth about Jesus will be openly received in our community?
  • 16.
    P a ge | 16 6 Ongoing Training 1 T i m o t h y 4 : 1 – 16 A certain CEO once said, What ou do 't k o a ake ou fail! Pe haps the o l easo why you are where you are is that, you've not known what you have to know... Go, learn a d take the lead! 1 He recognised the importance of ongoing training and the dangers of failing to do so. Just as this is true for companies, organisations and individuals, it is also i gs t ue fo God s e o o . Paul e plai s the i po ta e of t ai i g i this se tio a d even goes as far as saying that by doing so ensures the security of their salvation. 1. What reason does the Apostle Paul give for some people abandoning the faith? (vvs1-2) 2. What factors would render someone susceptible to being deceived by lies? 3. What were some of the false teachings that certain people were following? (vs 3) 4. Why does Paul use such strong language, claiming that these teachings come from demons? What is at risk? 5. What is the source of spiritual nourishment? 1 Israelmore Ayivor – CEO and founder of More-talk Leadership Training and Consultancy Read: 1 Timothy 4:1-16
  • 17.
    P a ge | 17 6. What is the value of training in godliness? What promise does it hold? 7. What is godliness? (vs 12) What does Paul have to say about its aspect relating to faith? What does Paul have to say about its aspect relating to conduct? (vvs 4, 6, 10, 12, 16) 8. Using what methods must Timothy train the church in Ephesus? (vvs 6, 11, 12, 13, 15, 16) 9. By persevering in these things what is the outcome? 10. After hearing this portion of the letter, what view of Timothy would the Ephesian Christians have? (see especially vvs 12-15) Discuss: What begins to happen if we deprive ourselves of spiritual nourishment? What actions do we need to take in our lives to ensure we are constantly training in godliness? What opportunities do we have in our day-to-day lives to give a godly example to others? How do we view people in our church who have the responsability of spiritual leadership?
  • 18.
    P a ge | 18 7 Policies and Procedures 1 T i m o t h y 5 : 1 – 6 : 2 b 1. Paul addresses three main issues in this section. Who do they concern? 2. What problems was the church in Ephesus experiencing? (see vvs 3-16, 17-25, 6:1- 2b) 3. In verses 3- hat a e Paul s o e s? Read: 1 Timothy 5:1 – 6:2b Whe ‘a K o , o e of the fou de s of M Do ald s , sta ted out he as dete i ed that ea h restaurant in the chain be consistent in its level of quality, service, cleanliness and value. This commitment to consistency has been one of the three keys that led to the world-wide success of the M Do ald s e pi e. “o hat is it that M Do ald s do that keeps thi gs u i g consistently? They have a procedure for absolutely every task; making burgers, serving customers, even mopping the floor and how to walk out the door at closing time. The church in Ephesus was in desperate need for some policies and procedures to deal with some of the problems they were e pe ie i g, so i this se tio of the lette Paul gets e spe ifi . Ho e e , God s e o o is not about having a policy or procedure for absolutely everything. It operates more on the basis of universal principles that can be applied to everyday situations. What principles can we find here?
  • 19.
    P a ge | 19 4. What are his concerns in verses 17-25? 5. What are his concerns in verses 6:1-2b? 6. Is it appropriate to respond in the same way to these concerns if they arose in our community? (Why or why not?) How often do we see these problems occur? 7. How should we relate to one another based on verses 1-2? 8. How do the ideas of family (vs 1- a d God s household : o k togethe ? 9. To whom do we all owe our inclusion into this family? 10. In context of the letter so far, what are the sinning elders likely to be guilty of doing? 11. Why is it important that they are reproved before everyone?
  • 20.
    P a ge | 20 12. Thinking back to 1:4, what is the outcome of their sin? What should they have been doing? (1:4) 13. What is meant by the laying on of hands and why should Timothy not be hasty to do so? (compare 4:14) 14. What is a primary o e i Paul s i d that go e s his i st u tio s to the hu h? (5:14, 6:1) Discuss: Think about the various relationships in your life. In what specific ways can you assist people in need, show honour and respect? What changes can we make to the way we live that may cause people to hold the gospel in high esteem? Ho does the re og itio that e are o e fa ily i God s household pro ide a framework for addressing modern issues which may not be mentioned in the Bible?
  • 21.
    P a ge | 21 8 Beware! Embezzlers About 1 T i m o t h y 6 : 2 c - 1 0 Some of us may remember the Australian electrical and whitegoods retailer, Clive Peeters, and wonder what ever happened to them. In 2010 Clive Peeters, suddenly ceased trading from any of their 45 stores. One of the reasons for their downfall was the embezzlement of $20 million by one of their payroll officers. As a result of the greed of just one employee, the whole organisation was affected. Unfortunately in the church in Ephesus, there were certain people who seemed willing to sacrifice the health of God s household for their own selfish gain. Paul identifies this issue and exposes their true motives. 1. What role has been entrusted to Timothy? (vs 1) (Also 4:11) 2. Some people were teaching differently about God s e o o a d not agreeing with the sou d i st u tio of ou Lo d Jesus Ch ist. What I“ the sou d i st u tio of our Lo d Jesus Ch ist? (Look through the trustworthy sayings 1:15; 2:15-3:1a; 4:9-10 also 3:16) 3. How do we e te i to God s e o o a d receive this salvation proclaimed in the gospel message? (John 3:16, Romans 10:9, Galatians 4:4-7, Ephesians 2:8-9) Read: 1 Timothy 6:2c-10
  • 22.
    P a ge | 22 Discuss: In our society, what well accepted and encouraged values about wealth should we be wary of embracing? Ho ould it help to ad a e God s e o o y if Christia s were perceived as being generous and not eager for financial gain? 4. Without knowing the exact specifics of what doctrines were being taught by the false teachers, in what fundamental ways did their teaching not agree with that of Jesus? (1:7; 4:3) _____________________________________________________________________ 5. What does this teaching result in? What were they robbing people of? (1:19, 4:1,16) 6. What is the i o he o t asti g Paul s thoughts a out the false tea he s a d what they think of themselves? (1:7, 6:4) 7. What was the underlying motivation of the false teachers? (6:4-5)1 8. What do verses 7-9 tell us about WHY godliness with contentment is great gain? 9. How can an eagerness for money cause some to wander from the faith? 1 Craig author Blomberg, From Pentecost to Patmos : Acts to Revelation.371. Most Greco-Roman religious teachers received money for their ministry and it is highly likely that these false teachers were seeking out patronage (similar to sponsorship), from their wealthy admirers.1
  • 23.
    P a ge | 23 9 Work Toward The Goal 1 T i m o t h y 6 : 1 1 - 2 0 Most business would agree that without goals they are unlikely to succeed. Having goals governs the decisions people make and guides the course their lives take. As we come to the final part of this letter Paul reminds Timothy of the ultimate goal and encourages him to stay on track. 1. What is the all this that Ti oth is told to flee f o ? 2. What notions are brought to mind by the language Paul uses in verse 12a? 3. What does that tell us about the Christian life? 4. What is the goal that Timothy is told to take a hold of? 5. Starting with Matthew and working your way through to John, what is the good confession that Jesus made before Pontius Pilate? (Matthew 27:11, Mark 15:2, Luke 23:3, John 18:33-37) 6. Ho does Jesus o fessio ea o e eight o Paul s ha ge to Ti oth ? f Joh 18:36) Read: 1 Timothy 6:11-20
  • 24.
    P a ge | 24 7. What does this sa a out God s e o o ? 8. The o ld s e o o is ased o the a uisitio of ealth. What is the u e of God s economy? (vs11, 17b, 1:4b) 9. How can we use worldly wealth as an in est e t i God s e o o ? 10. What does Paul say is true life, and therefore the goal we work toward? Discuss: In what ways can we help each other keep our focus on our eternal goal? How can we structure our everyday lives so that our eternal goal is evident by the way we live? No that e e o e to the e d of Ti othy, riefly share your u dersta di g of hat it ea s to e part of God s e o o y.
  • 25.
    P a ge | 25 Leade s Notes Study 1 Q2. Think about what agendas, objections, vices, religious beliefs etc. this diverse group would have had. Q4. Magicians would act as masters to spirits and deities thinking that by invoking their names, they could coerce them to do their bidding. Jesus will not be manipulated like lower spirits. He is Lord, not their slave.1 Q7. People from all over the world would come and deposit money to the temple which served also as a bank. The civic pride of the city was also attached to the temple. The city stood to lose its good eputatio a d sou e of i o e e ause of pesk Ch istia s.2 Q11. Although addressed only to Timothy, it works as a letter of recommendation intended for all to hear. It is used to communicate that the addressee is acting under their authority. The use of the plural in the last verse supports this.3 Study 2 The o ept of ad a i g God s Household, God s E o o y i trodu ed here go er s the rest of the epistle. 1 Timothy has a very strong missional emphasis throughout the letter hi h is see y Paul s o er of the pu li life of the o u ity. Keep this i i d as you work through this whole study.4 Study 3 Q5 & 6. The goal here is to show that God brings unity and accord among all people; Jew, Gentile, Men, Women, Slave and Free etc. It also demonstrates humility among all believers who recognise that no-one was able to save themselves, and therefore are any better off than another. 1 Keener and InterVarsity Press., The Ivp Bible Background Commentary : New Testament.378-79. 2 Ibid.379-80 3 Luke Timothy Johnson, The First and Second Letters to Timothy : A New Translation with Introduction and Commentary (New Haven, Conn. ; London: Yale University Press, 2008).159-60. 4 Ibid.137-38.
  • 26.
    P a ge | 26 Q7. To be sensitive to the cultural values of the era, so that nothing will hinder the advancing of the gospel1 Q8. The o se ue e of E e s si as pai ful la ou , that she ill desi e to do i ate he husband and that he will rule over her. For a Christian woman to consistently display a desire to forcefully dominate men casts shadows on the validity of their new creation status. It suggests that the curse of sin has not been broken in their life. This same logic is why Paul has to qualify that women can still attain salvation even though the other curse of sin, (painful labour), still remains upon them. Q9. Treat this question with great sensitivity. Be aware that there are different views. Ensure that the opinions of others are respected. Study 4 Q3. He values good character above personal ability. Study 5 Q2. Household, Pillar, Foundation. Q3. Family, Temple. Q4. Support and hold up the truth. Q7. Because it either supports or undermines the truth we proclaim. Study 6 Q2. Lack of knowledge of God s truth. Q4. These teaching advocate a righteousness attained through strict adherence to regulations. They undermine God s grace and place the task of salvation into human hands. 1 Risto Saarinen, The Pastoral Epistles with Philemon & Jude, Brazos Theological Commentary on the Bible (Grand Rapids, Mich.: Brazos Press, 2008).54-6.
  • 27.
    P a ge | 27 Study 7 Q1. Widows, Elders, Slaves. Q6. The issues in our day may be different to the issues then. Q7. Like we are part of one family. Everybody should look out for the benefit of each other and the family as a whole. Q10. It s likely the sin in view here is teaching false doctrine, and also other activities associated with the false teachers.1 Q11. Also so that their erroneous teaching can be refuted and rectified. (It may also be a good idea to highlight that it is Timothy, Paul s delegate), who does the public reproving, and not just any random person.) Study 8 Q2. Salvation through Jesus!!! Q6. They think they are wise, but really they understand nothing. Q9. We start to serve money instead of God. We start to put our trust in money instead of God. Study 9 Q1. The desire for wealth. Q3. It s an ongoing wrestle. Q5. Jesus is king and His kingdom is not of this world. Q6. It heightens the realisation that we belong to a different kingdom and not this world. Q7. It s not of this world. 1 G.D. Fee, 1 & 2 Timothy, Titus (Baker Publishing Group, 1989).127.
  • 28.
    P a ge | 28 Bibliography beautiaful. "The Mistranslation of 1 Timothy 2:11-12." https://christianfeminism.wordpress.com/2008/07/04/the-mistranslation-of-1-timothy-211- 12/. Blomberg, Craig author. From Pentecost to Patmos : Acts to Revelation. Carson, D. A. New Bible Commentary : 21st Century Edition. 4th ed. Leicester, England ; Downers Grove, Ill., USA: Inter-Varsity Press, 1994. Dockery, David S, Trent C Butler, and Christopher L Church. Holman Bible Handbook. Holman Bible Publishers, 1992. Fee, G.D. 1 & 2 Timothy, Titus. Baker Publishing Group, 1989. Fee, Gordon D, and Douglas Stuart. How to Read the Bible Book by Book: A Guided Tour. Zondervan, 2002. Halley, Henry Hampton. Halley's Bible Handbook : An Abbreviated Bible Commentary. 24th ed. Grand Rapids, Mich.: Zondervan Pub. House, Academic and Professional Books, 1965. Hartley, J.E. Genesis. Hendrickson Publishers, 2000. Henry, M., and L.F. Church. Commentary on the Whole Bible: Genesis to Revelation. S+U Publishers, 1982. Johnson, Luke Timothy. The First and Second Letters to Timothy : A New Translation with Introduction and Commentary. New Haven, Conn. ; London: Yale University Press, 2008. Keener, Craig S., and InterVarsity Press. The Ivp Bible Background Commentary : New Testament. Downers Grove, Ill.: InterVarsity Press, 1993. Kent, Paul. Know Your Bible - All 66 Books Explained and Applied [in English]. Uhrichsville, Ohio 44683: Barbour Publishing, Inc., 2008. Knowles, A. The Bible Guide: An All-in One Introduction to the Book of Books. Lion, 2006. Saarinen, Risto. The Pastoral Epistles with Philemon & Jude. Brazos Theological Commentary on the Bible. Grand Rapids, Mich.: Brazos Press, 2008. Strabo, Geography. "Loeb Classical Library." Harvard University Press (volume 1-7) 14.1.24 (1930). Towner, Philip H. The Letters to Timothy and Titus. The New International Commentary on the New Testament. Grand Rapids, Mich.: William B. Eerdmans Pub. Co., 2006.