The book of 1 Timothy kicks off a segment of Scripture called the Pastoral Epistles (1–2 Timothy and Titus) because the letters’ audience was a pair of young pastors. Much of Paul’s instruction for pastors—and for all Christians, really—can be summed up in 1 Timothy 1:5. Of the four qualities Paul mentions, which is the most challenging for you and why? Which comes most naturally? Take some time to reflect on how Christ embodied each of these qualities perfectly, and ask God to help you grow in your love and care for others.
After affirming the pastor’s call (v. 5), Paul reminds Timothy of the gospel message (1:12–17). The way he explains his horrible state before his conversion makes the grace he received appear even more glorious. What does Paul’s frankness about sin and salvation tell us about how a pastor ought to relate to God and to fellow sinners? How does Paul’s gospel explanation strike you as countercultural in our day, especially as it relates to celebrity pastors and influencers?
What does Paul’s instruction on praying for political leaders in 1 Timothy 2:1–7 tell us about a Christian’s relationship with those outside the Church? What does Jesus’ role as mediator (a person who negotiates reconciliation between two parties in conflict) reveal about our mission in the world?
Much of 1 Timothy 2–5 focuses on how Christians are to behave in God’s household (3:15). The passage includes how churches ought to care for widows, how men and women conduct themselves in the church, and even how to deal with spiritual warfare. Of the instructions Paul gives, which ones seem counterintuitive or unclear to you? If any of those verses make you uncomfortable or give you the urge to send them to someone, pause and reflect on what God is teaching you. Ask the Spirit to help you understand, and seek to use that passage to exercise 1:5—to love others with a pure heart, good conscience, and sincere faith.
Paul also spends a good deal of time talking about what a church leader (pastor/elder or deacon) is and does. Take some time to list out the qualifications of each role, and compare the list to Titus 1:6–9. What sticks out to you? Have you sat under the teaching or leadership of any pastors, elders, or deacons who’ve done an excellent job exemplifying these qualities? If so, write them a short note thanking them for their faithfulness to God’s Word.
New Testament Reading Plan Week 34: 1 Tim 1–5