Lecture 21 - Paul's First Letter to Timothy

What are the Pastoral Epistles?

1 Timothy, 2 Timothy, Titus (3 most debated epistles; most scholars do not believe Paul wrote them)

Is 1 Timothy a disputed or undisputed epistle?

Disputed

Give at least 2 reasons why some scholars doubt Pauline authorship of the pastorals.

1. Different language/vocabulary - 1/3 of the words used in the pastoral epistles don't appear anywhere else in the Pauline and general literature

2. Different theology - Justification is a big deal in Romans and Galatians; however, the pastoral epistles don't include anything about justification.

What is Paul’s relationship to Timothy?

Timothy is like a son to Paul, he treats him as a son and loves him like one

How does Paul Instruct Timothy to deal with false Teachers.

Paul charges Timothy to charge the false teachers

(Paul charges Timothy to confront and correct the false teachers)

What is the context for all charges in this section of the letter?

The church (conduct/behavior of the church)

What is Paul’s primary qualification for elders?

Above reproach, blameless in character. Not a drunkard…, manage his own household well (how else will he be able to manage the house of God (1 Tim 3:3))

What important skill must elders possess?

Elders must have the ability to teach.

What important difference in qualifications do we see between elders and deacons?

Elders must be able to teach and handle doctrine. Deacons do not need teaching ability; they focus on service and practical ministry.

What kinds of things do the false teachers appear to be teaching?

They appear to be teaching false doctrine and conduct. They promote ascetic teachings, forbidding marriage and requiring people to abstain from certain foods. These teachings reject God's creation instead of recognizing that it is good.

In what ways should Timothy differ from the false teachers?

He should keep a close watch on himself in his life and teaching. Paul instructs him to watch for his doctrine, beliefs, conduct, and how he is living.

Why is Paul writing to Timothy

He writes to Timothy, who is in Ephesus, leading and influencing the church. There are two main things going on in Ephesus that lead Paul to write this letter: false teachers who are simply stirring up trouble by spreading incorrect doctrine, promoting pointless controversies, and leading believers astray. The second reason is to care for the church. Paul is giving Timothy instructions on how to care for and shepherd the congregation of the church.