Encountering the New Testament Unit 3 Study Questions

KEY VERSE: 2 Thessalonians 2:13 - “As for you, brothers, do not grow weary in doing good.”

• What are the Pastoral Epistles, and why are they so called?

  • 1 and 2 Timothy and Titus. They are so called because they show pastoral concern and are written to pastors specifically, giving them guidance and advice in the church.

• What are the pros and cons of Pauline authorship?

  • Some pros include the strong theological and historical connections to Paul, as well as the pastoral concerns addressed that align with his other writings. Cons, however, involve arguments regarding vocabulary inconsistencies and stylistic differences from Paul's acknowledged letters, leading some scholars to question the authenticity of authorship. Also, the writings of these letters fit nowhere into the story of Acts.

• If Paul wrote them, where do they fit in Paul’s life?

  • Some believe in Acts that Paul was released and went on a fourth missionary journey. It’s most likely he wrote these letters before being imprisoned a second time and executed.

• What are the major contours (outline) and message of these letters?

  • The major contours of these letters include themes of encouragement, instruction on church leadership, and addressing specific issues within the communities where they were sent. Additionally, they focus on the centrality of Christ in faith and practice, emphasizing grace and the transformative power of the Gospel. A critical message throughout these letters is the call for unity among believers, as well as a reminder of the importance of sound doctrine and moral conduct.

• What instructions do the Pastorals give for the ongoing life of the church and the maintenance of Christian beliefs?

  • The Pastorals give instructions on church organization, though there is leeway. They outline qualifications for church leaders, such as elders and deacons, emphasizing the need for integrity, sound teaching, and the ability to shepherd the congregation effectively. Furthermore, they stress the importance of maintaining faithfulness to sound doctrine, encouraging believers to engage in good works and to confront false teachings while fostering a supportive and loving community.