Gospel Outreach International

Why was Timothy, a young man, left in charge of what appeared to be the perfect church in Ephesus? And what timeless lessons can we learn from Paul’s pastoral guidance to this young leader? This Bible study introduces us to 1 Timothy, the first of the pastoral epistles, exploring who wrote it, who received it, and why it was written. Through examining the background of both Paul and Timothy, we discover practical wisdom about teaching truth versus myth, maintaining pure hearts and clear consciences, and avoiding wasteful discussions. The central question challenges us: Are we all actively devoted to a lifetime of service to the Lord, or have we become mere “pew polishers” rather than “pew fillers”?

nor to devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies, which promote speculations rather than the stewardship from God that is by faith. 1 Timothy 1:4

• The pastoral epistles are full of practical advice concerning church affairs rather than primarily doctrine
• Paul’s background in Acts 13 shows him called and commended by the church in Antioch to go into Gentile nations; most commentators believe Timothy became a believer on Paul’s first missionary journey
• On the second journey in Acts 16, they found an outstanding young man held in high regard by people from Lystra and Iconium, and Paul desired Timothy to join the team
• When the speaker was first converted, the young people’s leader took pains to help and encourage, and this well-known gospel preacher always took young people out, training them up, giving them opportunities to develop
• Lystra and Iconium were very close to each other, possibly like Newcastle and Sunderland, with easy links between them
• Timothy is mentioned in 10 of Paul’s letters plus Acts and Hebrews (the speaker doesn’t always accept that Paul wrote Hebrews)
• Paul’s life can be summarized three ways: A life of evil, a life-changing experience, and a life devoted to service—this should be all of our experiences
• Before we become Christians, even our good works are rubbish to God; when we use “evil” we think of really bad sins, but the New Testament condemns things like greed and gossiping
• In many churches there are “pew polishers”—people who go, sit, and do nothing; the speaker wonders if the Lord gets offended about that because we’re saved to be “pew fillers,” active witnesses

The aim of our charge is love that issues from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith. 1 Timothy 1:5

We can’t be “pew polishers” who just go, sit, and do nothing. We’re saved to be “pew fillers,” actively taking the Word of God out! The distinction between “full-time” and “lay” workers is wrong—we’re ALL in full-time service with different callings and gifting.

Bible References

• 1 Timothy 1:1-7
• Acts 13
• Acts 13:4
• Acts 14:6
• Acts 16
• 2 Timothy 3
• 2 Timothy 1:5