Lesson 65 – Letters to the Timothy

The Letters to Timothy (as well as the Letter to Titus) is referred to as the “Pastoral Letters” in that they are addressed to pastors rather than to the Christian community at large. They are generally believed to have been written later in Paul’s life when is giving “mentorship” advice to pastors on the topics of correct doctrine and church organization.

Timothy was a companion to Paul on the second and third missionary journeys. In the course of those missions he was tasked as special envoy to several communities, but now he is apparently leading a Christian community in Macedonia. The letter instructs Timothy on his duty to restrain false and useless teaching and proposes principles pertaining to his relationship with the older members of the community and with the presbyters. The letter also reminds Timothy of the prophetic character of his office and encourages him in his exercise of it.  The first letter has lots of advice on liturgy, care of the poor, and othe challenges for the church.

The second letter is more personal and takes on the character of a final exhortation and testament from Paul to the younger Timothy. The letter recalls the missionaey days with Timothy. And reminds Timothy that preaching  of the gospel is where the church will succeed and fail. Paul urges the younger man to be steadfast despite adverse circumstances using his own imprisonment as an example. The letter suggests that Timothy should prepare others to replace himself as Paul has prepared Timothy to replace him.