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Day 20: 1 Timothy 1-2 Timothy 4

Truman Spring, Attorney + Elder at UPPERROOM

Paul’s letters to Timothy are full of apostolic instructions for the young pastor, specifically for leading the church in Ephesus, where Paul had sent him. Note how often Paul uses the title “Christ (Messiah) Jesus.” With the challenges Timothy and the Ephesians were facing, it was paramount that they remain aware of the majestic rule of Jesus!

A number of problems were surfacing in the church, which deeply disturbed Paul’s heart since he had spent over three years with them. Paul gives several warnings about false teachers, endless discussions about the law, and useless speculations and arguments about words. Such practices would not prepare the church for the hard times that will come to all who want to follow Jesus. Unfortunately, suffering will cause many to fall away in the last days.

Against that, though, Paul says we should all long for the great day of the Lord’s return, give ourselves to prayer, submit to one another, use the gifts that the Holy Spirit has given us, be compassionate and pure in our relationships, and fan into flame the Spirit of God within us. That will be our strength to help us endure and remain pure.

Many practical instructions are included about the care of widows, the qualities of elders and deacons, the roles of pastors and teachers, and relationships between employees and employers. Finally, Paul instructs Timothy (and us) to be so full of Scripture that the right word will come to us just when we need it — the sword of the Spirit.

These letters are totally relevant and full of wisdom for our day. They are invaluable to me, both personally and as one of your elders.