Monday, September 4, 2023
First Timothy begins a set of Paul’s letters called the “pastoral epistles,” 1 Timothy, 2 Timothy, and Titus. Paul writes specifically to his coworkers, friends, and fellow teachers of the gospel. In 1 Timothy 1:2, Paul tells us he’s writing to Timothy, “My true son in the faith.” From the beginning, we know Paul’s investment… Read more
Friday, September 1, 2023
The apostle Paul is concerned that the new members of the church in Thessalonica will remain faithful given all the challenges of being a Christian. False teachers are all around. With this concern in mind, Paul develops a “Top Ten” list of core values that should guide Christian behavior. He always prefaces this by saying… Read more
Thursday, August 31, 2023
Have you ever heard the phrase, “He is so heavenly-minded that he is no earthly good?” There are people who live with their heads in the clouds, who spend much of life rushing from one mountaintop experience to another. Meanwhile, they never live in the here and now. Paul is concerned about some such folks… Read more
Wednesday, August 30, 2023
Whoops! The apostle Paul has described this new congregation in Thessalonica as being empowered by the Holy Spirit, living with faith, hope, and love. But it is clear there is tension and division. This should not be surprising. After all, there is so much diversity in their midst. There are Jews and Gentiles, there are… Read more