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 and love for Timothy and Timothy’s ministry. Paul’s charge to Timothy in this letter is to encourage and build him up.
Have you ever had moments in your day where you could use God-centered wisdom about specific circumstances? Of course! That’s what Paul’s about to do for Timothy. In verse 5, Paul tells us right away that his instruction “is that all believers would be filled with love that comes from a pure heart, a clear conscience, and genuine faith.” Apparently, there are people under Timothy’s care that are “missing the whole point” (verse 6). Ever known anyone in your life to completely miss the point of something you were trying to teach or share with them? Turns out these early churches and believers aren’t all that different from us today!
Paul wants Timothy to know the goodness of God’s mercy and grace to help us all the time! As chapter one concludes, Paul encourages Timothy to “cling to his faith in Christ and keep his conscience clear” (verse 19). Paul’s about to give him specifics in teaching the truth that flows from knowing Christ and how it impacts everyday living and the life of the church.
Questions for reflection:
- What does it mean that Christ is full of mercy? Paul repeats his thanks for God’s mercy (1:13, 16)
- Paul was Timothy’s mentor. Do you have mentors and teachers who can point you to Jesus-centered wisdom in tough circumstances? If not, do you think it would be helpful in your faith journey? What steps might you take to find a mentor?
- What does it look like to “cling to our faith” every day? How do we live this out? How do others see this in you?