1 Timothy: Devotional Notes

by Bill Weber

This is the first of the so-called “pastoral epistles,” in which the apostle Paul gives intimate instruction to his protégé s whom he has prepared to carry on the ministry and work of the Church after he is gone. There is deep theology of the most practical sort, and one can almost feel the apostle’s sighs and groans as he yearns for the Church’s perfection and preservation. Here’s a sample—and this is needful advice to pastors and teachers today, some of whom have wandered off “The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith. Some have wandered away from these and turned to meaningless talk. They want to be teachers of the law, but they do not know what they are talking about or what they so confidently affirm.” (1:5-7). He follows with a detailed enumeration of the character traits that church leaders must possess (3:1-13). He gives pragmatic advice on administering the church throughout the book’s six chapters. And he warns that “in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons.” (4:1). Like all of Paul’s writings, this is a must-read.

131 pages, Paperback

Published March 13, 2023

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