Timothy Titus

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Reading Guide

1 Timothy, Tutus, 2 Timothy

1 Timothy

Background hints: Believers in Ephesus were faced with pagan temple idolatry on the one hand and pressure to follow Jewish laws and rituals on the other; false teachers; tension between wealthy and poor believers

Timothy’s background: Acts 16:1-5; 17:14-15; 18:5; 19:22; 20:4; Romans 16:21; 1 Corinthians 4:17; 16:10; 2 Corinthians 1:1,19; Philippians 1:1, 2:19; Colossians 1:1; 1 Thessalonians 1:1; 3:2-6; 2 Thessalonians 1:1; Philemon 1:1; Hebrews 13:23

Chapter 1 - Timothy’s Commission

Why was Timothy in Ephesus?

What was the basis of the false teaching described in chapter 1?

What is the difference between the false teaching and the true gospel?

V.17 - Prayer poem

Chapters 2-3 Instructions for Ephesus Part 1

The importance of prayer and peace

Men who were arguing and debating about the false teaching in chapter 1

Wealthy women who were flaunting their wealth and also teaching the false doctrines described in chapter 1.

Dedicated, quality leadership for the churches

3:16 - Prayer poem

Chapters 4-6 Instructions for Ephesus Part 2

More details about what the false teachers are teaching, and Paul’s corrections.

People taking advantage of believers’ generosity.

Respect for faithful leaders; discipline for those who go astray.

The tough issue of CHristians who are slaves

6:3-21 Timothy’s Commission

Motives of the false teachers

Paul encourages Timothy in his mission

6:15-16 - Prayer poem

Titus

Background: Cretan culture was notorious in the ancient world. One of the Greek words for “to be a liar” was kretizo - to be a Cretan. They were notorious for treachery and greed; many of the men had served as mercenary soldiers. THe cities were known to be unsafe, plagued by violence and sexual corruption. The churches there came under the influence of corrupt leaders. Paul sent Titus there to set things straight.

Tutus 1:1-4 Introduction - The Gospel of hope

“The God who does not lie.” (v.2)

This is in contrast to the god the Cretans worshipped, Zeus, who was known as a seducer and a deceiver.

Titus 1:5-16 Titus’ tasks

Appoint new leaders

Confront corrupt leaders - What do they teach? What is their motive?

What Cretan saying does Paul quote to emphasize his point?

Chapter 2 - The New Household

What are the characteristics of the ideal Christian household?

What is at the center of the Christian way of life?

Chapter 3 - The New Humanity

Christians in the larger culture - ideal citizens

V. 4-7 A poem about the Gospel. Extra credit - write it out in poetic lines. What are the key concepts named by Paul?

2 Timothy

Background: Timothy is likely still in Ephesus. Paul is in prison and is expecting the worst.

Chapter 1 Timothy’s Calling

Paul’s prayer for Timothy and his family

Timothy’s family

Timothy’s fear, God’s gift, and God’s power in his life.

Chapter 2:1-13 The Cause

Following Jesus is not easy, but Jesus’ grace is a source of power.

Paul uses three metaphors to illustrate this principle. What are they?

Then Paul describes the person who is the highest example of this commitment and dedication to mission. Then Paul gives himself as an example.

Paul summarizes this section with a poetic saying (vs. 11-13

Chapters 2:14 - 4:5 Deal with corrupt teachers

What metaphors does Paul use to describe faithful and unfaithful people?

What specific advice does Paul give Timothy for maintaining a faithful and committed life?

Chapter 4:6-22 Conclusion

Let the personal details of this section draw you into what Paul and his co-workers were doing and experiencing