1 Timothy
Who Are Biblical Elders: The Elder’s Character
In 1 Timothy 3:1–7, Paul details the character of elder–pastors. He explains what their lives must reflect and what must be absent from them. He then shows how an elder’s own household serves as the proving ground for his character. Finally, Paul reveals the reason behind these qualifications: elders are called to shepherd God’s household.
What Are Biblical Elders?
In 1 Timothy 3:1 we see Paul discussing the office of elders. We explore this biblical office through a variety of scriptures. Pastors, elders, and overseers are all multiple terms describing the same office. The role of this office consists of: leading, teaching, and caring for the church. Elders also exemplify Christlike character in the church.
God’s Good Design for Women, Leadership, and the Church
In 1 Timothy 2:11-15 we see God’s good design for women and leadership in the church. Women are to be serious students of Christ in the corporate gathering. However, they are not to teach authoritatively in the office of pastor-elder. Paul reserves this right to qualified men and grounds his reasoning in creation. Walking in our God given roles leads to individuals and the church flourishing.
Holiness in the Church: Men and Women
Paul addresses order and conduct within the gathered church, calling men to pray with pure hearts and women to reflect godliness marked by humility and good works. This passage points beyond cultural distractions to God’s design for worship that honors Him and builds up the body. True devotion is revealed not merely in outward appearance or authority, but in lives shaped by faith, love, and holiness.
Praying to the God Who Saves
Paul urges Timothy that prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people because God desires all to be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth. Our prayers aren’t just personal petitions; they’re participation in God’s mission to redeem the world. When we pray for others—especially for those in authority or those far from God we’re aligning our hearts with the Savior who gave Himself as a ransom for all.
Fighting the Good Fight
Paul charges Timothy to remain faithful to the calling God placed on his life. Ministry is not passive—it requires guarding truth, maintaining a clear conscience, and courageously confronting error. When faith is abandoned and conscience ignored, spiritual shipwreck follows. God calls His people not only to believe rightly, but to live rightly, standing firm even when it’s costly.
God’s Mercy Towards the Chief of Sinners
1 Timothy 1:12-17 shows us that the immortal, invisible, king of the universe is merciful and patient towards sinners such as Paul who serves as an example for others. We can look at Paul and know that the worst of sinners can be saved. For those of us who have experienced God’s mercy, our lives also attest to the fact that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.
The Lawful Use of God’s Law
From 1 Timothy 1:8–11, Paul teaches that the law is good when rightly applied — revealing sin and pointing to the gospel. Discover how law and grace work together to uphold sound doctrine and lead us to Christ.
Gospel Doctrine: Its Importance, Goal, and the Danger of Swerving from It
In 1 Timothy 1:1-7 Paul details the importance of sound doctrine grounded in the gospel of Jesus Christ. The goal of this teaching is to produce in us a love for God and others. Swerving from this results in problems for both the individual and the church.