Date: c. 62 AD
At the end of the Book of Acts, Paul is under house arrest in Rome, waiting for his appeal before Caesar. After two years of house arrest, Paul is acquitted. With Luke and Timothy, they visit the church at Ephesus, where he discovered his prophecy about “wolves” (Acts 20:29-30) have been fulfilled. The Ephesian Church has been invaded with false teachers.
Paul left Timothy in Ephesus to expose and to get rid of the false teachers.
As the apostolic age began to come to an end, Paul realized that the church needed structure and organization. Timothy obviously asked Paul’s advice and this letter is Paul’s answer to his questions. This is like a first century Minister’s Manual.
Key Word
The key word in 1 Timothy is “charge.” It’s also translated as “commandment.” It’s a military term, referring to an order that is passed down the ranks for all to observe.
The Church and Its Message, chapter 1
A. Teach Sound Doctrine
B. Preach a Glorious Gospel
C. Defend the Faith
The Church and Its Members, chapters 2-3
A. Praying Men
B. Modest Women
C. Dedicated Officers
D. Behaving Believers
The Church and Its Minister, chapter 4
A. A Good Minister
B. A Godly Minister
C. A Growing Minister
The Church and Its Ministry, chapters 5-6
A. To the Older Saints
B. To the Widows
C. To the Church Leaders
D. To the Servants
E. To the Trouble-makers
F. To the Rich
G. To the “Educated”