Brief Summary:
This is the first letter Paul wrote to Timothy, a young pastor who had been a help to Paul in his work. Timothy was a Greek. His mother was a Jewess and his father was Greek. Paul was more than just a mentor and leader to Timothy, he was like a father to him, and Timothy was like a son to Paul (1 Timothy 1:2). Paul begins the letter by urging Timothy to be on guard for false teachers and false doctrine. However, much of the letter deals with pastoral conduct. Paul instructs Timothy in worship (chapter 2) and developing mature leaders for the church (chapter 3). Most of the letter deals with pastoral conduct, warnings about false teachers, and the church’s responsibility toward single members, widows, elders, and slaves. All throughout the letter, Paul encourages Timothy to stand firm, to persevere, and to remain true to his calling.
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The Book of 1 Timothy
Summary of the Book of 1 Timothy – Bible Survey | GotQuestions.org
Context Summary
First Timothy 1:12–17 offers a glimpse into Paul’s own personal background. In the prior passage, Paul explained how the Law is meant to convict people of their sin. He gave a list of immoral actions which parallel the Ten Commandments. Here, however, Paul proves his spiritual humility. He recognizes that his own sins were severe and that he can only credit the grace of God for saving him. Paul’s change of life wasn’t due to his own efforts, but was the result of Christ’s miraculous work.
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“1 Timothy 1:17” Bibleref.com
What does 1 Timothy 1:17 mean? | BibleRef.com
1 Timothy 1:17
17 Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, to God who alone is wise, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.
Context Summary
First Timothy 2:1–8 provides a perspective on prayer. Christians are not only supposed to pray, but to pray for all people. This even includes kings, rulers, and government officials. The basis for this is that God wants to see such people saved; His love for them is as great as it is for anyone else. The earthly hope of a believer, then, is the ability to live in peace. Preaching one message was Paul’s primary service to God: that all men are saved in the same way, which is by faith in Christ. The men of a church, then, should lead prayer with an attitude of cooperation and love.
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“1 Timothy 2:3-4” Bibleref.com
What does 1 Timothy 2:3 mean? | BibleRef.com
1 Timothy 2:3-4
3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, 4 who desires all people to be saved and come to full knowledge of the truth.
Context Summary
First Timothy 2:1–8 provides a perspective on prayer. Christians are not only supposed to pray, but to pray for all people. This even includes kings, rulers, and government officials. The basis for this is that God wants to see such people saved; His love for them is as great as it is for anyone else. The earthly hope of a believer, then, is the ability to live in peace. Preaching one message was Paul’s primary service to God: that all men are saved in the same way, which is by faith in Christ. The men of a church, then, should lead prayer with an attitude of cooperation and love.
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“1 Timothy 2:5-6” Bibleref.com
What does 1 Timothy 2:5 mean? | BibleRef.com
1 Timothy 2:5-6
5 For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, 6 who gave himself as a ransom for all, the testimony in its own times,
Context Summary
First Timothy 3:14–16 explains Paul’s reasons for writing this letter. While he hopes to see Timothy in person soon, he is unsure of what the future holds. Rather than wait, Paul wants to be sure Timothy has complete instructions on how to encourage the healthy function of the local church. Paul also presents a doxology—a short hymn of praise—to God.
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“1 Timothy 3:16” Bibleref.com
What does 1 Timothy 3:16 mean? | BibleRef.com
1 Timothy 3:16
16 Without controversy, the mystery of godliness is great: God was revealed in the flesh, justified in the spirit, seen by angels, preached among the nations, believed on in the world, and received up in glory.
Context Summary
First Timothy 4:1–5 transitions Paul’s letter towards a discussion of false teachings. In this passage, Paul is especially concerned with teachers who encourage a practice known as asceticism. This is the rejection of worldly comforts in an effort to become more spiritual. In Paul’s day, groups such as the Gnostics taught that sexuality and food were physical, and therefore corrupted. On the contrary, as Paul explains, everything God created can be more than just ”good.” It can actually be ”holy,” when used as God intended.
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“1 Timothy 4:1” Bibleref.com
What does 1 Timothy 4:1 mean? | BibleRef.com
1 Timothy 4:1-3
But the Spirit says expressly that in later times some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to seducing spirits and doctrines of demons, 2 through the hypocrisy of men who speak lies, branded in their own conscience as with a hot iron, 3 forbidding marriage and commanding to abstain from foods which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth.
Context Summary
First Timothy 4:1–5 transitions Paul’s letter towards a discussion of false teachings. In this passage, Paul is especially concerned with teachers who encourage a practice known as asceticism. This is the rejection of worldly comforts in an effort to become more spiritual. In Paul’s day, groups such as the Gnostics taught that sexuality and food were physical, and therefore corrupted. On the contrary, as Paul explains, everything God created can be more than just ”good.” It can actually be ”holy,” when used as God intended.
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“1 Timothy 4:4” Bibleref.com
What does 1 Timothy 4:4 mean? | BibleRef.com
1 Timothy 4:4
4 For every creature of God is good, and nothing is to be rejected, if it is received with thanksgiving.
Context Summary
First Timothy 4:11–16 focuses on Timothy’s own personal conduct as the leader of a Christian church. Paul emphasizes ideas such as persistence, confidence, and diligence. Of particular importance is that Timothy live out an example for other believers. Among the most powerful counters to false teaching are the positive results spiritual truth can bring. Along with teaching the truth, Timothy must live it. By devoting himself to these principles, Paul reassures Timothy that he can be a powerful positive influence for Christ.
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“1 Timothy 4:12” Bibleref.com
What does 1 Timothy 4:12 mean? | BibleRef.com
1 Timothy 4:12
12 Let no man despise your youth; but be an example to those who believe, in word, in your way of life, in love, in spirit, in faith, and in purity.
Context Summary
First Timothy 4:11–16 focuses on Timothy’s own personal conduct as the leader of a Christian church. Paul emphasizes ideas such as persistence, confidence, and diligence. Of particular importance is that Timothy live out an example for other believers. Among the most powerful counters to false teaching are the positive results spiritual truth can bring. Along with teaching the truth, Timothy must live it. By devoting himself to these principles, Paul reassures Timothy that he can be a powerful positive influence for Christ.
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“1 Timothy 4:14” Bibleref.com
What does 1 Timothy 4:14 mean? | BibleRef.com
1 Timothy 4:14
14 Don’t neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the elders.
Context Summary
First Timothy 5:17–25 provides guidelines on how a church should honor elders. It also refers to the proper way to discipline them, if this becomes necessary. Those who devote themselves to serving the church should be supported, meaning paid, so they can fully focus on the needs of the congregation. Accusations should only be taken seriously when there is sufficient evidence. And elders who are found in sin should be publicly rebuked. Paul also warns Timothy not to be too hasty in assigning elders, since some men’s sins are hidden and hard to detect.
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“1 Timothy 5:22” Bibleref.com
What does 1 Timothy 5:22 mean? | BibleRef.com
1 Timothy 5:22
22 Lay hands hastily on no one. Don’t be a participant in other people’s sins. Keep yourself pure.
Context Summary
First Timothy 6:3–10 describes the character flaws common among false teachers. Those who refuse to accept correct doctrines are often characterized by traits such as hard-headedness, greed, slander, and bickering. The core cause of these errors is an unwillingness to accept the truth, and an insistence on clinging to false teachings. Paul also gives a more extensive explanation of how and why greed can destroy a person’s life.
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“1 Timothy 6:10” Bibleref.com
What does 1 Timothy 6:10 mean? | BibleRef.com
1 Timothy 6:10
10 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some have been led astray from the faith in their greed, and have pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
Brief Summary:
Paul encourages Timothy to remain passionate for Christ and to remain firm in sound doctrine (2 Timothy 1:1-2, 13-14). Paul reminds Timothy to avoid ungodly beliefs and practices and to flee from anything immoral (2 Timothy 2:14-26). In the end times there will be both intense persecution and apostasy from the Christian faith (2 Timothy 3:1-17). Paul closes with an intense plea for believers to stand firm in the faith and to finish the race strong (2 Timothy 4:1-8).
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The Book of 2 Timothy
Summary of the Book of 2 Timothy – Bible Survey | GotQuestions.org
Context Summary
Second Timothy 1:3–7 encourages Timothy to be brave in the face of hardships. Paul reminds Timothy that he is being prayed for, and that he comes from a family of strong faith. Paul also reassures Timothy that they are both in service of the same God, who gave them a spirit of ”power and love and self-control.”
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“2 Timothy 1:6” Bibleref.com
What does 2 Timothy 1:6 mean? | BibleRef.com
2 Timothy 1:6
6 For this cause, I remind you that you should stir up the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands.
Context Summary
Second Timothy 1:3–7 encourages Timothy to be brave in the face of hardships. Paul reminds Timothy that he is being prayed for, and that he comes from a family of strong faith. Paul also reassures Timothy that they are both in service of the same God, who gave them a spirit of ”power and love and self-control.”
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“2 Timothy 1:7” Bibleref.com
What does 2 Timothy 1:7 mean? | BibleRef.com
2 Timothy 1:7
7 For God didn’t give us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.
Context Summary
Second Timothy 1:8–18 encourages Timothy to be brave and protective of his faith. Paul reminds his dear friend Timothy that the Spirit of God grants Christians spiritual power. As a result, they should not be afraid to associate with persecuted brothers and sisters. Timothy is encouraged to hold to accurate, healthy Christian teachings. Paul also refers to various ministry partners who have supported—or abandoned—him.
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“2 Timothy 1:10” Bibleref.com
What does 2 Timothy 1:10 mean? | BibleRef.com
2 Timothy 1:10
10 but has now been revealed by the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who abolished death, and brought life and immortality to light through the Good News.
Context Summary
Second Timothy 2:1–13 presents a series of examples Paul wants Timothy to consider. Among these are soldiers, athletes, farmers, Jesus Christ, and Paul himself. Rather than give extensive details, Paul encourages Timothy to consider how each of these applies to his own life. The context for all of this is ”suffering,” meaning the hardships endured for the sake of Christ. Those who endure do so by the power of God, not their own efforts.
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“2 Timothy 2:12-13” Bibleref.com
What does 2 Timothy 2:12 mean? | BibleRef.com
2 Timothy 2:12-13
12 If we endure,
we will also reign with him.
If we deny him,
he also will deny us.
13 If we are faithless,
he remains faithful;
for he can’t deny himself.”
Context Summary
Second Timothy 2:14–26 contains Paul’s instructions to Timothy about leading other believers. Two important themes here are avoiding pointless bickering and holding to sound biblical teachings. Arguments over non-essential issues quickly turn into feuds, poisoning the body of Christ just as gangrene attacks the physical body. Paul names specific false teachers, but brings a note of compassion. Here, he reminds Timothy that gentleness and patience are key. After all, those who do not believe are not our enemies: they are those we are trying to rescue from the control of the Devil!
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“2 Timothy 2:15” Bibleref.com
What does 2 Timothy 2:15 mean? | BibleRef.com
2 Timothy 2:15
15 Give diligence to present yourself approved by God, a workman who doesn’t need to be ashamed, properly handling the Word of Truth.
Context Summary
Second Timothy 2:14–26 contains Paul’s instructions to Timothy about leading other believers. Two important themes here are avoiding pointless bickering and holding to sound biblical teachings. Arguments over non-essential issues quickly turn into feuds, poisoning the body of Christ just as gangrene attacks the physical body. Paul names specific false teachers, but brings a note of compassion. Here, he reminds Timothy that gentleness and patience are key. After all, those who do not believe are not our enemies: they are those we are trying to rescue from the control of the Devil!
For a more detailed summary select the link below.
“2 Timothy 2:16” Bibleref.com
What does 2 Timothy 2:16 mean? | BibleRef.com
2 Timothy 2:16-18
16 But shun empty chatter, for it will go further in ungodliness, 17 and those words will consume like gangrene, of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus: 18 men who have erred concerning the truth, saying that the resurrection is already past, and overthrowing the faith of some.
Context Summary
Second Timothy 2:14–26 contains Paul’s instructions to Timothy about leading other believers. Two important themes here are avoiding pointless bickering and holding to sound biblical teachings. Arguments over non-essential issues quickly turn into feuds, poisoning the body of Christ just as gangrene attacks the physical body. Paul names specific false teachers, but brings a note of compassion. Here, he reminds Timothy that gentleness and patience are key. After all, those who do not believe are not our enemies: they are those we are trying to rescue from the control of the Devil!
For a more detailed summary select the link below.
“2 Timothy 2:19” Bibleref.com
What does 2 Timothy 2:19 mean? | BibleRef.com
2 Timothy 2:19
19 However God’s firm foundation stands, having this seal, “The Lord knows those who are his,”Numbers 16:5 and, “Let every one who names the name of the Lordb]”>[b] depart from unrighteousness.”
Context Summary
Second Timothy 2:14–26 contains Paul’s instructions to Timothy about leading other believers. Two important themes here are avoiding pointless bickering and holding to sound biblical teachings. Arguments over non-essential issues quickly turn into feuds, poisoning the body of Christ just as gangrene attacks the physical body. Paul names specific false teachers, but brings a note of compassion. Here, he reminds Timothy that gentleness and patience are key. After all, those who do not believe are not our enemies: they are those we are trying to rescue from the control of the Devil!
For a more detailed summary select the link below.
“2 Timothy 2:22” Bibleref.com
What does 2 Timothy 2:22 mean? | BibleRef.com
2 Timothy 2:22
22 Flee from youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
Context Summary
Second Timothy 3:10–17 draws a strong contrast between the worldly, wicked behaviors of false teachers, and the conduct Timothy has seen from Paul. Not only has Timothy seen Paul’s suffering for the sake of Christ first-hand, he has often experienced it alongside his friend, as well. This adds to the validity of Paul’s teachings, which he strongly encourages Timothy to hold to. Above all, Timothy is to rely on the most secure, reliable, unchanging defense against error and false teaching: the ”God-breathed,” inspired, written Scriptures.
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“2 Timothy 3:11” Bibleref.com
What does 2 Timothy 3:11 mean? | BibleRef.com
2 Timothy 3:11
11 persecutions, and sufferings: those things that happened to me at Antioch, Iconium, and Lystra. I endured those persecutions. The Lord delivered me out of them all.
Context Summary
Second Timothy 3:10–17 draws a strong contrast between the worldly, wicked behaviors of false teachers, and the conduct Timothy has seen from Paul. Not only has Timothy seen Paul’s suffering for the sake of Christ first-hand, he has often experienced it alongside his friend, as well. This adds to the validity of Paul’s teachings, which he strongly encourages Timothy to hold to. Above all, Timothy is to rely on the most secure, reliable, unchanging defense against error and false teaching: the ”God-breathed,” inspired, written Scriptures.
For a more detailed summary select the link below.
“2 Timothy 3:16” Bibleref.com
What does 2 Timothy 3:16 mean? | BibleRef.com
2 Timothy 3:16
16 Every Scripture is God-breathed and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for instruction in righteousness, 17 that each person who belongs to God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.
Context Summary
Second Timothy 3:10–17 draws a strong contrast between the worldly, wicked behaviors of false teachers, and the conduct Timothy has seen from Paul. Not only has Timothy seen Paul’s suffering for the sake of Christ first-hand, he has often experienced it alongside his friend, as well. This adds to the validity of Paul’s teachings, which he strongly encourages Timothy to hold to. Above all, Timothy is to rely on the most secure, reliable, unchanging defense against error and false teaching: the ”God-breathed,” inspired, written Scriptures.
For a more detailed summary select the link below.
“2 Timothy 3:17” Bibleref.com
What does 2 Timothy 3:17 mean? | BibleRef.com
2 Timothy 3:16-17
16 Every Scripture is God-breathed anda]”>[a] profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for instruction in righteousness, 17 that each person who belongs to God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.
Context Summary
Second Timothy 4:1–8 contains Paul’s last ministry instructions to Timothy. Paul knows that he will not survive his current imprisonment. So, he clearly and boldly charges Timothy—commands him—to hold to the faith he has seen and lived. He can do this knowing that Paul has faithfully served God, expecting the heavenly rewards given to all of God’s followers. The poignant tone of this passage is made even more bittersweet by the long friendship these two men have shared.
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“2 Timothy 4:2” Bibleref.com
What does 2 Timothy 4:2 mean? | BibleRef.com
2 Timothy 4:2
2 preach the word; be urgent in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort with all patience and teaching.
Context Summary
Second Timothy 4:9–18 updates Timothy on Paul’s ministry partners, as well as his antagonists. Some of Paul’s friends have been sent out on missionary causes. Others, such as Demas, have turned their back on Paul and abandoned him. Only Luke, the author of the Gospel of Luke and the book of Acts, is still with him. Paul specifically warns Timothy about Alexander the coppersmith. Paul knows full well that he will not survive this trip through the Roman legal system. Rather than despair, he still rejoices in his salvation and praises God.
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“2 Timothy 4:18” Bibleref.com
What does 2 Timothy 4:18 mean? | BibleRef.com
2 Timothy 4:18
18 And the Lord will deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me for his heavenly Kingdom. To him be the glory forever and ever. Amen.
