qualities of timothy in the bible{ keyword }

This was extremely important in ancient times as there were not many inns. Serving God and people is a noble task that pleases God. This saying is trustworthy: If someone aspires to the office of overseer, he desires a good work. The overseer then must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, an able teacher, not a drunkard, not violent, but gentle, not contentious, free from the love of money. His mother, Eunice, however, brought Timothy up in the Word of God and instructed him correctly because Paul describes Eunice as having sincere faith (2 Timothy 1:5). If So, What is It? Timothy was a young minister and a leader in the church. Often the teaching elders are called the pastors, while others are only called elders. The Character of the Christian Minister | Crossway Articles Then came he to Derbe and Lystra: and, behold, a certain disciple was there, named Timotheus, the son of a certain woman, Then came he to Derbe and Lystra: and, behold, a certain disciple was there, named Timotheus, the son of a certain woman, which was a Jewess, and believed; but his father. 1 Timothy (p. 97). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books. Eunice, There is a place for levity, but not when it cheapens or removes the seriousness of Gods message. Excess in any area can affect our spiritual discernment. However, we do see that Timothys mother did have the help of her mother Lois, who was also a believer, in raising Timothy (2 Timothy 1:5). ), and to ordain other leaders (1 Tim. Gillman J 1992. Paul holds a very high regard and love for Timothy throughout his life and journeys. 9 MacArthur, J. F., Jr. (1995). Timothy was raised as a Gentile and was spiritually adopted by the Apostle Paul. He was biracial. Despite Timothys young age, he still dedicated his life to Christ and served Him faithfully. Application Question: Why is the practice of hospitality so important? 4 Now while they were passing through the cities, they were delivering the decrees which had been decided upon by the apostles and elders who were in Jerusalem, for them to observe. In 1 Timothy 6:9-11, Paul said this about the love of money: Those who long to be rich, however, stumble into temptation and a trap and many senseless and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. Instead pursue righteousness, godliness, faithfulness, love, endurance, and gentleness. Therefore, as we grow in spiritual maturity, we will find the ability to discipline our mind, body, and life to accomplish the tasks the Lord calls us to. Jacob Interpretation Question: Do elders have to be gifted in teaching? Both women were likely converted during Paul's first evangelistic journey to the city in 46 A.D., when he healed a cripple man but soon after was stoned to death and resurrected (see Acts 14). Paul had apparently led Timothy to saving faith in Christ (1 Tim 1:2) and was teaching Timothy through these letters that he needed to contend with the false teachers (1 Tim 1:3-7), what the . Application Question: In what ways is God calling you to be temperate? Application Question: Why can the love of money and wealth be so dangerous spiritually? In the KJV New Testament, he is referenced a total of twenty-eight times (nine times using his well-known name and nineteen times as Timotheus). This is a living example of what Paul described in 1 Corinthians 9:19-23 about being all things to all men so that he might be able to more effectively preach the gospel message of salvation. Chicago: Moody Press. Timothy possessed all of these abilities, which formed his personality and formed the person he was. Where the spiritually immature are often harsh in response to being wronged, the spiritually mature instead respond with gentleness. What Every Christian Should Know about Timothy in the Bible How Are the End Times Described in 2 Timothy? The devil is always seeking to destroy the believers testimony because to do so often destroys the testimony of Christ and his bridethe church. With that said, deacons are called to hold onto the deep truths of the faith (v. 9), which implies that they at times teach as well. Essential Qualities of Elders (1 Timothy 3:1-7) Related Media This saying is trustworthy: " If someone aspires to the office of overseer, he desires a good wor k." In what ways are you reaching out for opportunities to use your gifts and meet the needs of others around you? 12 Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but rather in speech, conduct, love, faith and purity, show yourself an example of those who believe. 1 Timothy (1 Ti 3:2b7). Paul, Why are these three titles used for the same office? Yet, often we know little or nothing about these steadfast members of the Christian faith. She was a Jewess. His father was not a believer. If so, it will hinder your usefulness for God. He had to tackle all sorts of challenges, pressures, and conflicts in the Christian community and the surrounding culture. He teaches his wife and children the Word of God. Four Qualities Every Christian Should Pursue | Open the Bible Zavada, Jack. According to Paul, Timothy was taught about the Scriptures when he was a child (2Timothy 3:14 - 15). Application Question: Why is it important to be orderly, and not chaotic, as a spiritual leader? Paul had Timothy circumcised because there were Jews there that knew Timothys father was not a Jew and Timothy was not raised as a Jew. Application Question: Why is it important for an elder to not be a young believer? In these two men one can find various traits of maturity discussed by Paul in the previous verses: steadfastness, unity, like-mindedness, unselfishness, humility, and sacrificial in attitudes and actions. Males should consider eldership as a potential ministry. Most elders will be unpaid. Question? The word care is used in the story of the Good Samaritan to describe how he faithfully cared for the victim of the robbers (Lk 10:34).21. 1 & 2 Timothy and Titus: to guard the deposit (p. 80). Tamela Turbeville iBelieve Contributor Published: May 25, 2021 Young pastor Timothy's mother, Eunice, is only mentioned briefly in Scripture, yet generations continue to know her influence. Likewise, we know that Timothys mother and grandmother raised him to have a deep understanding of the Scriptures starting at an early age, which resulted in his salvation (Acts 16:3-5; 2 Timothy 1:1-14; 2 Timothy 3:14-15). Timothy grew up in the town of Lystra as the son of a Jewish woman named Eunice, who was a believer, and a Greek (Gentile) father who is not mentioned by name. They will not be distracted from the mission by materialism. Timothy was not raised as a Jew as he was not circumcised until later as an adult by the Apostle Paul when Paul came to their area on his second missionary journey. It is in God. Thanks for stopping by! Like Daniel, David, and Joseph, they minister to Gods people while maintaining a secular job. The Bible tells us a great deal about him. Book of First Timothy Overview - Insight for Living Ministries How to Hope in God When it Seems Hopeless. According to the first chapter of Foxe's Book of Martyrs, he died in 97 A.D. upholding the truth of the Bible. Paul says that elders must not be given to drunkenness. - Newsletter - New! 1 Chronicles 16:11 Seek the LORD and his strength; seek his presence continually! From an early age, Timothy put his faith in the Lord (Acts 16:1; 2 Tim. Christ himself is called our pastor and bishop in 1 Peter 2:25. It means that there are no legitimate concerns about this mans life that anyone can hold up and criticize. Hospitable and able to teach describe that ministry. 16 Hughes, R. K., & Chapell, B. 8 Likewise must the deacons be grave, not doubletongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre; 9 Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience. How did it turn out? Timothy may not have had a formal education; however, he may have been taught and instructed by Paul during their time together. Catholic tradition states Timothy died in Ephesus when he was over 80 years old (1913 Catholic Encyclopedia). Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good (Rom 12:20-21). Matt 25:23). Temperate literally means wineless or unmixed with wine.11 Metaphorically, it means to be alert, watchful, vigilant, or clearheaded. That may be its primary sense in this passage. The fact that Timothy allowed Paul to circumcise him so that he could more effectively witness to Jews is an amazing testimony of Timothys devotion and burden to share Christ with the Jews. God uses role models to teach Christian character. 11 Even so must their wives be grave . Introduction to the Book of 1 Timothy. St. Timothy, Pauls Associate, 5 crafts for teaching kids thankfulness (with Bible verses! How to Deny Yourself, Take Up Your Cross and Follow Jesus, Ice Dragon: Legend of the Blue Daisies Movie Review, Phoenix Wilder And The Great Elephant Adventure Movie Review, The Boxcar Children: Surprise Island Movie Review. In ancient times, the water was often contaminated and therefore alcohol was added to purify it. Though not necessarily spiritually gifted in it, they have developed the knowledge and the skill to do it. Elisha Further, Paul repeated that churches must teach the true gospel of salvation through faithin Jesus Christ, apart from human effort. Once he has caught men in this trap, he holds them up to ridicule, scorn, and contempt.25. It is probable that of these two cities, it was Lystra treat was Timothy's native place. Those who profess godliness at church but practice drunkenness, immorality, and dishonestly throughout the week open the door for the devil to trap and accuse them, and bring dishonor upon God and his church. He looks for people with right hearts towards him. Jonathan Some may experience a blinding light like Paul or God speaking to them clearly like Samuel and Jeremiah, but this is not the norm. Not being violent is a quality of the spiritually mature. 1 Timothy 3 ISV - Qualifications for Leaders in the - Bible Gateway In what ways are you serving or preparing to better serve? He was neither fully Jew, nor fully Greek. Timothy has been shown to be brave, faithful, loyal, humble, kind, considerate, obedient, and submissive, as well as a heart for God. A disciple was there, named Timothy, the son of a Jewish woman who was a believer, but his father was a Greek." Your heritage isn't a factor for God. That as believers, we need to direct our effort toward serving the Lord no matter where we come from or where we end up. Timothy Character Study - Inductive Bible Study Notes - Study and Obey 7 Hughes, R. K., & Chapell, B. Maybe, God will see his mocking and restore his blessings on me (2 Samuel 16:9-12, paraphrase). Again, it is not about the officeit is about the work: studying Gods Word and caring for Gods people. Are you pursuing hospitality? 25 MacDonald, W. (1995). Are you a lover of wealth? 1 Timothy 1 NIV - Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the - Bible Gateway 3 Paul wanted this man to go with him; and he took him and circumcised him because of the Jews who were in those parts, for they all knew that his father was a Greek. Third, leaders greater knowledge of the truth, and accountability to live it, brings greater chastening when they sin. These men love Gods Word, study it, and share it where there is opportunityin small groups, in one on one situations, and in the pulpit when offered the opportunity. It should be noted that his father was not a Hellenistic Greek, but rather, he was a heathen Greek. Application Question: Describe a time when you left room for Gods wrath. Great affectionateness of disposition, which made him cleave closely to any one he loved, and enabled him to make cheerful sacrifices for them. What are characteristics of the church in the last days? Hannah 1. Being sober-minded is another characteristic of the spiritually mature. Application Question: What are your views on the use of alcohol? Her favorite things to do are spending time with her family and friends, reading, and spending time outside. All of these factors played a role in the person Timothy was going to become. Is It Biblical to Plead the Blood of Jesus? In 1 Timothy 3:1-7, Paul lists the qualities of an overseer or an elder. Some people in reaching for it have strayed from the faith and stabbed themselves with many pains. A leader, when wronged, must have no thought of retaliation.19. The word gentle has the connotation of forbearance and patience when wronged. 20 For I have no one else of kindred spirit who will genuinely be concerned for your welfare. We must train up faithful men (and women) to take the things that they have learned and to teach others (2 Timothy 2:1-2). 1 Timothy (p. 104). Peter Some people question why Paul had Timothy circumcised, especially after recently having a heated disagreement with Peter for not speaking out against circumcision when Peter was around other Jews. Another problem at Ephesus was the behavior of church leaders and members. In speaking about the selection of David as the future king of Israel, Samuel said: the LORD has sought out a man after his own heart (1 Sam 13:14 NIV). Are you gentle in response to criticism and wrongs committed against you? Qualities of an Excellent Servant, Part 4. This comes from both being in Gods presence and being humbled through failure. 1 Hughes, R. K., & Chapell, B. 11 MacArthur, J. F., Jr. (1995). The spiritually mature are motivated to serve and seek avenues to use their gifts, while the spiritually immature are content to sit on the sidelines. WEB: He came to Derbe and Lystra: and behold, a certain disciple was there, named Timothy, the son of a Jewess who believed; but his father was a Greek. Timothy Bible Character - Paul's Protege in the Gospel - Learn Religions Paul taught that salvationwas not earned by good works, but rather that godly character and good works were the fruits of a grace-savedChristian. Rather it suggests that he knows the value of things and does not cheapen the ministry or the Gospel message by foolish behavior.13. It's part of our ongoing series in this entire epistle. p. 55). Paul says, If someone aspires to the office of overseer, he desires a good work. The word aspires means to reach out after, or to stretch out oneself to grasp something. The term does not speak of internal motives, but only describes the external act. 4 Desires means a passionate compulsion.5 Together these two words describe somebody who pursues the ministry because of an inner compulsion. Application Question: In what ways have you witnessed leaders fall into the snare of Satanopening the door for the world to mock Christ and the church? (2000). Second Chronicles 16:9 (NIV) says, For the eyes of the LORD range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him. When God looks for a spiritual leader, he finds someone with the right heart. God calls for all believers to partner with him in building his kingdom. Lot What Can We Learn from Lois and Eunice in the Bible? - Crosswalk The answer to why Paul circumcised Timothy is found in Acts 16:3-4. All Rights Reserved. For this reason, elders, and Christians in general, must prioritize their family, even before the church. 20 likes, 0 comments - The Refined People's Assembly (@therefinedcitizens) on Instagram: "WORD AFRESH SERVICE (WED. 22ND FEB. 2023) KERUSSO (THE CALL TO EVANGELISM . When Paul is addressing Timothy in this letter, he is not stating that Timothy does not have these attributes as he is actually confirming that Timothy possesses these characteristics. How can we develop a beautiful witness before the world? Therefore, Timothy allowed Paul to circumcise him so that he would be received by the local Jews as he worked alongside Paul. God is a God of order and not of chaos (cf. Related Topics: Christian Life, Ecclesiology (The Church), Issues in Church Leadership/Ministry, Leadership, Greg Brown has served twenty years in pastoral ministry, including twelve in his current position as a chaplain and professor at Handong Global University and the teaching pastor at Handong International Congregation. The similarities of the qualifications for deacons and elders/overseers in 1 Timothy 3 are striking. While in the city he and a man named Erastus are sent by Paul to minister to brethren in Macedonia (Acts 19:22). Timothy. Timothy has been shown to be brave, faithful, loyal, humble, kind, considerate, obedient, and submissive, as well as a heart for God. Timothys youth was not seen as a problem for Paul because Paul urged Timothy to press on and lead a good example for others. But if we have food and shelter, we will be satisfied with that.. 17But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that through me the proclamation might be fully accomplished, and that all the Gentiles might hear; and I was rescued out of the lions mouth. He is not a ladies man. Chicago: Moody Press. Acts 16:1 - "Paul came also to Derbe and to Lystra. These verses contain the qualities that identify the overseer (vv. Part 2, Christian Community: The Secret Ingredient for a Stronger Marriage. It affects everything they dothey are serious about it. The Bible exposition commentary (Vol. Dr. Mike and his wife, Pamela Rose, live in Northeast Ohio and they have children and grandchildren that live in various states. The mixed water was typically around eight parts water and one part alcohol to avoid drunkenness.17 Because Timothy was abstaining from alcohol all together, he was having stomach problems, and Paul tells him to drink a little wine for the constant infirmities (1 Tim 5:23). In reading their qualities, it is important to notice that the devil is mentioned twice in verses 6 and 7. Previously, I addressed the first of these qualities, speech, with seven lessons for what men say. The failure to be a one-woman man has probably put more men out of ministry than any other sin. While Timothy was young and ill at times, he was a chosen instrument of God to spread the gospel, and his personality was shaped by his love for God and for Gods people. Before we consider the qualifications of an elder, we must first consider what an elder is. Both elders and deacons need to be people of character. He ea More, The Bible Teachers Guide, First Timothy: Becoming a Good Minister of Christ Jesus, If someone aspires to the office of overseer, he desires a good wor. 1:5). 8 Important Things About the Young Timothy | For The Church Therefore, they must be able to respond in a gentle mannerif not, they will aid in causing division and possibly church splits. 6 He must not be a recent convert, so that he won't become arrogant and fall into the Devil's condemnat. Barak Two scholarly camps exist on the major theme of 1 Timothy. They avail themselves of opportunities to learn from mentoring (e.g. Ruth Are you disagreeablecommonly in an argument? 1 Cor 10:6. Timothy was a native of either Derbe or Lystra. From the biblical support and the different scholars, it is clear that Timothy was not timid but rather that he was brave and courageous. Teaching is a characteristic of the spiritually mature. We must be wise and careful about our eating and drinking, our sleep, our entertainment, our exercise, and our relationships. 1 Timothy (pp. In doing so, the ministry will not die with us, but will multiply on through the lives of those we have taught. However, most likely, it has nothing to do with ones marital status at all. May 25, 2022 "My beloved and faithful son in the Lord" ( 1 Cor. They are to rule (1 Tim. Paul said that the elder must be the husband of one wife. There have been many interpretations of this throughout the centuries: Some think it means elders must be married; however, this would disqualify Paul, Timothy, and Jesus. (1 Timothy 6:12, NIV). He also served as a U.S. Navy Reserve chaplain until his retirement in 2022. Paul came also to Derbe and toLystra. Do you conduct affairs in a manner that is respectable? Proverbs 31:4-5 says, It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine, or for rulers to crave strong drink, lest they drink and forget what is decreed, and remove from all the poor their legal rights. Leaders need to be careful of wine because it can affect decision making. In 2 Timothy, one of the major themes is suffering for Christ. Paul cautioned all pastors and church leaders to behave with humility, personal integrity, high morals, and indifference to riches. Are you sober-mindedserious about God and the things of God? When it says that the elder does this without losing his dignity or in a manner worthy of full of respect (NIV), it means that the elders house should be a model for others. A short character profile of Timothy in the Bible will help us to see the potential for any child, no matter what their family circumstance, in doing great things for the Lord. Samson But if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for the church of God? This also showed a characteristic of Timothys personality, which is that he is honest with himself, others, and most importantly, God. His father was a Greek (Gentile). Then you will prosper and be successful (Joshua 1:8). (2000). While marching away from the kingdom, he is mocked by a man named Shimei. Paul said that anyone who aspires to be an overseer desires a good work. Romans 12:13 says this to all believers about hospitality: Contribute to the needs of the saints, pursue hospitality. The word pursue can also be translated practice or chase. It can mean a strenuous pursuit.16 Christians should not wait for opportunities to show hospitalitythey should pursue them. This is a sign of spiritual maturity and a characteristic in those God often uses greatly. Nehemiah 2. While Timothy has often been understood as being timid, he actually possessed the qualities of being a strong and courageous servant of Jesus Christ. Elders must be students and teachers of Gods Word. He didn't come from the right background. Application Question: Why is gentleness such an important quality for ministry? Similarly, when God calls for people to serve him in a greater fashion, they are already being faithful in a lesser fashion (cf. They know God is the one that changes heartsnot them. Dr. Michael L. Williams Finally, Paul says, he must be well thought of by those outside the faith, so that he may not fall into disgrace and be caught by the devils trap. Well thought of literally can be translated beautiful witness. He must have a beautiful witness among outsiders. Others specialize in rulingoverseeing the church and caring for the flock. 1 Timothy (p. 106). The leadership was abusing the law (1:7), teaching a false gospel (1:4), and some women were probably even usurping the male leadership, as implied by his prohibitions towards them (2:12). Some churches distinguish these as ruling elders or teaching elders. Luke 19:17, I must be Godly in order to be qualified and effective in teaching godliness to others. If they are married, their eyes are only on their spouse and they try to maintain appropriate boundaries with members of the opposite sex. Consider some of the traits brought up by Paul. Timothy does have the characteristics of courage, love, power, and self-control, which were all qualities that he obtained by the Holy Spirit working in him. The word hospitable literally can be translated lover of strangers. His house is open to the saved and unsaved alike. 20 For I have no one else of kindred spirit who will genuinely be concerned for your welfare. In ministry, the elders will constantly be criticized and attacked as they serve God faithfully. It is thought that the church at Ephesus looked down upon Timothy because of his age and lack of experience; however, Paul wrote to Timothy to demonstrate his faith through his conduct. Timothy - Bible Study - BibleWise He joined Paul during one of Paul's later missionary journeys. Lois, It is the very ministry of Christ, for Scripture calls him the Shepherd and Overseer of our souls (1 Peter 2:25). This would imply that Timothy was not courageous or that he was easily frightened. 8. The Church in the Last Days (2 Timothy 3:1-9) | Bible.org All rights reserved. Dr Michael L has written 155 articles on What Christians Want To Know! In this household, there are many vessels both for special purposes and common ones; there are also servants (v. 24). David, though a man of war, was a man who trusted God to fight his battles. Wheaton, IL: Victor Books. One church tradition suggests he was born around 17 A.D. Timothy. Application Question: Why is it so common for pastors and missionaries to have unfaithful children or ones that fall away from the faith all together? What are the essential qualities of elders? What the Bible says about Timothy's Personality - Bible Tools Solomon Article Images Copyright 2023 Getty Images unless otherwise indicated. The enemy wants to destroy them because when they fall, many others fall. If the elder does not have a beautiful witness, it opens the door to fall into disgrace and the devils trap. Remember Pauls advice to Timothy: Dont let anyone think less of you because you are young. 1 Timothy 3 New Life Version What a Church Leader Must Be Like 3 It is true that if a man wants to be a church leader, he wants to do a good work. His life must be so no one can say anything against him. Davids men became angry and asked to take off his head. While the mature are identified by being different from the world, the spiritually immature are often worldlybearing the marks of the world (cf. Timothys hometown was most plausibly Lystra. Rebekah Paul then charged Timothy to preach the Word with fervor, conviction, and patience as the time was coming when the people would one day not listen to sound preaching, but seek ministers who will preach messages that do not convict or challenge them. How can believers grow in humility and get rid of pride? Chicago: Moody Press. PaulTimothyOthers 2 Tim 3:14; Find a Godly man to disciple you and then stick to him like glue. Character Study E-book Study Guide Application Question: What are good boundaries to maintain with members of the opposite sex? Application Question: Why is being in Gods Word and sharing it with others so important for believers, and especially elders? 1 & 2 Timothy and Titus: to guard the deposit (p. 79). We must all seek to live above reproach because ultimately our lives either honor or dishonor Christthey either gather or push people away from him.

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