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December 16, 2010 1Timothy 1-5

Paul was concerned about Timothy as if he were his own son. Paul wrote to Timothy who was if Ephesus working in ministry there. Paul warned Timothy about people teaching false doctrines. Paul wanted Timothy to tell them to stop teaching and to give up their fables and genealogies, because they didn't support having faith in God. Paul wanted love emphasized, rather than the tangents that had distracted the people. He reminded Timothy that the Law was there to make sin obvious. Paul gave thanks to God for allowing him to have the opportunity to serve Him in spite of the way he had persecuted believers in the past. God forgives.

Paul mentored Timothy who was Pastor to the Ephesians. Paul urged Timothy to pray for peace in the land, and for everyone to know Christ. Paul wanted the men who were dedicated to God to pray. He also gave instructions about the appearance and conduct of the women. Paul believed that because Adam had been created first and Eve had been tricked by the snake, that women were second to men. (If Eve hadn't been tricked we wouldn't be here and none of this would have happened...)

Paul instructed Timothy about the type of men which should be allowed to help in church. They must be worthy and upstanding. They shouldn't drink too much wine or be greedy for money. Their wives had to be of good character and not gossip. They were to have only one wife, and be able to manage their family well. Paul hoped to be able to come and visit soon. Paul said, "No one can deny how great is the secret of our religion: He appeared in human form, was shown to be right by the Spirit, and was seen by angels. He was preached among the nations, was believed in throughout the world, and was taken up to heaven." (1Tim 3:16)

Paul talked about some of the false teachings of the day. Paul gave Timothy personal advice about how to take care of himself. Physical exercise had value, but spiritual exercise promises life for the present and the future. We work hard for God. Paul told Timothy not to let anyone look down on him because of his young age. Paul said, "...be an example for the believers in your speech, your conduct, your love, faith and purity." (4:12) He advised him to read the scriptures and use the spiritual gifts he had been given.

Paul gave Timothy instructions on how to be careful with believers. Paul expressed many opinions on the proper care and treatment of widows. Don't listen to random accusations, but do listen to those backed up by two or more witnesses. Paul suggested a public rebuke against those who commit sins so the rest would be afraid. In the presence of God and Jesus Christ, Paul called Timothy to obey these instructions. He suggested Timothy drink a little more wine for his digestive problems. Sins and good deeds are plainly seen or hidden until later.

Tomorrow read 1Timothy 6 & 2Timothy

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