Materials Included
• 4 Sessions of Learner’s Materials
• 4 Sessions of Teaching Materials
• 2 Handouts

Scriptures
1. 1 Timothy 1:1-2; 2 Timothy 1:3-7; 3:14-17
2. 1 Timothy 1:3-11; 2 Timothy 2:14-19
3. 1 Timothy 2:1-12
4. 1 Timothy 3:1-13; 5:17-22

Brief Description
The instructions given in 1 and 2 Timothy are urgent and practical. Paul’s primary concern was the church at Ephesus, where Timothy was on mission. Even so, the principles and guidelines Paul shared with Timothy are relevant to people in any time or place who need to know "how to behave in the household of God, which is the church of the living God" (1 Tim 3:15). Indeed, 1 and 2 Timothy offer many lessons for churches like ours and people like us. As with most biblical books, the lessons emerge most clearly when we read the verses within their natural sequence and context. This unit, however, takes a different approach. These four sessions from Timothy are organized by topic. Most sessions consider two or more texts from one or both letters, but the logic of the selections is based on Paul ’s major, continuous ideas. For example, session 1 begins the study of Timothy with an exploration of the vital relationships and "family" language that are so important to these letters and to Paul’s gospel. The second session treats one of the major focuses in 1 and 2 Timothy, the characteristics of sound doctrine. In response to contemporary debates, session 3 has a tighter focus, addressing the specific questions that emerge in 1 Timothy regarding women and church teaching roles. Session 4 explores the more general church leadership issues that Timothy raised. The last study highlights a phrase important in both letters--"the good fight"--and assesses Paul ’s unique way of conceptualizing the Christian life.

These letters are remarkable because they represent our last collection of Paul ’s correspondence. They present a portrait of Paul in his final period of life and ministry; he comes across as exceedingly wise, deeply affectionate, and thoroughly human. The letters also present a picture of the ancient church in a moment of radical crisis and transition. In reading 1 and 2 Timothy, therefore, we are able to find direction for ourselves as faithful people in relationship, in struggle, and in the midst of constant change.

by Timothy W. Harris

User License
The purchaser of this file has permission to print twenty copies of this Learners Study Guide. Neither the file nor the printed contents may be sold copied or transferred to another person or church. The purchaser may make a backup copy of the file.

The purchaser of this file has permission to print one copy of this Teaching Guide. Neither the file nor the printed contents may be sold, copied or transferred to another person or church. The purchaser may make a backup copy of the file.

We add new titles regularly! Check back often!