Week 28: Exploring 1 Timothy 3-6 and 2 Timothy 1
As we step into week 28 of our New Testament journey, we will focus on Paul’s letters to Timothy in 1 Timothy 3-6 and 2 Timothy 1. In these chapters, Paul provides foundational wisdom for Timothy’s leadership and for the broader church community, covering everything from qualifications for leaders and the pursuit of godliness to warnings against false teachings and the dangers of materialism. These passages encourage believers to live with integrity, grow in faith, and rely on God’s strength in the face of challenges. This week’s readings remind us of the enduring impact of a life led by faith, humility, and a commitment to serve others.
1 Timothy 3
In 1 Timothy 3, Paul outlines the qualifications for church leaders, including overseers and deacons, emphasizing integrity, self-control, and faithfulness. These qualities are critical for maintaining the church’s integrity and serving as examples to others.
1 Timothy 4
In 1 Timothy 4, Paul warns against false teachings and encourages Timothy to focus on training in godliness. He urges Timothy to set an example in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity, remaining devoted to his calling and continuing to grow in faith.
1 Timothy 5
In 1 Timothy 5, Paul provides guidance on respecting various members of the church, including elders, widows, and leaders, focusing on the need for compassion, respect, and fairness. He instructs Timothy on caring for those in need and holding leaders accountable to maintain integrity.
1 Timothy 6
In 1 Timothy 6, Paul warns against the dangers of loving money and encourages contentment, reminding believers to pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness. He concludes by charging Timothy to remain steadfast and to use his resources for good.
2 Timothy 1
In 2 Timothy 1, Paul encourages Timothy to be bold and unashamed of the gospel, drawing strength from God’s Spirit. He reflects on the importance of sincere faith, urging Timothy to guard what he has learned and to hold fast to his calling.
Week 28: New Testament Reading Assignment
Each week, we will read 5 chapters of the New Testament. Some people may prefer to read during the weekdays, while others might enjoy doing most of their reading on the weekends. Choose the method that works best for you!
- Day 1: 1 Timothy 3
- Day 2: 1 Timothy 4
- Day 3: 1 Timothy 5
- Day 4: 1 Timothy 6
- Day 5: 2 Timothy 1
Printable Resource:
Week 28: Reflection Questions for 1 Timothy 3-6 and 2 Timothy 1
Consider the following reflection questions:
1 Timothy 3: Qualifications for Church Leaders
- How does Paul describe the character of church leaders, and how can we encourage these qualities in our communities?
- What does Paul’s guidance on self-control and integrity teach us, and how can we strive for these qualities in our own lives?
- How does Paul emphasize the role of good character in leadership, and what can we do to support those called to lead?
1 Timothy 4: Encouragement in Faith and Godliness
- How does Paul encourage Timothy to grow in godliness, and how can we commit to spiritual growth?
- What example does Paul encourage Timothy to set, and how can our actions influence others?
- How does Paul emphasize perseverance in faith, and what steps can we take to remain faithful to our calling?
1 Timothy 5: Instructions for Church Conduct and Care
- How does Paul instruct Timothy to treat elders and others in the church, and how can we show respect to all members of our community?
- What guidance does Paul give for caring for those in need, and how can we provide meaningful support?
- How does Paul describe accountability for leaders, and how can we uphold integrity in our church leadership?
1 Timothy 6: Contentment and Stewardship
- How does Paul warn against the love of money, and how can we practice contentment?
- What virtues does Paul encourage believers to pursue, and how can we grow in righteousness and godliness?
- How does Paul urge Timothy to be a good steward, and how can we use our resources to serve others?
2 Timothy 1: Faith and Courage
- How does Paul encourage Timothy to be bold in his faith, and how can we show courage in sharing our beliefs?
- What does Paul say about the role of God’s Spirit, and how can we rely on the Spirit in challenging times?
- How does Paul emphasize guarding the faith, and what can we do to preserve our convictions?
Reflective Prayer
Choose a few verses or topics from these chapters and pray over them. Consider using the ACTS method — Adoration, Confession, Thankfulness, Supplication:
- Adoration: Praise God. What specific characteristics of God do these readings bring to mind?
- Confession: Tell God that you are sorry for specific sins. What specific sins do these readings bring to mind?
- Thankfulness: Show gratitude towards God. What in these readings inspires gratitude?
- Supplication: Make requests for yourself and for others. What in these readings inspires a prayer?
If helpful, you can use a prayer journal template.
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English Standard Version (ESV): Unless otherwise noted, scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language.
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