1 Timothy (1 Tim)

Book 15 of the New Testament, having 6 chapters. Written by Paul, about AD 64, and addressed to Timothy, an emerging leader in the early church. Time to read: 15 mins.

Key people
Paul, Timothy.

Summary
Timothy had traveled with Paul to Ephesus and Timothy remained there to guide the church. Paul had invested a lot of time and effort into his relationship with Timothy and as an older man he considered Timothy a spiritual son. This is a personal letter encouraging Timothy "not to neglect his gift" (1 Tim 4:14). It also gives him training covering many issues from which we all can learn. The emphasis is on church administration and personal discipline, guarding his motives so he ministers faithfully and lives a life above reproach.

Central message
Right belief coupled with right behaviour is essential for anyone leading or serving in the church and is of greater value than ministry gifts (1 Tim 3:1–13). In fact, for all believers personal integrity is essential. This touches areas as diverse as treating others honourably and having "Godliness with contentment...for the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil" (1 Tim 5:1–8, 6:6–10). Continual growth in godly character is to be desired and is the outcome of 'knowing Him' (2 Pet 1:3,4).

Important passages and reflections

* "I urge that prayer and thanksgiving be made for all people especially those in authority...God wants all people to be saved and come to a knowledge of the truth" (1 Tim 2:1–6).
We are often quick to criticize those in authority but the directive of Scripture is to pray for them, so that we can live our lives in peace, displaying godliness and holiness. If we are genuinely praying for and speaking blessing into those in authority over us, we will be much less inclined to judge their performance. It is the responsibility of believers to share the good news although not everyone will choose to be saved, even though God, through Jesus, has provided the means.

* "Train yourself to be Godly. Physical training is good but godliness is better, having benefits both in this life and the next...Pursue righteousness" (1 Tim 4:7–8, 6:11).
Training involves our responsibility to apply ourselves by being committed to the goal. Am I disciplined and determined to be all God wants me to be by putting in the required effort, understanding it is more important what we allow God to do in us than through us? As our redeemed body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, to be proficient in our service for God, we should aim to be physically fit and healthy, besides attending to the spiritual dimension (1 Cor 6:19–20).

* "Don't let anyone look down on you because of your young age, but set an example" (1 Tim 4:12). Paul also said, "If anyone desires to be an overseer in the church...they must not be a recent convert...they must first be tested" (1 Tim 3:1, 6, 10).
Timothy, although he may have been relatively young, was mature, having been brought up by a Christian mother and developed quickly in the faith through being Paul's traveling companion and assistant (2 Tim 1:5).

Application points

Regular prayer, Scripture reading, and fasting help grow godliness and integrity. Just as athletes train their bodies, we must train ourselves in godliness (1 Tim 4:7–8). Use a journal to track growth and requests. Remember: disciplines aren’t about earning favour, but positioning ourselves to receive wisdom, strength, and intimacy with God.
Pray intentionally for government, church, and societal leaders (1 Tim 2:1–4). Instead of joining complaints, pray by name for wisdom and integrity. This transforms our hearts from judgment to compassion and aligns us with God’s desire that “all people be saved.”
Like Timothy, spiritual leadership is earned through faithful service. Volunteer in behind-the-scenes roles—greeting, children’s ministry, setup—to build patience, humility, and reliability. These “testing” seasons reveal motives and prepare us for greater influence. In God’s economy, greatness is measured by service, not status (Mk 10:42–45).