TIMOTHY
(add information gleaned from time with the pastors that would be helpful and work it into this talk for there should be a good deal of extra time)
INTRODUCTION
Do you ever get afraid, shy, fearful of people & situations?
What causes the most fear in you?
Have you learned how to have victory over it?
Some pastors so courageous, outgoing, energetic nothing stops them
Others quiet, shy, fearful, introverts
Seem wrong type for ministry
NOT SO! MANY good strengths
God uses ministry to get over fear, trust Him through it
That’s what God did with ME
MY NAME IS TIMOTHY
Have you ever heard of me?
I. BACKGROUND
FATHER: unsaved Greek
MOTHER: Godly Jew – Eunice
GRANDMOTHER: Godly Jew – Lois
“Timothy” = “honored of God” – shows:
Father not anti-God, let Eunice use name “Timothy,’ let mother be in charge of children
-often men see children as mother’s responsibility
Any of You not have a godly father to help you grow into a man?
Hometown: LYSTRA
CHILDHOOD: good Jewish upbringing, taught OT well I(II Tim 1:5; 3:15)
2 Tim 1:5 I have been reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.
FAITH passed on down
1 MJ Paul led Timothy, Lois & Eunice (mo) to salvation Acts 14:6-19
probably Paul & co invited to stay at their home (good, open Jews)
shows they were hospitable, probably well-to-do (like Lydia, etc)
perhaps Paul recovered from stoning at Lystra at Tim’s home
Tim earned good rep with local church
RELATIONSHIP WITH PAUL
Paul ‘adopted’ him, -spiritual father & mentor
laid hands on (II Tim 1:6), blessing from father to son (Gentile father not do this)
sign of maturity, acceptance, manhood – give confidence, maturity
Timothy challenged to be man in Jewish community – hard for him to fulfill this role
PAUL LIKE A FATHER TO HIM
TIMOTHY LIKE PAUL’S (LOST) SON – II Tim 1:4
Phil 2:22 But you know that Timothy has proved himself, because as a son with his father he has served with me in the work of the gospel.
1 Tim 1:2 To Timothy my true son in the faith: Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.
1 Tim 1:18 Timothy, my son, I give you this instruction in keeping with the prophecies once made about you, so that by following them you may fight the good fight, (
INFLUENCE OF FATHER UPON BOYS
Timothy’s father not involved in life (for whatever reason)
Today fathers not as involved, out of the house working, etc (not like on farm, etc)
Boy needs from father:
1. Correct view of what a man is to follow – whatever ‘Dad’ is, is ‘man’
Sees ‘God’ same as his father, relates same
2. Affirmation, acceptance of his maleness
PHYSICALLY weak constitution, frail
EMOTIONALLY weak, fearful (more about this later)
Father unable to teach Tim @ manhood in Jewish community
contributed to ‘timidity’ (II Tim 1:7) – no strong male example, confidence, bonding
II. TRAINING
A. TRAVELING WITH PAUL
2 MJ when Tim left with Paul = 50 AD 16-25 yrs old
Ordained when traveled with Paul on 2MJ = 51 AD
I Timothy written = 64 AD
II Timothy written = 66 AD
B. SPIRITUALITY
SPIRITUAL GIFTS
good reputation among Christians Acts 16:2
church leader (Ephesus, etc)
evangelist II Tim 4:5) – church planter and growth
deep spiritual commitment
C. PERSONALITY
PERSONALITY
Ephesus: timid, fearful, stomach problems
pushed around by domineering women
not see example of man handling controlling woman in own home
doesn’t know how to handle strong woman, etc.
1 Cor 16:10-11 If Timothy comes, see to it that he has nothing to fear while he is with you, for he is carrying on the work of the Lord, just as I am. 11 No one, then, should refuse to accept him. Send him on his way in peace so that he may return to me. I am expecting him along with the brothers.
Tendency to FEAR
1 Tim 4:12 Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity.
YOUNG: mid to upper 20’s minimum
OVERLY SENSITIVE, young, shy, sensitive, despite godly upbringing
1 Tim 5:23 Stop drinking only water, and use a little wine because of your stomach and your frequent illnesses.
STRESS kept inside, affected his health
“When I repress my emotions, my stomach keeps score.”
2 Tim 1:6 For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. 7 For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline. 8 So do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord, or ashamed of me his prisoner. But join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God,
‘TIMIDITY’ = play on word ‘Timothy’ in Greek
FEAR big problem for men always (hide it, don’t know how to face & win)
Saul: insecure, proud I Sam 9
Gideon: Judges 6
POWER: authority comes from God alone, fear from flesh/Satan
LOVE: only real antidote to feat
Perfect love casts out all fear. I John 4:18
SELF-DISCIPLINE: go by mind, not emotions (what Tim needs)
Not a person anywhere ever who doesn’t battle FEAR
DON’T ALWAYS CALL IT FEAR
“concern” “burden” “care” “distraction”
“anxious” – no direct object of our fear
I have never met a person who didn’t struggle with fear
different fears, shown in different ways
pastors: fear of failure (all men … everyone)
ALL have it because sin separates us from God
something missing, only found in God
GOOD FEAR
motivate to do right (like guilt, anger, etc)
men exercise, watch diet because of heart problems
I get ‘fear’ before Sunday sermon, speaking, etc.
usually experience them in negative way today
EXAMPLES OF FEAR IN THE BIBLE
.Abraham, in calling his wife his sister
.Isaac, in calling his wife his sister
.Jacob, in flying from Laban
.The ten spies
.To meet Goliath
.20,000 Of Gideon’s army
.David, in fleeing from Absalom
FEAR OF CIRCUMSTANCES
FEAR OF CONTROL (loss of , others control us)
FEAR OF CRITICISM
II Timothy 1:7 “For God has not given us a Spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”
FEAR FLEES FROM THE CROSS
If believe God is in charge/control, then nothing to fear!
Satan causes, uses fear – gives access to demonic
SOLUTION TO FEAR:
1. ADMIT YOUR FEAR
no excuses, blame others, etc
2. ASK FOR PEACE
3. ATTACK YOUR FEAR
TRANSITION
Lifelong lesson for Timothy
PHLEGMATIC-SANGUINE
dependable, steady but timid & fearful
enjoyable, nice person to be around: congenial, dependable, fun-loving, people-oriented, diplomatic, humorous, easiest temp to get along with (as babies and adults)
weakness: lack of motivation (phleg) and discipline (sang) – falls far short of capabilities;
builds self-protective shell around self, selfishly avoids involvement & commitment
Very loyal to Paul I Cor 16:10; Phil 2:19; II Tim 3:10
non-assertive, phlegmatic
opposite of Paul: opposite attract, admire each other’s strengths
God uses other’s weaknesses to refine, patience, more like Jesus
III. MINISTRY
Sent from Berea to Thess Acts 17:14; I Thes 3:2
MENTORING Silas & Timothy, learning while contributing (prctical training)
With Silas, joined Paul at Corinth Acts 18;5; I Thes 3:6
With Paul at Corinth I Thes 1:1; II Thes 1:1
Sent to Thessalonica to strengthen their faith I Thes 3:2
First time Tim mentioned on his own (that I am aware of), his training is progressing
With Paul at Ephesus Acts 19:22
Now taking others to train them, pass info on (Jesus-Paul-Timothy-Erastus-other—me)
Sent to Macedonia & Corinth I Cor 4:17; 16:10
1 Cor 4:17 For this reason I am sending to you Timothy, my son whom I love, who is faithful in the Lord. He will remind you of my way of life in Christ Jesus, which agrees with what I teach everywhere in every church.
1 Cor 16:10 If Timothy comes, see to it that he has nothing to fear while he is with you, for he is carrying on the work of the Lord, just as I am. 11 No one, then, should refuse to accept him. Send him on his way in peace so that he may return to me. I am expecting him along with the brothers.
“NOTHING TO FEAR” = “be nice to him,” Tim had hard time with domineering people
“REFUSE TO ACCEPT” = why? age? won’t submit to younger, shy, stranger person?
With Paul in Macedonia II Cor 1:1
With Paul in Corinth Rom 16:21 2 Cor 1:19
Went with Paul from Corinth to Asia Minor Acts 20:4
GROUP GROWING – Tim one of leaders, mentoring others
With Paul in Rome #1 Col 1:1; Philem 1; Phil 1:1
Paul wanted to sent him to Philippi Phil 2:19
Left in charge of church in Ephesus I Tim (64 AD, 13 years after first left home Paul)
TOUGH church – strong women, weak men, worldly people, etc.
How many of you ever have gotten discouraged?
Does it happen often?
Anyone a bit discouraged now?
CONDITIONS PRODUCING DISCOURAGEMENT
(ask men to list what brings discouragement, then ask them to share solution)
1. FATIGUE
Too tired to go up to bed! Mind slips into negative gear,
Drained physically or emotionally, Care too much about the people
Solution: Enough food, rest, exercise, sleep, fun, etc.
Get control of your schedule (marathon, not sprint)
2. PRESSURE
Some pressure good motivator, too much & too hard not good
Pressure @ results: growth/numbers, $ income, comparisons, pleasing everyone
Pressure on self: high expectations, idealism, overly-sensitive
Solution: “I will build my church” – Jesus
3. LACK OF RESULTS
Stretch of no new people, growth, maturity, etc.
Solution: Take the focus off myself, my responsibility to produce, serve as unto God
God measures success differently than we do
4. TOUGH DECISIONS
About individuals or church as a whole
No easy answers, care @ the people and results
Solution: wisdom from others
5. FAMILY PROBLEMS
Difficulties with children, between husband and wife
6. SIN IN LIFE
Something defeating you can’t get victory over (see me!!!!!)
PAUL ENCOURAGES TIMOTHY TO STAY FAITHFUL
1 Tim 1:18-19 Timothy, my son, I give you this instruction in keeping with the prophecies once made about you, so that by following them you may fight the good fight, 19 holding on to faith and a good conscience. Some have rejected these and so have shipwrecked their faith.
STAY FAITHFUL to ordination commitment
CHURCH PROBLEMS TIMOTHY FACED
WOMEN getting out of place, bossy I Tim 2:11-15
DISORDER in church among people I Tim 3:14-15
SIN TO CORRECT in lives of some I Tim 4:6
PERSONAL CRITICISM for age, shyness, pressure from others I Tim 4:12-16
GOSSIP and criticism of leaders rampant I Tim 5:19
POWER STRUGGLES among people in church I Tim 5:21-22
GOSSIP ABOUT TIMOTHY: IMMATURE, ETC I Tim 6:11-14
WANT TO QUIT, LEAVE Ephesus
Result: stomach problems from stress, nerves I Tim 5:23
Went to join Paul in Rome (Prison #2) II Timothy (66 AD, 2 yrs after I Tim; 15 yrs with Paul)
PAUL’S ADVICE:
2 Tim 4:2 Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage– with great patience and careful instruction.
“CORREST, REBUKE” = those wrong – hard to do to elders, women, etc.
“ENCOURAGE” = those right – hard in a different way
IV. END OF LIFE
Continued to minister in Ephesus until martyred
TIMOTHY’S SERVICE
1. HE HAD A SERVANT HEART (willing to serve, not be served)
Acts 19:22 He sent two of his helpers, Timothy and Erastus, to Macedonia, while he stayed in the province of Asia a little longer.
2. HE WAS AVAILABLE (for years willing to go where God wanted)
Acts 20:4 He was accompanied by Sopater son of Pyrrhus from Berea, Aristarchus and Secundus from Thessalonica, Gaius from Derbe, Timothy also, and Tychicus and Trophimus from the province of Asia.
3. HE WAS TEACHABLE (hunger & thirst to learn all he could from Paul)
2 Tim 3:10-11 You, however, know all about my teaching, my way of life, my purpose, faith, patience, love, endurance, persecutions, sufferings– what kinds of things happened to me in Antioch, Iconium and Lystra, the persecutions I endured. Yet the Lord rescued me from all of them.
4. HE WAS LIKE-MINDED (shared Paul’s goals and motives, faithfully reproduced Paul & God’s will and desire)
Phil 2:19-20 I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, that I also may be cheered when I receive news about you. 20 I have no one else like him, who takes a genuine interest in your welfare.
“GENUINE” = sincere person, sensitive, good & bad
5. HE WAS FAITHFUL (not just knew Paul’s teachings & goal, but put into practice)
1 Cor 4:17 For this reason I am sending to you Timothy, my son whom I love, who is faithful in the Lord. He will remind you of my way of life in Christ Jesus, which agrees with what I teach everywhere in every church.
6. HE WAS A REPRODUCER (patterned own life after Paul, trained others to do same)
2 Tim 2:2 And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others.
1Thes 3:2 We sent Timothy, who is our brother and God’s fellow worker in spreading the gospel of Christ, to strengthen and encourage you in your faith,
SUMMARY OF MINISTRY
20 years of traveling from one problem area to another
representing Paul, reproducing Paul, faithfully being where Paul couldn’t be as his representative
nothing outstanding or dramatic about his service, but VERY necessary!
friendship to Paul most important in helping Paul, too (closest friend, loved most)
DEATH: martyred under Domitian or Nerva (Jan 22, 96, 97 or 98 AD)
attempting to stop heathen indecent processing during Festival of Diana
-victory over fear!
CONCLUSION
(IF TIME TO FILL) How do you handle the fears you face?
How do you get victory over discouragement?
CLOSING PRAYER
THOSE HERE who are struggling with FEAR DISCOURAGED
SPECIAL PRAYER IN FRONT NOW OR AFTERWARDS……
1. Fight the Good Fight (I Tim 1)
INTRODUCTION
What if there were no church? All bel on own to make it?
That harder or easier? Why? FIRE: spread out coals
Commanded to be part of a church Hebrews 10:25 Let us not give up meeting togetherg.
Author: Paul
Date: 62 AD (in Macedonia, 3 yrs before Paul killed)
Recipient: Timothy, like own son, Mo Eunice, g-mo Lois, Lystra
Place Timothy at: Ephesus
#1 church (Jerusalem, Antioch, Eph, Rome)
John & Mary there, too
Ephesus church – Paul start, there more than any
Problems developing, so wrote Tim
Rev 2 = left first love
Theme: how to lead a church
TRANSITION
1-11 overview, MISSION ASSIGNMENT to Timothy
Tim struggling, wants to leave, too hard for him
Greetings 1:1-2
1 Timothy 1:1-2 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the command of God our Savior and of Christ Jesus our hope, 2 To Timothy my true son in the faith: Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.
Paul, an apostle: one who is send
Chosen, can’t volunteer (or wouldn’t if not HS in)
ME: God sent me to India
YOU: sent to various places
WE are not Apostles, but sent like they were
Paul using authority to command Tim to stay!
Not father/friend but leader command
Grace: undeserved favor, removal of guilt
Depends on who & what God is, not who/what we are
Tim must depend on Grace
Mercy: grace in operation child who disobeys
Paul usually says “grace & peace”
Mercy added because Tim needs it now!
Tim needs mercy when fails
Peace: prosperity, harmony, removal of discord
Tim needs peace despite opposition, criticism, etc
I. ORDINATION OF TIMOTHY 1:3-20
A. PAUL WARNS AGAINST FALSE TEA 1:3-11
1 Tim 1:3 As I urged you when I went into Macedonia, stay there in Ephesus so that you may command certain men not to teach false doctrines any longer
Stay: Tim wants to leave for ‘nicer’ easier church
Hard for him there with problems, etc.
WE ALL have hard time, envy others, want leave
God uses that to stretch our faith, grow
ME same church 30 years, often wish God move
“grass looks greener on other side…”
Stay until GOD moves you!
Certain men: influential leaders in house churches
Timothy young, intimidated by them, shy, fearful
Always some who oppose, make it hard
Those inside worse than those outside ch!
Say things to please people
ME in US: Indians say what think I want
Help learn Hindi! Yes! Don’t
Pastors can’t do that!
Can’t teach anything false
Can’t let others teach anything false, either
Must know Word well so know truth
TRANSITION
Paul uses self as proof against false teachers
God used the truth in his live for his growth
B. PAUL TESTIFIES TO GOD’S GRACE 1:12-17
1 Timothy 1:12-14 I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me faithful, appointing me to his service. 13 Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief. 14 The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.
He considered me FAITHFUL: NOT busy, ‘successful’
What God looks for in us, church, life, ministry
NOT size of church, money, programs, etc
Appointing me to His ministry:
Not our choice, anything we get credit for, but God’s
Ministry = diakonos (deacon) = ‘wait on tables’
Servant (of God, not of all people want)
Doesn’t do all himself, delegates
Teaches, equips other servants to serve
Servant reports for duty, not orders master
Grace was poured out abundantly:
all we have is by God’s grace!
ME: all by grace, standing here, something to say
YOU: not deserve, earn salv, God’s blessing
Teach people to live by GRACE, not law
False tea = legalism, pride, what I do (don’t)
Truth = all by grace & mercy
Paul so grateful for this he sings – v 15-17 – PRAISE
TRANSITION
Paul applies this to Tim – God help him as did Paul
C. PAUL CHARGES TIM TO MINIST 1:18-20
1 Tim 1:18-19a Timothy, my son, I give you this instruction in keeping with the prophecies once made about you, so that by following them you may fight the good fight, 19a holding on to faith and a good conscience.
Timothy, my son: very close!
Every pastor needs a:
Paul – older mentor to go to for help, support
Timothy – someone to help, build self into
Barnabas – brother, equal, share burdens with
With Paul in travels, difficulties, probably then
Fight the good fight: Christian life a battle
Ministry even more a battle
Fight:Satan, demons False teachers
World Self, flesh, pride
My biggest battle is with ME! (OSN)
This is a COMMAND, not suggestion, option
Holding on to: what battle is about, hold your ground
Not slack off, move back, give up, surrender
Faith and a good conscience: how to win the battle
FAITH: know, apply God’s Word
GOOD CONSCIENCE: standards based on Word
What Paul talks about in rest of I Tim
Ex Hymenaeus & Alexander, not fight good fight, hold faith
CONCLUSION
|
THUMB TIP, STRING cut OK |
What about you?
Faithful to God? (not perfect, confess keep going)
Fighting the good fight, or giving up, quitting?
Others: Paul to mentor you
Timothy for you to build into, disciple
Barnabas friend who understands
Stand against wrong teachers/teaching? AFRAID?
Focusing on GRACE in own life & church?
Or legalism, expectations, scold, hard on
PRAY for those struggling….
2. Qualities of Godly Leader (I Tim 2-3)
INTRODUCTION
LAST TIME: What if there were no church?
THIS TIME: What if no prayer? Can’t talk to God?
Often too busy to pray
ME not satisfied with prayer life, struggle, YOU TOO?
REVIEW: Tim afraid, discouraged, hard time with people
Paul: fight good fight, faithful, grace
NOW: how to lead the church, what to do
Chap 1: don’t quit, chap 2: do lead this way
II. ORGANIZATION OF CH 2:1 – 3:16
A. SUPPLICATION OF PRAYER 2:1-8
1 Timothy 2:1-2 I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone— 2 for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.
1 Timothy 2:8 I want men everywhere to lift up holy hands in prayer, without anger or disputing.
Duty of church & pastor is to PRAY
Tim: not discouraged, feel sorry for self, but pray!!!
|
|
Prayer key function in church
(Acts 2:42)
(see Ch Function)
(see Talk/Listen to God)
ANY time/place OK
Sincere attitude important
TRANSITION
MEN = lead, pray
WOMEN = inner beauty (9-10) submission (11-15)
B. SUBJECTION OF WOMEN 2:9-15
9-10 DRESS MODESTLY and decently (I Pt 3:1-6)
11-15 ACT MODESTLY and decently as well
1 Timothy 2:11-12 A woman should learn in quietness and full submission. 12 I do not permit a woman to teach or to have authority over a man; she must be silent.
CAN’T lead men, pastors, elders (teach preach to men)
CAN lead singing, pray out loud, teach children & teens
Miriam, Deborah, Esther, Mary Martha, Phoebe, etc.
TRANSITION
Role of men (lead, pray), women (submit), now LEADERS
C. SUPERVISION OF LEADERS 3:1-16
1. Overseer 3:1-7
1 Tim 3:1-13 Here is a trustworthy saying: If anyone sets his heart on being an overseer, he desires a noble task.
Sets his heart: “set his heart, aspire” stretch self to be…
1) shep gift at salvation 2) call, 3) grow
Noble: honorable
Overseer: = pastor (see Shepherd session)
PASTOR (poimen) = shepherd
ELDER (presbutero) = head of synagogue
OVERSEER (episcopos) = head of Gentile group
MINISTER (diaconos) = servant, wait on tables
2 Now the overseer must be: commands, not suggestions
Be: presently, not always been (Paul murderer)
“be” not “do” – look for character traits, not talents
above reproach, (general) no cause for blame, criticism
the husband of but one wife, loyal to 1 wife now with
not eliminated if single, widowed, divorced
not just legally married but meeting her needs
ME: this hardest qualification to meet!
temperate, lit ‘sober’ – moderate in all things
self-controlled, ‘sound mind’ to apply Word, good decisions
respectable, honorable, disciplines self
hospitable, generous with others, help in need (WIFE)
able to teach, pastor-TEACHER, feed sheep, learn & pass
3 not given to drunkenness, wine OK, drunkenness not
not violent but gentle, considerate sensitive, no quick temp
not quarrelsome, not want own way, argumentative
not a lover of money. Attitude of greed, not amount
4 He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him with proper respect. 5 (If anyone does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God’s church?) (Hosea)VERY IMPORTANT
If manipulate/guilt/anger/control/passive w/ family = w/ ch
6 He must not be a recent convert, or he may become conceited and fall under the same judgment as the devil.
Pride in position = sin and fall; so maturing believer
7 He must also have a good reputation with outsiders, so that he will not fall into disgrace and into the devil’s trap. Honorable, rep for church & God
2. Deacons 3:8-10,12
8 Deacons,, ‘wait on tables’, servant (Acts 7)
Likewise, different sp gift but same qualifications
are to be command, not suggestion; present time
men men minister to all, women to women & children (next)
worthy of respect, (general) honorable, good reputation
sincere, no deceit, hypocrisy, but truthful honest
not indulging in much wine, not drunk or rep as drunk
and not pursuing dishonest gain. Honest, not greedy
9 They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience. Faithful life in all aspects
10 They must first be tested; and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons. Watch lives first
3. Deacons’ Helpers 3:11
11 In the same way, their wives/women = female deacons
are to be women worthy of respect, (gen) honorable, mat
not malicious talkers not slanderers, gossips (Satan)
but temperate not addicted to alcohol
and trustworthy in everything. Sums up all, faithful
12 A deacon must be the husband of but one wife and must manage his children and his household well.
Command, present tense, faithful late & father
13 Those who have served well gain an excellent standing and great assurance in their faith in Christ Jesus. Blessing now & eternity, affirmation of God & others
4. Timothy 3:14-16
14-15 Paul reaffirm purpose in writing = how church function
Wants to see, tell Tim in person, sad he can’t
Great for us, for writing it means we have it, too
16 hymn of early church, glorifying Jesus
Where Paul’s thoughts keep returning to
CONCLUSION
How is your prayer life? Where/how improve?
Characteristics of leader: where strong? Weak?
How to improve?
PRAY
3. Stay Faithful (I Tim 4)
INTRODUCTION
TURTLE & RABBIT favorite story, persevere
WILLIAM CAREY India “I can plod”
REVIEW: Tim afraid, discouraged, hard time with people
Paul: fight good fight, faithful, grace
Men: lead church, pray; women: submit
Leader qualifications, traits
TRANSITION
Now back to MI, Tim faithful despite false teachers, etc
III. OPERATION OF TIMOTHY 4:1 – 6:19
A. SURVEY OF RESPONSIBILITY 4:1-16
1. The enemy: false teachers 4:1-5
ADVICE to Tim about false teachers
-they WILL come, and more in last days
-they are deceitful, hard to oppose
-seem ‘sincere’ and mislead many
-stand on truth of Word, not led by personality
-don’t fear their opposition, stand true
-preach grace, not legalism, negative rules
2. The duty: faithful ministry 4:6-11
Be faithful to teach these things to your people
Keep the focus on Jesus above all, not do’s & don’ts
3. The duty: Godly life 4:12-16
1 Timothy 4:11-16 Command and teach these things.
Imperatives, an order – KNOW Bible and teach/apply it
12 Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, command #1
Problem for all young pastors, new pastors, all insecure
but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity. Command #2
don’t worry about what others think, live faithful life for God
13 Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching. Command #3
Top priority: exposit Bible word by word (like me with 1 Tim)
14 Do not neglect your gift, which was given you through a prophetic message when the body of elders laid their hands on you. Command #4
Faithfully serve in area God called and gifted you
15 Be diligent in these matters; command #5
Take care, cultivate, be deeply involved in
give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress. Command #6
be absorbed in them, top priority is serving God (family #1)
progress: growth a process, often slow!
shepherd = wife #1 sheep, children next!
16 Watch your life and doctrine closely. Command #7
What you believe and how you live must match up!
Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers. Command #8
Persevere: KEY in pasturing, life, family, etc (Heb 12:1-2)
ME: turtle and rabbit race…. (run, life marathon)
TRANSITION
1 Tim 4 = how Timothy to live in faithfulness to God
1 Tim 5 = how Timothy to live in faithfulness to others
B. SUPPORT OF DEPENDENTS 5:1 – 6:2
1. Men & women 5:1-2
Treat with respect, as if your father, mother, bro or sister
2. Older widows 5:3-10
Financially support those in need, but only if no family help
3. Younger widows 5:11-16
Don’t financially support or use time unwisely, remarry
4. Church leaders 5:17-25
1 Timothy 5:17-18 The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching. 18 For the Scripture says, “Do not muzzle the ox while it is treading out the grain,” and “The worker deserves his wages.”
Support for needy, qualified widow OK, for pastor as well
Pastors due 1) respect and 2) financial support
RESPONSIBILITY OF PEOPLE TO PAY PASTOR
If not teach them that, let them do that then disobey God
ME: wife work (nurse) to help, church do its best
ESPECIALLY preaching & teaching: main resp of pastor
Teach: convey facts, truth of Bible
Preach: apply those to daily life, current situation
19-20 be careful of accepting criticism of church leader
But when it is true then act and correct matter
-don’t believe unproven accusation (19)
-don’t gossip about them (19)
-if true publically correct them (20)
-be totally fair and impartial (golden rule) (21)
5. Masters & slaves 6:1-2
Still about how to treat others: now masters & slave
Applies to boss and employees
-show them respect
-serve them as if serving God
TRANSITION
Back to false teachers & teachings (on Paul’s mind)
Shows godliness is superior to their teachings
Why theirs so bad and must be stopped
C. SUPERIORITY OF GODLINESS 6:3-19
1. Over false teachings 6:3-5
Godly, Christ-like life not from false teaching, better than it
2. Over materialism 6:6-19
Godliness, Christ-likeness greater than materialism also
1 Timothy 6:11-12 But you, man of God, flee from all this, command to keep on avoiding false teaching, etc
Materialism subtle temptation, distract, defeat pators
And pursue Command as to what to do
righteousness, conformity to God
godliness, Christ-like maturity
faith, trust, as seen in actions
love, agape, unconditional
endurance perseverance, steadfastness
and gentleness attitude of humility
12 Fight the good fight of the faith.
CHRISTIAN LIFE & PASTORING A BATTLE! (sw)
Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses. Blessings now and for eternity
STAY FAITHFUL (take hold = lunge to the finish line)
V 13-21 more commands of how to conduct ch faithfully
Close 6:20-21
1 Timothy 6:20 Timothy, guard what has been entrusted to your care.
Guard = Soldier protecting precious possession
Entrusted = banking term
Stay faithful, persevere
CLOSING
PRAY for each one to stay faithful (small group prayer)
4. Paul’s Last Words (II Tim 1-2)
INTRODUCTION
FINAL WORDS of dying person important, why?
What final words of advice would you give your son?
2 Tim Paul dying words, most important of anyone but Jesus
Author: Paul Date: 64 AD
Recipient: Timothy
Place Paul in Rome prison, 2 yrs after I Tim, right before die
Theme: Paul’s final words, stay faithful!
SALUTATION 1:1-2
2 Timothy 1:1-2 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, according to the promise of life that is in Christ Jesus, 2 To Timothy, my dear son: Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.
Promise of life: Paul about to die, thinking of eternal life
God gives us QUALITY of life – abundant
QUANTITY of life – eternal
My dear son: love for Tim, sp son, last communication
Son = student (maturing since I Tim – stayed in Eph)
Are you training those who will replace you?
EXPRESSION OF GRATITUDE 1:3-5
2 Timothy 1:3 I thank God, whom I serve, as my forefathers did, with a clear conscience, as night and day I constantly remember you in my prayers.
Thank: despite being in prison about to die!
Clear conscience: come to end of life and ready face God
Not perfect, sinless life – do best & forgiven
Live so at end of life don’t have regrets, only 1 life
Prayers: pray for those you love, mentor
1:5 I have been reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.
Importance of godly parents influence when young
Spend time with children & wife (#1 sheep)
I. QUALITIES FAITHFUL PASTOR 1:6-18
A. ZEAL 1:6-7
1:7 For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.
Timidity: cowardice, fear
Respect of God good (I Pt 1:17; 2:17) but not fear
Tim lack confidence, fear (I Cor 16:10-11; I Tim 4:12)
FEAR problem of all pastors, people
ME: fearful travel to India, rejection, failure, etc.
Power: ‘dynamite’ Acts 1:8 – inner ability
Love: agape, motive to press on, faithful as pastor
Self-discipline: self-control, balanced mind
B. COURAGE 1:8-12
2 Timothy 1:12 Yet I am not ashamed, because I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him for that day.
Not ashamed: v 7 = nothing to fear (cf v 8)
I know whom I have believed: trust keeps him from fear
Able to keep: eternal security
What I have entrusted: banking deposit – soul to God
That day: rewards, Bema seat
C. FAITHFULNESS 1:13-18
1. Appeal 1:13-14
Be faithful to the truth taught you, pass it on to others
2. Incentive 1:15-18
Paul deserted in prison, believers turned against him
Onesiphorus faithful, helped him
Pastors need faithful friends, support-‘Barnabas’ in life
ME: Dan, Chris
II. DUTIES OF FAITHFUL PASTOR 2:1-4:8
A. PERSONAL STRENGTHENING 2:1
2 Timothy 2:1-7 You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.
Then: in light of QUALITIES in chapter 1
Be strong: command, #1 duty of pastor
receive it (passive), can’t strengthen self
in the grace…: grace source of all inner strength
B. TRANSMITTING THE TRUTH 2:2
2 Timothy 2:2 And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others.
Teach: top priority of pastor (must learn before can teach)
Build into those who can build into others (Paul to Tim)
Paul – Timothy – Reliable Men – Others – – – – – us – followers
RELAY RACE – pass baton/truth on best you can
Who are you mentoring?
Don’t do it all, train others, le them help
C. ENDURANCE 2:3-13
1. As a Soldier 2:3-4
2 Timothy 2:3-4 Endure hardship with us like a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No one serving as a soldier gets involved in civilian affairs — he wants to please his commanding officer.
Soldier hears & follows the call
Joins the battle
Endures hardship and suffering
Separates from competing interests
Concerned only about victory
2. As an Athlete 2:5
2 Timothy 2:5 Similarly, if anyone competes as an athlete, he does not receive the victor’s crown unless he competes according to the rules.
Self-control, focus (curfew, diet, training, competition)
3. As a Farmer 2:6-7
2 Timothy 2:6 The hardworking farmer should be the first to receive a share of the crops.
Unglamorous but necessary work
First to enjoy the fruit (pastor learns more than teaches)
4. Motivation for Endurance 2:8-13
Example of Jesus – faithfully endured to the end
D. WARN OF SIN 2:14
Teach people not to quarrel among themselves
Worst hurts, problems can be from other believers
CLOSING
What is the hardest part of pastoring?
Faithful in hard times, consistent under pressure
Who are you passing truth on to????
Are YOU like a soldier, athlete, farmer?
Where improve?
Show bag as empty – then craw out soldier, athlete, farmer as talk about them and challenge them one by one.
Put back in bag and show bag empty again
5. Duties of a Faithful Pastor (II Tim 2-4)
INTRODUCTION
What is your Goal as pastor? $, large ch, popular?
What was Paul’s goal for self & Timothy?
REVIEW II TIM 1-2: final words, qualities, start duried
II. DUTIES OF FAITHFUL PASTOR 2:1-4:8
E. LIVE FOR GOD 2:15
2 Timothy 2:15 Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.
Do your best: be zealous, diligent, eager
Present yourself to God: ONLY one trying to please!!!
Approved: pass test, exam, trial (bema, rewards)
Workman: “works for someone else” = follow directions
Not ashamed: by not being faithful, loss of reward
Correctly handles: “cut a straight line” (skillfully examine)
Word of truth: Bible is our tool, learn to use it
Each skill has tool, for pastor it is the Word of God
F. GODLY TALK 2:16-19
Warns against false teaching: resurrection already happened
FACING DIFFICULT PEOPLE
Pray Show love
Don’t be discouraged or quit Don’t argue
Look for deeper issues behind it Be honest
G. PURITY 2:20-26 Stay pure, free from sin
2:24 The Lord’s servant must not quarrel; instead, he must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful.
Not quarrel: have own way, ego, pride, always right
Kind to everyone: grace, gentle, approachable
Able to teach: ready always to communicate truth
Not resentful: forgive those hurt you, meek when wronged
H. SEPARATION 3:1-9
Last days many hypocrites, self-centered, sinners
– stay away from them
UNFAIR ATTACK OR LEGITIMATE CONCERN?
Consider the source
Consider spirit in which criticism given
Consider anger sign of something deeper
Consider concrete criticism more seriously
I. FAITHFUL IN PERSECUTION 3:10-13
Paul uses self as example of someone faithful in persecution
2 Timothy 3:12 In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted,
Will be: promise, no exemptions
J. PREACH THE WORD 3:14 – 4:5
2 Timothy 3:14-17 But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it,
Continue: abide, remain (Jn 15), persevere, faithfulness
15 and how from infancy you have known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.
From infancy: teach children Scriptures, not stories/games
Able to make you wise: power in God’s Word
Present continuous, knowing the Bible = wisdom
16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17 so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
God-breathed: “in spired” 100% true & accurate
Teaching: instruction in truth, knowledge
Rebuking: learn where wrong
Correcting: restore from wrong, error
Training in righteousness: ‘child-training’
Thoroughly equipped: sufficiently prepared, goal of all
2 Timothy 4:1-2 In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of his appearing and his kingdom, I give you this charge: 2 Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage — with great patience and careful instruction.
Presence of God”: accountable to Him, not others
I give you this charge: Paul auth as apostle, to us too
Preach the Word: main resp of each pastor
DTS slogan – what God most expects of us!!
Be prepared in season: always ready for opportunity
And out of season: inconvenient, difficult times as well
Correct: where wrong by ignorance
Rebuke: where wrong by rebellion, choice
Pastor has authority from God to do this
Encourage: when struggling motivate to faithfulness
Great patience: perseverance, stay faithful yourself
Careful instruction: accurate teaching of God’s truth
V 3-5 this not always easy, people don’t always want truth
K. LONG-RANGE GOALS 4:6-8
2 Timothy 4:6-8 6 For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time has come for my departure. 7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 8 Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day — and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.
Poured out like drink off: sacrificial offering of life near
Fought the good fight: pastoring a battle!!! Gk ‘agony’
Finished the race: faithfulness to very end, race over
Gk: reward keeping torch burning, not speed
ME: life goal, funeral, “man of God”
Kept the faith: military term: stand guard, protect
Crown of righteousness: reward for faithfulness
Pastors special reward for eternity for faithfulness
Place crowns at Jesus’ feet Rev 4:10
Longed for His appearing: NOT rewarded for church size,
Skill, accomplishments, but love/faithfulness to Jesus
Personal Requests 4:9-22
Personal messages – Mark come to him, bring coat & scrolls
Greetings to friends never see again
CLOSING
If you were writing final words to loved son pastor
what would you say?
Will you be able to say 4:6-8 at end of life?
What is your goal as a pator?
REWARD/CROWN for faithfulness
Not own strength, done in Jesus’ name
Wood hay stubble I Cor 3:12-15
I TIMOTHY
Greetings 1:1-2
I. ORDINATION OF TIMOTHY 1:3-20
A. PAUL WARNS AGAINST FALSE TEACH 1:3-11
B. PAUL TESTIFIES TO GOD’S GRACE 1:12-17
C. PAUL CHARGES TIMOTHY TO MINIST 1:18-20
II. ORGANIZATION OF THE CHURCH 2:1 – 3:16
A. SUPPLICATION OF PRAYER 2:1-8
B. SUBJECTION OF WOMEN 2:9-15
C. SUPERVISION OF LEADERS 3:1-16
1. Overseer 3:1-7
2. Deacons 3:8-10,12
3. Deacons’ Helpers 3:11
4. Timothy 3:14-16]
III. OPERATION OF TIMOTHY 4:1 – 6:19
A. SURVEY OF RESPONSIBILITY 4:1-16
1. The enemy: false teachers 4:1-5
2. The duty: faithful ministry 4:6-11
Godly life 4:12-16
B. SUPPORT OF DEPENDENTS 5:1 – 6:2
1. Men & women 5:1-2
2. Older widows 5:3-10
3. Younger widows 5:11-16
4. Church leaders 5:17-25
5. Masters & slaves 6:1-2
C. SUPERIORITY OF GODLINESS 6:3-19
1. Over false teachings 6:3-5
2. Over materialism 6:6-19
Close 6:20-21
II TIMOTHY
Salutations 1:1-2
Expression of Gratitude 1:3-5
I. QUALITIES OF FAITHFUL PASTOR 1:6-18
A. ZEAL 1:6-7
B. COURAGE 1:8-12
C. FAITHFULNESS 1:13-18
1. Appeal 1:13-14
2. Incentive 1:15-18
II. DUTIES OF A FAITHFUL PASTOR 2:1-4:8
A. PERSONAL STRENGTHENING 2:1
B. TRANSMITTING THE TRUTH 2:2
C. ENDURANCE 2:3-13
1. As a Soldier 2:3-4
2. As an Athlete 2:5
3. As a Farmer 2:6-7
4. Motivation for Endurance 2:8-13
D. WARN OF SIN 2:14
E. LIVE FOR GOD 2:15
F. GODLY TALK 2:16-19
G. PURITY 2:20-26
H. SEPARATION 3:1-9
I. FAITHFUL IN PERSECUTION 3:10-13
J. PREACH THE WORD 3:14 – 4:5
K. LONG-RANGE GOALS 4:6-8
Personal Requests 4:9-22