Life Examples
A Man Who Honored God
Timothy, born half Greek and half Jew, probably accepted Christ in his hometown, Lystra, during Paul’s first missionary journey. The apostle learned of Timothy’s growth in his walk with Christ and made the young man his aide during his second missionary journey.
The name Timothy means “one who honors God,” and Paul entrusted him with the toughest of assignments in Ephesus, Corinth, Macedonia, and Thessalonica. As an adult, Timothy, in an ultimate display of his commitment to Christ, submitted to the painful procedure of circumcision to accommodate Paul’s preaching to Jews (Acts 16:3). The writer of Hebrews reports that at some point Timothy also was imprisoned (13:23).
Scripture reveals that at times, Timothy was timid, probably earlier in life. But he devoted himself to the Lord and spent his young adult years traversing the world so that he could preach the gospel. He continues to inspire us toward courage and boldness, even when we feel we naturally lack these qualities.
See the Life Principles Index for further study:
1. Our intimacy with God—His highest priority for our lives—determines the impact of our lives.
1:3 — As I urged you upon my departure for Macedonia, remain on at Ephesus so that you may instruct certain men not to teach strange doctrines.
The church Timothy was pastoring was located right in the middle of a hot bed of false doctrine and immorality. Along with being a very wealthy city, Ephesus was an influential port city and also a springboard for cult worship and activity. The temple of Artemis (also called Diana), the goddess of fertility, was located there. Timothy had his hands full when it came to teaching sound biblical doctrine. New Testament port cities had great potential to become centers for spreading Christianity. Having trained Timothy, and being confident of his commitment to God, Paul left the doctrine of the church to his watchful care.
1:4 — nor to pay attention to myths and endless genealogies, which give rise to mere speculation rather than furthering the administration of God which is by faith.
Due to the pagan atmosphere of Ephesus, Paul admonished Timothy not to be distracted by those trying to disrupt the church in Ephesus. They were trying to mislead the people by discussing genealogies, myths, speculative theories, and strange philosophies. Paul instructed Timothy not to waste time considering them. Rather, he should seek to lead people to Christ by teaching godly truth. Unlike the false teachers, who merely fueled speculation and caused useless arguments, the goal of all Christian instruction should be godly edification, which helps people to grow closer to God and each other in practical ways.
1:5 — The goal of our instruction is . . . a good conscience and a sincere faith.
No other creature has a conscience except human beings. God has given it to us as a gift to protect us, and when we ignore our conscience, we head straight into trouble. A good conscience is one that is void of false guilt. Guilt is that feeling of responsibility and remorse for our offenses, and God’s Word teaches us to acknowledge our sin, accept His forgiveness, and go forward in the eternal hope of His unconditional love.
1:15 — It is a trustworthy statement, deserving full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, among whom I am foremost of all.
No one persecuted the early Christian church more zealously than did Paul (previously called Saul) before he met Jesus Christ, and no one preached forgiveness as passionately and faithfully as Paul after he accepted the Lord’s salvation (Acts 9:1–31; 22:1–21). The apostle received God’s complete forgiveness—and so can you.
1:16 — I found mercy, so that in me as the foremost, Jesus Christ might demonstrate His perfect patience as an example for those who would believe in Him for eternal life.
What example was established with Paul’s salvation? The amazing truth of the Lord’s unmerited grace. If God would save Paul, who tried to destroy His church, then He would be willing to save anyone who believes in Him (Ezek. 18:32; John 3:16–18; 1 Tim. 2:4; 2 Pet. 3:9). It is not by our goodness that we are accepted by the Lord, but it is because of His great love and provision for us on the Cross (Eph. 2:8, 9; Titus 3:5).
1:19 — Keeping faith and a good conscience, which some have rejected and suffered shipwreck in regard to their faith.
Every day we face decisions that involve our conscience—it sends up red flags when we’re about to do something that violates God’s will. If we should ignore it and reject the truth, we make a shipwreck of our lives. This means that we choose the path of destruction because we are most vulnerable to false doctrines and sin. Eventually, we become so desensitized to the promptings of God’s Holy Spirit that we no longer hear Him, know how to respond to Him, or have the wisdom to choose obedience.
2:1, 2 — I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity.
It is our duty as Christians to pray for our leaders in the hope that they will live godly lives and make wise decisions according to the Word and will of God. Only He can transform them into men and women who will truly honor Him (Prov. 21:1).
2:3, 4 — God our Savior . . . desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.
The Lord does not celebrate the need to judge wicked people but is eager for the opportunity to redeem those who believe in His Son as Savior (2 Pet. 3:9). Jesus Christ has paid the penalty of our sin through His sacrificial, substitutionary, all-sufficient death (Rom. 6:23). This is the only way we are saved. When we refuse His gracious gift, we are refusing God’s eternal life, joy, peace, and contentment. A hardened and stubborn heart will only take you one place—straight into sorrow, brokenness, and eternal separation from God.
2:5 — There is one God, and one mediator also between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.
When Paul writes there is one God, he is referring back to the Shema—Israel’s statement of faith (Deut. 6:4–9). As believers in Jesus Christ, this foundational belief is not replaced—it is deepened. Jesus is not another deity, but God Himself, who has also become our Mediator. A mediator is like a priest—one who brings two parties together in peace. As our High Priest, we can “draw near with confidence to the throne of grace” (Heb. 4:16) because we know He will faithfully represent and lead us in His way (Heb. 2:1–18; 4:14, 15; 7:22—8:6).
2:8 — I want the men in every place to pray, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and dissension.
The quarreling within the Ephesian church was being fueled by the false teachers who were vying for prominence within the congregation. Church fellowship is never a place for social-climbing or selfish ambitions. It is the place to join with other believers for worship and fellowship. This is why Paul called those within the fellowship to come together in prayer.
3:5 — If a man does not know how to manage his own household, how will he take care of the church of God?
Before God gives us greater responsibilities in a larger sphere of influence, He requires us to demonstrate our faithfulness to Him right where we are with those closest to us.
3:6 — Not a new convert, so that he will not become conceited and fall into the condemnation incurred by the devil.
Sometimes, when success comes too quickly, a person may be totally unprepared for it. He may not know how to deal with the admiration he’s receiving. He becomes more focused on his own strengths, desires, and needs rather than on what is right in God’s sight, which means he’s headed for trouble.
3:10 — These men must also first be tested; then let them serve as deacons if they are beyond reproach.
At times, we see the passion, energy, talent, and desire of young believers and think they may be able to handle great responsibilities. However, it is not a person’s enthusiasm that enables them to do ministry, but their commitment to Christ and their steadfast obedience to Him. They must prove themselves faithful and godly in smaller tasks before they are ready to engage in more challenging ones (Matt. 25:14–30).
3:15 — I write so that you will know how one ought to conduct himself in the household of God.
Every believer is to bring honor to God, but it is especially important for church leaders to provide an authentic example of faith in action.
4:1, 2 — In later times some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and doctrines of demons . . . seared in their own conscience as with a branding iron.
A seared or burnt conscience can be one that is beyond repair. It reflects a rejection of God’s truth. Ungodly and deceptive doctrines have always plagued the church, but the closer we draw to the return of Christ, the more insidious, prevalent, and aggressive false teachers will become. That is why we must remain vigilant and make sure we always lead others to faith and obedience—especially as the Day of the Lord approaches.
4:8 — Bodily discipline is only of little profit, but godliness is profitable for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.
This world emphasizes ability, beauty, and success. While being a good steward of the body God gave you is important, the greater emphasis should always be on your relationship with Him. Your intimacy with God is His highest priority for you and determines the impact of your life. It will also endure in heaven, while your physical body will be replaced with an imperishable, glorified one (1 Cor. 15:20, 52–54). Therefore, focus only on Christ so that you can grow in godliness because that is truly time well spent.
4:12 — Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but rather in speech, conduct, love, faith and purity, show yourself an example of those who believe.
Regardless of how old you are or how long you have followed Christ, you can become an excellent example to others by submitting your life to Christ and learning how to rely upon the power and leading of the Spirit.
4:15 — Take pains with these things; be absorbed in them, so that your progress will be evident to all.
Why should we be diligent in reading Scripture, teaching, encouraging others, and practicing the spiritual gifts the Lord has given us? Because this is the way we learn more about God and how to walk in His ways. As we live in active, engaged obedience to the Lord—obeying the initial promptings of His Spirit and clinging to His Word—we grow and mature in His likeness (Gal. 5:22, 23; 2 Pet. 1:3–8).
5:4 — If any widow has children or grandchildren, they must first learn to practice piety in regard to their own family and to make some return to their parents; for this is acceptable in the sight of God.
This goes along with Paul’s theme that Christians should take care of their families (1 Tim. 3:5). We should honor our widows by caring for them when they cannot take care of themselves. This may sound extremely difficult—and sometimes it will be. However, whatever God calls us to do will be worthwhile and will carry with it unforeseen—albeit priceless—blessings.
5:8 — If anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.
It is easy to be kind and gentle for a short span of time with strangers. However, living a life of sacrifice and service takes a lot more discipline and energy among those who know us best. That is why every command the Lord gives us to treat others with His love and compassion must begin with those closest to us. Someone who knows the truth must live it out with his or her family because that is how we know it is real in our lives.
5:20 — Those who continue in sin, rebuke in the presence of all, so that the rest also will be fearful of sinning.
Paul is speaking here of church leaders. If they abuse their positions and continue in their sin, they must be rebuked publicly—not to shame them, but to let everyone know that God does not approve of their behavior or condone their disobedience. “Teachers . . . will incur a stricter judgment” (James 3:1) because of their influence in the lives of others.
5:24 — The sins of some men are quite evident, going before them to judgment; for others, their sins follow after.
Certain transgressions are not as obvious as others. For example, some people do pious deeds within the church in order to promote themselves or subvert God’s people. To us, it may look as if they are doing good, but they are really undermining the ministry and planting seeds of dissention. God knows the true intentions of our hearts and actions. Eventually, we reap what we sow, more than we sow, and later than we sow. No one gets away with sin.
6:6 — Godliness actually is a means of great gain when accompanied by contentment.
Obedience always brings blessing. As Psalm 37:4 promises, “Delight yourself in the LORD; and He will give you the desires of your heart.” When we can submit to God’s will and find all of our joy in Him, we have more than this world could ever hope to offer us because we have a treasure that will never fade away (Matt. 6:19–21; Phil. 4:11–13).
Answers to Life’s Questions
How can I learn to feel content?
Many in today’s workforce feel deeply discontented. “If only I had a better boss. . . . If only I could make more money . . . If I could just work for that company . . . ” And so it goes.
Two thousand years ago, John the Baptist exhorted disgruntled Roman soldiers to be content with their wages (Luke 3:14). This is still good advice.
We can grow content when we see God as our sole Provider: “Give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with the food that is my portion, that I not be full and deny You and say, ‘Who is the LORD?’ or that I not be in want and steal, and profane the name of my God” (Prov. 30:8, 9).
We can also grow discontent as we focus on the necessities of life. Paul reminds us: “For we have brought nothing into the world, so we cannot take anything out of it either. If we have food and covering, with these we shall be content” (1 Tim. 6:7, 8).
Much of our restlessness comes from desiring the many perks our affluent culture offers. But do we really need them? Can we get along without designer clothes? The answer is yes. While God often supplies many of our wants out of His goodness and grace, He really wants us to enjoy what He has given and have hearts of gratitude. He promises to supply our needs, but when He gives us more than just the basics, we need to be very humble and grateful.
How do we become content? We do this by asking God to teach us how to have gratitude for what we have, rather than complain about what we’re missing: “Make sure that your character is free from the love of money, being content with what you have” (Heb. 13:5). Solomon said, “What the eyes see is better than what the soul desires” (Eccl. 6:9).
God already has blessed us with so much. And Satan is the one who seeks to redirect our focus to what eludes us, thus fostering a malignant virus of discontent. Instead of falling for his lies, why not take inventory of all that God has blessed you with and thank Him for each and every blessing?
We find our greatest source of contentment, of course, in a delightful relationship with Jesus Christ: “Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am . . . I can do all things through Him who strengthens me” (Phil. 4:11, 13). Paul faced many trials and difficulties. Some were very hard to bear, but he was satisfied and content because he had an intimate relationship with the Savior and nothing had more value than this. Can you say that this is true of your life?
“Delight yourself in the LORD; and He will give you the desires of your heart” (Ps. 37:4).
See the Life Principles Index for further study:
6:9 — Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a snare and many foolish and harmful desires which plunge men into ruin and destruction.
The Bible condemns the desire to get rich, not because having money is a sin, but because the lust for wealth leads to spiritual poverty. People who make it their goal to gain material possessions cater to an unquenchable idol. There is only one thing that can satisfy our deepest longings and needs, and it is a personal relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. Ultimately, anything of earthly value that we hold too tightly we lose.
6:10 — The love of money is a root of all sorts of evil, and some by longing for it have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.
Money is merely an object, but the love of it is a root of sinfulness, because it takes God’s place in our lives. You cannot be loyal to two masters—or, as Jesus said, “You cannot serve God and wealth” (Luke 16:13). Often, we think that material possessions will make us happy or give us a sense of security, but only Christ can give us the joy and confidence we truly long for.
6:12 — Fight the good fight of faith.
We must be unreservedly committed to Christ—regardless of our circumstances, challenges, or obstacles—realizing this leads to spiritual victory and eternal hope. We must believe in Him and obey with all our hearts, souls, minds, and strengths—standing firm for Him and representing Him well in the world so that others will believe in Him and be saved.
6:18 — Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share.
God blesses us financially and with our talents, not simply so that we can spend the resources He has given us on ourselves, but so that we can use them to help others and to expand His kingdom.