# Epistles 2 # Introduction # Introduction to Epistles 2 Epistles 2 is a survey of 1 & 2 Thessalonians, 1 & 2 Timothy, Titus & Philemon.
  • 1 & 2 Thessalonians are DOCTRINAL and especially concerned with the Second Coming of ChristWathesalonike 1&11 ni vya KIMAFUNDISHO na hasahasa vyahusika na kurudi kwa Yesu mara ya pili
  • 1 & 2 Timothy and Titus are PASTORAL with much practical advice for young pastors.Timotheo 1 & 11 na Tito ni za KICHUNGAJI na zenye mashauri ya kimatendo kwa ajili ya wachungaji vijana.
  • Philemon is PERSONAL and is a plea for forgiveness and mercy on a runaway slave.Philimon ni ya KIBINAFSI na maombi kwa ajili ya msamaha na huruma juu ya mtumwa mkimbizi.
  • Dates are extremely difficult to pin point when studying such ancient things, but the following is a logical timeline concerning Paul and his epistles.Tarehe hata hivyo ni ngumu kufunga pointi wakati wa kujifunza vitu vya zamani,lakini ufuatao ni msitari wa wakati kuhusu Paulo na nyaraka zake.

      BC
    1. 6 BC - Paul's Birth
    2. AD
    3. 33 - Paul's Conversion
    4. 48 - Galatians
    5. 51 - 1 Thessalonians & 2 Thessalonians
    6. 54-55 1 Corinthians
    7. 55-57 Romans & 2 Corinthians
    8. 61 - Ephesians - Colossians - & Philemon
    9. 62 - Philippians & 1 Timothy
    10. 63 - Titus
    11. 64-67 - 2 Timothy - Paul's Death - Peter's Death (67 AD)
    12. 68 Nero's death
    13. 51-64 - are the years concerning our study of Epistles 2. Rome was a great world empire and even the homeland of the Jews was under Rome's authority.
    14. 51 - Paul begins his Second Missionary Journey.
    15. 52 - Thomas supposedly lands in Kodungallur - India to preach the Gospel. Paul preaches about the UNKNOWN GOD on Mars Hill in Athens.
    16. 53 - Paul begins his Third Missionary Journey. Emperor Claudius accepts Nero has his heir.
    17. 54 - Emperor Claudius was poisoned with mushrooms and succeeded by Nero at age 16. Nero was the great grandson of Ceasar Augustus and committed suicide in 68. Apollos is converted to Christianity in Ephesus.
    18. 56 - war breaks out between Rome and Parthia.
    19. 58 - Ming-Ti - new emperor of China - introduces Buddhism to China and sacrifices to Confucius are ordered in all government schools.
    20. 60 - Paul is shipwrecked in Malta. Romans build the first "London Bridge."
    21. 61 - Mark is executed after having preached in Egypt. Pliny the Younger - Roman author and statesman - is born.
    22. 62 - Nero seems to drastically turn into a maniac and his rule becomes highly abusive from here on out. A great earthquake damages cities in Campania (Pompe2).
    23. 64 - July 18 the great fire of Rome burned 4 ½ days and Christians are blamed. Persecution of early Christians begins under Nero. Peter was among those executed - but probably not until AD 67. I Peter was written around 64.
    # 1 Thessalonians # Introduction to 1 Thessalonians ## The Writer We see from 1 Thessalonians 1:1 and 2:18 that the writer was Paul the Apostle. This epistle was probably written in A.D. 51 from Corinth during Paul's year and half ministry there (read Acts 17). We also see from the first verse that Silvanus (Silas) and Timotheus (Timothy) were with Paul when he wrote it. This coincides with the book of Acts because we see that Silas was with Paul on this missionary Journey (Acts 15:22, 40; 16:19, 25, 27; 17:4, 10) as well as was Timothy for a portion of it (Acts 17:14-15; 18:4). The letter is addressed as from Paul, Silas and Timothy: - **Paul** was once a persecutor of the church named Saul of Tarsus. Wrote 13 of the 27 books of the New Testament. 1 Thessalonians is one of the first epistles he wrote. - **Silas** was a prophet himself and selected by the elders as one of the delegates of the Jerusalem church to Antioch. When Paul and Barnabas had their personal disagreement, the missionary troop was disbanded. Barnabas and John Mark went their way and Paul and Silas went their own way. (Acts 15:36-41) - **Timothy** was a young convert who Paul desired to continue with him in his missionary journey. (Acts 16:1-3) Note: Timothy isn't mentionaed again until until Acts 17:14 when he appears in Berea, but that may only because he was so young. Paul visited Thessalonica for three weeks after he left Philippi. He preached in the synagogue and reasoned out of the Scriptures that Jesus was the Christ. There was mixed success at Thessalonica for Paul but the opposition eventually made it wise to leave. Paul visited Berea, Athens and then Corinth at which he writes this epistle. ## The City of Thessalonica Not much has been uncovered in archaeologic efforts at the location of Thessalonica because of the modern city that sits on top of it. In 1962, an old bus station was demolished and when the area was excavated a 1st or 2nd century A.D. forum was uncovered. Among other things, an inscription (30 B.C. to A.D. 143) was found on the Vardar gate bearing the word "politarches," the word Luke used in reference to the officials of the city before whom Jason was brought by the mob (Acts 17:6). What kind of place was Thessalonica for the new converts? Thessalonica was a bustling seaport city at the head of the Thermaic Gulf. It was an important communication and trade center, located at the junction of the great Egnatian Way and the road leading north to the Danube. It was the largest city in Macedonia and was also the capital of its province. The background of the Thessalonian church is found in Ac 17:1—9. Since Paul began his ministry there in the Jewish synagogue, it is reasonable to assume that the new church included some Jews. However, 1:9—10; Ac 17:4 seem to indicate that the church was largely Gentile in membership. ## The Purpose of Writing (READ Acts 17:1-10) Paul had to leave Thessalonica suddenly after being there only a short time. The new Christians had little to no support in Paul's departure. Paul's purpose in writing this letter was to exhort, remind, and encourage them. - Exhort—2:3; 4:1; 5:14 - Remind—1:3; 2:9 - Encourage—1:2; 3:7; 4:9, 18; 5:2, 11, 27 Amidst the important exhortation and stirring of their memory, Paul's main theme seems to be to encourage the young Christians at Thessalonica. 1:2; 3:7; 4:9, 18; 5:2, 11, 27. Included in his message is the assurance that *what you received was real*. > 1 Thessalonians 1:2—We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers; About six months after sending out the epistle of 1 Thessalonians (a.d. 51/52) he sent 2 Thessalonians in response to confusion that had arisen concerning the second coming of Christ. Paul had not to date had the privilege to spend as much time with them as he would have liked especially after his abrupt departure and then further difficulty in trying to return. > 1 Thessalonians 2:18—Wherefore we would have come unto you, even I Paul, once and again; but Satan hindered us. ## The Theme The theme of 1 Thessalonians is second coming of Christ (1:3, 10; 2:19; 3:13; 4:13-18; 5:1-11, 23). ## The Outline There are five chapters in the first epistle to the Thessalonians that are divided into two sections: 1. Personal Relations to the Thessalonians (chapters 1-3) 2. Practical Instructions in Doctrine and Life (chapters 4-5) # Personal Relations to the Thessalonians (1-3) ## Grace and Peace from God to them (1:1) > Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ Paul was writing by Divine inspiration. He received more wisdom and revelation because he was obedient to God to give what he had already received. We see from Acts 17:1-3 that when Paul first visited Thessalonica that he "reasoned with them out of the scriptures, opening and alleging" that Jesus was the Christ. Paul pioneered this church through much opposition and persecution and now he could write to them. ## Thanksgiving for them (1:2-10) ### Paul was thankful because of their Christian virtues - They had a work of faith (1:3). Faith is demonstrated by judging, preaching and living the (Gospel) truth itself and by assurance, belief, and fidelity shown in their everyday lives. To have a work of faith we need to Judge righteously with the Scripture, preach that Jesus Christ is Lord and Savior, and live Holy according to the Scripture. - They had a labor of love (1:3). Love is manifested from God to them, and then to others. - They had patience of hope (1:3). Hope is proved by remaining anchored in God the Father and in Lord Jesus Christ through every storm.

    Paul was thankful because of their divine election (1:4-7)

    The assurance of their election (1:4,5)

    The proof of assurance (1:5)

    The proof of assurance is the power of the Holy Ghost.

    The reason of assurance (1:6)

    This was because they received the Word (1:6; 2:13) and they received the Holy Ghost (1:6).

    The results of the assurance 1:7-9

    Because of this assurance, they became examples (1:7) and they turned from idols to serve the living and the true God (1:9).

    The revelation of Jesus (1:10)

    We must wait for Him to reveal Himself. We must have a revelation that Jesus is the Father's Son from Heaven, we must have a revelation of His resurrection, and we must have a revelation that He is our Deliverer from the wrath to come.

    Paul's ministry among them (2:1-20)

    The circumstances of the ministry (2:1, 2)

    The manner of the ministry (2:3-12)

    Here we have a detailed description of Paul's ministry among the Thessalonians. It was "not of deceit, nor of uncleanness, nor in guile" (2:3). He spoke the Gospel, believing that God would try their hearts (2:4). God is a witness that he neither used flattering words nor wore a cloak of covetousness (2:5). He was not boastful and did not seek glory (2:6). As an apostle, he could have used his authority to burden them, but he did not (2:6-12).

    The memory of the ministry (2:13-17)

    The workers conduct (2:13)

    The converts received the word of God (2:13-17)

    The workers' relationship to the converts

    As a nurse (2:7)

    As a father (2:11)

    As the Apostle of Christ (2:6)

    The converts following and fellowship in suffering (2:14)

    The persecutors (2:14-16)

    The relation since the separation (2:17-20)

    Timothy sent to minister to them (3:1-13)

    Paul was planning to send Timothy to them to establish and comfort them concerning their faith (3:2). They would need to be established because there would be many afflictions (3:3), tribulations (3:4), and temptations (3:5) that would come upon them.

    ## Paul's motive (3:5) To win souls for Christ for eternity, not just for a while Lest his labor be in vain ## Timothy's report (3:6) ## Paul's reaction to the report (3:7-10) - It brought comfort (3:7) - It evoked thanksgiving (3:9) - It increased prayer (3:10) ## The contents of his prayer (3:9-13) - Thanks (3:9) - That God would make a way to see them (3:10, 11) - erfect that which is lacking in their faith (3:10) - That they may grow in love (3:12) - Their hearts would be established (3:13) - Unblameable in holiness (3:13) # Practical Instructions in Doctrine and Life (4-5) ## Instructions Given in Chapters 4 & 5 #### Exhortations concerning the Christian walk (4:1-12) #### Instructions concerning those that sleep in Jesus and the dead in Christ (4:14- 4:16) #### The manner of Christ's coming (4:14-5:4) #### Instructions concerning being prepared for him (5:1-10) The differences between: | 3:3, 4 | 5:09 | 5:09 | | --- | --- | --- | | appointed to afflictions | appointed to wrath | appointed salvation | Not a judgment of God for sin, but a fire of purging to purify our character and strengthen our faith | God's ultimate choice for the unrepentant who have chosen to reject Christ's provision | A great call given by Christ to "come unto Me" and answered by the individual through faith | #### Comforting and edifying (5:11) #### Church discipline (5:12-28) - Respect for Christian leaders (5:12-13) - Care for each other (5:14-15) - Always be thankful (5:16-18) - Always be discerning (5:19-22) - Commit yourself to God who is faithful (5:23-24) - Commit yourself to prayer for the ministry (5:25) - Commit yourself to each other to submit and respect (5:26) - Commit yourself to the Word (5:27) - Commit yourself to His grace (5:28) # 1 Thessalonians Study Questions 1. Read Acts chapters 16-18 & 1 Thessalonians 1-5. Comment on what you observe. ##
    2. Memorize Titus 2:11. ##
    3. Where is the true Church in Thessalonica? ##
    4. Describe in three ways the good works shown in them. ##
    5. What phrase was used to show that they were living good and acceptable unto the Lord? ##
    6. Do not stoop to be king or president as a Christian. Give an exhortation concerning your election of God. ##
    7. What were the results of the Word coming in power and in the Holy Ghost? ##
    8. What phrases were used to describe what the circumstances were that they received the Word in? 1:6 and 2:2 ##
    9. What was their attitude in those circumstances? 1:6 and 2:13,14 ##
    10. What was their example? 1:7-9 ##
    11. What was the Jews attitude in general? 2:14-16 ##
    12. In 2:6 what was Paul's title? ##
    13. Give the two phrases from 2:7 and 2:11 that describe how Paul handled the people. ##
    14. Give a word that shows what God does for man. ##
    15. Give two words that show what man does to man. ##
    16. Beginning at 5:14-23, list the 14 things we are to do # 1 Thessalonians Quiz 1. Where is the true Church in Thessalonica? 1:1 ##
    2. Describe in three ways the good works shown in them 1:3. ##
    3. What phrase was used to show that they were living good and acceptable unto Jesus? ##
    4. What were the results of the Word coming in power and in the Holy Ghost? ##
    5. What phrases were used to describe what the circumstances were that they received the Word in? 1:6 and 2:2 ##
    6. What was their attitude in those circumstances? 1:6 and 2:13,14 ##
    7. What was their example? 1:7-9 ##
    8. What was the Jews attitude in general? 2:14-16 ##
    9. In 2:6 what was Paul's title? ##
    10. Give the two phrases from 2:7 and 2:11 that describe how Paul handled the people. ##
    11. Give a word that shows what God does for man. ##
    12. Give two words that show what man does to man. ##
    13. BONUS 1: Beginning at 5:14-23 list 10 of the 14 things we are to do. (Partial answers do not count. i.e., if only 8 things listed bonus is NOT awarded.) ##
    14. BONUS 2: List five of the titles of the Lord as found in 1 Thessalonians. (Partial answers do not count.) ##
    # 2 Thessalonians # Introduction to 2 Thessalonians

    The Writer

    The writer of 2 Thessalonians is Paul (1:1; 3:17).

    This second letter was written a few months after the first, while Paul was still in Corinth. Some people had misunderstood Paul and concluded that the coming of Christ was so imminent that they failed to live with a proper perspective. Paul attempted to correct this view.

    Paul reminds them of what he had taught previously. He points out to them the signs and conditions that will prevail when the Lord returns. Lawlessness will increase. Consequently they are admonished to redeem the time, be active in their responsibilities, but at the same time they must be alert to the Lord's imminent return. Idlers or shirkers are severely reprimanded

    The Purpose of Writing

    The purpose of Paul writing this second epistle to the Thessalonians was to send a note of his thanks to God for their faith and experience, to encourage them to go on (1:3-12; 2:13-17), to give instructions concerning the Lord's coming (2:1-12), and to exhort the people to go back to work that had become busy bodies in other men's matters (3:11,12).

    The Theme

    The theme is the second coming of Christ (1:7,10; 2:1-3, 8; 3:5).

    The Outline

    There are three chapters, which are each deal with a separate subject:

    1. Chapter 1—The name of the Lord Jesus Christ glorified. 2. Chapter 2—Instructions regarding the day of the Lord. 3. Chapter 3—Exhortations regarding proper conduct. # The Truth about The Second Coming of Jesus ## The Name of the Lord Jesus Christ Glorified (Ch. 1) ### Thankfulness > "A church…in God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ." 1:1 The Apostles are thanking God for their brethren. 1:3 Paul was thankful because: - Their faith grows exceedingly - Their love abounds - Their patience endures (1:4) - They was progression in their calling (1:11; 2:14) - They had the right object of their hope (1:5) "The kingdom of God, for which ye also suffer." They had patience therefore they could hope. When you lose your patience you lose your hope, your testimony and your courage. Be strong and of a good courage (Josh. 1:6; Eph. 6:10; II Thess. 2:16). ### Encouragement They need encouragement in the midst of severe persecution. 1:4-7 Future judgment 1:8-10 The Apostle's prayer 1:11,12 > "That the name of the Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified" ## Instructions Regarding the Day of the Lord (Ch. 2) - Warning against deception (2:1-4) - A reminder (2:5) - A revelation (2:6) "Now ye know" - A restraining force against iniquity withholding the complete revelation of the mystery of iniquity that doth already work. (2:6-9) - The progression of sin (2:10-12) 2:10 deception 2:11 delusion 2:12 damnation - A delightful contrast (2:13-15) They were chosen to salvation (2:13). This is an act of God, not of man. It was through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. Now that they received salvation, they were commanded to "stand fast" (2:15). - Prayer for the brethren (2:16-17) ## Exhortations Regarding Proper Conduct (Ch. 3) - Request for prayer that the word of the Lord may have free course and be glorified. (3:1) - That the apostles might be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men. (3:2) - That the believers would be established and kept. (3:3) - A note of confidence (3:4) - Heart direction (3:5) Our hearts need directing because they are deceitful. It is our privilege to have our hearts directed "into the love of God" and that they can then be made partakers of the patience of Christ. Our hearts' director is the Lord, for He knows what is in man (John 2:25) and He speaks to the heart (Ruth 2:13). The Lord directs our hearts if we are obedient (3:4, 5; 2:17). - The method of withdrawing from brothers that you have walked with but now are disorderly. (3:6-11, 14-15) - Some thought that the coming of the Lord was so near that they stopped working and become busy-bodies, disorderly and some become weary in well doing. (3:11-13) - Paul's closing prayer (3:16-18) # 2 Thessalonians Study Questions 1. What two words describe the pressure the people of Thessalonica had to endure under? ##
    2. What happened to their faith while under this great pressure? ##
    3. What happened to their love while under this pressure? ##
    4. What happened to their patience? ##
    5. What happened to the people that troubled them? ##
    6. What happens when you loose your patience? ##
    7. List three signs of the progression of sin. ##
    8. Read I Thess. 2:12,13; II Thess. 2:13, 14 ,15; II Thess. 1:5; Rom. 8:30 What is our calling as believers? ##
    9. Give Paul's prayer request. ##
    10. The Lord directs the heart of the obedient. What does He do to the disobedient? (1:8) ##
    11. What are the methods Paul gave to them for brothers that walked disorderly? (3:6-15) ##
    12. What happens when good men become weary in well doing? ##
    # 1 Timothy # Introduction to 1 Timothy ## The Writer Paul wrote this (1:1) and it is the first of three of Paul's Pastoral Epistles. Paul wrote nine epistles to the Churches, but I & 2 Timothy, Titus, and Philemon were personal letters. Paul wrote two letters to Timothy in Ephesus. Paul wrote this epistle about A.D. 62 following his first imprisonment in Rome. ## The Purpose of Writing

    The reason Paul wrote this letter was to instruct Timothy as a young evangelist ( II Tim. 4:5) and as an overseer over the pastors, bishops and deacons (1:2; 1:18; 6:20; Acts 16:1-3; 18:5; 19:22; 20:4).

    The Theme

    The theme is sound doctrine and proper order in the Church (I Tim. 1:10; 6:3). The Church is the central light the world sees and the instrument that is able to proclaim the truth about Jesus as Lord, His Word, and godliness confront the false teaching by sound, healthy teaching (6:3).

    The key verses are 3:15 and 4:16.

    The Outline of 1 Timothy

    6 Chapters

    1. Sound Doctrine in the Church 1:1-20 2. True Worship in the Church 2:1-3:16 3. A Good Minister in the Church 4:1-16 4. Proper Discipline in the Church 5:1-6:21 ## From The Amplified Bible > "First and second Timothy and Titus are commonly identified as the Pastoral Letters written by Paul. They were written after (perhaps sometime around A.D. 63-65) Paul's first Roman imprisonment noted in the last chapter of Acts (Acts 28). > Since the New Testament books do not offer a continuing account of the extension of Christianity after this date, the references in these Pastoral Letters offer some basis for tracing the movements of Paul. He was probably released about A.D. 60 or 61 and revisited the Asian churches. En route to Macedonia, Paul left Timothy at Ephesus (I Tim. 1:3). Paul went on to Crete, where he ministered a while, and then left the believers under the leadership of Titus (Tit. 1:5) while he continued on to Dalmatia. > The first letter to Timothy at Ephesus and the letter to Titus in Crete were written by Paul en route, possibly in Macedonia. Shortly after this he must have been arrested and taken back to Rome as a prisoner, where he wrote the second letter to Timothy. > Timothy was born at Lystra and had a Greek father and a Jewish mother (who taught him the Scriptures from childhood). When Paul came to Lystra on his second missionary journey (Acts 16:1-3), he enlisted Timothy, who was associated with Paul till the end of his ministry. Timothy himself was finally imprisoned but later released (Heb. 13:23). > The first letter to Timothy is in conversational style and very personal. Paul instructs Timothy concerning the qualifications and duties of various church officers. He also offers guidance to Timothy in his pastoral responsibilities, making him conscious of his duties and obligations as a "man of God" (6:1)." # Important Instructions for the Church ## 1. Sound Doctrine in the Church (Ch. 1) ### Introduction (1:1-2) ### Charge Some (1:3-11) Step by step Paul charges Timothy and in doing so he charges and instructs us. Paul commands Timothy to transmit a message. #### Teach no other doctrine (1:3) #### Godly edifying which is in faith (1:4) #### The end of the commandment (1:5)Mwisho wa sheria (1:5) Charity out of a pure heart - A good conscience - Faith unfeigned #### The law is good if a man uses it lawfully (1:8) #### The law is made for the lawless… contrary to sound doctrine. (1:9-10) #### Put in trust with the Glorious Gospel. (1:11) ### An ennablement (1:2, 12) Grace, mercy, and peace ### An attainment by faith (1:12-17) ### A charge (1:18) #### "War a good warfare" #### "Holding faith" #### "A good conscience" ### A Warning (1:19)Onyo (1:19) > "Made shipwreck" ### "That they may learn not to blaspheme" (1:20) ## 2. True Worship in the Church (Ch. 2 and Ch. 3) ### Prayer (2:1-8) ### Conduct (2:9; 3:13) ### Women (2:9-15) ### Men (3:1-13) ### Second charge (3:15) > "Behave thyself in the house of God" ## 3. A Good Minister in the Church (Ch. 4) ### Warning against apostasy (4:1-5) ### Instructions for the minister (4:6-16) ### Neglect not the gift (4:14) ### Take heed unto thyself and unto the doctrine. (4:16) ## 4. Proper Discipline in the Church (Ch. 5 and Ch. 6) ### Fourth charge (5:21) > Observe these things without preferring one before another." ### Fifth charge (6:20) > "Keep that which is committed to thy trust." # 1 Timothy Study Questions 1. What three things did Paul minister by the commandment of God? (1:1-2) ##
    2. In verse 1 we minister because He is our... ##
    3. What is the end of the commandment? ##
    4. Give a good description of swerving from good doctrine. ##
    5. Knowing the written law in the Bible is for those who live contrary to sound doctrine, where is the law and commandment written for the righteous? ##
    6. Paul, as Saul, was before a blasphemer (1:13), ordained a teacher (2:7). What was one of his lessons? (1:20) ##
    7. How did Paul describe in 1:16 his salvation experience? ##
    8. What was committed to Paul's trust? ##
    9. What is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior? (2:2) ##
    10. Describe the two-fold universal call. (2:4) ##
    11. Man has been given the responsibility to be in all _________________________ to that authority. We must all remember our resopnsibility and be faithful stewarddds in accordance to the Word of God and remember when it does not seem to rewarding here, the Lord is the rewarder of them that diligently seek Him. ##
    12. Do you personally have any desire at all to work in the Church where God put you? ##
    13. How does a person perfect that desire and obtain that part in the ministry? (1:11-19; 2:1-2; 2:8-10; 3:1-13) ##
    14. What does God use to show the world the truth? (3:15) ##
    15. When the truth of godliness is a mystery to the professing believer the whole world is in trouble. How does the Spirit describe this condition? (3:15-16; 4:1-3) ##
    16. How should we treat… An elder? (5:1, 7-8, 17-21) ##
    elder women? (5:2-7, 16, 21) ##
    The young men? (5:1,7, 20-21) ##
    The young women? (5:2, 7, 20-21) ##
    Widows? (5:3-7, 9-16, 21) ##
    Any one of these that practice sin? (5:20) ##
    Those we work for? (6:1, 2) ##
    Money? (6:6-11, 17-19) ##
    17. Give an account of what has been given to your trust. (1:11; 6:20, 21) ##
    18. Compare 1:6, 6:10,21 with 1:19 concerning erring and putting away. ##
    # 2 Timothy # Introduction to 2 Timothy

    Introduction to 2 Timothy

    The Writer

    As with 1 Timothy, this epistle is also written by Paul (1:1).

    The Purose of Writing

    Timothy had already been instructed to guard what was entrusted to him (I Tim. 4:11-16; 6:20), and now Paul wrote this letter to encourage Timothy to stand fast in the things already taught him and to give strong Christian leadership (1:6-7; 2:1; 3:10-17; 4:1-5). Paul counseled him to wage a spiritual warfare against the powers of evil through the power of the Holy Ghost (1:7).

    The Theme

    The theme is loyalty to the Lord and truth in view of persecution and apostasy (1:8, 12, 16; 2:15).

    Introduction (The Amplified Bible):

    Paul again was imprisoned in Rome (A.D. 66-67) under Nero at the times he wrote this letter. After writing his first letter to Timothy, possibly from Macedonia, it seems probably that Paul was arrested either in Troas or Nicopolis (Tit. 3:12) and returned to prison in Rome.

    In this letter Paul seems to sense that his opportunities for preaching the gospel are about to be terminated (4:6-8). He is lonely, and he wanted very much for Timothy to join him (4:9, 21). He tries to encourage and strengthen Timothy for the great task committed to him. Paul longs to see Timothy again, asking him to bring the books and parchments he had left in Troas. Paul also warns Timothy against men who have harmed him in his ministry. Charging Timothy to maintain sound doctrine, Paul expresses his personal confidence and faith in Christ.

    The Outline

    There are four chapters in this epistle, which can be decided into five sections all dealing with loyalty:

    1. The Loyalty of Paul (1:1-4) 2. The Loyalty of Timothy (1:5) 3. The Loyalty of Servants (1:6-18) 4. Loyalty in service for the Lord (2:1-3:17) 5. Loyalty in certain members of the church (4:1-22) # The Loyalty of Believers

    1. The Loyalty of Paul (1:1-4)

    - He was loyal in preaching, ministering, and teaching (1:1, 11)

    Paul had gone around the whole known world preaching the gospel of life to every creature he could in three separate missionary journeys. He had already stood before Caesar and was delivered (II Tim. 4:16-18; 4:6-8). No matter what evil works, God will preserve me unto His heavenly kingdom (4:18).

    - He was loyal in praying (1:3, 6) - He was loyal in service (1:3) - He was loyal in desire (1:4)

    2. The Loyalty of Timothy (1:5)

    - His early days of faith (1:5) - He was dearly beloved because of his faithfulness and willingness to learn (3:14; 1:2) - Paul always remembered Timothy (1:3, 5) - He was desired by Paul (1:4, 4:9, 13, 21)

    3. The Loyalty of Servants (1:6-18)

    Servants must be loyal in spite of all the persecution they will suffer.

    - Rekindle the flame (1:6) - Burning and shining with high intensity - A living epistle - Like lightening - Fiery fire - God has given us His spirit (1:7) - Spirit of faith (II Cor. 4:13) - Spirit of power - Spirit of love - Spirit of a sound mind - Partake of the afflictions (1:8) - A cause worth suffering for (1:12) - A friend worth associating with (1:16; 2:8-12) - The afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God (1:8; 3:5, 11, 12) - Endure afflictions (4:5, 10-18; 2:3)

    4. Loyalty in Service for the Lord (2:1-3:17)

    - Be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus (2:1) - Commit the truth to faithful men who shall be able to teach others also (2:2) - As a good soldier (2:3) - As a runner in a race (2:5) - As a farmer (2:6) - Not an evil doer but suffering trouble as an evil doer (2:9) - As a workman (2:15) - A vessel unto honor (2:21) - Calling on the Lord our of a pure heart As a gentle servant (2:22) - The source of victory in perilous times (3:1-17)

    5. Loyalty in certain members of the church (4:1-22)

    - Paul's last recorded exhortation to Timothy (4:1-18)
    To whom be glory forever and ever Amen (4:18)
    - Paul's last greetings to some he will not see until in heaven (4:19) - A report on Erastus and Trophimus (4:20) - Closing greetings and benediction (4:21, 22) # Titus # Introduction to Titus

    1. The Writer

    This letter of Paul is to the young man Titus. Like Timothy, Titus was also brought to Christ earlier under the ministry of the apostle Paul (see Titus 1:4 and Galatians 2:3). Titus was a Greek and seems to have accompanied Paul and Barnabas to the council in Jerusalem where the problem of the Gentiles' relationship to the law was resolved (see Acts 15).

    The Purpose of Writing

    In II Corinthians we learn that Titus was sent by the apostle Paul to gather gifts for the needy saints at Jerusalem. Not only did Titus do a good job at gathering the gifts, but he also gave Paul an account of the effectiveness of Paul's first letter to the Corinthian Christians. The letter to Titus came to him while he was ministering on the island of Crete. Paul and Titus had visited this island and Paul left Titus there to carry on the work of the gospel. Titus may not have stayed on the island very long, for in this letter we have Paul's request that Titus meet him in Nicopolis (see 3:12).

    It is not certain how the Christian churches in Crete were founded, but this letter indicates that the message of the gospel had been corrupted by Judaizing teachers. Perhaps Titus was left here to combat this evil influence. Titus was to set things in order, and this letter to the young man contains instructions to help him do so.

    Paul writes to Titus to give specific instructions as to the kind of men who are qualified to be elders and the life that should be lived by all those who are saved by God's grace.

    The Theme

    The godly life of the believer producing good works.

    2. The Outline

    There are three chapters, which can be divided into three sections:

    1. Instruction for Church Leaders (1:1-16) 2. Instruction for Church Members (2:1-10) 3. Instruction for Titus (2:11-3:11 # Instruction in the Epistle to Titus ## 1. Instruction for Church Leaders (1:1-16) - Introduction (1:1-4) - Qualification for Leaders (1:5-9) - Blameless - Husband of one wife - Faithful children - Not charged with riot or unruly - Not charged with self-willed or self-pleasing - Not inclined to anger - Not given to wine - Not a brawler - Not greedy for money - Hospitable - A lover of the good - Of a sound mind - Righteous - Pious - Self-controlled - Holding fast the word (a teacher) - Characteristics of the Unbelieving (1:10-16)

    If a man is to properly lead in the church, then he needs to know the difference between the sheep and the goats, that is, the difference between those that are born-again and want to serve God and those that are un-regenerated and want to cause problems. We see a list here that will help us know who is not serving the Lord.

    - Insubordinate - Idle talkers - Deceivers - Seeking dishonest gain - Liars - Evil beasts - Lazy gluttons - Following fables - Denying God by their works - Detestable - Disobedient - Disqualified

    2. Instruction for Church Members (2:1-10)

    - For Older Men 2:1-2 - Temperate - Reverent (serious) - Of sound mind - Healthy in faith - Healthy in love - Healthy in patience - For Older Women 2:3-4 - Sacred character "behaviour as becometh holiness" - Not a slanderer - Not a slave by having any wine - A teacher of the good - To guide younger women into sound minds - For Younger Women 2:4-5 - Love their husbands - Love their children - Be of sound mind - Undefiled - Good workers at home - Submissive to their own husbands - For Younger Men 2:6-8 - Of sound mind - Good works - Uncorruptness - Reverence - "Sound speech" words that cannot be condemned - Servants 2:9-10 - Submissive to their masters in all things - Well-pleasing - "answering again" gain saying, Not speaking against or answering back - Not purloining

    (removing things - stealing from the boss - time or material)

    - Being faithful

    3. Instruction for Titus (2:11-3:11)

    - Speak of God's grace and purpose - We should deny ungodliness and worldly lust - We must live in this present world; soberly, righteously, and godly - We should look for the Blessed Hope to be made one with Him - We should be zealous of good works - Remind believers (3:1-8)

    "Put them in mind"

    - To be submissive to rulers - To obey - To be ready for every good work - To speak evil of no one - To be peaceable - To be gentle - To show all humility - To remember what we once were - To remember what God our Savior has done for us abundantly - To affirm constantly that good works needs to be the pattern of our lives

    "these things are good and profitable unto men"

    - Avoid these things (3:9-11) - Foolish disputes - Genealogies - Strife - Arguments about the law - Unprofitable and vain people
    Titus 3:10-11 A man that is an heretick after the first and second admonition reject; Knowing that he that is such is subverted, and sinneth, being condemned of himself.
    Labour to convince him of his error; but if he will not receive instruction, if he has shut his heart against conviction, then shun him. Do him no harm in body, soul, character, or substance; hold no grudge; but leave him to God. ## 4. Closing Words (3:12-15) - Come to me (3:12) - Send Zenas and Apollos (3:13) - Learn to maintain good works (3:14) Paul's last exhortation is to "maintain good works." These words are written while Paul is a free man and therefore sometime before 2 Timothy was written. What a wonderful blessing it must have been for these two young men, Timothy and Titus, to have such a "father in the faith" concerned about their ministry for the Lord. - Greetings (3:15) # Titus Study Questions 1. How does one become a servant of God? (1:1) ##
    2. What did God promise before the world began? (1:2) ##
    3. For what reason was Titus left in Crete? (1:5) ##
    4. What type of leadership did the churches of Crete lack? (1:5) ##
    5. Why are false teachers so busy spreading falsehoods? (1:11) ##
    6. How are Christians to respond to false teachers? (1:13) ##
    7. The Jewish false teachers substitute what for the commandments of God? (1:14) ##
    8. What do false teachers profess about salvation? (1:16) ##
    9. How do they, in reality, deny God? (1:16) ##
    10. What was to characterize the preaching of Titus? (2:1) ##
    11. In what way could Titus make his teaching more effective? (2:7) ##
    12. How is the servant to act toward his master? (2:9) ##
    13. Why should the servant be obedient to his master? (2:10) ##
    14. List the qualities that should be found in those who have received Christ as personal savior. (2:12) ##
    15. For what great event does the Christian now look? (2:13) ##
    16. Why did Jesus come into the world? (2:14) ##
    17. What is to be characteristic of the Christian speech? (3:2) ##
    18. How is our conduct to match our speech? (3:2) ##
    19. What type of conduct characterized us before we were saved? (3:3) ##
    20. Who changed our attitudes and conduct? (3:4) ##
    21. What relationship do our good works have to our salvation? (3:5) ##
    22. Which attribute of God is directly related to our salvation? (3:5) ##
    23. How are those who believe in God supposed to demonstrate their faith? (3:8) ##
    24. What type of conversation is to be avoided as unprofitable? (3:9) ##
    25. How should a proven heretic be handled? (3:10) ##
    # Philemon # Introduction to Philemon ## The Writer We see from the first verse that this epistle was written by Paul the apostle. ## The Purpose of Writing Paul wrote this epistle to Philemon to intercede for Onesimus, the runaway slave. ## The Theme The theme of this epistle is Christian character.Dhamira ya waraka huu ni tabia ya mkristo.

    ## The Outline of Philemon There is only one chapter in the book of Philemon, which can be outlined in at least two ways: 1. A private letter of intercession - Greetings (1:1-7) - Testimonial concerning the changed character of Onesimus (1:10,11) - Appeal for forgiveness (1:12-19) - Promise of making good any losses (1:18,19) - Great wisdom with humility used (1:20, 21) - Paul's request (1:22) - Closing remarks (1:23-25) 2. An illustration of the gospel method - A challenge to be a servant like Jesus was - Four wonderful blessings of practical Christianity - The message of end-time deliverance For the sake of this study, we will look at the second method of outlining this epistle. # A Challenge, Blessings and a Message of Deliverance ## 1. A Challenge to be a Servant like Jesus Was Accept the challenge to be like Jesus as a Faithful humble Servant. Become as Paul, a servant to servants In verse one, we see Paul call himself "a prisoner of Jesus Christ." His desire was to do the will of God no matter what happened to him, and at this time, we see him under house arrest because of his obedience to the Lord. Onesimus was a slave that had run away from Philemon. Paul met Onesimus in Rome and likely was influential in his conversion to Christianity. Paul was now sending Onesimus back to his master. We are not quite sure what offenses Paul is referring to in verse 18, but whatever Onesimus had done to Philemon, he was willing to make restitution. Paul was a peacemaker (1: 8-11)! This attribute is to be developed in all of God's servants (Hebrews 12:14, 15; James 3:17-18; Matt. 5:9). We need to be active in helping differences be resolved. If you are aware of those who are at odds, do whatever you can to help them be united again. Make peace and then keep peace. > Philemon 1:9 Yet for love's sake I rather beseech thee, being such an one as Paul the aged, and now also a prisoner of Jesus Christ. ### A. Become as Onesimus, a brother of servants > Philemon 1:10 I beseech thee for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten in my bonds: Onesimus returned to his master, obedient, profitable, desirous to make restitution, and eager to serve (1:16). Onesiumus wanted to do God's will regardless of the time. We see from his obedience that he wanted the will of God. Sensitivity to God's will is mandatory (Matt. 5:4; Acts 19:18-20; 1 Thess. 1:7-10; 2:13; Psalm 24:3-6). ### B. Become as Philemon, a fellow servant > Philemon 1:1 Paul, a prisoner of Jesus Christ, and Timothy our brother, unto Philemon our dearly beloved, and fellowlabourer, Philemon was a Christian and being a wealthy citizen and conducted himself so as to provide a great example of Christianity to others. Christianity well-ordered his house (1:2), christianity dictated his friends (1:2, 5), and Christianity directed his energies (1:1). Accept this challenge and more (Gal. 6:14; Matt. 5:13-16; I Pet. 4:15). ## 2. Four wonderful blessings of practical Christianity There are four wonderful blessings of practical Christianity in your daily life. ### A. "Great joy and consolation in thy love" > Philemon 1:7 For we have great joy and consolation in thy love, because the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother. ### B. Great affections for friends > Philemon 1:17 If thou count me therefore a partner, receive him as myself. ### C. Great inner-peace results when one trusts in God's Providential care to bring men together. > Philemon 1:15 For perhaps he therefore departed for a season, that thou shouldest receive him for ever; ### D. There is constant benefits from Christian friendship > Philemon 1:20 Yea, brother, let me have joy of thee in the Lord: refresh my bowels in the Lord. ## 3. The Message of End-time Deliverance Redemption through Jesus Christ > Philemon 1:3 Grace to you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. > Philemon 1:19 I Paul have written it with mine own hand, I will repay it: albeit I do not say to thee how thou owest unto me even thine own self besides. This is Paul's example that God uses to reveal the divine truth of redemption. Every man is God's property, and grace gives us right to appeal through Christ. All the debt is put to Christ's account. Ultimately we must be received of the Father. # Go to Master Index [Master Outline of Textbooks](http://bible.exchange/books/general-info-about-dbi-textbooks/page/master-outline-of-textbooks)