Explore the Bible: 1, 2 Timothy; Titus (Summer 2019) by Johnny Hunt (Editor)

5 out of 5 stars  *****

This bible study of 1, 2 Timothy; Titus explains the letters written by Paul to his disciple, Timothy, when the Christian church experiences growing pains at its inception. It is important that consistency exist when teaching that salvation is only through faith in Jesus Christ, accountability is to the church and God, and that believers exhibit God's grace with mercy towards others. Paul also imparts to Timothy that believers should treat each other as family caring for the isolated, lonely members and supporting the pastoral leadership. Paul wants Timothy to convey to believers that blessing others and pursuing godliness produces joy in knowing there is an eternal life that awaits. 

It is a tall task to expect churches in distant lands to share the same practices based on the same teachings. Paul encourages members to gain strength spiritually through the Holy Spirit and boldly spread the gospel knowing Christ as the resurrected Messiah. Believers also know that persecution lies in front of them so Paul reinforces their focus be the gospel during such times. By studying the gospel and living a righteous life, Paul asserts that church members, especially leaders, avoid being led astray. Paul compels them to do everything in love and with kindness and instructs them to always be able to present the gospel and scripture as the word of God. 

Titus, an uncircumcised disciple of Paul, receives a letter from the "Gentiles' Apostle" in Crete. Like 1 Timothy, Paul warns Titus about false teachers. Some opportunists spin the gospel for personal gain. Titus picks men of impeccable character and develops sound doctrine based on the qualifications of church leaders as per Paul. Titus reminds believers to pursue truth and good works to receive the grace of God; then they can confront and expose false teachers as they establish local churches and inspire their leaders. Paul also tells Titus to be bold as he represents the authority of Jesus Christ.

Paul's letters to these two disciples reinforces the solid foundation of the infant church of Jesus Christ. He points to the consistent lessons that salvation is through faith in Jesus and honoring God through good works and loving kindness. These principles are essential for the church to be true to the teachings of Christ and to assure its existence over time.