Firm Foundations

Backstory:
During Paul’s 2nd missionary journey, he invited young Timothy to join him in his travels. Following Paul’s release from house arrest in Rome, Timothy again traveled with him, but eventually stayed at Ephesus to deal with the problem there while Paul went on to Macedonia. When Paul realized that he might not return to Ephesus in the near future, he wrote this first letter to Timothy to encourage & instruct him in his work.

God’s Story:
Like Paul, Timothy is a true son in the faith! Before long, Paul will die because of his love for me and my Son, and devoted followers and leaders like Timothy will be charged to press on for my kingdom. After Timothy is gone from the earth, Paul’s letters to him will continue to instruct leaders and believers for generations to come.

Read 1 Timothy 1:1-20

Your Story:
In his first letter to Timothy, Paul described himself as the worst of sinners (see 1 Timothy 1:15). Although Paul had left behind his former life as a zealous persecutor of Christians, he never forgot it. Believers today hold Paul up as a great example of a Christian brother, but he did not see himself that way. This display of humility and thankfulness for God’s grace emphasizes Paul’s position as a godly role model. You and every believer should strive to be humble. It is only by God’s grace that you are saved.