“Be Thou an Example of the Believers” Part 1

All Posts Archived Lessons New Testament Old Testament Book of Mormon Doctrine & Covenants Search “Be Thou an Example of the Believers” Part 1 CFMCorner Oct 21, 2023 30 min read Updated: Oct 24, 2023 CFM: October 23–29 1 and 2 Timothy ; Titus ; Philemon Videos and Podcasts Video/ Podcast ​Lesson Extension ​Additional Materials Scripture Central 1 and 2 Timothy; Titus; Philemon Study Guide Follow Him 1 and 2 Timothy; Titus; Philemon Part 1 , Part 2 Transcripts Line Upon Line 1 and 2 Timothy; Titus; Philemon Teaching with Power 1 and 2 Timothy; Titus; Philemon ​ Don't Miss This 1 and 2 Timothy; Titus; Philemon ​ ​CFM New Testament 1 and 2 Timothy; Titus; Philemon ​Unshaken 1 and 2 Timothy; Titus; Philemon ( Part 1 , Part 2 ) ​ ​The Interpreter Foundation 1 and 2 Timothy; Titus; Philemon ​Study helps by Jonn Claybaugh ​Teaching Helps with John Hilton 1 and 2 Timothy; Titus; Philemon ​ ​Ponderfun 1 and 2 Timothy; Titus; Philemon ( not yet posted ) ​Talking Scripture 1 and 2 Timothy; Titus; Philemon Show Notes ​Hurricane Utah Adult Religion Class , New Testament The Epistles of Paul, 1 and 2 Timothy; Titus; Philemon : Notes , Slides , Handout arnt26_presentation .ppsx Download PPSX • 2.11MB Resources and Insights about this Week's Lesson Ongoing Debates Regarding Authenticity The authorship of the Pastoral Epistles, including 1 Timothy, 2 Timothy, Titus, and Philemon has been a subject of scholarly debate for centuries. While some scholars believe that the apostle Paul wrote these letters, there is a significant body of academic opinion that questions Pauline authorship. The prevailing theories regarding authorship are as follows: 1. Traditional Pauline Authorship: Many traditional and conservative scholars maintain that Paul wrote 1 Timothy and 2 Timothy. They argue that the language, style, and content of these letters are consistent with Paul's other authentic writings. These scholars often point to the internal claims of authorship within the letters. 2. Pseudonymous Authorship: Some scholars argue that the Pastoral Epistles are pseudonymous, meaning they were written by someone other than Paul but attributed to him. This theory suggests that a later Christian writer, possibly from the Pauline tradition, composed these letters in Paul's name to address issues in the early church. 3. Deutero-Pauline Authorship: Another theory is that these letters were written by a disciple or follower of Paul, sometimes referred to as a “Deutero-Pauline” author. Proponents of this theory believe that these writers were influenced by Paul's teachings and sought to carry on his legacy, writing in his style. The debate over authorship is complex and ongoing, and scholars often consider factors such as linguistic differences from Paul's other letters, the theological developments in these letters, and historical context to argue for or against Pauline authorship. While there is no consensus on the issue, it's essential to note that both conservative and critical scholars continue to engage in scholarly dialogue about the authorship of the Pastoral Epistles, with some scholars being more inclined to accept Pauline authorship while others are more skeptical. The prevailing theories and opinions may vary among scholars and schools of thought. Overview: Due to the amount of material we are covering this week, I've adapted the format of this lesson a bit from previous lessons. For this lesson, some information will be included for each section, prior to the the summarary. This section includes the accounts on 1st & 2nd Timothy, and the next section covers Titus & Philemon. The videos and resources listed below provide excellent overviews of the books and figures we are studying in this lesson. It's important to note that many of these videos are not affiliated with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Still, they do a commendable job of condensing and presenting the information within its historical context in an approachable manner. These videos have been selected because they help to present the bigger picture of Paul's message, and from this broader view, it is easier to dive into the individual parts of Paul's letters, with the appropriate context in mind. While there might be some slight variations in how certain passages and principles are interpreted by our friends outside of the Church, it's crucial to approach these differences with understanding and goodwill. Keep in mind that other faiths lack the additional resources we have, such as the Book of Mormon and modern-day Prophets and Apostles, to clarify some of the more complex issues. Embracing these differences in interpretation can help us better appreciate the unique blessings we have as members of the Church because we have access to continuing modern revelation. Additionally, these insights can help us to better understand and appreciate the commonalities and differences in our perspectives compared to our friends outside of the Church. Hopefully, when we approach these topics in a positive way, it will help us to better develop and foster respectful relationships with those of different faiths. Bible Project: Book of 1 Timothy: A Complete Animated Overview Bible Project: Book of 2 Timothy Summary: A Complete Animated Overview Eyewitness Bible Series: Acts Episode 14 - Introduction to Timothy Eyewitness Bible Series: 1 Timothy - from the perspective of Apollos The Bible Effect: 1 & 2 Timothy Historical Background 1 Timothy the first of several pastoral letters written by the apostle Paul to various leader of the early church. Timothy was a trusted disciple and coworker in Paul's ministry and played a significant role in the early Christian church. Paul first met Timothy during his second missionary journey, which took place in the early 50s AD. Timothy is mentioned in Acts 16:1-3, which describes their initial meeting in the city of Lystra. Timothy was from Lystra , a city in the Phrygian and Galatian region of Lycaonia, which is located in modern-day Turkey ( map ). Significant events and information about Timothy's involvement include: Circumcision of Timothy : Acts 16:3 records that Paul had Timothy circumcised because of his Jewish heritage. This decision was made to facilitate Timothy's acceptance among the Jewish communities they would visit during their missionary journeys. Timothy's Family : Timothy had a Jewish mother named Eunice and a Greek father. His grandmother, Lois, is also mentioned. These family members are noted for their strong faith and influence on Timothy's upbringing. Accompanying Paul : Timothy became a close companion and coworker with Paul in his missionary endeavors. He traveled with Paul on various journeys, supporting him in his ministry. Ephesus : Timothy was closely associated with the city of Ephesus. He is mentioned in the opening of the letter to the Ephesians (Ephesians 1:1) and is known to have been significantly involved in ministry there. Other New Testament passages where Timothy is mentioned include: Acts 17:14-15: Timothy is mentioned as being left behind in Berea while Paul and Silas continued to Athens. Romans 16:21: Paul refers to Timothy as his coworker in the closing of his letter to the Romans. 1 Corinthians 4:17: Paul mentions Timothy as his beloved and faithful son who would remind the Corinthians of his ways in Christ. 2 Corinthians 1:1: Timothy is mentioned in the introduction of Paul's second letter to the Corinthians. Philippians 1:1: Timothy is included in the greeting of the letter to the Philippians. Colossians 1:1: Timothy is mentioned in the introduction of the letter to the Colossians. 1 Thessalonians 3:2: Paul sent Timothy to the Thessalonians to strengthen and encourage them in their faith. Philemon 1:1: Timothy is included in the greeting of the letter to Philemon. Hebrews 13:23: The author of Hebrews (traditionally attributed to Paul) mentions Timothy's release from prison and his future visit. Timothy played a significant role in Paul's ministry and was entrusted with various responsibilities, making him a notable figure in the early Christian church. 1 Timothy 1 The first chapter of 1 Timothy introduces several important themes, including the importance of sound doctrine, the avoidance of false teaching, the transformative power of God's mercy, and the charge to uphold faith with a clear conscience. These themes set the tone for the letter and provide guidance for Timothy in his role as a church overseer. Scripture Major Topics/ Themes ​Summary ​Cross-References, Videos & Resources 1 Timothy 1 ​ ​ ​ INT ​Verses 1-2 ​Greetings and Salutations ​​ Verses 1-2: Paul addresses his epistle to Timothy, whom he regards as a son. ​ ​ Verses 3-4 The Importance of Sound Doctrine Verses 3-4: Paul instructs Timothy to caution against spreading false doctrines or myths , translated as fables in the KJV. He advises them to avoid getting caught up in complex and never-ending genealogies that some were using in an attempt to legitimize their authority and dominance over others (Topics of יָחַשׂ were very significant during the 2nd Temple Period). These contentious topics and pursuits were causing disagreements, diverting attention from the central message of the Gospel, and creating additional confusion instead of contributing to the spiritual growth and understanding of the congregation. ​Early Christian Schisms ( Part 1 ) ​ Verses 5-7 ​ The Goal of Christian Teaching ​ Verses 5-7: Paul explains that charity is the goal of Christian teaching. Charity is love that flows from a pure heart, good conscience , and sincere faith. He mentions that some have swerved from these principles, turning to vain and fruitless arguments . ​ ​Verse 8-11 The law is good when employed righteously, yet it is corruptible ​ Verses 8: The law is a force for good when people use it righteously, yet it can be easily perverted for sel