Over the next few months, our men’s small group is digging into the book of 1 Timothy—a bold, pastoral letter from the Apostle Paul to a young leader in the trenches of church life. This isn’t just a study on leadership; it’s a call to godly manhood. A call to stand firm in the gospel. A call to fight the good fight of faith.
Theme / Big Idea: Ministry begins with God’s call and authority, not personal ambition.
ESV Text
1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by command of God our Savior and of Christ Jesus our hope,
2 To Timothy, my true child in the faith: Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.
Expository Outline
- Paul’s Divine Commission — Apostleship by God’s command (v. 1a)
- Christ’s Person and Work — Our Savior and hope (v. 1b)
- Timothy’s Spiritual Relationship — True child in the faith (v. 2a)
- Paul’s Pastoral Blessing — Grace, mercy, and peace (v. 2b)
1. Paul’s Divine Commission (v. 1a)
Paul begins by identifying himself as “an apostle of Christ Jesus by command of God.” This is more than a formal introduction—it establishes his authority to write what follows. The Greek word epitagē (command) underscores that his role is not a personal choice or human appointment, but a divine assignment. MacArthur points out that this opening makes clear that Timothy is not merely receiving advice from a mentor; he is receiving authoritative instruction from one commissioned directly by God. The ESV Study Bible notes that “apostle” here means one sent as an authorized representative of Christ, and Paul’s calling carries the weight of the One who sent him. The ESV Expository Commentary stresses that this authoritative greeting sets the tone for the entire letter: Timothy’s ministry and the church’s obedience are grounded in the authority of God’s Word.
2. Christ’s Person and Work (v. 1b)
Paul describes God as “our Savior” and Christ Jesus as “our hope.” In the Old Testament, “Savior” was a title often used for God, emphasizing His role as deliverer and rescuer of His people. Here Paul applies it to God the Father, reminding Timothy that salvation originates in Him. Calling Christ Jesus “our hope” points to the believer’s certain expectation of eternal life. MacArthur notes that hope in the biblical sense is not wishful thinking but confident assurance. The ESV Study Bible explains that this phrase ties our present perseverance to our future glory, anchoring ministry in the reality of Christ’s victory. The ESV Expository Commentary highlights that by linking “Savior” and “hope,” Paul is rooting Timothy’s encouragement in both the accomplished work of salvation and the guaranteed promise of its fulfillment.
3. Timothy’s Spiritual Relationship (v. 2a)
Paul calls Timothy “my true child in the faith.” The Greek gnesios (true, genuine) conveys authenticity—not an imposter or nominal believer, but one whose faith is real and whose relationship with Paul is spiritually deep. Timothy was converted during Paul’s ministry and had been mentored by him in life and doctrine. MacArthur emphasizes that this father-son language models the discipleship relationships that should exist in the church—close, personal, and focused on spiritual growth. The ESV Study Bible points out that Paul’s confidence in Timothy’s genuineness stands in contrast to the false teachers in Ephesus. The ESV Expository Commentary notes that this spiritual relationship is both affectionate and purposeful: Timothy is loved like a son and entrusted with great responsibility.
4. Paul’s Pastoral Blessing (v. 2b)
Paul ends his greeting with “Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.” This is more than a polite salutation—it’s a prayer and a theological statement. Grace is God’s unearned favor, mercy is His compassionate withholding of judgment, and peace is the wholeness and reconciliation that flows from being right with Him. MacArthur notes that the inclusion of “mercy” is unique to the Pastoral Epistles, reflecting the need for compassion in the often-difficult work of shepherding. The ESV Study Bible emphasizes that these blessings come from both the Father and the Son, affirming the deity of Christ. The ESV Expository Commentary observes that Paul frames the entire letter within the reality that ministry must be sustained by God’s provision, not human strength.
Key Word Study
- Apostolos (ἀπόστολος, ah-PAH-sto-los) — One sent with authority; here, divinely commissioned by Christ.
- Epitagē (ἐπιταγή, eh-pee-tah-GAY) — Authoritative command, official directive from God.
- Gnesios (γνήσιος, GNEH-see-os) — Genuine, authentic; true in nature.
Discussion Questions for Men
- Why does Paul open by declaring his authority? How does this shape our view of the letter?
- What does it mean for Christ to be “our hope” in practical, daily life?
- How do spiritual father-son relationships strengthen the church?
- Why might “mercy” be especially important in leadership and ministry?
Application
- Personal: Anchor your mission in God’s calling, not personal ambition.
- Family: Pray for grace, mercy, and peace to shape your home.
- Church: Support leaders who serve under Christ’s authority.
- ESV Study Bible notes on 1 Timothy
- John MacArthur Study Bible notes on 1 Timothy
- Expositor’s Bible Commentary, Vol. 12 (Longman & Garland)
- New American Commentary: 1 & 2 Timothy, Titus (Lea)
- ChatGPT, an AI tool I’ve personally named “EZRA”—my modern-day thesaurus and scribe.