July 7, 2014 (Monday)
The “Pastoral Epistles (Letters)” were written to Timothy and Titus, Paul’s “sons” in the ministry. They have been grouped and named as such because they offer instruction and encouragement to young men who have become pastors–Timothy in Ephesus and Titus in Crete.
The letters named, “First Timothy” and “Titus” in our Bible were written by Paul after his first imprisonment in Rome. After his release, he spent several years doing additional work as the great missionary. Then he was arrested, incarcerated at Rome and sentenced to death by beheading. Even before the sentence was handed down, Paul knew that his second letter to Timothy would no doubt contain his last written words in this life. The letter reflects awareness of his impending death.
If you became acquainted with two young men assuming their first pastorates today, what would you say to them to encourage them in their work? You might gain insight on what to say by reading these “Pastoral Epistles.” Here are a few quotations from the letters:
1 Tim. 2:1-2 First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for everyone, for kings and all who are in high positions, so that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and dignity.
Titus 1:7-8 For a bishop, as God’s steward, must be blameless; he must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or addicted to wine or violent or greedy for gain; but he must be hospitable, a lover of goodness, prudent, upright, devout, and self-controlled.
2 Tim. 2:2 . . . What you have heard from me through many witnesses entrust to faithful people who will be able to teach others as well.
Titus 3:14 And let people learn to devote themselves to good works in order to meet urgent needs, so that they may not be unproductive.
For the next three days, we will look at the “pastorals,” and they will bless us as we study them.