Title and Author: The book of 1 Timothy is traditionally attributed to the Apostle Paul. The title "1 Timothy" reflects its status as the first of two letters addressed to Timothy, a young pastor and Paul's protégé. Paul identifies himself as the author in the opening verse: "Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the command of God our Savior and of Christ Jesus our hope" (1 Timothy 1:1).

Historical Context: 1 Timothy was likely written around A.D. 62-64, during Paul's later years, possibly while he was in Macedonia after his first Roman imprisonment. The early church was facing internal and external challenges, including false teachings and the need for organizational structure.

Audience: The primary audience is Timothy, whom Paul left in Ephesus to oversee the church there. However, the letter also serves the broader Christian community by providing guidance on church leadership and doctrine.

Purpose: Paul wrote 1 Timothy to instruct Timothy on how to lead the church effectively. The letter addresses false teachings, church order, qualifications for leaders, and pastoral care. Paul aims to ensure that the church remains faithful to the gospel.

Genre and Style: 1 Timothy is an epistle, characterized by personal instruction, doctrinal teaching, and practical advice. It combines theological exposition with pastoral care.1. Paul (1 Timothy 1:1)
- Paul is the author of the letter. He identifies himself as an apostle of Christ Jesus by the command of God our Savior and Christ Jesus our hope.

2. Timothy (1 Timothy 1:2)
- Timothy is the recipient of the letter. Paul refers to him as his "true child in the faith," indicating a close mentor-mentee relationship.

3. Hymenaeus (1 Timothy 1:20)
- Hymenaeus is mentioned as someone who has "shipwrecked their faith." Paul states that he has handed Hymenaeus over to Satan to be taught not to blaspheme.

4. Alexander (1 Timothy 1:20)
- Alexander is mentioned alongside Hymenaeus as another individual who has shipwrecked his faith and has been handed over to Satan.

5. Jesus Christ (1 Timothy 1:1)
- Jesus Christ is referred to as the hope and the one through whom Paul is an apostle. He is central to the teachings and instructions given in the letter.1. Ephesus (1 Timothy 1:3)
- Description: Ephesus was a major city in the Roman province of Asia, located in what is now modern-day Turkey. It was an important center for early Christianity and the site of a significant church. Paul left Timothy in Ephesus to oversee the church and address false teachings.
- Verse: "As I urged you when I went to Macedonia, remain in Ephesus so that you may instruct certain men not to teach false doctrines."

2. Macedonia (1 Timothy 1:3)
- Description: Macedonia was a region in the northern part of ancient Greece. Paul mentions his journey to Macedonia, indicating that he left Timothy in Ephesus to continue the work there. Macedonia was also home to several early Christian communities, including those in Philippi and Thessalonica.
- Verse: "As I urged you when I went to Macedonia, remain in Ephesus so that you may instruct certain men not to teach false doctrines."1. Paul's Greeting to Timothy (1:1-2)
- Paul opens the letter with a greeting to Timothy, whom he refers to as his "true child in the faith," and extends grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus.

2. Warning Against False Doctrines (1:3-7)
- Paul instructs Timothy to remain in Ephesus to command certain people not to teach false doctrines or devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies, which promote speculation rather than faith.

3. The Purpose of the Law (1:8-11)
- Paul explains that the law is good if used properly and is meant for the lawless and rebellious, not for the righteous. He lists various sins and emphasizes that sound doctrine aligns with the gospel.

4. Paul's Testimony of Grace (1:12-17)
- Paul shares his personal testimony, acknowledging his past as a blasphemer and persecutor, and highlights the abundant grace and mercy he received from Christ Jesus, who came to save sinners.

5. Timothy's Charge (1:18-20)
- Paul charges Timothy to fight the good fight, holding on to faith and a good conscience. He mentions Hymenaeus and Alexander, who have shipwrecked their faith, and whom he has handed over to Satan.

6. Instructions on Prayer (2:1-8)
- Paul urges that prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, especially for kings and those in authority, so that believers may lead peaceful lives. He emphasizes that God desires all to be saved.

7. Instructions for Women (2:9-15)
- Paul provides guidance on how women should dress modestly and learn quietly with full submission. He references the creation order and the fall, and mentions that women will be saved through childbearing if they continue in faith.

8. Qualifications for Overseers (3:1-7)
- Paul outlines the qualifications for overseers (bishops), emphasizing that they must be above reproach, faithful to their spouse, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, and able to teach.

9. Qualifications for Deacons (3:8-13)
- Paul lists the qualifications for deacons, who must be dignified, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain. He also mentions the importance of managing their households well.

10. The Mystery of Godliness (3:14-16)
- Paul writes about the mystery of godliness, which is great and revealed in Christ, who was manifested in the flesh, vindicated by the Spirit, seen by angels, preached among the nations, believed on in the world, and taken up in glory.

11. Warning Against Apostasy (4:1-5)
- Paul warns that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and teachings of demons. He mentions false ascetic practices and affirms that everything created by God is good.

12. A Good Servant of Christ Jesus (4:6-16)
- Paul advises Timothy to be a good servant by pointing out these truths, training in godliness, and setting an example in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity. He encourages Timothy to devote himself to public reading of Scripture, preaching, and teaching.

13. Instructions for Various Groups (5:1-16)
- Paul provides instructions on how to treat different groups within the church, including older and younger men and women, and widows. He emphasizes the importance of caring for widows and the qualifications for those who should receive support.

14. Instructions for Elders (5:17-25)
- Paul discusses the treatment of elders, including giving them double honor, especially those who preach and teach. He advises on handling accusations against elders and warns against favoritism.

15. Instructions for Slaves and False Teachers (6:1-10)
- Paul instructs slaves to respect their masters and warns against false teachers who are conceited and understand nothing. He discusses the dangers of the love of money, stating that it is the root of all kinds of evil.

16. Final Charge to Timothy (6:11-21)
- Paul charges Timothy to flee from evil, pursue righteousness, fight the good fight of faith, and take hold of eternal life. He instructs Timothy to command the rich to be generous and to guard what has been entrusted to him, avoiding godless chatter and opposing ideas.1. Sound Doctrine (1 Timothy 1:3-4)
Paul emphasizes the importance of teaching sound doctrine and avoiding false teachings and myths. He instructs Timothy to remain in Ephesus to charge certain individuals not to teach different doctrines, highlighting the need for truth and clarity in the church's teachings.

2. The Purpose of the Law (1 Timothy 1:8-11)
The law is described as good if used properly, serving to expose sin and guide behavior. Paul explains that the law is not for the righteous but for lawbreakers and rebels, underscoring its role in moral instruction.

3. Grace and Mercy (1 Timothy 1:12-16)
Paul shares his personal testimony of receiving grace and mercy despite his past as a persecutor of Christians. This theme highlights God's abundant grace and the transformative power of His mercy.

4. Prayer and Worship (1 Timothy 2:1-2)
Paul urges that prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, especially leaders, to lead peaceful and godly lives. This underscores the importance of prayer in the life of believers and the church.

5. Roles in the Church (1 Timothy 2:11-12)
Instructions are given regarding the roles of men and women in the church, emphasizing order and propriety in worship settings. This theme addresses the structure and function of church leadership and participation.

6. Qualifications for Church Leaders (1 Timothy 3:1-7)
Paul outlines the qualifications for overseers and deacons, emphasizing character, reputation, and ability to manage one's household. This theme stresses the importance of integrity and capability in church leadership.

7. Godliness and Contentment (1 Timothy 6:6-8)
Paul teaches that godliness with contentment is great gain, warning against the love of money and the pursuit of wealth. This theme encourages believers to find satisfaction in their faith and spiritual life rather than material possessions.

8. Fight the Good Fight of Faith (1 Timothy 6:12)
Timothy is exhorted to "fight the good fight of faith," laying hold of eternal life. This theme emphasizes perseverance, commitment, and the active pursuit of faith amidst challenges.

9. Guarding the Deposit of Faith (1 Timothy 6:20-21)
Paul instructs Timothy to guard what has been entrusted to him, avoiding irreverent and empty chatter. This theme highlights the responsibility to protect and preserve the integrity of the Christian faith and teachings.1. Christ Jesus, Our Hope (1 Timothy 1:1)
- Description: Paul opens his letter by identifying Jesus as the source of hope for believers. This title emphasizes the assurance and expectation of eternal life and salvation that Christians have through Jesus.

2. Christ Jesus, Our Lord (1 Timothy 1:2)
- Description: This title underscores the authority and divinity of Jesus, acknowledging Him as the sovereign ruler and master of believers' lives.

3. Christ Jesus Came into the World to Save Sinners (1 Timothy 1:15)
- Description: This statement highlights the mission of Jesus, emphasizing His role as the Savior who came to redeem humanity from sin. It reflects the core message of the Gospel.

4. Mediator Between God and Men (1 Timothy 2:5)
- Description: Jesus is described as the sole mediator who reconciles humanity with God. This title underscores His unique role in bridging the gap caused by sin, allowing for a restored relationship with God.

5. Ransom for All (1 Timothy 2:6)
- Description: This title refers to Jesus' sacrificial death, which paid the price for the sins of humanity. It emphasizes the universality of His atonement, available to all who believe.

6. Christ Jesus, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords (1 Timothy 6:15)
- Description: This majestic title affirms the supreme authority and sovereignty of Jesus over all earthly and heavenly rulers. It highlights His ultimate power and dominion.1. Prophecy of Prediction of Apostasy
- Prophecy: "The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons." (1 Timothy 4:1)
- Fulfillment: This is a general prophecy about future apostasy, which is a recurring theme in Christian history. Specific fulfillments are not detailed in the Bible, but the early church and subsequent church history have seen various instances of individuals and groups departing from orthodox Christian teachings.

2. Prophecy of Warning Against False Teachers
- Prophecy: "If anyone teaches another doctrine and disagrees with the sound words of our Lord Jesus Christ and with godly teaching, he is conceited and understands nothing." (1 Timothy 6:3-4)
- Fulfillment: This is more of a warning than a prophecy, but it anticipates the rise of false teachers. Throughout church history, there have been numerous instances of false teachings arising, which the church has had to address.

3. Prophecy of Instructions for the Future Church
- Prophecy: "But you, O man of God, flee from these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance, and gentleness." (1 Timothy 6:11)
- Fulfillment: This is an exhortation for Timothy and future church leaders, emphasizing qualities that should be pursued. While not a prophecy in the traditional sense, it sets a standard for future generations.

1. Timothy’s Commission  ( 1:1⁠–⁠20 )

a. Paul’s Greeting to Timothy  ( 1:1⁠–⁠2 )

b. Correcting False Teachers  ( 1:3⁠–⁠11 )

c. God’s Grace to Paul  ( 1:12⁠–⁠17 )

d. Paul’s Charge to Timothy  ( 1:18⁠–⁠20 )

2. Instructions concerning the Church  ( 2:1⁠–⁠6:21 )

a. A Call to Prayer  ( 2:1⁠–⁠8 )

b. Instructions to Women  ( 2:9⁠–⁠15 )

c. Qualifications for Leaders  ( 3:1⁠–⁠13 )

i. Overseers  ( 3:1⁠–⁠7 )

ii. Deacons  ( 3:8⁠–⁠13 )

d. The Mystery of Godliness  ( 3:14⁠–⁠16 )

e. Instructions concerning False Teaching  ( 4:1⁠–⁠16 )

i. A Warning against Apostasy  ( 4:1⁠–⁠5 )

ii. A Good Servant of Jesus Christ  ( 4:6⁠–⁠16 )

f. Instructions concerning Different Groups  ( 5:1⁠–⁠6:2 )

i. Reproof and Respect: The Older and Younger  ( 5:1⁠–⁠2 )

ii. Honoring True Widows  ( 5:3⁠–⁠16 )

iii. Honoring Elders  ( 5:17⁠–⁠20 )

iv. A Charge to Timothy  ( 5:21⁠–⁠25 )

v. Serving with Honor  ( 6:1⁠–⁠2 )

g. Other Matters of Concern  ( 6:3⁠–⁠19 )

i. Reject False Doctrines  ( 6:3⁠–⁠5 )

ii. Godliness with Contentment  ( 6:6⁠–⁠10 )

iii. Fight the Good Fight: A Charge to Timothy  ( 6:11⁠–⁠16 )

iv. A Charge to the Rich  ( 6:17⁠–⁠19 )

h. Guard the Faith  ( 6:20⁠–⁠21 )