I've always loved First and Second Timothy. Paul's warmth encourages me, his
exhortations to his protégé Timothy challenge me, his example of sacrificing all
for the gospel humbles me.
I'm convinced that these epistles are wonderful tools
for training leaders in your church. No, they don't deal in 21st century
corporate vision-casting, important as that may be. The wisdom they impart to
pastors and church leaders is even more important. The two letters discuss, for example:
The character needed in church leaders
How to develop everyday godliness
The importance of sound doctrine and a high view of Scripture
How to deal with opponents while keeping a gentle spirit
The importance of embracing hardship as your lot as a leader without
self-pity.
Through out my ministry I've been inspired by Paul's passion in these letters. My mind keeps returning to Paul's last words:
"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the
faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness ...." (2
Timothy 4:7-8)
This 206-page book is designed for personal study, classes and small groups,
as well as preparation for teaching and preaching. It's laid out in 11 lessons,
and includes one-page handouts containing discussion questions. Here's the table
of contents:
Preface
2
Table of
Contents
4
Introduction
to 1 and 2 Timothy
9
1. God's
Grace and Calling (1 Timothy 1:1-20)
20
2. Men and
Women in God's Household (1 Timothy 2:1-15)
36
3. Selecting
Leaders in God's Household (1 Timothy 3; Titus 1:6-9)
51
4. Setting a
Godly Example (1 Timothy 4:1-16)
72
5. Advice
about Widows, Elders, and Slaves (1 Timothy 5:1-25; 6:1-2)
Here's what people have said who have completed the study:
"This study is so rich and deep to the extent that you don't want
it to end ... a personal spiritual uplifting." -- O.M. Toriola
"It is evident that plenty of research and
critical thought goes into each lesson, but the lessons are written so that
everyone can grasp the meaning." -- Jeff Hawley
"If you want to know the word of God and be
able to use it (a) to help others and (b) to stay afloat yourself, use
this Bible study." -- Rev. Bruce Hachey
"There's something about Dr. Wilson's Bible
studies that help me to understand the Bible better than I have before. Perhaps
it's the way he defines the original language. Perhaps it's the way he
takes the student back to that time and walks through the places with the
people. The thing about it is that he does not tell the student what to believe.
You don't have to agree, but you will find it thought provoking and it will lead
you to better figure out what you do believe. A true teacher." -- E. M.
"Easy to follow, yet stimulates one to further
explore God's Word." -- Rev. Connie Gibbs-Morris
"Renewed and refreshed me during a very
difficult time, and changed my attitude, encouraged my faith, and caused me to
refocus on God's goal for my life." -- Janice Mozley
"Made it easier for me to prepare my sermon
and my Bible studies as well." -- Kelera Nai Cokanasiga
"The small group I lead is reaping the benefit
of all your hard work." -- David Wright
"This is the kind of Bible study I used to
enjoy when I had time to spread several books out in my office and work at a
leisurely pace.... Enables me to benefit from the fruits without the vast amount
of time required to research such a study." -- Rev. Paul Nash
"Not a 'surface' treatment of Timothy. Goes
deeper, makes a person think." -- Joyce Clark
You can purchase this book either as an e-book or a printed book.
I've always loved First and Second Timothy. Paul's warmth encourages me, his
exhortations to his protégé Timothy challenge me, his example of sacrificing all
for the gospel humbles me.
joyfulheart.com
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