JesusWalk® Publications

1 and 2 Timothy
Leadership and Discipleship Lessons

An 206-page book by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson


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First and Second Timothy are inspiring! Paul's warmth encourages us. His exhortations to his protégé Timothy challenge us. His example of sacrificing all for the gospel humbles us.

The author is 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.

Paul encountered many struggles to fulfill his God-given mission, but he did more than survive -- he triumphed. His last words ring throughout the ages as an example to those who follow him in ministry:

"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 volume explores 1 and 2 Timothy in 11 lessons. Thought-provoking discussion questions make it a useful tool for personal enrichment, small groups, and classes. Extensive footnotes assist teachers and preachers with background research for sermon preparation.

Here's an abbreviated 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) 85
6. Reject Greed, Pursue Godliness (1 Timothy 6:3-21) 98
7. Be Neither Intimidated nor Ashamed (2 Timothy 1:1-17) 114
8. Endure Hardship for Christ (2 Timothy 2:1-19) 127
9. Fit for the Master's Use (2 Timothy 2:20-3:14a) 140
10. Preachers, Teachers, and Holy Scripture (2 Timothy 3:14-4:5) 154
11. I Have Fought the Good Fight (2 Timothy 4:6-22) 171
Appendix 1. Discussion Questions for Classes and Small Groups 183
Appendix 2. Qualifications of Church Leaders (1 Tim.3:2-12; Tit. 1:6-9) 195
Appendix 3. Songs based on 1 and 2 Timothy and Titus 197
Detailed Table of Contents


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 as an e-book only.

  Kindle e-book formatKindle E-book format, $8.95. You may purchase the Kindle version directly from Amazon. This is read using a your Kindle or a Kindle Reader program installed on your computer. It cannot be printed out.
PDF E-book formatPDF E-book format, $8.95 (not printed, but a computer download). You purchase this 206-page e-book and can download it within minutes. You can read it on your computer in PDF format if you like, or print out a single copy on your printer. No tax is charged on e-books.
Reprint license to copy your own booksReprint License, $2.50. Once you've ordered this item, set quantity field for the number of reprints you plan to make and click on "recalculate." One license is required for each additional copy you make beyond the initial book you purchased. This reprint license prohibits sale of the book to individuals outside your local area or congregation.

Click the box to the left of the item you are selecting, then click on the green button below.

Copyright © 2023, Ralph F. Wilson. <pastor@joyfulheart.com> All rights reserved. A single copy of this article is free. Do not put this on a website. See legal, copyright, and reprint information.

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