A recurring theme in the Pastoral Letters makes an appearance once again in Titus 3:9: “avoid foolish debates, … they are unprofitable and worthless.” Previously, Paul cautioned Titus about rebellious people who were “full of empty talk and deception” (Titus 1:10). He had warned Timothy about those who “promote empty speculations rather than God’s plan” (1 Tim. 1:4) and who have “an unhealthy interest in disputes and arguments over words” (1 Tim. 6:4). The apostle also urged Timothy to avoid ... Read More
I’m not a pastor, why should I study the Pastoral Letters? (Session 1 – 1 Timothy 1:3-17)
Paul’s letters of 1,2 Timothy and Titus are called “pastoral letters” because they contain instructions for pastors. The apostle addressed them to Timothy, who gave pastoral leadership to the church in Ephesus, and Titus, who led the churches in Crete. In these letters, the elder Paul instructed his young associates in matters needing pastoral oversight in their respective congregations. But I’m not a pastor, someone might say. Why should I study the Pastoral Letters? It’s a valid question. I ... Read More