women in the word introduction to 1 timothy€¦ · women in the word introduction to 1 timothy ......

Women in the Word Introduction to 1 Timothy September 8, 2016 1. What will you remember most about this past summer?

2. This semester we are studying 1 and 2 Timothy. Have you ever studied these books in the New Testament? What comes to mind when you think of 1 and 2 Timothy?

3. Read 1 Timothy 1:1-2. Who is writing this letter and to whom is he writing? What do we learn about the author of this letter from verses 1-2? What do we learn about the recipient of this letter?

4. Read the following verses and discuss Paul’s early life, his conversion story and his ministry: Acts 13:9a; Philippians 3:4-6; Acts 9:1-22; and Galatians 1:11-16; 2:9.

5. What do the following verses tell us about Timothy? Acts 16:1-3; 2 Timothy 1:5; 3:14-15 and Philippians 2:19-23 What one thing about Timothy stands out to you? Describe Paul’s relationship with Timothy with three or four words.

6. Guarding the truth of the gospel is a major theme in 1 and 2 Timothy. How would you describe the truth of the gospel? For insight, see John 3:16; John 14:6 and 1 Corinthians 15:3-4. How important is it to you and why?

Women in the Word 1 Timothy 1:3-20 September 15, 2016 1. Read 1 Timothy 1:3-20. After reading these verses, write down a few words to describe some

of the feelings Paul may have been experiencing as he penned these words to Timothy.

2. Read verse 3 and record Paul’s purpose in writing Timothy.

3. Think about the history of your walk with God. Have you ever felt vulnerable to doctrine that was different from the realities of the gospel when you first believed? Explain. How have you been able to stand firm in the true doctrine of Jesus Christ?

4. In what way was Paul following a false doctrine before he met Jesus personally? Read 1 Timothy 1:12-15 along with Acts 8:1-3; 9:1-6 and 9:20-22.

5. Read 1 Timothy 1:4. Can you think of any illustrations today that might coincide with these descriptions of false teachings in Paul’s day?

6. How does Paul describe the true doctrine in 1:11? Summarize the gospel according to Paul’s words in Colossians 1:19-22.

Women in the Word 1 Timothy 1:3-20 | September 15, 2016

Page 2 7. Read 1 Timothy 1:5. Paul is stating that solid biblical teaching will result in love in three

areas. How might this be true in each of the three areas? Love that issues from a pure heart (also read 1 Peter 1:22) Love from a good conscience (also read 2 Corinthians 1:12) Love from a sincere faith (also read Hebrews 10:19-22) Why do you think this kind of love cannot be the outcome of the teaching of false doctrine?

8. Read 1 Timothy 1:5-7 and make a list of the characteristics of those who have strayed from God’s truths.

9. Read verses 7-11. Paul is referring in these verses to the laws God gave to Moses to direct and bless His children, Israel. What can we learn about God’s Law in these verses? Summarize other teachings that explain the goodness of God’s Law: Romans 3:19-20 Romans 7:7 Galatians 3:23-26


Page 3 10. Read 1 Timothy 1:12-17. This is Paul’s testimony of the grace he found in Jesus Christ.

Briefly write out your own testimony using Paul’s testimony as a template. In verses 12-17 we find the generous gifts that the Savior gave Paul and has also given you. What are they? Think about false teachings and spiritual organizations that have veered away from the truths of Jesus Christ. Contrast the glory of the true gospel, which Paul explains in verses 12-17, with the emptiness of false doctrine.

11. Read 1 Timothy 1:18. What was Timothy’s calling according to this verse? What does this mean? Read 1 Timothy 6:12 for added insight.

12. Read 1 Timothy 1:18-20. We can find a warning for us in these verses. What is it? When Paul states that he handed these two men over to Satan, he meant that he removed them from the church. What was his purpose? What truths can we find in Psalm 119:33-37 to keep us from falling prey to untrue doctrine?

13. Do you have a personal prayer request to share with your small group?

Women in the Word 1 Timothy 2:1-15 September 22, 2016 1. After addressing the matter of false teachers in chapter 1, Paul writes about another area of

concern – conduct in the church. Read 1 Timothy 2:1-7. What is Paul’s instruction to everyone in the church in verse 1? What phrase and word does Paul use in verse 1 to emphasize the importance of these instructions to the church?

2. In verse 2, who does Paul specifically mention as the object of the church’s prayers? He also shares the reason the church should be in prayer for their leaders. According to Paul, what are the benefits of praying for our leaders? How does Paul’s encouragement to pray for national/world leaders encourage or motivate you? Why is this wise instruction also relevant in today’s world?

3. As believers we may reap great personal benefits from praying for our leaders, but according to verses 3-4, what is another benefit of praying for others, including our leaders? What is God’s desire for everyone? Read 2 Peter 3:9 and John 3:16. How does recognizing God’s heart for the lost influence your prayers for the lost?

4. List the three foundational truths that Paul shares with Timothy and the Ephesian church in verses 5-6 that are an important part of the salvation message.


Page 2 5. The culture that surrounds Timothy and the church at Ephesus is one of pagans, false

teachers, false gods and Jews. In light of that culture, how would these three truths be important to the church? Read John 14:6 and 1 John 5:12. Why are these truths still important for the church today?

6. What does Paul remind them of in 1 Timothy 2:7 that supports the truth that God desires all people to be saved? Read Galatians 2:9.

7. After exhorting the church as a whole to pray, Paul turns his attention to men and women in the church in 1 Timothy 2:8-15. Read verses 8-15. Describe the behavior Paul is concerned about in their public worship services in verse 8. Read 1 Timothy 1:3-4. How could the false teachers have contributed to these issues that Paul is concerned about in the church? How does false teaching affect churches today? Give some examples.

8. In 1 Timothy 2:9 Paul addresses women of the church, giving directions about appropriate and modest dressing. Even though Paul is speaking about outward appearances that are disruptive in the church, what is his true concern for the women of the church? Read 1 Peter 3:3-4 and Proverbs 31:30. What are some of the challenges women face today as they attempt to follow Paul’s instructions to dress modestly and less ostentatiously? Read Colossians 3:12-14. Describe some ways women can grow in their inner adornment that will influence their wardrobe choices and outward appearance on a daily basis. How can we avoid legalism in the church even as we embrace Paul’s teaching of appropriate and modest dress among women?


Page 3 9. Paul’s directions to women in the church in 1 Timothy 2:11-15 are difficult to understand

and often give Paul the label of disliking women. The Scriptures however tell another story of Paul’s affection for and ministry with women. Read Acts 18:24-26 and Romans 16:1-16. Who are some of the women he mentions?

What words describe Paul’s feelings and relationships with these women? After reading his comments about the women he has done ministry with, what is your impression of Paul’s feelings for women?

10. Although Paul appears to be giving some boundaries for women’s roles in the church, he also instructs women to be learners in verse 11, upholding the principal that women will play a vital role in the church. As women in the church, how can we be learners?

11. Although there are many and varied interpretations of Paul’s meaning in 1 Timothy 2:13-15, the creation story in Genesis that Paul references reveals God’s plans and purposes for women. Read the following verses and write down what God reveals about women. Genesis 1:27 Genesis 1:28 Genesis 1:31 Genesis 2:18 God places a high value on women and planned specific roles for them. How does knowing this truth provide a foundation for interpreting other Scriptures concerning women?


Women in the Word 1 Timothy 3:1-16 September 29, 2016 1. Think of the spiritual leaders that have made the biggest impact in your life. What qualities in

their lives stand out to you? Read 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and list God’s qualifications for pastors and elders. Which of these qualifications did you include in your answer to the original question?

2. How are the positions of pastor and elder described in verse 1? What do the following portions of Scripture tell us about church leaders? Acts 20:28 Titus 1:9 1 Peter 5:2-3

3. In your own words describe what it means to live above reproach. How is living above reproach different than living a perfect life?


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4. Continue by reading 1 Timothy 3:8-13. Compare the qualifications for deacons in verses 8-12 with the list of qualifications for pastors and elders in verses 2-7 and record your observations. The word “deacon” means servant. Explain why it’s important for the deacon to possess the qualities listed in verses 8-12.

5. Verse 11 refers to the wives of the deacons and the qualities they should possess, but could also apply to all women who serve within the church. What are those qualities? Because women are naturally more communicative, gossip is sometimes an issue. How does gossip affect an individual? How does it affect the church? Read Proverbs 11:12-13; 16:28; 18:7-8 and 26:20 for further insight.

6. According to 1 Timothy 3:13, what two things does the deacon gain when he faithfully performs his duties with excellence?

7. As part of the church of the living God, we are all called to serve well. After studying verses 1-13, what does it mean to you to serve with excellence? What is the ultimate result when we serve God with excellence?


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8. Continue by reading 1 Timothy 3:14-16. The church in this passage refers to an assembly of believers. In verse 15, how does Paul describe the church? Explain how the church is the household of God. How is it the church of the living God ? How is the church a pillar and buttress of the truth?

9. The latter part of verse 16 is believed to be part of a well-known first century Christian hymn. According to this hymn, Who is our example of godliness? Rewrite this hymn in your own words.

10. Paul, in his letters to the early church, speaks a great deal about godliness. What do the following portions of Scripture say about godliness? 1 Timothy 4:8 1 Timothy 6:6

11. In Paul’s letters to Timothy, he defines godliness as our words and actions that reveal the character of Christ and what He has done for us. Explain how godliness applies to our testimony of Christ in us. Refer to 2 Corinthians 5:20 and Ephesians 4:1-3 for insight. What are some practical ways for you to reveal Christ through your words and actions?


Women in the Word 1 Timothy 4:1-16 October 6, 2016 1. Think back on the people who have had a significant influence over your life. Can you recall

any who influenced you in a negative way? Share how they were able to influence you.

2. Read 1 Timothy 4:1-5 where Paul warns of the influence of false teachers within the church. According to verse 1, what has influenced these false teachers? Read 2 Corinthians 11:13-15. To whom are false teachers compared, how are they similar and whom are they serving?

3. According to 1 Timothy 4:3, describe the rules the false teachers are imposing in Ephesus. Note and record the strong, commanding words that are used. Do these words suggest that these instructions are optional? How does Paul defend participating in marriage and eating in verses 3-5?

4. A dramatic contrast is shown as the “good servant of Christ Jesus” is described in 1 Timothy 4:6-10. Read these verses. What does the good servant use to train or mature himself? What is to be avoided? What is the goal of this training?

Women in the Word 1 Timothy 4:1-16 | October 6, 2016

Page 2 5. According to Paul, where/when do we experience the benefits of pursuing godliness?

Consider your own spiritual journey and describe some benefits you have experienced as a result of pursuing spiritual maturity and godliness. How might godliness today benefit us in the life to come?

6. What strenuous words are used in 1 Timothy 4:7 and 1 Timothy 4:10? What do these words suggest about training in godliness? Many of us have difficulty exerting disciplined and sustained effort. Read 1 Timothy 2:3-4. How does knowing God’s desire for you help you to put your hope in Him and press on in training for godliness?

7. Describe someone who has had a positive influence in some area of your life. How were they able to influence you?

8. Read 1 Timothy 4:11-16. Paul points out that Timothy’s age would not prevent him from influencing fellow members of the church. From verse 12, what five characteristics would set a positive example for the church? Prayerfully consider each of these characteristics and choose one that you could improve upon in your own life. Share with your group what changes you could make and how that might influence believers around you. If someone were to demonstrate all these things in their life, how would you describe them?


Page 3 9. 1 Timothy 4:13 describes responsibilities of a leader in the church. What are the three things

that Timothy is specifically instructed to do? Consider each task and look up and record the definition if it isn’t clear to you. Look back at 1 Timothy 3:15 and record the purpose of the church or the household of God. How would these instructions to Timothy assist the members of the church to fulfill their purpose?

10. 1 Timothy 4:14 refers to a gift that Timothy received. This is a special spiritual enablement. Read Ephesians 4:11-12 and also 1 Peter 4:10 and further explain why Timothy needs to use this special ability.

11. List the directives given to Timothy in 1 Timothy 4:15-16. Looking closely at the verbs used, how would you describe this series of instructions and what would be the duration of this work?

12. If Timothy follows these instructions, what is the reasonable outcome described in verse 15? Also read Titus 2:7-8 and 1 Peter 5:2-3 and describe the favorable results that occur when leaders lead with integrity.

13. Read and record the outcome of good leadership described in 1 Timothy 4:16 and compare and contrast this with the tragic outcome of false teachers that we read in verse 1.


Women in the Word 1 Timothy 5:1– 6:2 October 13, 2016 1. In this lesson we will be reading Paul’s instructions to Timothy regarding the treatment of

church members. What has it meant in your life to be involved in the church?

2. Read 1 Timothy 5:1-2. What would be the result of treating church members with this kind of respect? What more can we learn about caring for other believers in Galatians 6:1-2?

3. God made provisions for widows in the Old Testament and would also provide for widows in His church. Read these verses and describe God’s heart for widows. Deuteronomy 10:18 Deuteronomy 14:28-29 Luke 7:11-15 James 1:27

4. Read 1 Timothy 5:3-4 and 5:16. Who has the first responsibility to care for widows? Can you share an illustration of when you have seen the blessings of this responsibility in action? How does Paul describe the family that does not care for a related widow in 1 Timothy 5:8?

5. Read verses 5-7. Widows have a choice to make to live fulfilled lives. Paul describes two options. What are they? What instruction does God give widows in Jeremiah 49:11?

Women in the Word 1 Timothy 5:1– 6:2 | October 13, 2016

Page 2 6. Paul continues his discussion of widows by describing the widows that were to be enrolled

for church support. Read 1 Timothy 5:9-16. In one word describe the widow who seeks Christ and in one word describe the widow who does not.

7. Paul now instructs Timothy regarding men who would hold the position of elders in the church. Elders are spiritual leaders in the church. What can we learn about elders from these verses? 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 Hebrews 13:7, 17 Titus 1:5-9

8. Read 1 Timothy 5:17-18 along with Paul’s comments on spiritual leaders being treated with generosity in 1 Corinthians 9:7-11, 14. What point is Paul making in these passages? Also read Galatians 6:6 for more insight. What expectation does Paul place upon the elder who is to be treated generously according to 1 Timothy 5:17-18?

9. Read 1 Timothy 5:19-21. How are Paul’s instructions in these verses a protection for the elders as well as the church? What does Paul say will be the result when a guilty elder is rebuked in the presence of the congregation? According to Paul’s admonition in 1 Timothy 5:21, what must not play a part when confronting an elder who must be rebuked?

Women in the Word 1 Timothy 5:1– 6:2 | October 13, 2016

Page 3 10. Read 1 Timothy 5:22. The “laying on of hands” was a church ceremony that confirmed a

man’s acceptance into public ministry as an elder. What is Paul teaching in this verse that would protect the church from spiritually wayward elders? In what way does the person who hastily lays their hands on a man for eldership take part in their sins?

11. Read 1 Timothy 5:23. It seems that Paul is inserting some personal advice for Timothy here. Water was not clean and Paul believed that a little wine would have benefits for Timothy’s health. What might we surmise about Timothy from Paul’s advice?

12. Read 1 Timothy 5:24-25. How do Paul’s words here connect to choosing qualified men for eldership? How would you summarize Paul’s points here in one sentence?

13. Now Paul instructs Timothy in the manner in which slaves should relate to their masters. Both slaves and their masters were believing in the gospel of Jesus Christ which impacted the way they treated each other as part of the church. Read 1 Timothy 6:1. What attitude must the slave adopt so that the name of God and the teaching of Christianity would not be reviled? Why might this be true? Also read Titus 2:9-10.

14. Read 1 Timothy 6:2. Looking deeper, what truths do we learn about God’s amazing church in this verse? What can you personally learn from this verse as a member of God’s church?


Women in the Word 1 Timothy 6:3-21 October 20, 2016 1. Read all of 1 Timothy 6:3-21. How would you describe Paul’s tone as he concludes this

letter to Timothy? What does Paul’s tone reveal about his heart for Timothy and the church at Ephesus?

2. Read 1 Timothy 6:3-5. What major issue is Paul revisiting as he concludes this letter? Also see 1 Timothy 1:3-7. Summarize how Paul describes false teachers in 1 Timothy 6:4. What is the result of their actions according to verses 4-5? What can we do to ensure we are rightly believing only in “the sound words of our Lord Jesus Christ and the teaching that accords with godliness”? Also see 2 Timothy 3:15-16 and Acts 17:11.

3. Read 1 Timothy 6:6-10. What do you think Paul means when he speaks of “godliness with contentment”? In what specific areas of your life do you find it difficult to be content with what God has given you? Why do you think this is the case? How would your life today be different if you were completely content with exactly what God has given you?


Page 2 4. Read 1 Timothy 6:11-16. In verse 11, Paul encourages Timothy to pursue behaviors that

honor God. Read the following verses and record the blessings we can expect as we pursue the things of God. Think of one way each blessing can impact your own life. Righteousness – Proverbs 21:21 Godliness – 2 Peter 1:3 Faith – John 11:40 Love – 1 John 4:7 Steadfastness – 1 Corinthians 15:58 Gentleness – Proverbs 15:1

5. In 1 Timothy 6:12, Paul gives the command to “Fight the good fight of the faith.” Drawing from everything you’ve learned in 1 Timothy, write out what this phrase means to you. Look again at 1 Timothy 6:13-14 along with John 18:37. How might the confession of Jesus before Pontius Pilate have helped Timothy and us today as we stand for biblical truth?

6. 1 Timothy 6:15b-16 is a doxology, or a statement glorifying God. From these verses, choose one phrase that glorifies God and describe what it means to you. How do you think understanding those particular characteristics of God strengthens Timothy as he goes about the business of his personal faith and public ministry? How do these characteristics of God strengthen you?


Page 3 7. Read 1 Timothy 6:17-19. What group of people is Paul speaking of in verse 17? What are

they charged not to do? What choices can we make that will bring about the blessed life that God wants to give us?

8. Read 1 Timothy 6:20-21. Paul ends his letter with a last statement of encouragement to Timothy. What is it that Timothy is to guard? Review 1 Timothy 1:11, 14-15. How is this also an encouragement to you to guard the truth of the gospel today?

9. What verse or truth from 1 Timothy has influenced you most? Why?


women in the word introduction to 1 timothy€¦ · women in the word introduction to 1 timothy ......

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