1 Timothy 4:6-16

A. The leader’s personal life and public ministry 4:6-16

Having reminded Timothy that the apostasy he was witnessing in Ephesus was not unexpected but prophesied (1 Timothy 4:1-5), the apostle next clarified Timothy’s responsibility in dealing with it (cf. ch. 1). Paul wrote these positive directions to enable Timothy to overcome the influences of the ascetic apostates that threatened the church at Ephesus. He also wrote to remind him of the importance of his personal life and public ministry, so he would not fall into the same errors.

"Just as a skillful coach will often return to the basics of the sport to pull the team or a player out of a slump, Paul returns to the basics to keep this church on track." [Note: Towner, 1-2 Timothy . . ., p. 105.]

The apostle selected three essential spiritual priorities, out of many that he could have chosen, in 1 Timothy 4:6-10.