Finding Our Way

Paul writes to Timothy with a tone of genuine affection and familiarity in 1 Timothy. There is a sense that Paul knows Timothy as a family friend and minister, and relates to him as a teacher to a disciple. Paul describes himself as an example of Christ’s “utmost patience” because of his sin (1:16). This self-effacement speaks to not only knowing Timothy, but also being known by Timothy. Entrusting him with the church in Ephesus and the core insight for faithful ministry, Paul is deeply invested in Timothy as a person and his formation as a thoughtful leader.

Out of this space of care and deep knowing, Paul imparts some instructions to his protege. Central in the first chapter is the statement from Paul on how these instruc­tions were formed: they point back to the law and aim toward the gospel of Christ. They do this by being formed or constructed through “love that comes from a pure heart, a good conscience, and sincere faith” (v. 5). The word translated conscience in the text literally means “knowing with.” One might say that the ideas gen­erated by Paul in this letter are formed through a knowledge gen­erated by his heart as the seat of love. By knowing with his heart, Paul expresses instructions about faith in Christ that speak directly to the context of Timothy and his young congregation. It’s a state­ment for a young leader regarding discernment of ethical practices. In making decisions regarding his own and his congregation’s right practices, Timothy is encouraged to know with his heart, being responsible to sort out personal intentions, benefits, risks, implica­tions, unintended consequences, and alignment with experience of Christ’s mercy and grace. This process takes time, humility, and knowledge about oneself that comes through facing mistakes.

Paul gives this insight as core instruction on how to move forward and guide the church in his absence. Timothy will need to be able to find his way as he leads, and this discernment process is essential to being a faithful minister. Paul’s instructions can help each of us look to our heart, conscience, and faith for finding our way in Christ.

–Darla Tillman-Samuelson in “Friendly Perspective” from 1, 2 Timothy; Titus; Philemon; 1, 2, 3 John: The Jesus Movement