New Testament · Epistle / Pastoral

The Book of 1 Timothy

How to behave in the household of God.

Paul instructs his young protégé on sound doctrine, godly leadership, and church life.

Author and background of 1 Timothy

Author

Paul

Date written

c. AD 62-64

Original audience

Timothy.

After Paul's first Roman imprisonment.

Major themes of 1 Timothy

The theology of 1 Timothy centers on god's character and glory and sin, grace, and redemption. Trace these threads as you read.

God's character and glory

Every page reveals more of who God is — His holiness, mercy, and steadfast love.

Sin, grace, and redemption

Scripture diagnoses our brokenness honestly and points us to the rescue God provides.

Covenant and promise

God binds Himself to His people in faithful, unbreakable promises fulfilled in Christ.

Worship and obedience

Faith expresses itself in a life of worship, repentance, and joyful obedience.

Key characters in 1 Timothy

Paul

Apostle and mentor.

Timothy

Young pastor in Ephesus.

Every chapter of 1 Timothy explained

Verse-by-verse explanations and reflections for every chapter of 1 Timothy — ideal for personal study, devotionals, and small group discussion.

Key verses from 1 Timothy

"Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners."
1 Timothy 1:15
Read 1 Timothy 1:15 in context
"Godliness with contentment is great gain."
1 Timothy 6:6
Read 1 Timothy 6:6 in context

How to apply 1 Timothy today

1 Timothy is not just history — it is God's Word for your life this week. Try these practical steps:

  • Read prayerfully, asking the Spirit to teach and convict you.
  • Identify one truth about God and one truth about yourself in every chapter.
  • Look for Christ — every book testifies of Him (Luke 24:27).
  • Turn what you read into prayer and obedience this week.

Pray 1 Timothy back to God

  • Father, open my eyes to behold wondrous things in Your Word (Ps. 119:18).
  • Lord, give me a soft heart that trembles at Your Word (Isa. 66:2).
  • Spirit of God, conform me to Christ as I read.
  • Help me to be a doer of the Word and not a hearer only (James 1:22).

Study 1 Timothy more deeply

Explore themes, characters, historical context, application guides, and devotionals built for 1 Timothy.

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1 Timothy — frequently asked questions

+Who wrote the book of 1 Timothy?

Paul — written around c. AD 62-64.

+What is the main message of 1 Timothy?

How to behave in the household of God.

+How many chapters are in 1 Timothy?

1 Timothy has 6 chapters.

+Who was 1 Timothy written to?

Timothy.

+What are the key themes of 1 Timothy?

God's character and glory; Sin, grace, and redemption; Covenant and promise; Worship and obedience.