The Book of 1 Timothy

 

The First Epistle to Timothy is one of the three Pastoral Epistles, traditionally attributed to the apostle Paul and part of the New Testament of the bible. Believed to be written around AD 63-67 during the last few years of Paul's life. After being released from imprisonment in Rome, Paul visits Ephesus and leaves Timothy to run things while he went to Macedonia (northern Greece), and begins his first letter to Timothy. It wasn't till after Paul went to Troas, where he was arrested once again and sent to Rome and imprisoned. From prison in Rome Paul writes his second letter to timothy; later to be tried and beheaded somewhere around AD 66. The letters consist mainly of counsels to Timothy regarding the forms of worship and organization of the Church, and the responsibilities resting on its several members, including episcopi (translated as "bishops") and diaconi ("deacons"); and secondly of exhortation to faithfulness in maintaining the truth amid surrounding errors (iv.iff), presented as a prophecy of erring teachers to come. Paul's communication would give Timothy clear instructions to help him know what to do from there on.

1 Timothy 1

 1Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the commandment of God our Saviour, and Lord Jesus Christ, which is our hope; Paul was a missionary of Jesus Christ, sent forth by the direct command of God.

 2Unto Timothy, my own son in the faith: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God our Father and Jesus Christ our Lord. Timothy was like a son to Paul, a very special lad in the things of the Lord. "Paul really liked this young man."

 3As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine, Paul's instruction: To teach no other doctrine but the doctrine of Christ, not some mans or church doctrine.

 4Neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly edifying which is in faith: so do. Lay off the falsehoods and needless genealogies. You need to stick with the genealogies of Christ and to discern where the true Christ comes from. Remember that their is the true Christ and the false Christ. "You need to know the difference, the false Christ is quite an imposter."

 5Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned: Paul wanted all the Christians there to be filled with love that comes from pure hearts and minds; those who are strong in the faith.

 6From which some having swerved have turned aside unto vain jangling. These teachers have missed the whole idea and spend their time arguing and talking foolishness. Sound familiar? There are a lot of "babblers" out there today teaching a bunch of falsehoods.

 7Desiring to be teachers of the law; understanding neither what they say, nor whereof they affirm. They want to become popular by teaching the laws of Moses, but they haven't the slightest idea what those laws really show us and go off teaching traditions of men. Many today think that those laws were done away with. Blood ordinances yes; But the ten commandments still stand. (1 John 3:4) states that sin is the transgression of the law. What law? The ten commandments!

 8But we know that the law is good, if a man use it lawfully. These laws are good when used as God intended. Know the laws of God, what they mean, and how they work into our society.

 9Knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers. These laws were not made for the righteous man whom God has saved, but rather for the sinners who hate and go against God. Now lets not get all puffed up here. Remember that we are all sinners. You know the ones I am talking about. "Those who cause trouble for all of us."

 10For whoremongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for menstealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine. These laws are made to identify as sinners all who are immoral and impure. Homosexuals, kidnappers, slavery, liars, etc., and all things that are contrary to the natural order of things. "Mainly speaking of perversion."

 11According to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which was committed to my trust. Paul himself was struck down by God for the evil things he did, and was called by God to bring forth the Word. (Acts 9:15). "There is hope for all sinners if they repent and turn to God."

 12And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry. Paul had a lot to account for, but God still chose him. "God knew Paul would stick to his mission."

 13Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. Paul was zealous for the old school of thought, but scoffed at the word of Christ. He hunted down Christians to persecute them at the time because he did not know what he was doing. "Paul thought he was doing right." But, God turned him around when He struck him down and blinded on the road to Damascus. Paul's whole outlook on things changed that fast. "Yes he was blinded, but now he could see the truth."

 14And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. The Lord showed Paul how to trust Him and become full of the love for Christ. You can feel the love of Christ when He is with you.

 15This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief. God came into the world to save sinners and the lost. Paul claimed to be one of the greatest sinners, but God turned him around to become one of the greatest teachers of the faith. Just think what God can do for you.

 16Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting. Paul was the example that Christ can change and forgive even the greatest of sinners with His never ending patients. Christ can change the hardest of hearts if they let Him.

 17Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen. The King of the ages, the one and only God from the beginning.

 18This charge I commit unto thee, son Timothy, according to the prophecies which went before on thee, that thou by them mightest war a good warfare. Paul is saying here that Christianity will bring forth war. Just look around the world today. There is a spiritual war still going on between God and Satan, and will be till the end.

 19Holding faith, and a good conscience; which some having put away concerning faith have made shipwreck. Cling tightly to your faith (your shield and breastplate), and always keep your conscience clear, doing what you know is right. Many have disobeyed their conscience and have deliberately done what they knew was wrong. Remember, there is a battle going on within in each of us between good and evil. "Try to let the good spirit guide you in all things."

 20Of whom is Hymenaeus and Alexander; whom I have delivered unto Satan, that they may learn not to blaspheme. They would not except the Word of God and denied the resurrection of Christ. Paul is saying, let them go to the devil.

I Timothy 2

 1I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men. Here are my directions: Pray for others and ask for God's mercy upon them, giving thanks to God for all He is going to do for them. "Everyone deserves a blessing."

 2For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. Pray for those who are in authority over us, or those in places of high responsibility. This way we can live in peace and quietness, spending our time learning and sharing God's Word. "I know it is hard to pray for leaders when they act like children and clowns, but this is all we have to work with after 500 years in this country." Really pathetic!

 3For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour. This pleases God. Notice both offices used here; God the Father, and Jesus the Son (Saviour), God with us.

 4Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. God longs for us to be saved and to understand the truth. "This is the will of God." (We all have our chance for salvation).

 5For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus. Only one God, one mediator, Jesus Christ. "Christ is your mediator between you and the heavenly Father and you and the world." (No man has the authority or power to be your mediator). Do not be deceived by some clown.

 6Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time. The awesome price paid on the cross; Christ gave His life for all mankind. This is the message that God gave to the world. The crucifixion itself written 1,000 years before it took place in Psalms 22. (It was all part of Gods plan and went down just as it was written).

 7Whereunto I am ordained a preacher, and an apostle, (I speak the truth in Christ, and lie not;) a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and verity. Paul was chosen by God as God's minister (preacher) and missionary (apostle or one sent forth), to teach the truth to the gentiles, and to show them God's plan of salvation through faith. Only God can send a true teacher of the Word! What is that teacher supposed to do? Teach the truth to the lost. (Thos who have never know the truth, or have been deceived by false teachers).

 8I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting. Pray with holy hands lifted up to God, free from anger and resentment. Prayer is talking to God and your hands can represent the works of God. Bring forth the truth of His Word through works. (Just waving your hands around does nothing spiritually for anyone).

 9In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array. Modest and sensible in manner and clothing. We are talking here about women in public worship. Women should be noticed for being kind and good. Not for the way that they fix their hair or because of their jewelry, fancy clothes, and reveling apparel. "Save the sleaze wear for the nigh clubs."

 10But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works. That means their good deeds. "Not spreading gossip on social media."

 11Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection. This simply means to learn quietly and humbly. To be silent when the Word is being taught, and don't be a bunch of gossipers. This applies to men also when the Word is being taught. Don't disrupt a service when the truth of God's Word is being taught. Pay attention and learn.

 12But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence. Here is where it gets a little touchy, and at times misinterpreted. What does it say in this verse and who said it? The apostle Paul quotes: I never let women teach men or lord it over them. Let them be silent in your church meetings. It is believed by some scholars that this statement was made based on Jewish law rather than the Word of God. (God did use some women throughout the bible to help teach His Word). However, His twelve apostles were chosen men to lead and teach the truth for a reason.

 13For Adam was first formed, then Eve. This was part of Paul's reasoning. But remember that Eve was formed (from the DNA curve) of Adam. Not the rib as many would believe. "Woman came from the DNA of man."

 14And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression. This was the second part of Paul's reasoning. However, Adam partook of the same fruit as Eve did. Adam was also fooled by Satan, and beguiled (wholly seduced), by the devil just as Eve was. (2 Corinthians 11:3).

 15Notwithstanding she shall be saved in childbearing, if they continue in faith and charity and holiness with sobriety. It is said that God sent pain and suffering to women when their children are born for this reason, but will save their souls if they trust in Him.

I Timothy 3

 1This is a true saying, if a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work. Bishop or Pastor simply means overseer, with God's help. It is important that if one wants to become a Pastor or teacher of God's Word, that they have a good ambition. "Its a long road ahead."

 2A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach. If one chooses to be a teacher of God's Word they should be a person of good character. "One who studies God's Word and is able to teach." (One who is not afraid to speak the truth and who people can trust).

 3Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous. Not a drunk or trouble maker, but rather gentle, kind, and respectful. "Should not be a lover of money or material things."

 4One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity. A Pastor or teacher of God's Word should have a well behaved family, with children who obey quickly and quietly. Do not spoil them, a child loves discipline. "A real man will be in charge of his home."

 5(For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?). If a man can't take care of his own house, how can he run a church or ministry? Can't do it! "They would eat you alive if you did not demand respect."

 6Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil. Not a new Christian or beginner, because they may become proud of being chosen so soon. Remember that pride comes before the fall and that is what got Satan in trouble. (Ezekiel 28:14-19). "One should have good knowledge of the word and plenty of life experience."

 7Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil. Have a good reputation in the community. One who tells the truth and is a person of their word. This way there will be no accusations and they will be free to teach the truth of the Word. However, don't let little past mistakes slow you down, or keep you from teaching if God chose you. Remember, we are all sinners in God's eyes.

 8Likewise must the deacons be grave, not doubletongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre. The deacons should be of the same character as the pastor, not heavy drinkers or lovers of money. i.e. not a bunch of beggars or hypocrites. Treat everyone the same. Don't play favorites because someone has more wealth, or a title.

 9Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience. True followers of Christ, who is the hidden source of their faith. "Earnest and wholehearted." What is this mystery that Christ spoke of? "Also know as the parable of the sower." The same mystery that the church of Smyrna and Philadelphia knew about and taught. (The two churches out of seven that Christ approved of).

 10And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, being found blameless. Let them prove themselves first before they become deacons.

 11Even so must their wives be grave, not slanderers, sober, faithful in all things. The wives must also be thoughtful, not heavy drinkers, not gossipers, but faithful in everything they do.

 12Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well. Same rules for the deacons as the pastors. "Again, a real man will be in charge of his home."

 13For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus. Deacons that do well will gain the respect they deserve as they develop their own confidence and bold trust in the Lord. "They can speak boldly of the truth."

 14These things write I unto thee, hoping to come unto thee shortly. Paul coming to spend a little time with them in person.

 15But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth. This is the way things should be handled in God's house.

 16And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory. It is true that it is hard to be a Christian and live the perfect Christian life, but the answer lies within Christ. God came in the flesh for us. Emmanuel; God with us. Received by the angels, and preached to the nations.

I Timothy 4

 1Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils. The Holy Spirit tells us; that in the later times many will fall away (the apostasy), from the faith (the true teachings of Christ), and listen to a bunch of false teachers and traditions of men which leads right into Satan's bed. "You think you were deceived and groped before; wait till Satan's little devils get a hold of you."

 2Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron. These teachers will tell lies for so long that it becomes part of them and their conscience does not even bother them. They listen to lies, begin telling lies, and their minds become seared and cauterized with lies.

 3Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth. They will say it is wrong to marry (or remarry if divorced), and to not eat meats that God has created to be received with thanksgiving. A well taught Christian will know that it is alright to remarry under certain conditions, and they know that it is alright to eat the healthy foods that God has created for us to eat. (Some fish and animals were meant to eat and some were put here to clean the earth). Besides, this has to do with health laws and has nothing to do with your salvation. (Leviticus 11, and Acts 10 are also good references). In Acts 10, the subject being that the man is a gentile (like unclean food), it is not talking about food itself.

 4For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving. Everything God made is good for it's purpose.

 5For it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer. Made good by the Word of God in prayer.

 6If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained. If you explain the truth to others, you will be doing your duty as a good pastor, minister, or teacher of the Word. This nourishment can only be attained by following the faith and learning the truth of the Word, with the help of the Holy Spirit.

 7But refuse profane and old wives' fables, and exercise thyself rather unto godliness. Don't waste you time arguing over silly myths, legends, traditions, and wives tales. "let them keep their silliness and gossip on social media." (Spend your time exercising the spirit and keeping spiritually fit).

 8For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come. Bodily exercise is alright; but spiritual exercise is much better. Practice being a better Christian will benefit you now and in the next life to come.

 9This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptation. You can count on it if your a believer.

 10For therefore we both labour and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Saviour of all men, specially of those that believe. Paul was explaining to Timothy as he prepares him for teaching; that it is not an easy road teaching, especially when you teach the truth. You need to keep moving forward when suffering reproach.

 11These things command and teach. Teach these things and make sure everyone learns them well.

 12Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity. Timothy was a young man, but full of wisdom in the faith. Paul was telling him; do not let anyone discourage you because you are young, "be their example and stand up for the truth in love."

 13Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine. Read and teach God's Word.

 14Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery. Use the gifts that God has given you as an ordained minister. "We all have special gifts from God."

 15Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all. Put these abilities to work and show it in your ministry. "Teach the wisdom of God and many will listen."

 16Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee. Watch what you do; stay true to what is right and God will bless you and use you to help others. "Teach the doctrine of God, not the doctrine of men."

I Timothy 5

 1Rebuke not an elder, but intreat him as a father; and the younger men as brethren. This is advice for the minister never to speak sharply or rebuke an elder in front of the congregation. Treat him as he were your own father; and the brethren as your own brother. (Also, don't try to be a dictator as a pastor thinking you know all the answers and everyone else is wrong).

 2The elder women as mothers; the younger as sisters, with all purity. Treat the older women as mothers and the younger women as sisters, thinking only pure thoughts about them. "Treat everybody with dignity and respect." (Forget about the right or left, and certain classes of people that have been dividing this country).

 3Honour widows that are widows indeed. The church should take care of women who's husbands have died and they have no one else to help them. (That's what a church is for, not a social party place).

 4But if any widow have children or nephews, let them learn first to shew piety at home, and to requite their parents: for that is good and acceptable before God. If they have family to take care of them, then these are the ones who should be responsible for there care.

 5Now she that is a widow indeed, and desolate, trusteth in God, and continueth in supplications and prayers night and day. Give them a place in the church. Take care of them if they are looking to God for help, and spend much of their time in the Word and in prayer.

 6But she that liveth in pleasure is dead while she liveth. Not ones that run around gossiping and those seeking pleasures of the world. However, leave the judging to the Heavenly Father.

 7And these things give in charge, that they may be blameless. This is how it should be, then their goodness will be a good example to the rest of the congregation.

 8But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel. Anyone who won't care for their own relatives when in need; or especially one who does not care for his or her own family, does not have the right to say that they are a Christian. "Such a person is worse than the heathen."

 9Let not a widow be taken into the number under threescore years old, having been the wife of one man. A widow who wants to dedicate the rest of her life doing God's Work in the church should be at least sixty years old. If she was younger, she may want to remarry and her dedication would be to her husband and family.

 10Well reported of for good works; if she have brought up children, if she have lodged strangers, if she have washed the saints' feet, if she have relieved the afflicted, if she have diligently followed every good work. One who is well thought of by everyone because she is a good person. Always willing to lend an ear, and being good to strangers as well as other Christians. Always willing to show kindness.

 11But the younger widows refuse: for when they have begun to wax wanton against Christ, they will marry. A younger woman is more likely to disregard their vows to serve Christ and marry again. i.e. Don't make a promise you can't keep.

 12Having damnation, because they have cast off their first faith. They will feel guilt for having broken their promise to God.

 13And withal they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house; and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which they ought not. Women with to much idle time turn to gossip and other peoples business. "Leave that to the women on the view."

 14I will therefore that the younger women marry, bear children, guide the house, give none occasion to the adversary to speak reproachfully. It is better that the younger widows marry again and take care of their children and home. "Don't give Satan a chance to move in and ruin your life."

 15For some are already turned aside after Satan. Some of them turn away from Christ and are led astray by Satan. (They took the wrong road in life).

 16If any man or woman that believeth have widows, let them relieve them, and let not the church be charged; that it may relieve them that are widows indeed. If you have a widow in the family, let them know you are there for them when in need. This way the church can help those in need who have no one.

 17Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine. Pastors who do their work well should be treated with respect and highly appreciated. Especially those who work hard at teaching the truth of God's Word.

 18For the scripture saith, thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward. Drawn from Deuteronomy 25:4, meaning those who work in the church deserve respect and will receive their reward. Many Pastors believe this is all about a paycheck; the apostles worked with Christ without being paid. Their reward came from the heavenly Father, "He knew what they needed and always provided for them."

 19Against an elder receive not an accusation, but before two or three witnesses. Don't listen to complaints against the pastor unless there are at least two or three witnesses.

 20Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear. If they have really sinned, bring it before the church so that no one else will follow their example. We are talking about pastors, reverends, teachers of the Word etc.

 21I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels, that thou observe these things without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality. Don't favor one over the other, even if they are a good friend. A problem in many churches today; there are always favorites, and they are usually the biggest donators. "Treat everybody equal within the church."

 22Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men's sins: keep thyself pure. Never be in a hurry in choosing a pastor, or ordaining one to be a minister of God if you know nothing about them. "You need to know what they are about."

 23Drink no longer water, but use a little wine for thy stomach's sake and thine often infirmities. You do not need to give up drinking wine; for a little wine is good for the stomach. "Moderation is the key here."

 24Some men's sins are open beforehand, going before to judgment; and some men they follow after. Some men, even pastors, lead sinful lives and everyone knows it. In some cases you can do something about it, and in other cases only judgment day will reveal the truth. "These con-men will be taken care of in the end."

 25Likewise also the good works of some are manifest beforehand; and they that are otherwise cannot be hid. In the same way, everyone knows how much good some pastors do, but sometimes their good deeds are not known until long after. "A humble person does not need to announce their good deeds, they will be know by others and rewarded by our Heavenly Father." i.e. It's not always about the most popular priest or pastor; "even those leading thousands of people can turn out to be a deceiver."

I Timothy 6

 1Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honour, that the name of God and his doctrine be not blasphemed. Do a good job for your employer and respect them, even if they are not Christian. Never let it be said that Christians are poor workers; we work hard in the faith, and hard in the fields.

 2And they that have believing masters, let them not despise them, because they are brethren; but rather do them service, because they are faithful and beloved, partakers of the benefit. These things teach and exhort. If your employer is a Christian, don't slack off just because of this. Work harder because a brother in the faith is being helped by their efforts. "God will make everything run real smooth then."

 3If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness. Some may deny these things, but these are the teachings of Christ. "Do things by the will of God; the right way, the righteous way."

 4He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings. Anyone saying anything different is proud and stupid. Arguing over the meaning of Christ's Word and stirring up arguments. "These are sick minded people who are so proud." Teach the truth of God's Word, not traditions of men and false doctrine.

 5Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself. These sick minded people know nothing about teaching God's Word. They can't tell you the truth, in fear that they may loose some members. (To them the "Good News" is just a means of making money). "A bunch of rip-offs and beggars."

 6But godliness with contentment is great gain. If you want to be truly rich, look towards spiritual riches. You are truly rich already if you are happy and good. Don't let anyone rob you of your true blessings from God. "These are blessings that money and fame cannot buy."

 7For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. Forget worldly goods, you can't take them with you. The only thing that counts is your good works. (Revelation 19:8). "People who cannot live without their riches will be in for a big surprise."

 8And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. We should be well satisfied if we have a roof over our head and food to eat. God will always take care of His own. (You can be rich in God's blessings that usually do not involve money). Forget about all that get prosperous from God preachers out there; their only concern is how to get into your pockets. When you make money; they make money, "that's all that is important to them."

 9But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. Desire for wealth will get you in trouble. (It can be more dangerous than wealth itself). People who long to be rich soon begin to do all kinds of things wrong to get money. They do not care how they get it, or who they hurt to get it. "They become rip-offs and scam artists."

 10For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. The love of money and worldly wealth is the first step to all kinds of sin. Always worrying about money because they never have enough. Some have even turned away from God because of it, and because of it, they will have many sorrows.

 11But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. Run from all these evil things and have nothing to do with them. Rather seek and work for what is right and good. This will build up your Christian character.

 12Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses. Let your life be a witness for God and fight the good fight. We are to be soldiers in the army of God. Never let anyone say that Christians are weak; "being a true Christian can give you the power of a super hero."

 13I give thee charge in the sight of God, who quickeneth all things, and before Christ Jesus, who before Pontius Pilate witnessed a good confession. Be as Christ was when He gave a fearless testimony before Pontius Pilate. He spoke what He was thinking, "He spoke the truth."

 14That thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ. Keep the doctrine of Christ and fulfill all He has told you to do. "Keep His commandments."

 15Which in his times he shall shew, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords. Seek Him! For in time Christ will be revealed from Heaven as the "King of Kings and Lord of Lords."

 16Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honour and power everlasting. Amen. One who alone can never die; who lives in the light so bright that no human being can approach Him. Seek Christ; for He is the way.

 17Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy. Tell those who are rich not to be proud, and not to trust in their money. Worldly riches are uncertain; but rather trust in God, who gives us what we need for our enjoyment. Make your riches in heaven (spiritual riches), they are the only riches you will have forever.

 18That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate. Tell the wealthy to use their money to do good, always willing to share with those in need what God has given them. Be sociable and teach the Word.

 19Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life. Store your treasures in Heaven, it is the only safe investment. Our spiritual life is what is important.

 20O Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding profane and vain babblings, and oppositions of science falsely so called. Keep these things that God has entrusted to you; stay away from those who boast of their "knowledge" and thus prove their lack of it. A bunch of babblers that have nothing to do with the teachings of Christianity. (Satanism, Scientology, Atheism, Buddhism, etc.).

 21Which some professing have erred concerning the faith. Grace be with thee. Amen. Some of these people have missed the most important things in life; "They don't know God."

Keep The Faith,
Barton