First Timothy, whose name means “honoring God,” was written to an individual, a young man for whom Paul had deep affection. Being of a timid, retiring nature, and yet gifted by God, he needed to be stirred up to a sense of responsibility as to proper behavior “in the house of God, which is the Church of the living God” (3:15).

His ministry was given, not for its independent exercise, but for the sake of the welfare of the Assembly, the body of Christ. He is called upon also to see that sound doctrine is maintained in the local assembly and that order is kept by the instrumentality of faithful elders and deacons.

The assembly too was to be a place of prayer (ch. 2). In chapter 3, the assembly is stated to be “the pillar and ground of the truth,” a witness of God being made manifest in flesh in true blessed humanity, the Spirit of God publicly justifying Him in His descent in the form of a dove at His baptism. The power of this anointing was seen in His life. In Christ, God had appeared to angels, who had never before seen Him. And He has been preached to Gentiles: the Person and work of the Lord Jesus provides a worldwide gospel (good news) for all mankind. He was “believed on in the world.” Whether by many or few, faith has responded to such a revelation. And finally, “received up in glory” completes this list of blessed facts to which the assembly bears witness.