A pastoral appeal (chap.1)
Paul’s concern for Timothy as his son: (1:1-8, 13-14):
Apostle Paul treats Timothy as his own spiritual son. Although Timothy was timid, young, lacking perhaps self control, he visualises that Timothy was the right person to take his mantle for the continuation of the ministry.
- Re-assuring Timothy: (1:1-3): Paul calling himself as apostle of Christ which is a reminder not only to Timothy but to the entire world because he knew that his letter would ultimately be re-read to a much wider audience. It was the willing of God and the command of God that he be the apostle. Paul mentions that it “was according to the promise of life that is in Christ Jesus” gives a deeper meaning that this would be his last detention before his execution. Paul had personally received the promise of Christ that he wanted Timothy to proclaim the same to others. The promise of life was the reason for which Paul labouring and toiling to proclaim the Gospel. The promise of Christ was more dearer to Paul because he was going to face the execution.
Although Bible does not give us the full account of Paul, Paul was released for some time after the first imprisonment mentioned at the end of the book of Acts. He was re-arrested and imprisoned in Rome again. We can see his prison even today in Rome. It is just a cold dungeon, a cave in the ground, with bare walls and a little hole in the ceiling from where the food was dropped down. There were no windows, but a cold cell which would be very uncomfortable during the winter days. Paul writes this letter with urgency and with great burden. As he was nearing his martyrdom, he writes to Timothy with love emphasizing his fatherly relationship.
Paul in his letters to churches, he used only grace and peace in his greetings. But when he was writing Pastoral epistles, he used, grace, mercy and peace to greet them. Yes God’s mercy is needed much more for ministers as they are prone to every attach from Satan. If believers are not faithful, they are treated as bigger sinners. Believers need much grace to be faithful and much mercy to cover up their short comings. Paul constantly prayed for Timothy his spiritual son as he has to carry on his mantle. Paul must have kept a list of all the person to be prayed for. He was praying night and day. This is the true character of a overseer.
- Reminding Timothy of his spiritual potential: 1:4-5): Paul was longing to see Timothy. He remembered the tears that Timothy must have shed in their last parting. Paul was filled with joy at Timothy’s love and faith for the ministry. Timothy’s genuine faith was of no small measure. He had a very godly upbringing. He had great influence of his godly grandmother Lois and mother Eunice. Paul remembers how he met Timothy on his second missionary journey to Lystra. He reminds Timothy and encourages him that he too has the same Spirit which lived in his mother and grandmother.
Ex: Once I went to a physician for the treatment of constant headache. The doctor diagnosed hypertension. He went on to say like this: Friend, your parents may or may not give you inheritance in terms of property or money. But one thing is certain, that you would inherit their costly genetic inheritance viz. hypertension or diabetics. When it is true that our children are going to inherit our sickness and disorders, every parent and grandparents must see that they should also pass on their legacy of genuine faith.
Here Timothy’s grandmother Lois and mother Eunice shared with Timothy genuine faith. Their faith grounded Timothy into it. Their influence on this young child made him to stand up in faith during the adversity. This faith brought Timothy and Paul into a spiritual father-son relationship.
Yes, we can prepare a spiritual inheritance for those whose lives we influence by living in close communion with God. We can make God’s love a reality to others when we give them undivided attention, show interest in what they think and do and share life with them. When our lives reflect the reality of God’s love, we leave a lasting legacy and impression on others. May the Lord help us to leave a good spiritual inheritance to our family as we allow ourselves to be used by God for the extension of His Kingdom.