1 Timothy 1:3
Verse
Context
Correcting False Teachers
2To Timothy, my true child in the faith: Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.3As I urged you on my departure to Macedonia, you should stay on at Ephesus to instruct certain men not to teach false doctrines 4or devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies, which promote speculation rather than the stewardship of God’s work, which is by faith.
Sermons
Bill McLeod
Daniel Steele
R. Stanley
A.W. Tozer
Arno Clemens Gaebelein 
Peter HammondSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
I besought thee - The apostle had seen that a bad seed had been sown in the Church; and, as he was obliged to go then into Macedonia, he wished Timothy, on whose prudence, piety, and soundness in the faith he could depend, to stay behind and prevent the spreading of a doctrine that would have been pernicious to the people's souls. I have already supposed that this epistle was written after Paul had been delivered from his first imprisonment at Rome, about the end of the year 64, or the beginning of 65. See the preface. When, therefore, the apostle came from Rome into Asia, he no doubt visited Ephesus, where, ten years before, he had planted a Christian Church, and, as he had not time to tarry then, he left Timothy to correct abuses. That thou mightest charge some - He does not name any persons; the Judaizing teachers are generally supposed to be those intended; and the term τισι, some, certain persons, which he uses, is expressive of high disapprobation, and at the same time of delicacy: they were not apostles, nor apostolic men; but they were undoubtedly members of the Church at Ephesus, and might yet be reclaimed.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Timothy's superintendence of the Church at Ephesus was as locum tenens for the apostle, and so was temporary. Thus, the office of superintending overseer, needed for a time at Ephesus or Crete, in the absence of the presiding apostle, subsequently became a permanent institution on the removal, by death, of the apostles who heretofore superintended the churches. The first title of these overseers seems to have been "angels" (Rev 1:20). As I besought thee to abide still--He meant to have added, "so I still beseech thee," but does not complete the sentence until he does so virtually, not formally, at Ti1 1:18. at Ephesus--Paul, in Act 20:25, declared to the Ephesian elders, "I know that ye all shall see my face no more." If, then, as the balance of arguments seems to favor (see Introduction), this Epistle was written subsequently to Paul's first imprisonment, the apparent discrepancy between his prophecy and the event may be reconciled by considering that the terms of the former were not that he should never visit Ephesus again (which this verse implies he did), but that they all should "see his face no more." I cannot think with BIRKS, that this verse is compatible with his theory, that Paul did not actually visit Ephesus, though in its immediate neighborhood (compare Ti1 3:14; Ti1 4:13). The corresponding conjunction to "as" is not given, the sentence not being completed till it is virtually so at Ti1 1:18. I besought--a mild word, instead of authoritative command, to Timothy, as a fellow helper. some--The indefinite pronoun is slightly contemptuous as to them (Gal 2:12; Jde 1:4), [ELLICOTT]. teach no other doctrine--than what I have taught (Gal 1:6-9). His prophetic bodings some years before (Act 20:29-30) were now being realized (compare Ti1 6:3).
John Gill Bible Commentary
As I besought thee to abide, still at Ephesus,.... Where it seems he now was, being left here by the apostle, and where he was desired by him to continue: when I went into Macedonia; not when he went his first journey there, for Timothy was then along with him, Act 16:3 and so he seems to be in his journey through it, in Act 20:3. It may be this may refer to a journey which Luke has given no account of: that thou mightest charge some, that they teach no other doctrine; than the doctrine of Christ and his apostles; than what had been preached by the apostle at Ephesus, and the saints there had received; than what was agreeably to the Scriptures of truth, and was according to godliness; for all other doctrines must be divers and strange ones: nor would he have them teach in another way, in new words, but hold fast the form of sound words; for new words often produce new doctrines: the apostle perhaps by other doctrine chiefly respects the doctrine of justification by the works of the law. It seems as if there were some teachers in this place the apostle was suspicious of, or he had heard that they began to innovate in the doctrine of faith; wherefore he desires Timothy to continue a while, in order to be a check on these persons, and to charge them not to introduce any new doctrine; for it was only "some", and not all that taught there, he was so to charge. Some refer this to hearers; and render, the words, "that they follow no other doctrine"; but it seems best to understand it of teachers; the Syriac and Arabic versions render the words as we do.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:3-11 Paul’s greetings are usually followed by thanksgiving or blessing to God; Greco-Roman letters often did the same. First Timothy and Titus probably do not include this because of their character as official letters authorizing a delegate (see 1 Timothy Book Introduction, “Literary Genre”). Instead, Paul first addresses his concern to silence the false teachers. 1:3 stop those . . . contrary to the truth: Just as Paul had previously warned (Acts 20:29-31), false teachers came into the church in Ephesus; this letter was written to help Timothy to deal with them.
1 Timothy 1:3
Correcting False Teachers
2To Timothy, my true child in the faith: Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.3As I urged you on my departure to Macedonia, you should stay on at Ephesus to instruct certain men not to teach false doctrines 4or devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies, which promote speculation rather than the stewardship of God’s work, which is by faith.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Ashamed or Filled?
By Bill McLeod3.5K47:43Filled With The Spirit1TI 1:3In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of the birth of Jesus and the events leading up to it. He emphasizes the beauty and joy of the Christmas story, highlighting the involvement of various characters such as Zacharias, Elizabeth, the angel Gabriel, Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, the wise men, Anna, and Simeon. The preacher also acknowledges the brutal and bloody nature of Jesus' crucifixion, describing it as the awfulest crime committed by humanity. He encourages the audience to embrace the power of the word of God and not be ashamed of their faith, reminding them that God has given them a spirit of power, love, and a sound mind.
Sermons for Saints' Days and Holidays. (No. 4. St. Philip and St. james.)
By J.H. Newman01CO 16:22GAL 1:8EPH 4:141TI 1:32TI 1:13TIT 2:72PE 3:161JN 4:1JUD 1:3J.H. Newman preaches about the importance of true love and devotion to the Lord Jesus Christ, emphasizing the need to understand and believe in His divine nature as revealed in Scripture and interpreted by the Church. He uses the examples of St. Philip and historical heresies to caution against deviating from Apostolic doctrine in the pursuit of warm feelings or sentiments towards Christ. Newman highlights the necessity of adhering to the 'form of sound words' and the Apostolic teachings to avoid falling into dangerous errors that may lead to separation from the true faith and compromise with false teachings.
4. the Place Where This Epistle Was Written
By Daniel Steele0ACT 20:171TI 1:32TI 4:121JN 5:21REV 18:12Daniel Steele discusses the historical significance of John's residence in Ephesus, a major center of influence in the Orient during the early days of Christianity. The city was vital for trade and attracted significant Christian presence, including the Apostle Paul and other early Christian leaders. John likely resided in Ephesus before and after his exile on Patmos, drawing inspiration from the city's bustling markets for his vivid descriptions in Revelation. Despite the lack of direct evidence, subsequent writers like Justin Martyr and Irenaeus confirm John's connection to Ephesus, highlighting the strong Christian community that thrived there.
How to Test Doctrines
By R. Stanley0GEN 3:5LUK 6:43JHN 17:20ACT 2:422CO 5:7GAL 4:9GAL 5:1EPH 2:8EPH 4:31TH 5:211TI 1:31TI 6:32TI 4:3Francis Schaeffer emphasizes the importance of standing for truth and against false doctrine to prevent a barrier between future generations and the gospel. Paul's warning to Timothy about false teachings and the rise of false doctrines in the last days is highlighted. The sermon stresses the significance of sound doctrine in the early Church's growth and the need to test teachings and teachers. Seven tests are provided to evaluate teachings, including salvation by grace, liberty versus bondage, promotion of holiness, emphasis on Scriptures over experiences, worship of God's greatness, motivation for evangelism, and fostering spiritual unity over sinful seclusion.
"Thus Saith the Lord"
By A.W. Tozer0ACT 17:151CO 9:121CO 13:7PHP 2:191TH 3:11TH 3:51TI 1:3In this sermon, the preacher delves into the multifaceted meaning of 'stego', which includes concepts like protection, endurance, and support. The preacher explains how 'stego' was used in secular Greek writings to convey the idea of containing or enduring. Through various Bible verses, the preacher illustrates how 'stego' can mean to bear patiently, to protect others from harm, and to endure without exposing personal distress. The sermon emphasizes the importance of enduring hardships and supporting one another in faith, as exemplified by Paul's sending of Timothy to strengthen and encourage the Thessalonian believers.
First Epistle to Timothy
By Arno Clemens Gaebelein01TI 1:31TI 3:141TI 4:11TI 6:61TI 6:111TI 6:171TI 6:20Arno Clemens Gaebelein preaches on the pastoral Epistles addressed to Timothy and Titus, emphasizing the importance of maintaining sound doctrine, godly conduct, and faithfulness in ministry. The early Church fathers affirmed the authenticity of these epistles, while heretics and critics rejected them. The personal history of Timothy reveals his conversion by Paul, his faithful service, and his role in various churches. The dating of 1 Timothy indicates Paul's release from imprisonment and subsequent travels. The purpose of the Epistle is to provide practical instructions for maintaining order, purity, and faithfulness in the church as the house of God, combating false teachings and preparing for the last days.
Why Do So Many Fail & Give Up?
By Peter Hammond0HOS 6:4MAT 10:21MAT 19:22MAT 24:10MAT 26:56MRK 14:10LUK 9:57LUK 10:2JHN 6:661TI 1:31TI 3:71TI 6:32TI 1:152TI 3:52TI 3:82TI 4:102TI 4:14HEB 10:38REV 2:4Peter Hammond preaches on the challenges and sacrifices required to follow Jesus, emphasizing the need for self-denial, perseverance, and total surrender to God. He highlights the examples of those who forsook Christ, deserted Paul, and the warnings against disloyalty and betrayal in the Bible. The sermon stresses the importance of deep roots in God's Word, character building through affliction, and the dedication required for Christian service despite hardships and opposition.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
I besought thee - The apostle had seen that a bad seed had been sown in the Church; and, as he was obliged to go then into Macedonia, he wished Timothy, on whose prudence, piety, and soundness in the faith he could depend, to stay behind and prevent the spreading of a doctrine that would have been pernicious to the people's souls. I have already supposed that this epistle was written after Paul had been delivered from his first imprisonment at Rome, about the end of the year 64, or the beginning of 65. See the preface. When, therefore, the apostle came from Rome into Asia, he no doubt visited Ephesus, where, ten years before, he had planted a Christian Church, and, as he had not time to tarry then, he left Timothy to correct abuses. That thou mightest charge some - He does not name any persons; the Judaizing teachers are generally supposed to be those intended; and the term τισι, some, certain persons, which he uses, is expressive of high disapprobation, and at the same time of delicacy: they were not apostles, nor apostolic men; but they were undoubtedly members of the Church at Ephesus, and might yet be reclaimed.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Timothy's superintendence of the Church at Ephesus was as locum tenens for the apostle, and so was temporary. Thus, the office of superintending overseer, needed for a time at Ephesus or Crete, in the absence of the presiding apostle, subsequently became a permanent institution on the removal, by death, of the apostles who heretofore superintended the churches. The first title of these overseers seems to have been "angels" (Rev 1:20). As I besought thee to abide still--He meant to have added, "so I still beseech thee," but does not complete the sentence until he does so virtually, not formally, at Ti1 1:18. at Ephesus--Paul, in Act 20:25, declared to the Ephesian elders, "I know that ye all shall see my face no more." If, then, as the balance of arguments seems to favor (see Introduction), this Epistle was written subsequently to Paul's first imprisonment, the apparent discrepancy between his prophecy and the event may be reconciled by considering that the terms of the former were not that he should never visit Ephesus again (which this verse implies he did), but that they all should "see his face no more." I cannot think with BIRKS, that this verse is compatible with his theory, that Paul did not actually visit Ephesus, though in its immediate neighborhood (compare Ti1 3:14; Ti1 4:13). The corresponding conjunction to "as" is not given, the sentence not being completed till it is virtually so at Ti1 1:18. I besought--a mild word, instead of authoritative command, to Timothy, as a fellow helper. some--The indefinite pronoun is slightly contemptuous as to them (Gal 2:12; Jde 1:4), [ELLICOTT]. teach no other doctrine--than what I have taught (Gal 1:6-9). His prophetic bodings some years before (Act 20:29-30) were now being realized (compare Ti1 6:3).
John Gill Bible Commentary
As I besought thee to abide, still at Ephesus,.... Where it seems he now was, being left here by the apostle, and where he was desired by him to continue: when I went into Macedonia; not when he went his first journey there, for Timothy was then along with him, Act 16:3 and so he seems to be in his journey through it, in Act 20:3. It may be this may refer to a journey which Luke has given no account of: that thou mightest charge some, that they teach no other doctrine; than the doctrine of Christ and his apostles; than what had been preached by the apostle at Ephesus, and the saints there had received; than what was agreeably to the Scriptures of truth, and was according to godliness; for all other doctrines must be divers and strange ones: nor would he have them teach in another way, in new words, but hold fast the form of sound words; for new words often produce new doctrines: the apostle perhaps by other doctrine chiefly respects the doctrine of justification by the works of the law. It seems as if there were some teachers in this place the apostle was suspicious of, or he had heard that they began to innovate in the doctrine of faith; wherefore he desires Timothy to continue a while, in order to be a check on these persons, and to charge them not to introduce any new doctrine; for it was only "some", and not all that taught there, he was so to charge. Some refer this to hearers; and render, the words, "that they follow no other doctrine"; but it seems best to understand it of teachers; the Syriac and Arabic versions render the words as we do.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:3-11 Paul’s greetings are usually followed by thanksgiving or blessing to God; Greco-Roman letters often did the same. First Timothy and Titus probably do not include this because of their character as official letters authorizing a delegate (see 1 Timothy Book Introduction, “Literary Genre”). Instead, Paul first addresses his concern to silence the false teachers. 1:3 stop those . . . contrary to the truth: Just as Paul had previously warned (Acts 20:29-31), false teachers came into the church in Ephesus; this letter was written to help Timothy to deal with them.