1 Timothy - Introduction

1 and 2 Timothy, along with Titus, form what are called the "pastoral" epistles. 1 and 2 Timothy, as the name implies, were written by Paul to Timothy. Timothy was a companion of Paul and had been along with him on several of his missionary trips. Timothy had now been given responsibility for some churches. The letters were written to guide and encourage Timothy. 

The early church always regarded these letters as written by Paul, and they clearly claim to be written by him. However, some modern scholars have cast doubt on their authorship, saying that they were written by someone else who just claimed to be Paul to add credibility to what he was saying. I will assume that the Bible means what it says when it says they were written by Paul.

They were letters were written at the time of Paul's imprisonment in Rome, ie in the mid-sixties. They contain much advice on how to deal with false teachers and false teachings. The key elements are to have sound Biblical teaching along with a godly lifestyle. There is also significant advice on choosing Christian leaders.

These are all things that we need much instruction on today.