Only one who lives under authority is ready to exercise authority.

1. In addressing a letter to a personal friend and ministry partner, why do you think Paul emphasized his authority?

2. Why is being under authority and filled with hope a logically necessary combination for the Christian? How might the two seem contradictory to someone steeped in a modern worldview?

3. What may have been going on in the experience of Paul and/or Timothy that called for the emphasis on Christ as "our hope"?