Dear OBC Family,

Looking back to the first century, there were many threats for the early church. False doctrine was being promoted, some had swerved from the truth, and others had shipwrecked their faith.

In 1 Timothy 1, Paul charged Timothy with specific actions he must take in order to care for and protect the Ephesian church.

This Sunday we’re going to take a detour from the book of Genesis and we will consider what 1 Timothy 1 teaches us about doctrinal fidelity. How should we think about faithfulness to the gospel in an age of compromise?

I encourage you to read 1 Timothy 1 in preparation for worship, and I look forward to seeing you this Sunday!

Blessings in Christ,

Pastor Ben

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Discussion & Response Questions (1 Timothy 1)

What challenges is the Ephesian church facing, and what is the charge Paul gave to Timothy to care for the church?

What cautions and encouragements do you observe in this chapter?

What is the aim and end result that Paul is seeking for the Ephesian church through Timothy’s ministry?

How might the law be misused, and what is the right use of the law? What is the law’s function toward the lawless? How should God’s law be applied?

Consider how Paul moves from law to gospel. Why do we need both? What happens if you only have one?

How does Paul respond to the mercy of God in the gospel?

Consider how Paul shares his testimony (vv. 12-17). How does he understand his sin in relationship to God’s mercy?

What does it look like to “wage the good warfare” vs making shipwreck of one’s faith?

What should faithful stewardship of the gospel look like?

How ought we to respond to this text?