I Timothy 1-4

“The aim of our charge is love that issues from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith” (1:5). Paul wanted Timothy, a young pastor/teacher, to avoid pointless arguments about secondary issues (like food, myths, or genealogies) and instead to lead others in faith and godliness. Deacons, elders, and other church leaders should be people of good character, kind to their families, hospitable and faithful, not chosen simply due to skills or charisma (ch 3). Timothy’s task was to teach others to follow Jesus from the heart.

Society might value financial success and personal power, but God calls us to honor those who imitate Jesus “in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity” (4:12).