Good Morning Dearly Beloved,

First, I want to take a moment to wish you all a very Happy Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving is a special holiday where we celebrate all the blessings we have been granted in this life. May we seek to adopt this spirit continually. Also, let us remember Thanksgiving can begin a very difficult season for those who have recently lost loved ones. Let us remember them in our prayers during this season in particular.

Last week we concluded our series on the book of Ephesians. It is our prayer you were blessed by studying the book of Ephesians. It is a rich book filled with teachings on both doctrine and practical living. But with that study concluded, it is time to begin a new study and prayerfully hope we receive new blessings.

Today, I am thankful to announce the next series from the Pastor’s Desk will be in 1st Timothy.

Why 1st Timothy?

1st Timothy is an excellent place to continue study as it naturally connects with the book of Ephesians. The Apostle Paul wrote this letter to a younger minister, Timothy, in the mid 60’s A.D. Sometime after Paul had completed his direct work with the church at Ephesus others had taken over as Pastor, but now he is going to instruct Timothy to stay and teach them. This letter was written as an encouragement and as instruction for Timothy in caring for the church at Ephesus and mentoring these pastors.

Background of 1st Timothy

The city of Ephesus was a wealthy and very influential port city in the Asian portion of the Roman Empire. One of the most visible aspects of Ephesus was the temple of Artemis (Diana). The worship of the false god Artemis (Diana) was a powerful aspect of life in Ephesus. The temple was on a hill outside of the city, and the various aspects of the temple were visible from all places in the city. Thus, false religion and false teachings were constantly surrounding and threatening the Ephesian Church.

As a result, the Apostle Paul in writing to Timothy sets out a beautiful instruction guide for the New Testament church. Within this letter are teachings on the themes of belief and behavior, instructions for public worship, instruction for church leadership, and instructions on keeping the purity of the gospel. It is our prayer we will be able to explore these themes as we study this book.

Our Prayers are with you daily,

Brother Jeremiah