1 Timothy 1:1-2

(1) repeated ideas/words

apostle-(BDB) of messengers with extraordinary status, esp. of God’s messenger, envoy; relating to person of merit engaged in administrative service
command- (BDB) authoritative directive, command, order, injunction

God our Savior v.1b, Christ Jesus our hope v.1c, Christ Jesus our Lord v.2b-Something that Paul shared with Timothy and the recipients of the book.

Summary: Paul wrote this letter both based on his authority from God and also his connection with the people. No one are willing to follow a command if they do not sense the love of the one who gives the order.

(2) The author: Paul's life was dedicated to be the apostle because the command was given by 2 "persons" 
God our Savior-(NET) Use of the title “Savior” for God the Father is characteristic of 1 Timothy, 2 Timothy, and Titus... It emphasizes the Father as the initiator and source of salvation.

Christ Jesus our hope-1 Th 2:19 the hope is related to time of the 2nd coming of Christ

Summary: Paul's life was framed by 2 events: his salvation and his future hope in Jesus Christ

(3) The recipient: 1:2 to Timothy, my genuine child in the faith.
genuine-(BDB) In the Hellenic world ancestral connections were highly prized; hence this term referred orig. to having connection with the race by birth: ‘belonging to the race.’ Hence lit. of children born in wedlock, legitimate... figurative, of affective relationship, esp. as developed through sharing of values or experiences

Summary: Because Paul's life was framed by his faith in Jesus, he developed affective relationships with people with this faith e.g. Timothy. What about you? Do you have a affective relationship with others because of your faith? Do you have any genuine child in faith?

Reflection: Why did Paul want to write in a way people would understand his authority and his affection to the audience? Why did Paul want people to know his life was framed by his faith? Why did Paul emphasize his relationship with Timothy? I think they all share the same answer: he wanted Timothy to listen. 
What can we learn to have others listen to you?

Audrey

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