Orthodox Christian Bible Commentary - 1st and 2nd Timothy, Titus, and Philemon

The First Epistle of St. Paul to Timothy

FROM ONE BISHOP TO ANOTHER

St. Paul wrote this letter to his disciple St. Timothy, who St. Paul and other elders ordained as Bishop of Ephesus, to refute various false teaching and guide St. Timothy regarding supervising affairs of the growing church.

The Second Epistle of St. Paul to Timothy

ENCOURAGEMENT

We can summarize this letter in three words: “Fulfill your ministry” (2 Tim. 4:5).  St. Paul encourages St. Timothy to remain strong, teach others what has been taught to him, and endure hardship.

The Epistle of St. Paul to Titus

ADVICE TO BISHOP TITUS ABOUT MANAGING HIS CHURCH

This is the third of St. Paul’s “pastoral letters” (after 1 & 2 Timothy).  Writing to his spiritual son and the bishop of Crete, Titus is giving instruction on supervising church government and affairs.

The Epistle of St. Paul to Philemon

FORGIVING YOUR FELLOW CHRISTIAN

Although a very short letter about the specific issue Philemon was having with his servant Onesimus who ran away from him, it is very useful in teaching us about forgiveness and social relationships.