Timothy
Faithful Protégé
Young protégé of Paul who became a church leader and received pastoral letters.
Timothy was a young believer from Lystra whose sincere faith and good reputation led the Apostle Paul to invite him as a missionary companion. Born to a Jewish mother and Greek father, Timothy became Paul's most trusted associate, serving alongside him and representing him to various churches. Despite his youth and natural timidity, Timothy carried significant responsibilities including leading the important church at Ephesus. Paul's deep affection for his spiritual son is evident in the personal letters of 1 and 2 Timothy, which provide guidance on leadership, doctrine, personal conduct, and endurance in ministry. Timothy exemplifies the crucial role of mentorship in developing the next generation of church leaders, showing how a younger minister can be effective despite age and natural limitations when equipped and encouraged by mature believers.
Books Featured In
Timeline
30 AD
Born (approximate)
48-50 AD
Conversion and joining Paul
50-64 AD
Missionary journeys with Paul
63-67 AD
Leadership in Ephesus
67 AD
Received Paul's final letter
97 AD
Death (traditional account)
Key Events
Early Faith Formation
Timothy was raised in faith by his grandmother Lois and mother Eunice.
2 Timothy 1:5, 3:14-15
Joining Paul's team
Paul invited Timothy to join his missionary team, and had him circumcised to facilitate Jewish ministry.
Acts 16:1-3
Missionary Assignments
Timothy was entrusted with missions to strengthen churches in various locations.
Acts 17:14-15, 1 Thessalonians 3:1-6
Co-authorship
Timothy is named as co-sender of six of Paul's letters to churches.
2 Corinthians 1:1, Philippians 1:1, Colossians 1:1, 1 & 2 Thessalonians 1:1, Philemon 1
Leadership in Ephesus
Paul appointed Timothy to lead the church at Ephesus and address false teaching.
1 Timothy 1:3-4
Final Encouragement
Paul's final letter urged Timothy to persevere in ministry despite opposition and abandonment.
2 Timothy 1:6-14, 4:9-22
Lessons We Can Learn
Value of godly upbringing and mentoring
Serving faithfully despite youth and timidity
Commitment to sound doctrine
Balancing gentleness and firmness in leadership
Persevering through hardship in ministry