Titus 1

Paul writes a letter to Titus, a minister on the island of Crete, about the necessity of maintaining and defending the purity of the Gospel message. The threats to the gospel were prevalent in Crete and Titus was to demonstrate through his life and lifestyle how different the Christian life was after being transformed by the message of the Gospel. Leaders are to live exemplary lives.

2 Timothy 4

Because of the pressure on Timothy to stand firm in troubling times and the rampant reality of false teachers in his city, Paul encouraged him to do one thing: Declare Truth. A favorite mentor of mine used to say "Truth has enough buoyancy to float on the sea of confusion." When Truth is declared, it will attract those seeking it to itself. Paul had made a practice of doing this throughout his career, and now his time was ending. He had faithfully finished, but the task still remained. Timothy would need to continue declaring Truth in his city and training others to carry on that noble task where they ministered. Paul concludes his letter with greetings to those who partnered with him, as well as warnings against those whose lives were damaging to the message of the Gospel.

2 Timothy 3

Paul warns younger Timothy about the dangers that will face him as he continues in ministry. Men are not naturally eager to hear how wicked they are compared to God's holiness; their wickedness will continue to grow as they become more and more depraved - even seeking to drag others with them in their follies. Timothy, however, has learned the way of Truth and seen the difference it made in Paul's life and ministry. He is encouraged to follow that example, an example that sets a high priority and value on the sufficiency of Scripture. God's Word is vital; solely responsible for transforming and completing a man.

2 Timothy 2

Paul encourages Timothy to continue passing along the teachings learned from Paul so that the message would not be lost. This task would be difficult, so Timothy would need endurance, stamina, skill and dedication. Paul himself was an example of undeterred service not because of his personality or charisma but due to his unswerving confidence that Jesus was faithful to His promises. Timothy's dedication would need to be to God and His Word, not to the teachings or traditions of men. He would need to contend to be an honorable instrument in God's hands.

2 Timothy 1

Paul writes a second letter to Timothy, encouraging him to remain faithful to his ministry. Paul, in the twilight of his earthly journey, reminds his younger partner of the heritage he enjoys and the powerful courage and boldness that results from grounding in firm reliance on God. Timothy does not have to be ashamed of his work, his association with Paul, or of the people among whom he ministers. God remains faithful; Timothy is to reflect that faithfulness in his own life and work in the same way that others have done.

2 Timothy 1

Paul writes a second letter to Timothy, encouraging him to remain faithful to his ministry. Paul, in the twilight of his earthly journey, reminds his younger partner of the heritage he enjoys and the powerful courage and boldness that results from grounding in firm reliance on God. Timothy does not have to be ashamed of his work, his association with Paul, or of the people among whom he ministers. God remains faithful; Timothy is to reflect that faithfulness in his own life and work in the same way that others have done.

1 Timothy 6

Paul teaches Timothy how to handle those who disagree with him. All are to be encouraged to embrace the truth and those that teach contrarily to the truth are to be exposed as opposing the teachings of Scripture. Timothy is reminded about the task that is his: representing God to the city and congregation among which he ministers.

1 Timothy 5

Paul continues to encourage Timothy to treat all members of his church congregation with respect. Regardless of their age or position in life, they are to be encouraged in their growth and instructed to further growth. Those who show themselves capable of leadership are to be patiently groomed and guided toward a place of service through leadership.

1 Timothy 4

Paul reminds Timothy of the priorities that he should have as the time he has in Ephesus is short. The focus should be on Christ, not the trivialities of life. His youth is not a deterrent but an asset as he shows through his changed life the difference that a relationship with Christ makes.

1 Timothy 3

Paul lays out for Timothy the qualities to look for and appreciate in those that would lead the local assembly of believers. The list of qualifications is strict and difficult to achieve - and that seems to be by design. Those that would lead must do so first of all by example, secondly by example, and thirdly by example. Somewhere down the line is "by word of teaching." Personal qualities are that critical because these are the men who explain the mystery of God's manifestation among us in the person of His Son, Jesus Christ.

1 Timothy 2

Paul continues to encourage Timothy's work in Ephesus by reminding him to be a man of prayer. His prayers are to extend to all, not just those with whom he has good rapport. Even those outside of his faith are to receive his prayers. Paul then goes on to talk about the proper place of gender in Timothy's church. The men and women were to serve in distinct roles, demonstrating their understanding of God's plan in their society.

1 Timothy 1

Paul writes a personal letter to his "son in the faith," Timothy. Paul reminds him of his task while in Ephesus: to strengthen the understanding and knowledge of those in his care, to inoculate them against the false teachings that were prevalent in that city and to continue sharing the good news about Jesus of Nazareth. Timothy is well aware of Paul's former condition - one who stood vehemently against Jesus and all who would follow Him. Timothy is also aware that God had transformed this former persecutor into one who now lived to serve the God he once opposed. Encouragement is given to Timothy to not abandon such a transforming faith.

2 Thessalonians 3

Paul encourages his readers concerning the needs that his ministry faces. He desires their prayers on his behalf, so that the Gospel message is presented and represented well. The Thessalonians, too, are to be engaged in activity - not just waiting around for the Lord to return and set all things in order. Laziness is not the hallmark of a follower of Jesus. Peace is, however, so Paul ends his letter praying for them to know the comforting peace of God.

2 Thessalonians 2

Paul comforts and instructs his readers about the coming return of the Lord. Those who say that the Lord has already returned, or that the "end has already begun" are not speaking the truth. There are definite signs of Christ's return (signs Paul had already explained to the readers) that were not being fulfilled. The proper response to false teaching is to hold firmly to Truth. Truth, as one man put it, has enough buoyancy to float in the sea of confusion.

2 Thessalonians 1

Paul continues to encourage the believers in Thessalonica to live lives that demonstrate the transforming power of God. Their lives will proclaim God's goodness even in times of difficulty and trial. Their grace, faith and love are demonstrated to others - especially in times of trial.

1 Thessalonians 5

Paul continues to instruct his readers about the coming return of the Lord. He gives them basic information, not a detailed point-by-point schedule. The reminders are to encourage boldness and faithfulness, not laziness or apathy. God will return; we are to be faithful in the interim.

1 Thessalonias 4

Paul encourages his readers to live holy lives so that they will be well-pleasing to God. This pleasures comes not from their actions, but from the lives that produce such actions. There are those who are no longer living in the Thessalonian assembly. Paul encourages the remaining believers that their departed loved ones have not missed out on any of God's promised blessings.

1 Thessalonians 3

Paul expressed his desire to see the Thessalonians personally, but he was unable to do so. The pain of separation became so great that he sent his associate, Timothy, to visit and encourage them. The reports that came back were very comforting and appreciated. Paul asked God to continue strengthening and causing growth among these believers so that they were adequately prepared to face the coming appearance of Jesus for His church.

1 Thessalonians 2

Paul continues to remind his readers that the presentation of the Gospel message they heard was not one of coercion or twists of logic. It was the gentle patient nurturing actions like one would find among nursing mothers. The message was easy to grasp, carefully and lovingly presented and repeated as often as necessary. This message was eagerly accepted by the Thessalonian people as the Word of God it was. Because of their response, Paul was excited to return among them, but was kept from doing so.

1 Thessalonians 1

Paul writes to the church in Thessalonica about the faith that they possess. It was not obtained through rhetoric or presentation, but in the power of God - transforming them into new creatures for God's glory. Their transformation was so radical that they were shining examples to others in the region about the power of God to recreate a life. Who is noticing my transformation? What does it say about God's power in my life?

Colossians 4

Paul concludes his letter to the Colossian believers by asking for them to be united in their prayers for him. There was much work to continue to be done; and prayer was vital for the success of all that God planned to accomplish in the city. A variety of fellow workers also added their greetings and desire to see God magnified in the Colossian church.

Colossians 3

Those who are living a transformed life will see changes in every area of life and living. Their focus will be on the eternal, not the temporary. Relationships will be drastically different - spouses, children, employers, workers will all be treated with respect and honor. Truly the life that Jesus Christ gives to those following him is drastically and radically different from those untouched by His powerful hand.

Colossians 2

Paul continues to invite his readers to follow Christ and encourage others to follow Him. The life they have is drastically different - as much as if there has been an actual surgical procedure on their hearts and lives. Because of that transformation, life is lived differently and old practices are replaced by new ones.

Colossians 1

Paul writes to the church in Colosse, praising them for the good reports he has received about their faith in Christ. He continues to pray for them, that they would grow in spiritual knowledge and understanding - focusing their thoughts and attention on Jesus Christ in every area of life and living. Jesus' position and power demand that He hold this first place - He who created the earth and sustains it also did a mighty work in their lives. He is worthy of their obedience and service.

Philippians 4

Paul continues to encourage his readers in Philippi to work together for mutual encouragement and growth. Two believers in particular are singled out for special reminders to behave; and the entire group is admonished to carefully guard their thoughts, as they lead to actions. Paul was very thankful for their actions and demonstrations of love toward him. They had repeatedly shown generosity and compassion on his ministry both while he was present with them and while he was away from their area. Paul commends them to God for His approval and reminds them that with God's presence, all will be provided for them.

Philippians 3

Paul discusses with his readers the situations that truly benefit a person. The status one receives at birth, the medical procedures one undergoes, the scholastic training one receives, the job one possesses are all worthless in God's estimation. The true benefit comes from a relationship with Jesus Christ and having His righteousness granted through faith. Paul daily presses toward this goal, ever striving to become more and more like Christ through the assistance of the Holy Spirit. He encourages those in Philippi to follow his example.

Philippians 2

Because the followers of Jesus were to be assisting one another in their lives and character development, they needed to imitate the mindset of Jesus. This is the mindset that puts others' needs and well-being ahead of one's own - even when that results in pain, suffering and even death. This is the example Jesus left for His followers. Now His followers are to live lives that mirror that self-sacrificing, others-serving pattern without a grudging attitude or complaint. It is a joy to be used in the development and betterment of others. This is the pattern Paul himself followed, traveling from place to place encouraging others. When he was unable to personally travel, others were sent with messages from him. The goal for each one (Paul, Timothy, Epaphroditus) was to assist others in the growth into Christ-likeness.

Philippians 1

Paul begins a letter to the followers of Jesus at Philippi by reminding them of the joy that comes from a relationship with Jesus. Because of this relationship, it does not matter who says or does the work - as long as the name of Jesus is given the prominent position. Life is given meaning when Jesus is the One at the helm. If the Philippians can remember this, their lives will have joyful meaning.

Ephesians 6

Paul continues to give instruction for effectively following Jesus Christ with one's life. Children are to obediently reverence their parents. Spouses are to lovingly serve their mates. Slaves are to respectfully honor their masters. Followers are to act wisely as soldiers in the great spiritual battles faced on a daily basis. They are to pray for one another, holding each other's safety and well-being in constant prayer. Service is for the mutual benefit of others.

Ephesians 5:17 - 33

Paul addresses the issue of control. One's life is not one's own when they are a follower of Christ. The control of their life is to be surrendered first of all to the Holy Spirit Who indwells them. Those who are married are to then live under the mutual control of their partner. The picture that is portrayed is of Christ and the church - living in submission and perfect harmony.

Ephesians 5:1 - 16

Paul continues to lay out for the Ephesian believers the path of obedience that will mark the path of those whose lives have been transformed from death to life and living by Jesus Christ. He compares the life as one that is "light" and not "darkness"; the things that do not identify with the purity of the Light of the Gospel ought to have no part in the life of the one claiming to follow the Lord of the Gospel. One must choose their steps carefully and wisely.

Ephesians 4

Paul comes to the application of his discussion. Because of all that God had done in the lives of the Ephesians -taking them from death to life and then on to living - they should now live in a manner that is befitting a person of their station. Jesus Christ did not pass through this life and make an incredible sacrifice so that they could remain the same polluted people behaving the same polluted ways. There was to now be a marked difference in their character - not to earn their salvation, but to demonstrate that Jesus Christ had already made a life-changing impact on their lives. The old manner of life was to be replaced with a new manner of living affected by a mind renewed by the power of the Holy Spirit.