1 Timothy 1-6 (NIV) – Commentary by Michael Beary

It would be an understatement to say that Timothy, Paul’s “son in the faith,” was assigned some difficult tasks at Ephesus. Paul wrote to “charge” Timothy with the well-being of the Ephesian church in such a manner that Timothy would enter the “battle” fully “charged.” The battle, we read, was for the Gospel, in word and in conduct, a multitude of affirmations of what constitutes authentic Christian teaching and living – and what doesn’t. Paul wrote it down, but it was up to Timothy to implement it, like Moses coming down from the mountain.

I am not possessed of a habit of confrontation, so naturally I admire those who confront and do it well. I assume that Timothy was one of them. Moreover, I look for ways that Paul gave a charge (electrical) to his charge (Timothy) so that he might successfully carry out his charge (Ephesus).

I see two ways. First of all, he calls on Timothy to proceed from love (1:5), arising from “a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.” So proper motivation is central to dealing with confrontation successfully. Second, there is the matter of prophecies. The “battle” that Timothy strives to win at Ephesus is (1:18) also the fulfillment of his calling from God. Those who ordained him prophesied, we may guess, his gifts and his calling – irrevocable (Romans 11:29) words from God meant to sustain him in tough times.

I think there is a discipline of remembrance for those engaged in conflict. We are charged to remember the light of our calling when we are in dark places.