1 Timothy 4:3

CONTEXT- Purpose and Conflict

1 Timothy 3:14-4:5

14 Although I anticipate coming to you quickly, I am writing these things to you: 15 that, if I should be slow in coming, you may know how people ought to conduct themselves in God’s household, which is the Church of the living God, the pillar and foundation [stability] of the truth. 16 There is absolutely no doubt in my mind that the Mystery, the one Body with “Christ in you, ”as it relates to our true, vital, spiritual relationship, our right living with reverence for God, is the greatest. The evidence of this great Mystery was first made manifest in the flesh on the day of Pentecost when the gift of holy spirit was given. At that time believers were identified with Christ Jesus and spiritually justified in the new birth. This spectacular event was observed by angels, who stood in awe at the realization of the hope of glory. The gift of holy spirit was later proclaimed to and received by the Gentiles to make the one Body complete. Then through out the world the knowledge of the Mystery was taught to and believed by those who confessed Jesus Christ as lord. Believers came to the realization that with “Christ in you, the hope of glory” they are ascended in glory, seated in the heavenlies in Christ Jesus. Ch 4  1 However, the Spirit says in clear and precise words that in these later times certain ones will abandon the household of faith and will follow deceiving spirits and the doctrines [teachings] of devils. 2 They follow those who deceive through false pretense and lies, who are branded in their own conscience [seed], 3 who forbid marriage, and who advocate abstinence from foods which God created to be consumed with thanksgiving by those who believe and clearly know the truth. 4 Everything created by God is good and should not be
refused when it is received with thanksgiving, 5 for then it is set apart by the Word of God and prayer of intercession with childlike confidence.

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The Structure of 1 Timothy

A. I Timothy 1:1 and 2: The Salutation.
    B. I Timothy 1:3-20: The Charge.
      C. I Timothy 2:1-15: Prayer—The Leader’s Responsibility.
        D. I Timothy 3:1-13: Qualifications of a Leader.
          E. I Timothy 3:14-4:5: Purpose and Conflict. This is the central/center section.
        D. I Timothy 4:6-16: Conduct of a Leader.
      C. I Timothy 5:1-6:2: Treatment of Leaders, The Believers’ Responsibility.
   B. I Timothy 6:3-21a: The Charge.
A. I Timothy 6:21b: Salutation.

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