Introduction to the Pastoral Epistles

Saint Paul Writing His Epistle by Valentin de Boulogne or Nicolas Tournier
About 16th Century, Blaffer Foundation Collection, Houston, TX
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/ec/File%22-Saint_Paul_Writing_His_Epistles%22_by_Valentin_de_Boulogne.jpg

The Pastoral Epistles are a little different from the other Pauline epistles we have been reading. They are personal letters written to pastors rather than churches. Paul wrote to Timothy and Titus to encourage these younger men as they shepherded the churches of Ephesus and Crete.  The letters focus more on the challenges of church life.

Here is a brief overview:

1 Timothy: Protecting the Faith

Written in Macedonia

A.D. 62-63

The Pastor and Church Government (1 Timothy 1-3)

The Pastor and Personal Progress (1 Timothy 4-6)

2 Timothy: Proclaiming the Faith

Written from Rome

A.D 67

The Pastor and Coming Apostasy 

Titus: Practicing the Faith
Written from Corinth
A.D. 63

The Pastor and Church Problems (Adapted from The Daily Walk, December 2008, p. 8)

While these are written to pastors, they are personally applicable to everyone!

Enjoy!