PAULINE EPISTLES ENGLISH

 

PAULINE EPISTLES

INTRODUCTION

The Pauline Epistles are of inestimable value because Paul, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, was able to address specific problems and issues of his t me with perspectives that are universal and timeless. In these thirteen Epistles, even the most mundane matters stimulated lofty thoughts in the mind of the apostle which he was able to express with astounding versatility.

The  use or the Epistle as a i medium of Divine revelation was unheard of  until the time of Paul and his contemporaries. The Epistles of Paul and others are  ultimately related to the needs and contingencies of real life, and they issue out of the affliction, Joy, sorrow and compassion of these godly writers, The Epistles have an abundance of doctrine, but it is designed for practical application, not theoretical speculation.

            Because of their form and personal character, Paul’s writings are properly called letters. They generally follow the standard form of letters in Paul’s day the Sender’s name and office; the name of recipient; a greeting or wish or prosperity, the main body of the: letters, a farewell With ‘closing greetings and good wishes, and the signature.

The New Testament contains Nine Pauline Epistles to Churches and Four to individuals. It is evident, however, that Paul wrote letters that are now lost (1 Cor. 5 :9, 11 Cor.10:9-10, Col 4:16,  II Thess. 3 :17). Paul’s thirteen canonical epistles are arranged so that the first Nine (to Churches) and the last four (to individuals) are in order of decreasing length.

AUTHORSHIP

Saul was Born a Roman citizen on Tarsus of Cilicia, a center of learning. He may have received a Greek. Education (of Act. 17 : 28, Titus 1:12) before his family moved t Jerusalem. He earned the trade of tent making (Act. 18: 3)  hut as a full blooded Jew of the tribes of Benjamin he received the privilege of being educated under Rabbi Gamalie (Acts. 22:3) his keen mind and religious zeal advanced him in Judaism beyond his contemporaries (Gal. 1n14) arid as a young Pharisee; Saul was present at the stoning of Stephen (Acts. 7:58,, 8 : 1),  He energetically persecuted Christians in Judea and decided to carry his campaign north east to Damascus when his encounter with the resurrected Christ completely change his life. He spent three years in Arabia and Damascus (Gal. 1:17-18) before being introduced by Barnabas to the Apostles in Jerusalem. After fifteen days, a plot against him forced his departure (Acts 9:26- 30, Gal. 1 :18 – 21) and he spent about Ten years in Cilicia and Syria (Primarily Tarsus and Antioch). Barnabas and Paul brought a contribution from Antioch to Jerusalem for the famine relief of the Brethren in Judea (Acts.11:25-30). After their return to Antioch, Barnabas, Paul and Mark embarked on the first missionary Journey (Acts 13-14). Mark left ea but Barnabas and Paul ministered in Cyprus,

Pamphylia, and Galatia. After the Journey, they went to Jerusalem to settle the issue of the Gentiles and the mosaic law (Acts 15) and then returned to Antioch.

Paul took Silas on his second missionary journey (Act I5:36-18:22) which concentrated on Macedonia and Greek. Paul’s third missionary journey, again originating in Antioch, focussed on Asia with Ephesus as his headquarters (Acts 18:23 , 21 : 16). Paul went to Jerusalem for the last time with a collection for poor but he was soon accused of violating the temple and a riot broke out. The Romans brought him to Caresarea where the governor Felix kept him imprisoned for two years (Acts 24:27). Paul defended himself before Felix: his replacement Festus, and Agrippa before his arduous  journey to Rome (Acts 24-28:16). There he was imprisoned for two years and although the Book of Acts stops at this point; evidence from Paul’s letters to Timothy, and Titus and from the early Church fathers indicates that he was released from prison. He apparently had to opportunity to visit Spain: crete: - Asia Macedonia; and Greece before his second Roman imprisonment and execution under  Nero in A.D. 67-68

Paul’s Christian life was characterized by unflagging dedication to the cause of Christ in the face of suffering. He had a clear sense of divine calling, a strong love for his converts and unshakable conviction and authority, and a constant spirit of dependence upon Christ in all that he did

THE EPISTLE TO THE ROMANS

Romans; Paul’s greatest work, is placed first among his thirteen Epistles in the New Testament. While the Gospels present the words arid works of Christ Jesus, Romans explores n€ significance of His sacrificial death. Using a question — and answer format; Paul records the most systematic presentation the doctrine in the Bible. Romans is more than book of Theology; it is also a book of practical Exhortation The good news of  Jesus Christ is more than facts to be believed; it is also a life to believed, a life of righteousness befitting the person “Justified freely by His (God’s) grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus (3:24).

THE DATE

Paul wrote the Epistle to the Romans in A.D. 57, near the end of his third Missionary Journey (Acts. 18:23, 21:14, Rom.15:19). It was evidently written during his three month stay n Greece (Acts. 20:3-6), more  specifically in Corinth Paul was slaying with Gaius of Corinth (16:23) 1 Cor .1:14) as he also mentioned “Erastus, the treasurer of the city (16:23)

Paul’s collection from the Churches of Macedonia ad Achaia for the. needy Christian in Jerusalem was complete (15:26), and he was ready to deliver it (15:25). Instead sailing directly to Jerusalem Paul avoided a plot by the Jews by first going north Philippi.

He evidently gave this letter to phoebe from the church at Cenchrea, near Corinth, and she carried it to Rome (16:1-2).

PURPOSE OF THE BOOK

Paul did not wrote Romans to address specific problems in the church, but to prepare the brethren for his long-awaited visit to that strategic church (15:22) Paul had tried to visit Rome a number of times in the past, but each time he had been hindered (1:12, 15:22). By writing this letter, Paul hoped to build up the believers there in their knowledge and faith aid to encourage this mixed church of Jews and Gentiles to work together as one body.

Paul also asked them for their prayer support because of the dangerous opposition that awaited him in Jerusalem. Moreover, Romans was not the first of Paul’s Epistles, but it was appropriately placed at the beginning of the Pauline Epistle not only because it was Paul’s longest work, but because it provides the doctrinal foundation upon which the other Epistles are built. It is the most systematic and detailed exposition of theological truth in the scripture. Romans concentrates on the doctrine of sin and salvation; just as all men (Jews and Gentiles) are sinners; so God has gracious extended His offer of salvation to all who will place their faith in Christ.

OUTLINE OF  ROMANS

PART ONE: THE REVELATION O THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD (1:1-8,39)

L          Introduction …………………………………………………………………………………. (1:1- 17)

II.        Condemnation: The Need for God’s Righteousness………………………………………. 1:18-3:20

A.        GUILT OF THE GENTLE ……………………………………………………………….….1:18-32

1.         Reason for Gentle Guilt ……………………………………………………………...1:18-23

2.         Result for Gentle Guilt……………………………………………………………. …1:24-32

B.        GUILT OF THE JEW………………………………………………………………….…......2 : 1-3:8

1          Jews are judged according to truth……………………………………………………. 2 :1-5

2          Jews are judged according to works …………………………………………………….6-10

3          Jews are judged with impartially…………………………………………………… 2:1 1-16

4.         Jews do not obey the law…………………………………………………………….2 :17-29

5.         Jews do not believe oracle……………………………………………………….... 3: 9-20

III        JUSTIFICATION: THE IMPUTATION OF COD’S RIGHTEOUSNESS 3:21 -21

A.        Description of Righteousness……………………………………………………………….3:21:5-21

B.        Illustration of Righteousness…………………………………………………………….…. 4: 1- 25

a.         Abraham’s Righteousness apart from works ………………………………………..4 : 1-8

b.         Abraham’s Righteousness apart from Circumcision ………………………….……...4:9-12

c.         Abraham’s Righteousness apart from law………………………………….………4 :16-25

C.        BENEF1TS OF RIGHTEOUSNESS ………………………………………………………..5 : 1-21

1.         Peace with God………………………………………………………………………..…....... 5:1-2

2.         Joy in Tribulation ………………………………………………………………………..…...5:3-8

3.         Salvation from God’s Wrath ………………………………………………………………5:12 -21

iv.        SANCTIFICATION: THE DEMONSTRATION OF GOD’S RIGHTEOUSNESS ……..6:1-8:39

A         SANCTIFICATION AND SIN ………………………………………………………….….6:1-23

1.         Believer’s Death to sin in principle.................................................................. 6:1-14

2.         Believer’s Death to sin in practice..………………………………….……… 6:15-23

B         SANCTIFICATION AND THE LAW……………………………………………….. 7:1 -6

1.         Dead to the Law but alive to God ………………………………………...........7:1-6

2.         Law cannot deliver from sin………………………………………………………

C         SANCTIFICATION AND THE SPIRIT…………………………………………...…8:1-39

1.         The Spirit Deliver from the power of the flesh ……………………………...8:12-17

2.         The Spirit gives Sonship……………………………………………………..8:18-30

3.         The Spirit Assures of  future Glory…………………………………………. 8:18-30

4.         The Spirit Assures of final victory………………………………………….. 8:31-29

PART TWO: THE VINDICATION OF RGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD…………………...9:1-11:36

1.         ISRAEL’S PAST THE EL.ECTION OF GOD………………………………………. 9:1-29

A.        Paul’s Sorrow…………………………………………………………………………… 9:30

B.        Israel rejects Christ…………………………………………………………………....10:1-l5

C.        Israel rejects the prophet…………………………………………...………………..10:16-21

11.       ISRAEL’S PRESENT: THE REJECTION OF GOD…………………………… 9:30-10:21

A.        Israel seek righteousness by work……………………………………...…… 9:30-33

B.        Israel rejects Christ……………………………………………………….…. 10:1-15

C.        Israel rejects the prophets……………………………...……………………10:16-21

III.       ISRAEL’S FUTURE: THE RESTORATION BY GOD…………………………..11: 1-36

A.        Israel’s Rejection is not Total………………………………………………11:1-10

B.        Israel’s Rejection is not final……………………………………………….11:11-32

1.         Purpose of Israel’s Rejection ………………………………………………11:11-24

2.         Promise of Israel’s Rejection………………………………………………. 11:25-32

ISRAEL’S RESTORATION: THE OCCASION FOR GLORIFYING GOD ……….......(11:33-36)

PART THREE: T APPLICATION OF THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD 12:1-13.1

1.         Righteousness of God Demonstrated  in Christian Duties………………………...12:1-13:1

A.        Responsibilities toward God………………………………………………. .12:3-21

B.        Responsibilities toward Society……………………………………………. 12:3-21

C.        Responsibilities toward Higher Powers…………………………………….12:3:1-7

D.        Responsibilities toward Neighbours……………………………………….. 13:8-14

II         RIGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD DEMONSTRATED IN CHRISTIAN LIBERTIES..14:1-15

A.        Principles of Christian Liberty…………………………………………… 14: 1-23

B.        Practices of Christian Liberty………………………………………..….. 15: ‘1-1 3

III        CONCLUSION ……………………………………………………..………….15:1 -16:27

A         Paul’s purpose for writing…………………………………….…………. .15:14-21

B.        Paul’s purpose for Travelling ………………………………………….. .15:23-33

C.        Paul’s praise and Greetings ……………………………………………......16:1-27

FIRST EPISTLE TO THE CORINTHIANS

In the first century, Corinth was the leading commercial center of Southern Greece. The city was infamous for its immorality and paganism. But in spite of great obstacles; Paul was able to plant a Christian Church there on his second missionary Journey (Acts 18:1-7). Though gifted and grow the Church was p with problems; Paul writes the letters of first Corinthians to deal with some o these disorders; and to answer questions which the Christians in Corinth had raised on crucial issues.

THLE DATE

Corinth was key city in ancient Greece until it was destroyed by the Romans in 46 B.C. Julius Caesar rebuilt it as a Roman colony in 46 BC and it grew and prospered becoming the capital of the province of Achaia. Its official Language remained Latin. In Paul days Corinth was the metropolis of the peloponneses since it was strategically located or a narrow Isthmus between the Aegan sea and Adriatic Sea that connects the Peloponnesus with Northern Greece. Because of its two seaports t became a commercial center, and many small ships ere rolled or dragged across the Corinthian isthmus to avoid the dangerous 200 miles voyage around Southern Greece.

Persecution in Macedonia c nm south to Athens, and from there he proceeded to Corinth. Paul wrote first and second Thessalonians; moved his ministry from the synagogue to the  house of Titus Justus because of opposition, and converted Crispus, the leader f synagogue. Paul taught the word of God in Corinth for 18 months in A.D 51-52. After Paul’s departure, Apollos came from Ephesus to minister in the Corinthian church (3:6; Acts,18:24-28).

When Paul was teaching and preaching Ephesus during the third missionary Journey, he was disturbed from the house hold of Chibe concerning quarrels in the Church at Corinth(1:11). The Church sent a delegation of three men (16:17): who apparently brought a letter that requested Paul’s judgement on certain issues. (7:1); Paul wrote this Epistles as his response to the problems and question of the Corinthians (He has already written a previous letter 5:9). Paul was panning to leave Ephesus (16:5-8); indicating that first Corinthians was written in A.D 56.

PURPOSE OF THE EPISTLES

The purpose that led to the writing of this Epistles is the application of Christian principles on an individual, and social level The cross of Christ is a message that is designed to transform the lives of believers and make them different; as people and as a cooperate body, from the surrounding world. But the Corinthians were destroying their Christian testimony because of immorality arid disunity. Paul, wrote this Epistle as his corrective response to the news of problems and disorders among me Corinthians. It was designed to correct improper attitudes and conduct a to promote a spirit it of unity among the brethren in their relationships worship. He did not want to visit them with rods because of fatherly heart of love He has to towards them. (4:14 -15 ) (4:21).

through the missionary  efforts of Paul and others the church been established in Corinth but Paul find it very difficult to keep Corinth out of the church. The pagan life-style of Corinth exerts a profound influence upon the Christian in that corrupt city-problems of every kind plagued them. In this disciplinary letter Paul is forced to exercise his Apostolic authority as he deals firmly with problems of divisiveness; immorality lawsuits, selfishness; abuses of the Lord’s supper of perspectives on various questions and issues raised by the Corinthians in a letter.

OUTLINE OF FIRST CORINTHIANS

PART ONE: ANSWER TO CHLEOS – REPORT OF DIVISIONS………………… (1:1-421)

1.         INTRODUCTION …………………………………………………………………..1:1-9

A.        Greeting of Grace …………………………………………………………….1:1-3

B.        Prayer of thanks giving………………………………………………………. 1:4-9

II.        REPORT OF DIVISIONS………………………………………………………….. 1:10-17

III.       REASONS FOR DIVISIONS…………………………………………………… 1:18:4:21

A.        MISUNDERSTANDING OF           THE GOSPEL MESSAGE………………………. 1:18:3-4

I           The Gospel not Earthly Wisdom………………………………………………….. 1:18-2:5

2,         The Gospel is heavenly Wisdom………………………………………………… 2:6-3:4

B         MISUNDERSTANDING OF  THE GOSPEL MESSENGER……………………3:5-4:5

1.         ministers are Fellow workers with God…………………………………………… 3:5:17

2.         Minister are Accountable to God………………………………………………… 4:18-4:5

C.        MISUNDERSTANDING OF PAUL’S MINISTRY……………………………..4:6-21.

PART TWO: ANSWER TO REPORT OF FORNICATION …………………………(5:1-6:20)

1          On incest……………………………………………………………………………. 5:1-13

A.        Deliver the fornicators for Discipline……………………………………..... ….5 1-8

B.        Separate yourselves from immoral Believers……………………………… 5 9-13

II         CONCERNING LITIGATION BETWEEN BELIEVERS …………………………6:12-20

III.       WARNING AGAINST SEXUAL IMMORALITY……………………………….. .6:12-20

PART THREE: ANSWER TO THE LETTER OF QUESTION ………………….(7:1-16:24)

1.         COUNSEL CONCERNING MARRIACE ………………………………………... 7 :1-40

A.        Principles for married life …………………………………………………..7:1-9

B.        Principles for married believer …………………………………………….. .7:10-16

C.        Principles of Abiding in God’s call ………………………………………….7:17-24

D.        Principles for Unmarriage …………………………………………………...7:25-38

E.         Principles for Remarriage…………………………………………………… 7:39-40

II.        COUNSEL CONCERNING THINGS OFFERED TO IDOLS………………………8:1-11

A.        Principles of liberty and the weaker brother…………………………………. 8:1-13

B.        Illustration of Paul and -us liberty…………………………………………9:1-27

1.         Paul lists his rights as a minister………………………………………….. 9:1-14

2.         Paul limits his rights for ministry………………………………………… 9:15-27

C.        Warning against forfeiting liberty…………………………………………. 10:1-13

D.        Exhortation to use liberty to Glorify God ……………….………………10:14-11:1

COUNSEL CONCERNING PUBLIC WORSHIP………………………………………11:2-14:49

A.        Principles of public prayer………………………………………………………. 11:2-14:40

B.        Rebuke  of Disorders at the Lord’s Supper ………………………………..…….. 11:17-34

C.        Principles of Exercising Spiritual gifts…………………………………………..12:1-14:40

1.         Test or the spirit’s control………………………………………….. ……….. 12:1-3

2,         Diversity of the  Gifts……………………………………………………….. 12:4-11

3.         Importance of all gifts……………………………………………………….12:4-11

4.         Exercise gifts with love………………………………………………….. …13:1-13

5.         Superiority of prophecy………………………………………………………14:1-6

6.         Gift of Tongues ………………………………………………………………14:7-25

7.         Exercising gifts in public worship…………………………………………. 14:26-40

IV.       COUNSEL CONCERNING THE  RESURRECTION…………………………….15 : 1-58

A.        Fact of Christ’s Resurrection…………………………………………………15:1-11

B.        Importance of Christ Resurrection …………………………………..……...5:12 -19

C.        Order of the Resurrections…………………………………………………. 15:20-28

D.        Moral implications OF Christ’s Resurrection……………………………....15:29-34

E.         Bodes of Resurrected Dead………………………………………………... 15:35-50

F.         Bodies of Translated living ………………………………………………...15:51-58

V.        COUNSEL CONCERNING THE COLLECTION FOR JERUSALEM ……………16:1-4

VI.       CONCLJSION……………………………………………………………………….. 6:5-24

THE SECOND EPISTLE TO THE CORINTHIANS

Since Paul’s first letter, the Corinthian Church had been swayed by false teachers who stirred the people against Paul. They claimed he was’ fickle, proud, unimpressive in appearance and speech: dishonest; and unqualified as an apostle of Jesus Christ. Paul sent Titus to Corinth to deal with these difficulties and upon his return, rejoiced to hear of the Corinthians change of head. Pan wrote this letter to express his thanksgiving for the repentant majority and to appeal to true rebellious minority to accept his authority. Throughout the book he defends his conduct: character; and calling as an apostle of  Jesus Christ.

DATE

Paul was in Ephesus when he wrote first Corinthians end expected Timothy to visit Corinth and return to him (1 Cor.. 16:10:11). Timothy apparently brought a report of the opposition that had developed against him in Corinth and made a brief and painful visit to the Corinthians (this visits is not mentioned in Acts but it can be inferred from  (2Cor. 2 ;12:l4; 3: 1 -2). Upon returning to Ephesus, Paul regretfully wrote his sorrowful letter to urge the church to discipline on his return trip (2:12-13); 7:5-16). Paul was greatly relieved by Titus’s report that the majority of the Corinthians had repented of their rebelliousness against Paul’s apostolic authority.

‘However, a minority opposition still persisted evidently led by a group of judaizers (10-13). There in Macedonia. Paul wrote second Corinthians and sent it with Titus and another brother (8:16-24). This took place in late AD. 56, and the Macedonia city from which it was written may have been Philippi. Paul then made his his third trip to Corinth (12:14: 13:1-2 Acts;. 20:1-3) where he wrote letter to the Roman.

THE PURPOSE OF THE BOOK

The purpose of the book of second Corinthians based on the certain false apostles that mounted an effective campaign against Paul in the Church at Corinth and Paul had to take a number of steps to overcome the opposition [ Epistle expresses the apostles joy over inc triumph of the true gospel in Corinth 1-7); and it acknowledges the “godly sorrow and repentance of the bulk of the believer there It also urges the Corinthians to fulfill their promise of making u liberal contributions for the poor among the Christian in Judea (8-9). This collection World not only assist the poor but it would also demonstrate the concern of gentle Christian in  Macedonia and Achaia for Jewish Christians in Judea, thus displaying the unity of Jews an Gentiles in the body of Christ.

The opposition addressed in 10-13 apparently consisted of Jews (Palestinian or Hellenistic, 11:22) who claimed to be apostles (11 ;5;1 3; 12:11) but who preached a false gospel (11:4) and were enslaving in their leadership (11:20) chapters 10-13 were written to expose these deceitful workers- and defends Paul’s God given authority and ministry as an apostle of Jesus Christ.

OUTLINE OF SECOND OF CORINTHIANS

PART ONE: PAUL’S EXPLANATION OF HIS MINISTRY …………………….(1:1-7:16)

1.         INTRODUCTION……………………………………………………………… 1:1-11

A.        Paul’s thanksgiving to God……………………………………….……………….1:1-7

B.        Paul’s trouble in Asia…………………………………………………………… 1:8-11

II.        PAUL’S EXPLANATIONS OF HIS CHANGE OF PLANS………………….. 1:12-22

A.        Paul’s original plan…………………………………….…………………1:12-22

B.        Paul’s change of plan………………………………………………......1 :23-2:4

C.        Paul’s Appeal to forgive………………………………………………… 2.5-13

III.       PAUL’S PHILOSOPHY OF MINISTRY……………………………………..2:14-6:10

A.        Christ causes us to Triumph…………………………………………… .2:14 17

B.        Chanced lives prove Ministry ……………………………………………..3:1-6

C.        New covenant is the basis of ministry…………………………………… 3:6-18

.           D.        Christ s the theme of Ministry……………………………………………. 4: 1-7

E.         Trials abound in the ministry…………………………………………….. 4.8-15

F.         Motivation in the ministry …………………………………………………4:16-5:21

1.         Motivation of External perspective……………………………………….. 4: 16-18

2.         Motivation of the future presence of Christ ………………………………… .5:1-8

3.         Motivation of future Reward……………………………………………….. 5:9-10

3.         Motivation of the love of Christ…………………………………………… 5:11-16

4.         Motivation of the message of Reconciliation……………………………… 5:17-21

C.        Giving no offence in ministry ……………………………………………… 6:1-10

IV.       PAUL’S EXHORTATION TO THE CORINTHIANS ……………………………6:11-13

A.        Paul’s Appeal for Reconciliation…………………………………………… 6:11-13

B.        Paul’s Appeal for separation from- unbelievers …………………………....6:14-7:1

C.        Paul’s meeting with Titus ……………………………………………………..7:2-7

D.        Corinthians Response to Paul’s letter ………………………………………..7:8-16

PART TWO: PAUL’S COLLECTION FOR THE SAINTS………………………………(8:1-9:15)

1.         Example of the Macedonians………………………………………………….3:1-6

II.        Exhortation to the Corinthians ……………………………………………….8:7-15

A.        Example of Christ ……………………………………………………………8:7-9

B.        Purpose of  Giving…………………………………………………………. 8:10-15

C.        Explanation of the Delegation…………………………………………….. 8:16-9;5

1.         Policies in Giving …………………………………………………..8:16-24

2.         Readiness in Giving………………………………………………… 9:8-15

PART THREE: PAUL’S VINDICATION OF HIS APOSTLESHIP………………… (10:1-13:14)

1.         PAUL ANSWER HIS ACCUSERS ……………………………………………..…10:1-13

A.        The charge of cowardice is answered………………………………………. 10:1-2

B.        The charge of walking in flesh answered …………………………………...10:3-9

C.        The charge of personal weakness in answered…………………………..  10:10-18

II.        PAUL DEFENDS HIS APOSTLESHIP ……………………………………....11:1-12;13

A.        Paul’s declaration of his Apostleship …………………………………….11:1-15

B.        Paul’ sufferings support hi Apostleship…………………………………. 11:16-33

C.        Paul’s Revelations support his Apostleship ……………………………….12:1-10

1.         Vision of paradise ……………………………………………………12:1-6

2.         Thorn in the flesh…………………………………………………….12:7-10

D.        Paul’s signs support his apostleship……………………………………..… 12:1l -13

III.       PAUL ANNOUNCES HIS UP COMING VISIT……………………………..      12:14-18

A.        Paul’s concern not to be a financial burden ………………………………..12:11-18

B.        Paul’s concern not to find the carnal………………………………………. 12:19-21

C.        Paul’s warning to Examine yourselves……………………………………… 13:1-10

IV.       CONCLUSION ………………………………...…………………………………..13:11-14

EPISTLE TO THE GALATIANS

The Epistle to the Galatians has been called THE CHARTER OF CHRISTIAN LIBERTY”. It is Paul’s Man Manifesto of Justification by faith and the liberty produced. Paul directs this great chapter of Christian freedom to a people who are willing to give up the priceless liberty they posses in Christ.

Certain Jewish legalists are influencing the Believers in Galatia to trade their freedom in Christ for bondage to the law. Paul writes to refute their false gospel of works, and to demonstrate the  superiority of justification by faith.

THE DATE

Paul visited the Galatia for the first time on his second missionary journey probably while he was on his way o Troas (Acts ‘16:6). On his third missionary Journey, Paul re-visited the Galatian Churches he had. established (Acts 18.23) and wrote this Epistle either in Ephesus (A,D. 56) or Rome.

Paul wrote this Epistles in response to a report that the Galatians Churches were suddenly taken over- by the false teaching of certain Judaizers who professed Jesus yet sought to place gentile converts under the requirements of the mosaic law (1 :7;4;17;,21,5:2-12;6:12-13).

THE PURPOSE OF THE EIOOK

The book of Galatia is an urgent and corrective book that reveal the three major sections of the purpose for which the Epistle to toe Galatians were written.

Chapters 1-2 were written to defend Paul’s apostolic authority; because this established his gospel message. Chapters 3-4 were written to give a theological defence of the principle of  justification by faith to refute the false teaching of justification law. Paul used the law itself to build his case. Chapters 5-6 were written to show that liberty form the law dies not mean lawlessness. as Paul’s opponents evidently claimed.

This Epistle shows that the believer is no longer under the law but is saved by faith alone. God raised Paul up as Moses of the Christian Church to deliver them from bondage of Judaism (Law & Rituals). The power of the Holy Spirit enables the Christian to enjoy freedom within the law of love.

OUTLINE OF THE BOOK

1.         THE GOSPEL OF GRACEDEFENDED ………………………………………….1:2:21

A.        INTRODUCTION . ………………………………………………………….1 :1-9

3.         Salvation: the Ground of Grace …………………………………………….1:1-5

4.         Situation:: The Departure from Grace……………………………………… 1:6-9

B.        GOSPEL OF GRACE IS GIVEN BY DIVINE REVELATION………….1:10-24

C.        GOSPEL OF GRACES APPROVED BY JERUSALEM LEADERSHIP…. 2:1-10

D.        GOSPEL OF GRACE IS VINDIGATRD BY REBUKING PETER……….2:11-21

II.        THEGOSPELOF GRACE EXPLAINED ………………………………………….3:1-4:31

A.        Holy Spirit is given by faith, not by works…………………………………… 3:1-5

B.        Abraham was justified by faith, not by works………………………………… 3:6-9

C.        Justification is by faith, not by the law …………………………..………….3:10-14

1.         Christ Redeems us from the curse of the law……………………………… 3:10-14

2.         Abraham’s covenant is not voided by the law…………………………….. 3:15-18

3.         Law given to Drive us to faith ………………………………………………3:19-22

4.         Believers are free from the law………………………………………….. 3:23-4:11

D.        Galatians Receive Blessings by faith not by the law………………………. 4:12-20

E..        Law and Grace cannot—Exist………………………………………………4 :21-31

III.       THE GOSPEL OF GRACE APPLIED…………………………………………… 6:1-6:18

A.        Position of liberty: Steno fast ………………………………………………5:13 -15

B.        Practice of liberty: Love or. Another……………………………………….5:18-25

C.        Power for liberty: Walk in the Spirit………………………………………. 5:16-26

1.         Conflict between the& Spirit and the flesh…………………………………. 5:16-18

2.         Works of the flesh……………………………………………………………5:19-21

3.         Fruit of the Spirit……………………………………………………………. 5:22-26

D.        PERFORMANCE IN LIBERTY: DO GOOD TO ALL MEN ………………6: 1-5

1.         Bear one another: s Burdens………………………………………………… 6:6-10

E.         CONCLUSION………………….………………………………………….6:11-18

1.         Motives of the Circumcised……………………………………………….. 6:11-13

2.         Motives of the Apostle Paul ………………………………………………6:14-18

EPISTLE TO THE EPHESIANS

Ephesians is addressed to a group of believers who are indescribably rich in Jesus Christ, but living a beggarly existence because they are ignorant of their wealth. And because they have nut appropriated their wealth; and they are working like they are spiritual paupers! Paul begins by describing in Chapter 1-3 the contents of the Christians heavenly “bank account adoption, acceptance, redemption, forgiveness, wisdom, inheritance, the seal of the Holy Spirit, life grace Citizenship — in short, every spiritual blessing Drawing in upon that huge spiritual endowment, the Christian has, all the resources he needs to live a life “to the praise of the glory of His grace” (1:6). Chapter 4-6 resemble an orthopedic clinic, where the Christian learns a spiritual walk rooted in his spiritual wealth.           

THE DATE

At the end of his second missionary journey, Paul visited Ephesis where he left priscilla and Aguila (Acts. 18-21); Paul remained in Ephesus for nearly three years or his third missionary journey (Acts. 19;20 the word of God was spread throughout the province of Asia. Paul’s effective ministry began to seriously hurt the traffic in magic and images, leading to an uproar in the huge Ephesians elders while on his way to Jerusalem (Acts 20:17-38). Paul wrote the “Prison Epistle (Ephesians; Philippians. Colossians arid Philemon; during the first Roman imprisonment in A.D. 60-61 Eph. 3:1 4:1, 6:20 , Phil 1:7,13 :14, Col. 4:3 10,18, Philem. 9-10 13,23). Ephesians Colossians and Philemon were evidently written about the same time (Eph.. 6:2-22. Col. 4:7-9) in AD 60-61d. Philippians was written in A.D 62 not long before Paul’s release.

THE PURPOSE OF THE BOOK

PART ONE:  THE POSITION) OF THE CHRISTIAN……………………………… (1:1-3:21)

1                      PRAISE FOR REDEMPTION…………………………………………….. 1:1-14

A.        Salvation from Paul ………………………………………………………….1:1-2

B.        Chosen by the father …………………………………………………………1:3-6

C.        Redeemed by the son ………………………………………………………..1:7-12

D.        Sealed by the Spirit …………………………………………………………1:13-14

II.        PRAYER FOR REVELATION ……………………………………………………1:15-23

Ill.        POSITION OF THE CHRISTIAN………………………………………………... 2:1-3:13

A.        The Christians position individually ……………………………………….2:1-10

1.         OLD CONDITION: Dead to God …………………………………………..2:103

2.         NEW CONDITION: Alive to God…………………………………………2:4-10

B.        The Christians position corporately……………………………………… 2:11-3:13

1.         Reconciliation of Jew and Gentiles ……………………………………….2: 11-22

2.         Revelation of the mystery of the Church …………………………………….3:1 13

IV.       PRAYER FOR REALIZATION ……………………………………………………3:14-21

PART TWO: THE PRACTICE OF THE CHRISTIAN………………………………. (4:1-6)

1                      Unity in the Church…………………………………………………………. 4.1-6

A.        Exhortation ‘a unity…………………………………………………………..4:1-3

B.        Explanation of unity…………………………………………………………. 4 :4-6

C.        Means for unity ……………………………………………………………….4: 7-11

D.        The purpose of the gifts ……………………………………………………...4:12-16

II.        HOLINESS IN LIFE…………………………………………………………………4:17-22

A.        Put off the old man………………………………………………………….. 4:17-22

B.        Put on the new man…………………………………………………………. 4:23-29

C.        Grieve not the Holy Spirit …………………………………………………..4:30-5:2

D).       Walk as children of light…………………………………………………… 4:30-5:2

E.         Be filled with the Spirit …………………………………………………5:18-21

III.       RESPONSIBILITIES IN THE HOME AND A WORK ……………………….5:22-6:9

A         Wives: submit to your husbands………………………………………… 5:22-24

B         husbands: Love your wives ………………………………………………5:25-33

C         Children Obey your parents ……………………………………………….6:1-4

D.        Service on the job …………………………………………………………6:5-9

IV        CONDUCT IN THE CONFLICT ………………………………………………....6:10-24

A.        Put on the Armor of God …………….…………………………………….6:10-17

B.        Pray for Boldness………………………………………………………….. 6:18-20

C.        Conclusion ……………………………………………………………………..6:2l

EPISTLES TO THE PHILIPPIANS

Philippians is the Epistle of Joy and Encouragement in the midst of adverse circumstances. In it; Paul freely expresses his fond affection for the Philippians in view of their consistent testimony and support and lovingly urges them to center their actions and thoughts or the person, pursuit, and power of Jesus Christ. Paul also seeks to correct a problem with disunity and rivalry, urging his readers to imitate Christ n His humility and servant hood, in this way the work of the gospel will go forward as be seek to stand fast be of the same mind, rejoice always, and pray about everything. Paul writes a thank you note to the believers at Philippi for their he in his hour of need, and he uses the occasion to send along some instruction or Christian unity Only in Christ are real unity and joy possibly.

THEDATE

In 356 B. C., King Philip of Macedonia (the father of Alexander the great) took this town and expanded it, renaming it Philip. The L mans captured it in 168 B.C. and 42 B.C. Paul’s “Macedonia call” in Troas during the second missionary journey led to his ministry in Philipi the conversion of Lydia and others. Paul and Silas were beaten and imprisoned, but this resulted in the conversion of the Philippians Jailer. Paul visited the Philippians again on his Third Missionary Journey (Acts. 20:6). When they heard of his Roman imprisonment, the Philippians Church sent Epaphariditus with financial help (4:18), they had help Paul in this way on at least two other occasions (4:18) Epaphroditus almost died of an illness yet remained with Paul long enough for the Philippians to receive word of hrs malady. Upon his recovery, Paul sent this letter back with him to Philipi (2:25-30).

Silas, Timothy, Luke and Paul first can-came to Philip in AD. 51, Eleven years before Paul wrote this Epistles, Certain references (1:13 ,4:22) suggest that it was written from Rome, although some commentators argue for Caesarea or Ehesus. Philippians was written in A.D. 62 not long before Paul’s release.

PURPOSE OF THE BOOK

This letter was written to convey Paul’s love arid gratitude for the believers at Philippi and to Exhort them to a life sty of unity, holiness and joy. Paul evidently enjoyed a very warm relationship with the Philippians Church, perhaps is favourite. They were more sensitive and responsible to his financial reeds than any other church(4:1 5-18, 2Cor. 8:11) and appeared,  to have no major problems in their midst. The book of Philippians was not written because of any crisis, but to express Paul’s affection for them, his gratitude for their gift his encouragement concerning their Christian growth, his admonitions against false teaching, and his thoughts about his circumstances. Paul gave the Philippians the latest news of his imprisonment and growth, his admonitions against false teaching, and his thoughts about his circumstances. Paul gave the Philippians the latest news of his imprisonment and growing ministry in the propagation of the gospel (1:12-20). He warned them of the twin dangers of legalism and antinomianism but this was more of a preventative than a corrective measure. On the other hand, Paul recognized a growing problem of disunity in the Philippians Church and sought to correct it before it became severe.

OUTLINE OF THE BOOK OF PHILIPPIANS

1.         PAUL’S ACCOUNT OF HIS PRESENT CIRCUMSTANCE………………… 1:1-30

A.        Paul’s prayer of Thanksgiving…………………………………………. 1: 1-1 I

B.        Paul’s Afflictions promote the Gospel…………………………………. 1:12-18

C.        Paul’s Afflictions Exalt the Lord ………………………………………..1:1 26

D.        Paul’s Exhortation to the Afflicted…………………………………….. 1:27-30

II.        PAUL’S APPEAL TO HAVE THE MIND OF CHRIST………………………3:1-21

A.        Paul’s Exhortation to Humility…………………………………………. 2 :1-4

B.        Christ’s Example of Humility………………………………………….. 2:5-16

C.        Paul’s Example of humility …………………………………………….2:17-18

D.        Timothy’s Example of Humility ……………………………………......2:19-24

E          Epahroditus’s Example of Humility …………………………………….2:25-30

III.       PAUL’S APPEAL TO HAVE THE KNOWLEDGE OF CHRIST……………….3 :1-21

A.        Warning against confidence in life flesh…………………………………..3: 1-9

B.        Exhortation to know Christ……………………………………………… 3:10-16

C.        Warning against living for the flesh………………………………………3:17 21

IV.       PAUL’S APPEAL TO HAVE THE PEACE OF CHRIST ………………………0.1-23

A.        Peace with the Brethren……………………………………………………. 41-3

B.        Peace with the Lord…………………………………………………………4:4-9

C.        Peace in all circumstances…………………………………………..…….4:20-23

D.        Conclusion ……………………………………………………….………4:20-23

THE EPISTLE TO THE COLOSSLANS

Colossians is one of the most Christ centered book of the Bible, in it, Paul stresses the supremacy of the person of Christ and the completeness of the Salvation He provides in order to combat a growing heresy in the Church the Lord of Creation and Head of the body which is His Church, is completely sufficient for every spiritual and practical need of the believer. The believers union with in His death, resurrection and exaltation is the foundation upon which earthly life most be built. Relationships inside and out side the home can demonstrate daily the transformation that faith in Jesus Christ makes in the walk of the Believers.

THE DATE

Colossian was a minor city about one hundred miles east of Ephesus is he region of the seven Asian Churches of Revelation Chapter 1 -3. Colosea was once a populous center of Commerce, famous for its gloss black wool. By the time of Paul, it had been captured by the Neighboring cities, laodicea and hierapolis (4:130 and was on the decline. It is evident, that Paul had never visited the Church at Colossae, which was founded by Epaphras (1:4-2:1).

On His third Missionary Journey, Paul devoted almost three years to an Asian ministry centered in Ephesus (Acts 19:10,20:31) and Epaphras probably came to Christ during the time. He carried the gospel to the cities in the Lycus valley. Colossians, Philemon, and Ephesians were written at the same time under the same circumstances, Paul wrote all those Epistle during the first Roman imprisonment. So, Paul wrote Colossae in A.D 60 or 61 and sent it with Tychicus and the converted Onesimus to Colosse. (4:7-9, Eph. 6:21, 10:1 2).

THE PURPOSE OF THE BOOK

Paul wrote this Epistle to encourage the Colossians to continue in the faith, grounded arid steadfast (1:230) so that they will grow and bear fruit in the Knowledge of Christ (1:10). A firm adherence to the true gospel will give them stability and resistance to opposing influences. Another purpose in the mind of the Apostle is reflected in 3:1-4:6 Paul wanted the Colossians to understand the implications of the pre-eminence of Christ not only for doctrine but practice. The Supremacy of Christ is one of the Coin - submission to Christ is the other. The believers position in him (3:1-4) provides the bass and power for a transform life in every area.

Christ is the Head of all principality and power 2:10

Christ if the Lord of Creation -1:16-17

Christ the Author of reconciliation - 1 :20-22;2:13-15

He is the basis for the believer’s hope — 1 :3, 23,27

The source of the believer’s power for a new life - 1 :11:29

The believer’s Redeemer and Reconciler - 1:14, 20-22, 2:11-15

Christ the embodiment of full deity -  1:15 , 19, 2:9

Christ the creator and sustainer of all things - 1 :16-17

The Head of the Church -1: 18

The Resurrected God man 1:18, 3:1 and the alt sufficient Saviour

1:28, 2:3, 10: 3:1-4.

OUTLINE  OF COLOSSIANS

PART ONE: THE SUPREMACY OF CHRIST IN THE CHURCH…………………. (1:1-2:23)

1.         INTRODUCTION ………………………………………………………………..1:1-14

A.        Paul’s Greeting to the Colossians…………………………………………. 1:1-2

B.        Paul’s Thanksgiving for the Colossians…………………………………… 1:3-8

C.        Paul’s Prayer for the Colossians…………………………………………..1:9-14

II         THE PREEMINENCE OF CHURCH ………………………………………….1:15-2:3

A.        Christ is preeminent in creation………………………………………. 1:15 1 5-15

B         Christ is preeminent Redemption………………………………………. …1:19-23

C.        Christ s preeminent Church………………………………………………1:24- 2:3

III        THE FREEDOM IN CHRIST……………………………………………………2 : 4-23

A.        Freedom from enticing words …………………………………………...…..2:4-7

B.        Freedom from vain philosophy …………………………………………….2:8-10

C         Freedom from improper worship…………………………………………...2: 11-17

E          Freedom from the judgement of men……………………………………. 2:18-19

F.         Freedom from the doctrine of men………………………………………..2 :23-23

PART TWO: THE SUBMISSION TO CHRIS1 N THE CHURCH (3:1-4:18)

I.          THE POSITION OF THE BELIEVER………………………………………………. 3:1-4

II.        THE PRACTICE OF THE BELIEVER …………………………………………….3:5-4:6

A.        Put off the Old man ………………………………………………………….3:5-1 1

B.        Put on the New man………………………………………………………. ..3:12-17

C         Personal commands for Holiness ……………………………………….....3:18- 4:6

1.         Holiness in family life…………………………………………………….. 3:18-4:6

2.         Holiness in Work life ……………………………………………………...3:22- 4:6

3.         Holiness in public life …………………………………………………………4:2-6

FIRST EPISTLE OF PAUL TO THE THESSALONIANS

For the proper understanding of this five chapters to the the Thessalonians (first) turn to Acts 17:1 -19 & 20:1-6. In the first mentioned passage in Acts you have the account of Paul’s first visit  to Thessalonians. It was a seaport in Northern Greece and capital of one of the four provinces of Macedonia. From Acts 20:1-6 it would seem that Paul revisited this city probably on two occasions during his third missionary journey

Following his relatively short ministry in Thessalonica, Paul had to pass on to Berea because of persecution by the Jews and he then proceeded at least

eighteen months (Acts 18:fl), and 1 is usually assumed 1:hat he wrote the two Epistles to the Thessalonians during his stay in That city.

THE DATE

The first Epistle to the Thessalonians is  the first in order of writing of Paul’s letters which have been preserved in the New Testament. In all probability it was written about A.D 52.

THE PURPOSE OF THE EPISTLE

Following Paul’s being driven out of Thessalonica and his travelling to Southern Greece, he is concerned to know how the young Christians are faring in the persecuted city of Thessalonica. He himself would have returned but stated that he was hindered by Satan (2:18) This probably indicates that Paul’s recognized that behind the enmity of the Jews there was the power of Satan seeking to hinder the work of God. Paul is able, however, to send Timothy from Athens (3:1,2). Later Timothy returns to Corinth and brings encouraging news of the way in which the Thessalonians are standing fast (3:6 & Acts 18:1-5). Paul is filled with thanksgiving as he learns how the persecutions and other afflictions.

He writes this letter of encouragement, in particular dwelling upon the truth of the Lord’s second coming. In times of persecution there is probably no truth which brings more consolation to the believers than of the return of the Lord Jesus.

THE PURPOSE OF THE EPISTLE CONTD.

In addition to bringing comfort to the Church at  Thessalonica through the teaching or the Lord’s second coming. Paul also corrects erroneous views, For instance, there were those who sorrowed thinking that departed believers would not share in the glorious appearing of the Lord.

Paul corrects this in I Thess. 413-18. There were others who, thinking the Lord’s was coming at any moment, had misinterpreted This as meaning that they need no longer to carry on the ordinary pursuits of life such as daily work.

This is dealt with in I Thess. 4:11,1 2.

NOTE THIS:

CHAPTER 1 Bring inspiration to young Christians

CHAPTER 2 Bring Encouragement to the faithful; servant of Christ,

CHAPTER 3 Be a purifying Hope and call to Holiness of life for the Believer

(3:1-4:12)

CHAPTER 4 Bring comfort to the Bereaved (4:13-18)

CHAPTER 5 Be a call to watchful vigilance to those who a growing slack in their Christian life.

OUTLINE OF FIRST THESSALONIANS

1.         PAUL’S PERSONAL REFLECTIONS ON THE THESSALONIANS…………. ..1:1-3:13

A.        Paul’s commendation for their Growth ……………………………………….1:1-10

B.        Paul’s founding of the church………………………………………………….2:1-16

C.        Timothy’s trenfthening of the church…………………………………….2:17-3- 13

1.         Satan r1inders Paul ………………………………………………………….2:17-20

2.         Paul sends Timothy ……………………………………………………….3:1-5

3.         Timothy Encouraging Report…………………………………………….. 3:6-10

4.         Paul’s Desire to visit them……………………………………………….. 3:11-13

11.       PAUL’S INSTRUCTION TO THE THESSALONIANS ………………………14:1-5:28

A.        Directions for growth ………………………………………………………4:1-12

B         Revelations concerning the Dead in Christ………………………………… 5:1-11

C.        Description of the Day of the Lord……………………………………….. 5:12-22

D.        Instruction for Holy living …………………………………………………5:12-22

E          Conclusion……………………………………………………………….....5:24- 28

THE SECOND EPISTLE TO THE THESSALONIANS

The second Epistle to the Thessalonians is the shortest o Paul letter to Churches only his letter to Philemon being shorter than this one, There should be no difficulty in reading the Three chapters through several times and you will also find it helpful to read the Epistle in one of tile recent translations (N.C.V GNV. AMP. NIV. KJV. RSV. NLT e.t.c). It is written to the believers in  Thessalonica Reference is made, in the previous chapter on the first epistles to The Thessalonians, to Paul’s first visit to the city of Thessalonica resulting n the establishment of the Church there, and to the occasion or the sending of the first Epistle.

THE DATE OF WRITING

The second Epistle was written as far as can he ascertained, a few months after the first, possibly in the year A.D 53. After Timothy had taken the first letter to the Thessalonians, he returned to The apostle. Paul, no doubt, was still in Corinth, and while Timothy brought news 1 their progress in spite of continued wed persecution, he also reported that there word those who were disseminating false teaching stating that they had special revelations concerning the coming again of Christ or a further letter from. The Apostle Paul (2:2) This erroneous teaching evidently indicated that the return of Christ was  about to take place at any moment. In resulted some neglecting their daily work a practical duties, so much so that there were those who were living on the generosity of other and who refused to work (3:9-13).

THE PURPOSE OF THE EPISTLE

Paul the Apostle sent this second Epistle to the Thessalonians to give further instruction regarding the second coming of Christ, for this constituted the main theme of the Epistle. He also rebuke those who were omitting to carry out the normal occupations and obligations of this life. In addition to giving to all such his good counsel, he instructs the Church as to their attitude to those who will not accept or obey his counsel (3:14,15) I Thess. 4:13-18 and h Thess. 2:1-12 when compare it Emphasis on The coming of Christ.

In dealing with the error and as a result of the error the false attitude some had adopted, the Apostle Paul points out that there are certain events which must come to pass before the cay of Judgement, that is, the day of the Lord takes place.

In the Epistle, he makes it clear that prior to the coming again of Christ, there will be a falling away from the faith (2:3) and that Christ will come for His own people (1:10), that later there will be the unveiling of the wicked one (2:8) and then the Lord will come in Judgement (2:8).

OUT LINE OF SECOND THESSALONIANS

1.         PAUL’S ENCOURAGEMENT IN PERSECUTION ................................................. 1:1-12

A.        Thanking giving for their growth……………………………………………… 1:1-4

B.        Encouragement in their persecution………………………………………….. 1:5-10

C.        Prayer for God’s Blessing …………………………………………………..1:11-12

II.        PAUL’S EXPLANATION OF THE DAY OF THE LORD……………………….. 2:1-17

A         The events preceding the day of the Lord ………………………………..………….2:1 -17

1.         First a falling Away …………………………………………………………..2:1-3

2.         The man of sun is Revealed …………………………………………………2:405

3.         The Restrainer is taken out of the way………………………………………..2: 6-7

4.         The second coming of Christ …………………………………………………2:8-1

B.        The comfort of the Believer on the day of the Lord……………………………… 2:13-17

III.       PAUL’S EXHORTATION TO THE CHURCH ……………………………………3:1-18

A.        Wait patiently for Christ……………………………………………………… 3:1-5

B.        Withdraw from the Disorderly……………………………………………… 3:6-15

C         Conclusion …………………………………………………………………..3:16-18

THE FIRST EPISTLE TO TIMOTHY

The three books, I and II Timothy and Titus are grouped together and are known as ‘THE PASTORAL EPISTLES”, Thus, because they were addressed to individual and not to churches. They represent the three latest writings of Paul which  have been preserved for us in he New Testament. They were  written when Paul was an old man, and he writes out of a rich experience Missionary, Evangelist, Pastor and Teacher.

These three Epistles are addressed to young servants of the Lord and instruct both Timothy arid Titus on the privilege and responsibilities of the Christian worker. They deal with some of the problems that the pastors or servant of the Lord will be called upon to face The theme of the three Epistles could therefore be summed up as follows: “The Privilege, Responsibilities and Problems of the Pastor and or Christian workers”.

THE DATE

In the last chapter of the Acts of the Apostles we read of Paul a prisoner in Rome. It was during this time that he wrote “The prison Epistles”.

Paul, however, revisit Ephesus, and not being able to remain there for long he left Timothy to instruct the believers. Paul was re-arrested and taken as a prisoner for the second time to Rome and probably Martyred in the year A.D 68. Phil. 2:24, Philemon 22, I Timothy 1:3, Titus 3:12,

 II Tim 3, 20. Paul then urgently request Timothy to come to him speedily ( II Tim. 4:9, 11, 21).

The first Epistle to Timothy was written during the interval between the first and second of Paul’s imprisonment in Rome. As the letter is addressed to Timothy which Paul describe in 1:2 as “my son in the faith” and again in II Tim. 1:2, “my dearly beloved son” it may well be that Timothy was actually led to the Lord by Paul. It is certain that a close friendship sprung up between them, Paul was a Spiritual father to Timothy and Timothy was as in son in the faith.

Timothy was the son of a Greek father and a Jewish mother and seems to have been converted at a young age. He lived in Lystra (Act 14:6-21) Paul visit this Lystra and returned later to teach ‘the believers (vs. 21).

It was on the occasion of his first visit that Paul was stoned arid left for dead outside the city (Act 14:19). Was Timothy converted at this time? Did the Lord speak to him as he saw Paul stoned? Was it then that young Timothy, a boy in his early teems, heard the Lord calling him to be His servant? It is not possible to give a definite answer to these questions. In Acts 16:1-5 we read of Paul’s return visit in Lystra during the second missionary journey and from that point on Timothy is associated with Paul although it is doubtful whether he was yet 20 year of age. So began the close friendship, which characterizes  and Timothy, and Which was so helpful to both. In Timothy, Paul had a young man upon whom he could rely and to him he or entrusted special and often difficult tasks (II Thess. 3:1,2; I Cor.4:17; 16:10: 11 and I Tim. 1:3; Philp. 2:22;

I Tim.4:12-16; II Tim. 2: 1-7, 4:1, 2).  In II Cor.1:1; Philp. 1:1 and 1, II Thess. 1:1, Timothy’s name is associated with Paul in the sending of the respective letters.

The possible date of writing to Timothy was A.D 66 but from where Paul wrote is not certain.

THE PURPOSE OF THE FIRST EPISTLE TO TIMOTHY

The immediate occasion of the letter was to encourage. Timothy, also to warn him against false teaching which was creeping into the churches and also to instruct him and indeed, all Christians workers and ministers to live a Holy and a godly life and to stand fast in the faith and preach the sound doctrine.

One of heresies which Paul sought to combat was That old Gnosticism such as he dealt with in the Epistle to the Colossians. The Gnostics believed in angels mediating between a Holy God and Sinful men. They taught that there were many different ranks of angels and reduced the Lord Jesus  to the position of one of the higher angels. A refutation of this error is found in word of I Tim. 2:5 “There is one mediator between God and man the man Christ Jesus……”

OUTUNE OF FIRST TIMOTHY

I.          PAUL’S CHARGE CONCERNING DOCTRINE …………………………………..1:1-20

A         Paul’s past charge to Timothy ………………………………………………..1:1-1l

B         Christ’s past charge to Paul …………………………………………………1:12-17

C.        First charge “Wage the good warfare” ………………………………………1:18-20

II.        PAULS CHARGE CONCERNING PUBLIC WORSHIP …………………………2:1-3:16

A.        Prayer in public worship…………………………………………………......... 2:1-8

B.        Women in public worship …………………………………………………….2:1-8

C.        Qualifications of Deacons …………………………………………………….38-13

D.        Qualifications of Bishops……………………………………………………... 3 1-7

III.       PAUL’S CHARGE CONCERNING FALSE TEACHERS ………………………..4:1 -16

A.        Description of False Teachers…………………………………………………4:1-5

B.        Instruction for the True Teachers ……………………………………………4:6-10

C.        Third charge: “Do not Neglect the Gift’…………………………………… 4:11-16

IV.       PAUL’S CHARGE CONCERNING CHURCH DISCIPLINE………………………5:1-25

A.        How to react all people ………………………………………………………..5:1-2

B.        How to react wisdom………………………………………………………… 5:3-16

C.        How to react Elders ………………………………………………………….5:17-20

D         Forth Charge Observe those thing without prejudice………………………. 5:21 .25

V.        PAUL’S CHARGE CONCERNING PASTORAL MOTIVES……………………..6 :1-21

A.        Exhortation to servants……………………………………………………….. 6:1-21

B.        Exhortation to Godliness with contentment………………………………….. 6:1-21

C.        Exhortation to the Rich……………………………………………………… 6:17-19

D.        Fifth  charge: guard what was committed……………………………………6:20-21

THE SECOND EPISTLE TO TIMOTHY

For I am now ready to be offered, and the tine of my departure s at hand have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, have kept me faith (II Tim. iv67)

The second Epistle to Timothy is the last in order of writing of Paul’s Epistle and as you read the four chapters through you feed something of the heart beat of the great apostle as he knows he is shortly to lay down his life. The Epistle throbs with his desire to give final exhortations, warning and encouragement to Timothy, while also beseeching Timothy to hasten to hi side.

THE DATE

It would seem that after writing the first letter to Timothy, who was at Ephesus, Paul left Greece and went with Titus to create where he left Titus and returned to Greece. In all probability he was then on his way to NICOPOLIS, intending to spend the writer there (Titus 3:12). It would seem that Paul Proceeded to Miletus where he left Trophimus, who was sick (I Tim. 4:20) and this reference he seems to suggest that he left Erastus at Corinth and may then have proceeded to Troas where he stayed with a believer named Carpus (II Tim. 4:13). It may well be that Paul was arrested there and taker so suddenly that he had no time to gather his belongings. Paul was taken as a prisoner to Rome and it is generally considered that he was executed early in the year A.D. 67 was drawing on. From this letter is would appear that Paul was brought before Nero and his case was heard and then adjourned (II Tin 4:17) but evidently he expected very soon to be called to a second trial and Knew that the time of his departure was at hand.

THE PURPOSE OF THE EPISTLE

Paul the aged knew that soon he would be called to leave this life and stand before the Lord whom he had served so faithfully. He was concerned that Timothy should remain faithful and true. In the over ruling purpose of God we have, therefore a writing which warns of the rise of error, ungodliness and departure from the true, but at the same time exhorts the disciple of the Lord to stand fast in the faith, to holds fast the form of sound words, that is the truth of God and to he constant and faithful in the proclaim of the Good news of the Gospel. In other words, to fulfill the ministry that is committed to every true servant of the Lord.

This is a message from God to each one of us, but it comes through the inspired pen of the Apostle Paul as he was moved by the Holy Ghost and permitted by God the father.

No more fitting human instrument could have been chosen to per these words, far Paul had had to face all that any be and any servant of the Lord will never be called upon to face in the course of his ministry.

Paul knew what it was to suffer disappointment, he knew what it was to face danger and persecution, he knew what it was to have deal with those who perverted the truth that he proclaimed, he knew what it was to be let down by those upon whom he thought he could depend, he Knew what it was to face the possibility of martyrdom at a moment, and yet he could cry none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear into myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God (Acts. 20:24).

Paul seeks to warn young Timothy of erroneous teaching but at the same time he is desirous of strengthening and encouraging Timothy, so that the style is brish and goes rapidly from one subject to another.

Paul makes personal reference to people in this letter, some by way of commendation and others he refers to with sorrow, as for instance, Demas, In  4:10.

The reference to Timothy’s mother and grandmother (1 :5) and his godly upbringing should not be overlooked (3:14, 15). In 3:8, the names of James end Jambers are mentioned as withstanding Moses.

OUTLINE OF SECOND TIMOTHY

I.          PERSEVERE IN PRESENT TESTING…………………………………………… 1:1-2.26

A.        Thanksgiving for Timothy’s faith ……………………………………………1:1 -5

B.        Reminder of Timothy’s Responsibility……………………………………… 1:6-18

C.        Characteristics of a faithful minister…………………………………………. 2:1-26

1.         Disciplining Teacher ………………………………………...…………2:1-2

2.         Single minded soldier…………………………………………………..2: 3-5

3.         Enduring farmer………………..…………………………………….. 2:6-13

4.         Diligent Workman………………………………………………….. 2:14-19

5.         Sanctified vessel ……………………………………………………..2:20-23

6.         Gentle Servant………………………………………………………. 2:24-26

II.        ENDURE   IN FUTURE TESTING……………………………………………. 3:1-4:22

A.        Approaching Day of Apostasy ……………………………………………..3:1-17

1.         Coming of Apostasy……………………………………………….. 3:109

2.         Confronting Apostasy ……………………………………………..3:10-17

B.        Charge to Preach the Word…………………………………………………. 4:1-5

C         Approaching Death of Paul ………………………………………………..4:6-22

1.         Peel’s Hope in Death ………………………………………………4:6-22

2.         Paul’s Situation in Prison…………………………………………. 4:9-18

3.         Paul’s Closing greetings………………………………………….. 4:19-22

THE EPISTLE TO TITUS

The Epistle to Titus consists of three chapters  and therefore it will be a  simple task to sit down and read the whole Epistle through without interruption.

When we refer back to the earlier chapters on the Epistles to Timothy, in both young have reference to the possible movements of Paul following first imprisonment in Rome. It is probable that Paul revisited Greece end Asia Minor and left Timothy to instruct and oversee the Church in Ephesus. He went to Crete with Titus, horn he left behind likewise to instruct and oversee the Church there and also to deal with certain disciplinary matter. Paul no doubt returned to Greece or Macedonia and from there  wrote to Titus (1:5). He probably: intended sending Artemas or Tychicus to  take the place of  Titus so that Titus could rejoin him at Nivopolis (3:12).

Titus would seem to have been led to the Lord by Paul (1 :4) probably he was converted in the early years of Paul’s ministry for you will find reference to him accompanying Paul and Barnabas to Jerusalem for the meeting with the Apostles at conclusion of the first missionary journey (Gal. 12:1-13)

Titus is also associated with Paul in the Third missionary Journey and was sent by Paul from Ephesus to Corinth to report on the state of the Church there and also to let him know the reception his first letter had (II Cor. 2:12,12,8: 1-9,9:1 -5).

Titus later met the Apostle within the period mentioned in Acts, 20:1 -2, (II Cor. 7:5-3). Paul had confidence in the ability of Titus to deal wisely, sympathetically and yet definitely with questions of disorder amongst Christians.

Evidently, he could also count upon Titus to act and patience in the face of difficult circumstances. Titus was a Gentile.

THE DATE

We do not know how the Church first became established there but evidently tiara there companies of Christians scattered throughout the Island. It may well be That some of those who were present on the day of Pentecost and heard Peter’s first proclamation of the Gospel carried the good news back to their people (Acts. 2:11). It was evidently stated that Paul visited Crete after his first imprisonment in Rome (1:5) and subsequent to this visit wrote to Titus. In  all probability it was written shortly after the first Epistle to Timothy in A.D 66 therefore A.D 67 would be the date of writing.

THE PURPOSE OF THE EPISTLE

Paul quotes from one of the certain poets to describe their character (1:12) and this general description of certain is true to other records. Titus had a particularly difficult task in seeking to instruct the turbulent Corinthians to recognise authority and a pray for those who were appointed over them in specific matters (3:1).

Paul emphasizes the need for good works (1:16,2:7-14, 3:1,8,14). This no doubt was because of that which was lacking in the character of the Cretains generally and also, ala, in the lives of the Cretain Christians, It cannot however be stated that Paul was speaking of salvation by works for he makes it write clear that salvation is through the grace of God and the the of the Holy Spirit (3:5).

OUTLINE OF TITUS

I.          APPOINT ELDERS ………………………………………………………………….1:1-16

1.         Introduction …………………………………………………………………..1:1-14

2.         Ordain Qualified Elders………………………………………………………..1:5-9

3.         Rebuke false Teachers……………………………………………………….1:10-16

II.        SET THINGS IN ORDER………………………………………………………… 2 :1-3:5

A.        Speak sound doctrine ……………………………………………………….2:1-15

B.        Maintain Good works ………………………………………………………3:1-11

C.        Conclusion………………………………………………………………… 3:12-15

THE EPISTLE TO PHILEMON

READ EPH. 2:1-610

The Epistle of Paul to Philemon is the shortest of his New Testament letter Therefore, it is hardly necessary to ask you to read the whole of it ‘through  without interruption.

It is only personal and private letter of Paul’s that has been preserved for us contains twenty -five verses, but the value of a book corn never be judge but its length. This is a spiritual gem.

THE DATE OF WRITING

This Epistle was written from Rome and is included in the group known as the prison Epistles, referred to in the first paragraph in the chapter of Ephesians it was at the same time as the Epistle to the Colossians and Onesimus accompanied Tychicus on his return to Colosse.

The letter is addressed to Philemon whom Paul refers to as “dearly believed” an ‘fellow labourer” but includes also the names of Apphia and Archippus “our fellow soldier”). He also sends greeting to the church in thy house,

Therefore the Epistle to the Philemon was written in A.D 60 and Paul send it through Tychicus and runaway slave Onesimus.

THE PURPOSFOF  THE EPISTLE

Onesimus who is the main subject the Epistle, a runaway slave. He has left Philemon and made his way to Rome. There he evidently comes into touch with Paul and is converted. It may be that Onesimus and frequently heard reference to the name of Paul when believers met in Philemon’s house, This may have included him to make contacts met in now that he was in Rome. While Paul would have valued the service of Onesimus (11, 13), yet he would not keep him without Philemon’s consent. Furthermore, he know that under Roman law a runaway’ slave could be subject to severe punishment if not even death itself.

From this, naturally, Paul is anxious to save him, and so he ser him back with Tychicus who is to act as Mediator between Onesimus and Philemon. At the same time, he sends this letter by Onesimus on even which he commends the runaway slave to his master and does so with great tact and courtesy.

Paul writes of his confluence that henceforth he will find Onesimus trustworthy and profitable.

It making this appeal, observe how Paul refers to the fact that he is a prisoner vrs 1,91,10. He also refers to the fact he is “Paul  the aged”. In all probability, Paul was at least 60 years of age a this time (vs 9). Furthermore, notice how in vrs 19 Paul not only promises to stand surety for Onesimus, but e Philemon that he ones salvation to Paul.

He urges Philemon to receive Onesimus is commended to the whole Church of Colossian 4:9 Onesimus is commended to the whole church of Colossae and is spoken of as one of you and a faithful and beloved brother thereby showing that he had become a true Christian.

It is however as well to remember that personal notes such as this letter are always meant to be outlined, for in this short writing he revealed as an unselfish man which is full of love and humility. He writes to Philemon in faraway Colossae. and earnestly interest for Onesimus the runaway slave, whom he now counts as his son vrs 10 and as a brother beloved vs 16. What gentleness and gracefulness is manifest in vs 17 where rather than assert any apostolic authority, Paul suggests to Philemon that, if Philemon would count him as a partner in the service of the Lord should receive Onesimus.

OUTLINE OF PHILEMON

1          The prayer of thanksgiving for Philemon…………………………1-7

2.         The petition of Paul for Onesimus……………………………….8:16

3.         The promise of Paul to Philemon……………………………... 17-25