Topical Bible: Timothy: Sent to the Corinthians

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Timothy, a prominent figure in the New Testament, was a close companion and protégé of the Apostle Paul. His role in the early Christian church was significant, particularly in his mission to the Corinthians. Timothy's involvement with the Corinthian church is primarily documented in the Pauline Epistles, where his character and mission are highlighted.

Background and Relationship with Paul

Timothy was the son of a Jewish mother and a Greek father, which provided him with a unique cultural perspective that was beneficial in his ministry. He was well-regarded by the believers in Lystra and Iconium (Acts 16:1-2). Paul, recognizing Timothy's potential, chose him as a companion for his missionary journeys. Timothy's relationship with Paul was akin to that of a father and son, as Paul often referred to him affectionately as his "true son in the faith" (1 Timothy 1:2).

Mission to Corinth

The city of Corinth was a major center of commerce and culture in the ancient world, known for its diverse population and moral challenges. The Corinthian church, established by Paul during his second missionary journey, faced numerous issues, including divisions, immorality, and doctrinal confusion. To address these challenges, Paul sent Timothy to Corinth as his representative.

In 1 Corinthians 4:17, Paul writes, "For this reason I have sent you Timothy, my beloved and faithful child in the Lord. He will remind you of my way of life in Christ Jesus, which is exactly what I teach everywhere in every church" . Timothy's mission was to reinforce Paul's teachings and to provide guidance and support to the Corinthian believers.

Timothy's Role and Challenges

Timothy's task in Corinth was not an easy one. The church was plagued by internal strife and external pressures. Paul, aware of the difficulties Timothy might face, urged the Corinthians to receive him with respect and to ensure that he could carry out his work without fear. In 1 Corinthians 16:10-11, Paul instructs, "If Timothy comes, see to it that he has nothing to fear while he is with you, for he is doing the Lord’s work, just as I am. No one, then, should treat him with contempt. Send him on his way in peace so that he may return to me, for I am expecting him along with the brothers" .

Impact and Legacy

Timothy's mission to Corinth exemplifies his dedication and faithfulness to the early church. His ability to navigate complex situations and his commitment to the teachings of Paul were instrumental in strengthening the Corinthian church. Timothy's work in Corinth, as well as in other regions, contributed significantly to the spread and establishment of Christianity in the first century.

Throughout the New Testament, Timothy is portrayed as a model of Christian leadership and servanthood. His willingness to serve under Paul's direction and his effectiveness in ministry highlight the importance of mentorship and collaboration in the growth of the early church.

Nave's Topical Index

1 Corinthians 4:17
For this cause have I sent to you Timotheus, who is my beloved son, and faithful in the Lord, who shall bring you into remembrance of my ways which be in Christ, as I teach every where in every church.
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1 Corinthians 16:10,11
Now if Timotheus come, see that he may be with you without fear: for he works the work of the Lord, as I also do.
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Library

The First Epistle to the Corinthians
... for the saints at Jerusalem, bespeaks a good reception for Timothy, and ends his ...
the questions that were put to him in the letter sent by the Corinthians. ...
/.../drummond/introduction to the new testament/the first epistle to the.htm

The Second Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Corinthians
... This lost letter was probably sent by Titus (2 Corinthians 12:18 ... Paul thought that
it would be wiser not to entrust Timothy with the delicate task of ...
/.../pullan/the books of the new testament/chapter xi the second epistle.htm

Homilies of St. John Chrysostom, Archbishop of Constantinople, on ...
... ii.22.) And to the Corinthians again he writes: "I have sent unto you Timothy, who
is my beloved son, and faithful in the Lord." (1 Corinthians 4:17.) And again ...
/.../homilies of st john chrysostom 3.htm

The First Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Corinthians
... Paul determined to visit Corinth a third time, and sent Timothy as his representative
to prepare for his coming (1 Corinthians 4:17, xvi.10). ...
/.../pullan/the books of the new testament/chapter x the first epistle.htm

1 Timothy v. 21-23
... to Paul himself a "messenger of Satan" was sent that he should not be "exalted above
measure" (2 Corinthians 12:11.), much more might it be so with Timothy. ...
/.../homily xvi 1 timothy v.htm

2 Timothy iv. 13-Sep
... writes, "whose praise is in the Gospel [1434] throughout all the Churches." (2
Corinthians 8:18 ... So it was on the same account he sent for Timothy, not for ...
/.../homily x 2 timothy iv.htm

Paul Having Been Sent Bound from Judea to Rome, Made his Defense ...
... 6. In his second epistle to Timothy, moreover, he indicates ... procurator in 60, then
Paul was sent to Rome ... Clement of Rome (Epistle to the Corinthians, c. 5.) is ...
/.../pamphilius/church history/chapter xxii paul having been sent.htm

2 Timothy i. 13-18
... the shame, and not of the danger, lest Timothy should be ... He says, "ye sent once and
again unto my necessities ... Lord Christ Jesus, and one God." (1 Corinthians 8:6 ...
/.../homily iii 2 timothy i.htm

1 Timothy ii. 4-Feb
... faith, and is worse than an infidel." (1 Timothy 5:8 ... a fornicator, or covetous, or
an idolater" (1 Corinthians 5:11 ... some say, many, and that He has sent His Son ...
/.../homily vii 1 timothy ii.htm

1 Timothy i. 1, 2
... a necessity is laid upon me" (1 Corinthians 9:16 ... by commandment." He begins in this
manner, that Timothy may not ... at once refers his hearers to Him that sent him ...
/.../homily i 1 timothy i.htm