In the Bible it is clear that some of its heroes are particularly gifted: few of us can benchpress a city gate like Samson, or quote most of the Old Testament from memory like Paul. But the young man Timothy, to whom Paul writes two letters included in the New Testament, does not seem to be such a person.
There is hardly a more relatable, everyman character in Scripture than Timothy. Yet God would use him in mighty ways, such that the apostle Paul himself would say of him, “I have no one like him.”
As we begin our study through Paul’s first letter to Timothy, we want to learn what monumental truths can transform an ordinary man into an extraordinary gift to the kingdom of Christ.
1) Timothy was ordinary:
Point to ponder: Like many of us, Timothy did not have an ideal home situation, or perfect health.
Question to consider: Is there any obstacle to spiritual growth in your life, that God is unable to overcome by his grace?
2) Timothy was extraordinary.
Point to ponder: Timothy is mentioned by name in 12 of the books in the New Testament.
Question to consider: Are you like Timothy, “of the same mind” with the apostle Paul, genuinely concerned for the spiritual welfare of others?
3) Timothy was just like every Christian.
Point to ponder: God daily uses ordinary people to make an eternally significant impact.
Question to consider: What ordinary gifts has God given you that might be used in extraordinary ways for his glory?