Paul wrote three letters which are considered the Pastoral Epistles: I and II Timothy and Titus.
The first letter of Timothy is addressed to Paul's devoted disciple who was pastoring in the church at Ephesus. Paul focused on the administration of the local church. The epistle is divided into four major sections: personal greetings; qualities of the laity; qualifications for church leadership; and admonitions to Timothy concerning the ministry.
The second letter to Timothy continued admonitions to him concerning his conduct and ministry. The two most notable challenges:
2 Timothy 2:15 New Living Translation (NLT)
Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth.
2 Timothy 3:16 New Living Translation (NLT)
All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.
Paul's second letter to Timothy is considered to be Paul's last epistle written. However, before writing II Timothy, Paul wrote a pastoral letter to Titus, who was also a young pastor struggling with the difficulties of church administration. In this epistle Paul focused on qualifications of leadership and content of sound doctrine.
Titus, more than any other epistle, emphasizes grace and good works:
Titus 3:4-8 New Living Translation (NLT)
4 But—
When God our Savior revealed his kindness and love, 5 he saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and new life through the Holy Spirit.[a] 6 He generously poured out the Spirit upon us through Jesus Christ our Savior. 7 Because of his grace he made us right in his sight and gave us confidence that we will inherit eternal life.
8 This is a trustworthy saying, and I want you to insist on these teachings so that all who trust in God will devote themselves to doing good. These teachings are good and beneficial for everyone.
This completes the 13 letters written by Apostle Paul, which comprises almost half of the 27 books included in the New Testament writings.
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