Editing Introduction to 1 Timothy (section)

=== INTERPRETIVE CHALLENGES ===
Scholars disagree over the identity of the false teachers (1:3) and the genealogies
(1:4) involved in their teaching. What it means to be “delivered to Satan” (1:20)
has also been a source of debate. The letter contains key passages in the debate
over the extent of the atonement (2:4-6; 4:10). Paul’s teaching on the role of
women (2:9- 15) has generated much discussion, particularly his declaration that
they are not to assume leadership roles in the church (2:11-12). How women can
be saved by bearing children (2:15) has also confused many. Whether the fact
that an elder must be “the husband of one wife” excludes divorced or unmarried
men has been disputed, as well as whether Paul refers to deacons’ wives or
deaconesses (3:11). Those who believe Christians can lose their salvation cite 4:1
as support for their view. "there is a question about the identity of the widows in
5:3-16—are they needy women ministered to by the church, or an order of older
women ministering to the church? Does “double honor” accorded to elders who
rule well (5:17—18) refer to respect or money? These will all be dealt with in the
notes provided by the passages.


----


&larr; [[1 & 2 Timothy by John MacArthur]]