From infancy and throughout his life, Timothy studied the Scriptures and learned about God. His father was an unbelieving Greek, but his mother and grandmother were followers of God and taught him well. As a young man, Timothy joined the Apostle Paul on missionary journeys and continued serving God in many ways over his lifetime. He was like a son to Paul and one of his most trusted co-workers.

Emphasise that we can be like Timothy and begin to learn about God from an early age.

Bible verses used in this episode:

• Acts 16:1-5
• 2 Timothy 1:3-7
• 2 Timothy 3:14-15
• 1 Thessalonians 3:2
• 1 Timothy 5:23
• Hebrews 13:23
• 1 Corinthians 4:17

Tips for teaching children:

• Show the class some of the material used to teach children younger than them. They will notice that the material seems babyish. Let them enjoy that they have “matured in the Lord” since that time.
• Arrange to have the children visit a class of younger children and observe their class.

Tips for teaching adults:

• Use this free online concordance to find the 25 references to Timothy in the New Testament. Provide these verses to the class and ask them to describe Timothy.
• Consider the following discussion questions:
  • What is something new that you have learned about Timothy?
  • Is there anyone you know that reminds you of Timothy? How?
  • How did Timothy demonstrate his faithfulness to God and his friendship to Paul?
  • What one or two things about Timothy do you want to be more like?
  • How can Timothy encourage you in your faith?

Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:

Bible Lesson: Timothy

Scriptures quoted from the International Children’s Bible®, copyright ©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.

Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.

For questions or comments email: mary@missionbibleclass.org