1 Timothy 1–2

Living the Gospel

What is unique about those who follow Jesus Christ? What simple principles do they follow that make such a difference in their lives? Paul counseled Timothy on how to live a gospel-centered life. As you read 1 Timothy 1–2, think about how following Paul’s counsel can help you as you strive to follow the Savior.

Understanding the Scriptures

1 Timothy 1

Charge (v. 3)Teach, command

Unfeigned (v. 5)Sincere

Whoremongers (v. 10)Adulterers, fornicators

Perjured persons (v. 10)Liars, promise breakers

Blasphemer (v. 13)One who speaks evil of God and others

1 Timothy 2

Intercessions (v. 1)Prayers in behalf of another

Mediator (v. 5)One who helps settle differences between two individuals

A ransom (v. 6)To pay the price

Adorn (v. 9)Clothe

Sobriety (v. 9)Self-control

1 Timothy 2:9–12—“Suffer Not a Woman to Teach”?

President Joseph Fielding Smith taught:

“In this dispensation the Lord gave commandment that the sisters of the Church should be organized, that they should hold meetings, teach each other the gospel of the kingdom, administer to the poor, the needy, and the distressed. They were to nurse the sick and those who needed comfort.

“Our Relief Society came by divine revelation. This is true also of the Mutual Improvement and Primary organizations. The foolish notions which were practiced by the Jews and others anciently have no place in the kingdom of God today. The Lord has promised to all, males and females alike, the gift of the Holy Ghost on conditions of faithfulness, humility, and true repentance. They are required to study and to know the truths of the gospel and to prepare themselves by study, faith, and obedience to all commandments to seek for light and truth that they may be entitled to celestial glory” (Answers to Gospel Questions, 3:68–69).

Studying the Scriptures

Do activities A and B as you study 1 Timothy 1–2.

1. Make a “To Do” List

   Make two columns in your notebook. Label one column To Do and the other Not to Do. Read 1 Timothy 1–2 and list at least ten things in the appropriate columns that we are to do or not do. The “Understanding the Scriptures” section for 1 Timothy 1–2 may also be helpful.

2. A Fashion Statement

   1. Read 1 Timothy 2:9–10 and look for how Paul counseled women to dress. If Paul were to come to your school today, what clothing styles or fashion trends do you think he would condemn? (List at least five.)

   2. The scriptures teach us about the Lord’s expectations for how we dress. Read 1 Nephi 13:7–8; Jacob 2:13; Alma 1:6; 4:6; 5:53; 31:27–28; 4 Nephi 1:24; Mormon 8:36–37; and Doctrine and Covenants 42:40. Summarize what you think these verses teach us. How well does your summary match the guidelines in the For the Strength of Youth pamphlet?