Although Paul planned to come to Timothy shortly he wrote him a letter in case of a delay. He did not think it appropriate to risk putting off his instruction for Timothy as a young preacher, and the people he would be teaching. Paul’s instruction concerned conduct in the house of God/church of the living God/pillar and ground of truth. These three descriptors represent all Christians. His instruction is for them as individuals, and as a whole – the church. They are fellow members of a family, i.e. God’s house. The Father of that house is God. He is living, and all things are visible to Him (cf. Hebrews 4:13). The church is the means by which the truth is upheld. The church is to communicate the unadulterated truth to others (cf. Matthew 28:18-20), and contend for it when it is threatened (cf. Jude 3).

This truth which reveals godliness is great and wondrous to behold. Paul writes elsewhere, “Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past finding out!” (Romans 11:33). The mystery is:

Jesus humbled Himself and came in the form of man (cf. John 1:1-5, 14). He was perfect – “in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin” (Hebrews 4:15). “Things the angels desire to look into” (1 Peter 1:12) they saw in Christ. His redemptive work was not for Jews only, but Gentiles also (cf. Ephesians 2). Many have believed in Him, and as a result have received hope (cf. John 3:16). He has been glorified and is now reigning, and waiting to return (cf. Hebrews 1:8; Acts 17:31).