Paul's ministry to the Gentiles took him throughout the known world, and along the way he collected men who desired to minister with him. One of those men was a young teacher and pastor named Timothy who stayed behind in Ephesus after Paul moved on. Later Paul wrote two letters to this young pastor encouraging him in the face of dissension and false teachers. 

Despite assaults from various critics over the centuries, Paul's advice to Timothy has stood the test of time proving itself to be an indispensable manual both for church leaders and congregations. Paul's words can be difficult at times, because his teaching exposes our pride, rebellion and selfishness, yet Paul is characteristically patient, loving and committed to delivering the truth no matter how it is received.