Growing up Timothy

Nº 353

May 6, 2025

Let France have good mothers, and she will have good sons. - Napoleon Bonaparte

Timothy was born and raised about the same time the church started and began to grow. His Jewish heritage came from his mother, and his father was Greek.

Paul and Timothy probably met in Lystra during Paul’s first missionary journey. Young Timothy accompanied Paul on his second tour. Timothy intersected with Paul throughout much of the third journey. Eventually, Paul appointed Timothy as pastor of the emerging church in Ephesus.

Paul wrote two letters to Timothy, giving him instruction and insights into serving well as a pastor. In the opening statement of the second letter, Paul said, “I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well.” (2 Timothy 1:5)

Many people contributed to Timothy’s spiritual development, but Paul recognized the significant input of his mother and grandmother. These two devout ladies, Lois and Eunice, laid the foundation that God used to shape one of the church’s significant young leaders.

Next Sunday, the USA and many nations celebrate Mother’s Day. We should honor mothers and grandmothers well for their many sacrifices, but we all have spiritual parents and grandparents. Remember to thank them as well.

Excelsior,

Dan Bolin

Author & President