This November, I gave the youth in my church an assignment: to read about young people in the Bible, both the heroes and the cautionary tales, and reflect on which story stands out to them or resonates with their own lives. But let’s be honest—it would be a bit hypocritical if I didn’t take on the challenge myself, right?
As I read the stories, two names jumped out at me: Timothy and Isaac. Timothy, with his humble beginnings, dedication, and loyalty, was an obvious pick. But Isaac caught my attention for a completely different reason—he was the promised son. His birth would be a miracle in itself and from his lineage greatness would come. The contrast between these two characters really stood out to me.
The Story of Timothy
Timothy is first mentioned in the Book of Acts (Acts 16:1-2) during Paul’s second missionary journey. He was from Lystra (a city in modern-day Turkey) and had a Jewish mother, Eunice, who was a believer, and a Greek father. He was well-regarded by the believers in Lystra and Iconium. His grandmother, Lois, and mother, Eunice, were devout Jewish Christians who taught him the Scriptures from a young age (2 Timothy 1:5; 3:15).
Acts 16:3-5
Impressed by Timothy’s faith and reputation, Paul decides to take him along as a co-worker on his missionary journeys. Along the way Paul circumcises him because his father was Greek, and they were ministering to Jewish communities who would question Timothy’s commitment.
Acts 16-20
Timothy accompanies Paul through various regions and he is a part of key missionary efforts and church plantings; including Macedonia, Philippi, Thessalonica, and Corinth where they encounter persecution.
1 Thessalonians 3:1-2
Timothy was so much trusted by Paul that he was sent to the church in Thessalonica so he could strengthen the believers amid persecution. Timothy later returns with a positive report about their faith and love.
1 Corinthians 4:17; 16:10-11
Paul also sends Timothy to the church in Corinth to help address various issues and reinforce Paul’s teachings.
Acts 19-20
Timothy doesn’t hesitate to help Paul during his extended stay in Ephesus. He witnesses the growth of the church there and the opposition it faces, especially from local idol makers (Acts 19:23-41).
1 Timothy 1:3-7
After witnessing his dedication and zeal, Paul later appoints Timothy to lead the church in Ephesus. He instructs Timothy to address false teachings and set a good example for the believers.
1 Timothy
Paul writes his first letter to Timothy, offering practical advice on leading the church, fighting false doctrine, and upholding moral integrity. He gives instructions on prayer, worship, church discipline, and the roles of leaders like elders and deacons.
2 Timothy
This book was written during Paul’s imprisonment in Rome, this letter is more personal. We read Paul urging Timothy to remain faithful despite suffering, to continue preaching the Gospel, and to guard the truth. Paul expresses his longing to see Timothy and acknowledges that his time on earth is nearing its end (2 Timothy 4:6-8).
Philippians 2:19-24
In his letter to the Philippians, Paul expresses his intention to send Timothy to them, because of his genuine concern for their well-being and Timothy’s proven character in the service of Christ.
Hebrews 13:23
The author of Hebrews (possibly Paul) mentions that Timothy has been released from prison, indicating that Timothy faced persecution for his faith as well.
Why is this story impressive?
The story of Timothy seems like the perfect journey into ministry: raised in the Lord, having a passion to serve, and given the grace to accompany an anointed minister who mentors him properly (with occasional obstacles). But there is much more to his story.
Timothy was indeed raised with the Scriptures from a young age, but that doesn’t necessarily mean he was destined to be a church planter. Nowhere in the Bible do we see God directly calling Timothy to go on any mission. Instead, Paul noticed him and wanted the young man to follow him. From that point on, Timothy consciously chose to be obedient to Paul and their shared purpose. This does not deny the fact that Timothy had the gift and the grace of God was upon him.
We do not see Timothy displaying arrogance, taking advantage of Paul’s favor, fighting for position, or questioning God. What I really appreciate about his story is that he became an accomplished servant of God who successfully planted churches without any dramatic backstory.
This shows that anyone can be used by God as long as they are willing to stay true to their calling. Timothy’s assignment and passion were for church planting, and that is what he did. He had clarity in his purpose and chose to stay with the man of God who he believed could mentor him, despite the difficulties they faced.
It’s a refreshingly normal story that could apply to any one of us in this day and age.
What is that thing you love to do? How does it glorify God and add to His kingdom? And who can help you accomplish that goal?
Isaac, on the other hand, led a completely different life, even though his conception and youth were surrounded by drama. But that’s a story for next week.
Stay Blessed x
