Timothy was one of Paul’s young converts and one of his closest companions. Timothy had been sent to the church at Ephesus to counter the false teaching there. Paul gave Timothy practical advice about the ministry. Apparently Timothy struggled with a timid and reserved nature and allowed others to look down on his youth. I heard a pastor say once that every Christian should have in his life a “Paul” (someone to look up to and imitate), a “Timothy”(someone to disciple), and a “Barnabas”(someone to encourage us and to hold us to account).

1 Tim 1:18-20
Timothy, my son, I give you this instruction in keeping with the prophecies once made about you, so that by following them you may fight the good fight, holding on to faith and a good conscience. Some have rejected these and so have shipwrecked their faith. Among them are Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom I have handed over to Satan to be taught not to blaspheme.
How can a person shipwreck their faith? What does “handed over to Satan” mean?

1 Tim 2:9-12
I also want women to dress modestly, with decency and propriety, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or expensive clothes, but with good deeds, appropriate for women who profess to worship God. A woman should learn in quietness and full submission. I do not permit a woman to teach or to have authority over a man; she must be silent.
In the culture of the day, for women to dress this way was disrespectful. Some also placed undue emphasis on the outward appearance. Women were not usually taught scripture in those times. Many of those who were learning of Jesus’ teachings were trying to teach others without being properly trained and were speaking in human wisdom and not led by the Holy Spirit wisdom.

Paul specifically states the requirements of the leaders of the churches (elders and deacons) for positions of authority. He certainly sets up a high standard, not only for the leaders but for their families as well.

Paul also warns what happens when we abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits. “…consciences have been seared as with a hot iron.”
What happens when something is seared? Nerves are killed and have no feeling.

1 Tim 4:12
Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity.
I remember one of our Sunday school second graders (now a senior in high school) reciting this verse. He still sets an example!

1 Tim 6:17-19
Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.
What a great way to end 1Timothy!