Saint Timothy

Saint Timothy was a first-century Christian missionary and companion of Paul, traditionally regarded as the first bishop of Ephesus and the recipient of two New Testament letters.

Connect

Paul the Apostle: A first-century Christian missionary and apostle whose letters became part of the New Testament. Paul recruited Timothy as a coworker and repeatedly entrusted him with missions to Christian communities.
First Epistle to Timothy: A New Testament letter addressed to Timothy that gives instructions about church leadership and conduct. It presents Timothy as a delegate responsible for organizing a Christian community.
Ephesus: An ancient Greek city in western Anatolia and a major center of early Christianity. Christian tradition identifies Ephesus as the city where Timothy served as bishop.
Lystra: An ancient city in Lycaonia where Paul met Timothy, according to Acts. Acts places Timothy’s home community at the beginning of his association with Paul.
Eunice: Timothy’s mother, whom 2 Timothy identifies as a Jewish believer who taught him the Scriptures. Her faith and instruction are presented as part of Timothy’s religious formation.
Second Epistle to Timothy: A New Testament letter addressed to Timothy that portrays Paul near the end of his life. It recalls Timothy’s family background and urges him to continue his ministry.
Early Christian ministry: The preaching, teaching, travel, and community leadership undertaken by Christians in the first centuries. Timothy’s missions and pastoral responsibilities exemplify several forms of early Christian service.
Jewish Christianity: The forms of early Christianity practiced by followers of Jesus who identified with Jewish tradition. Timothy’s mother was Jewish, and the letters describe his knowledge of Jewish Scripture.
Lois: Timothy’s grandmother, named in 2 Timothy as a sincere believer. The letter links her faith with the religious heritage Timothy received from his family.
Acts of the Apostles: A New Testament narrative of the early Christian movement and the missions of Peter and Paul. Acts recounts Timothy joining Paul’s mission and traveling with him.