The Pastoral Epistles (1-2 Timothy, Titus) Authority Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Chapter: Verse)

Quote #4

I hope to come to you soon, but I am writing these instructions to you so that, if I am delayed, you may know how one ought to behave in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and bulwark of the truth. (1 Timothy 3:14-15, NRSV)

These things write I unto thee, hoping to come unto thee shortly: But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth. (1 Timothy 3:14-15, KJV)

Now it's time for the torch of authority to be passed. Paul can't be there in person, so he designates Timothy as his official representative. The chain of command has been set.

Quote #5

Until I arrive, give attention to the public reading of scripture, to exhorting, to teaching. Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you through prophecy with the laying on of hands by the council of elders. Put these things into practice, devote yourself to them, so that all may see your progress. Pay close attention to yourself and to your teaching; continue in these things, for in doing this you will save both yourself and your hearers. (1 Timothy 4:13-16, NRSV)

Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine. Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery. Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all. Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee. (1 Timothy 4:13-16, KJV)

Not only has Timothy got Paul's seal of approval; he also has the Godly magic in him. Timothy has the gift of prophecy, which he received from God when some elder Christians laid their hands on him. He's been touched by an angel, and Paul reminds him to keep this good work going and save the world.

Quote #6

Never accept any accusation against an elder except on the evidence of two or three witnesses. (1 Timothy 5:19, NRSV)

Against an elder receive not an accusation, but before two or three witnesses. (1 Timothy 5:19, KJV)

So there are different rules for people in positions of authority, huh? All an elder has to do is make sure only one person is around every time he commits a crime and he'll never get in trouble. So devious.