istle (1:1-5). Titus is left in
Crete to accomplish certain things (1:5) after which he is to rejoin
Paul (3:12).

2. The kind of officers to be appointed in the Cretan churches
(1:5-16). Special moral and spiritual fitness is set forth as
necessary in view of the peculiar character of the Cretans and certain
forms of doctrinal error.

3. The instruction to be given to the Cretans (2:1-3:11). (a) "The
things which become sound doctrine." (b) Practical teaching for the
proper regulation of the conduct of all classes. (c) The foundation of
the instruction rests upon Christ. (d) Proper attitude of the
Christian community toward the Pagan world; magistrates and those who
have not yet believed in Christ. Kindness and gentleness and the
avoidance of foolish questions best reveal the spirit of Christ by
those who profess His name. (e) Parting requests and benediction
(3:12-15).

THE SECOND EPISTLE TO TIMOTHY

+The Last Words of Paul.+--This Epistle is of special interest as it
contains the last recorded words of Paul to his faithful disciple,
Timothy. The Great Apostle is writing from a strict prison confinement
(1:16, 17; 2:9). He has had a first preliminary trial (4:16) and this
was of such a dread nature that none of his friends dare to stand with
him, yet he rejoices in his Lord that He stood by him and strengthened
him. He feels however that his end is near and gives a magnificent
testimony of his faith (4:6-8). He urges Timothy to come to him in
Rome and bring Mark with him (4:9, 11).

+Time and Place of Writing.+--It was written by Paul in prison at Rome
67 A.D.

+The Purpose.+--Paul shows here his care for the churches, their
upbuilding in the faith and their proper regulation of the things that
pertain to worship and organization. Timothy, as a preacher of the
Word, has his personal responsibility, for the upbuilding of the
churches, presented to him.

+Principal Divisions and Chief Points.+

1. Greeting and thanksgiving (1:1-5).

2. The Christian conduct of Timothy (1:6-2:14). Paul exhorts Timothy
not to allow himself to be daunted by fear of opposition or suffering
in doing his work for Christ. He encourages him by, (a) The great
revelation and power of the gospel. (b) His own work. (c) The sure
hope of a great reward.

3. Timothy as a preacher of the Word (2:15-4:5). Paul exhorts
Timothy, (a) To study to show himself a workman. (b) In the perilous
times that are coming to fe