Does the uncertainty about the authorship of the pastoral epistles affect how you read them? What might the implications be if these letters are not written by Paul?
In 1 Timothy, we hear the phrase “the mystery of faith” (3:9). Why do you think the author uses this phrase, especially in a letter that is otherwise concerned with order and procedure?
Applying the Text:
Professor Morgan tells us that the pastoral epistles introduce the Christian practice of ‘trusting the text,’ the logos or teaching. Does this change how you think about studying the Bible? Do you feel that the introduction of this instruction in the pastoral letters has shaped Christian teaching and practice?
Does the author’s concern for hierarchy and order within the early Christian community speak to the current situation of the Church? How have these concerns changed or stayed the same?
There are a number of teachings, especially regarding the leadership of women in the church, that many mainline Christian traditions have challenged in contemporary times. How do you engage with parts of scripture, especially contained in the pastoral epistles, that you may not agree with?