When studying the Bible, I begin by carefully examining the passage on my own—drawing out observations, asking questions, noting interpretations, and exploring cross-references without consulting additional resources. After spending time reflecting on the text, I turn to a commentary or two to gain insights from scholars, seek answers to my questions, and uncover deeper context. As I study, I often focus on the passage’s structure, considering its outline and the flow of what’s happening.
What I appreciate about the New Testament Theology series is that, rather than focusing solely on structure, the authors emphasize the theological themes of each book. These themes are tied to the content but also illuminate the richness of God’s character and bring the gospel’s centrality to the forefront.
The Appearing of God Our Savior is the next release in the series, diving into the themes of 1 & 2 Timothy and Titus. If you’re studying this book personally or in a group, you’ll want to add this to your resource shelf!
The Appearing of God Our Savior | Book Review
Content
My Take
Content
Purpose of the Book
This is part of the New Testament Theology series. In this book we’re looking at the major themes in the books of 1 & 2 Timothy and Titus.
Table of Contents
Introduction: Who, What, When, and Why?
Part 1: 1 Timothy: The Only God
Chapter 1: The God Who Saves
Chapter 2: The Hope of Salvation
Chapter 3: The Word of God
Chapter 4: The Household of God
Chapter 5: The Promise of Godliness
Part 2: 2 Timothy: Remember Jesus Christ
Chapter 6: The God of Power
Chapter 7: The Promise of Life
Chapter 8: The Living Word
Chapter 9: Suffering and the Gospel
Part 3: Titus: God Our Savior
Chapter 10: The God of Grace
Chapter 11: He Saved Us
Chapter 12: Our People, God’s Elect
Epilogue
Summary
Separated into sections for each book of the Bible, the author takes us through the themes of Paul’s writings in 1 & 2 Timothy and Titus. In 1 Timothy the purpose of the letter is to “advance and protect God’s purpose and plan of salvation” so the theme of salvation and the one, true God who saves are primary in contrast to the false teachings inching their way into the church.
In 2 Timothy Paul’s circumstances have changed, instead of planning to visit Timothy in Ephesus, he’s now in prison, waiting for his death, suffering through desertion of his colleagues and persecution. The focus of his instruction shifts to encouraging Timothy to persevere in advancing the gospel in the face of suffering.
In his address to Titus, Paul aims to counter false teaching by promoting sound leadership. He also reminds Titus of every believer’s responsibility to persevere in godliness, living out their new identity through a transformed life rather than reverting to their former ways.
My Take: Always Advancing the Gospel
Whether it’s advancing the gospel to unreached areas, passing it to the next generation, or confronting false teaching, the epistles of 1 & 2 Timothy and Titus emphasize the critical role of sound teaching in the church and the life-changing transformation that flows from true belief. The gospel is our salvation—the work of a Savior that calls us to live as lights in the darkness, distinct from the world and carrying His light into every area of our lives.
Paul’s zeal can feel intimidating—his energy and intensity might seem out of reach for us. But as I reflected on the themes in these letters, I felt a renewed desire to pray for the unreached and for my local church to be faithful in sharing the gospel and living godly lives. A godly life is a powerful witness, often underestimated, but it speaks volumes in our workplaces, our families, and beyond. Living in our new identity truly sets us apart.
We won’t live perfectly, of course. But when our ultimate desire is God’s glory, we’re more likely to confess our weaknesses and failures. After all, it’s not our works that save us but God’s grace.
And that’s a strong testimony.
What are some ways you live differently from the world around you?
My Recommendation
If you’re doing personal bible study, or preparing to teach one, on 1 & 2 Timothy or Titus this is a resource you’ll want to add to your collection. It also works well for those who are reading through these books slowly and want to look carefully at the themes.
You’ll want to read this with a bible in hand, as there are lots of cross-references to fall back to and explore. Definitely recommend this for your resource shelf!
Quick Stats
# of Pages: 192
Level of Difficulty: Moderate
My Rating: 5 stars
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Favourite Passages from 1 & 2 Timothy and Titus
“The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost. But I received mercy for this reason, that in me, as the foremost, Jesus Christ might display his perfect patience as an example to those who were to believe in him for eternal life. To the King of the ages, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen. (1 Tim 1:15-17)
“Have nothing to do with irreverent, silly myths. Rather train yourself for godliness; for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance. For to this end we toil and strive, because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe” (1 Tim. 4:7-10)
“Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in suffering for the gospel by the power of God, who saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of his own purpose and grace, which he gave us in Christ JEsus before the ages began and which now has been manifested through the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel” (2 Tim. 1:8-10)
“For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in the present age, waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works” (Titus 2:11-14)
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*A big thanks to Crossway for the copy of this book and for the opportunity to post an honest review.
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