1 & 2 Timothy and Titus: To Guard the Deposit (Preaching the Word)

There are substantial reasons to be energized about studying the Pastoral Letters of Paul. Between them they teach the proper ordering of the church (1 Timothy), they present a developed challenge to all Christians (2 Timothy), and they suggest God’s priorities for mature ministry (Titus). Experienced pastors R. Kent Hughes and Bryan Chapell have done their homework—applying sound principles in interpreting the texts so that we can understand what Paul was really saying.

Teaching on important matters for the local church, Hughes and Chapell offer a timely word to the many Christians who are concerned about their role and responsibility to communicate the truth of the gospel in this diverse and pluralistic society. The Pastoral Letters remind us that, like Timothy, we are to guard what has been entrusted to our care, to fight the good fight, and to keep preaching the Word.

Through the apostle's words and the commentators' insights here, we gain an understanding of what God requires of those who would lead in the local church, as well as of those who would be led. Embracing grace, loving godliness, and sharing Christ were not just charges to the early believers, and are not solely the responsibility of pastors, deacons, and elders in the church. They are exhortations for any of us who call ourselves disciples of Christ today.

About the Authors

R. Kent Hughes (DMin, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School) is senior pastor emeritus of College Church in Wheaton, Illinois. He has authored numerous books including Disciplines of a Godly Man, and is the series editor and a contributor to the popular Preaching the Word series. Hughes is also a founder of the Charles Simeon Trust, which conducts expository preaching conferences throughout North America and worldwide. He now lives on the West Coast with his wife, Barbara, and is the father of four and grandfather of an ever-increasing number of grandchildren.

Bryan Chapell (PhD, Southern Illinois University) is senior pastor of Grace Presbyterian Church (PCA) in Peoria, Illinois. He is also president emeritus and adjunct professor of practical theology at Covenant Theological Seminary, as well as distinguished professor of preaching at Knox Theological Seminary. Chapell has authored numerous books, including Christ-Centered Preaching and Holiness by Grace.