Timothy of Lystra
- James Collazo
- Jun 2, 2017
- 4 min read
Updated: Nov 24
Introduction
Timothy of Lystra (Greek: Timotheos ho ek Lustrōn) was born around AD 28 near Lystra in Lycaonia, a region within the Roman province of Galatia. He came from a mixed family: his father was Greek, but his mother, Eunice, and grandmother, Lois, were faithful Jewish believers (2 Tim. 1:5). Because Jewish identity followed the mother's line, people considered Timothy a Jew, and he learned the Old Testament scriptures from an early age (2 Tim. 3:15). His Greek name, Timotheos (G5095), means "honoring God," from timē (G5092) and Theos (G2316). These early influences prepared him to believe in Jesus Christ and serve alongside the apostle Paul.
Timothy assisted Paul in writing several letters, including Second Corinthians, Philippians, Colossians, Second Thessalonians, and Philemon. In his letter to the church in Philippi, Paul praised Timothy, saying, "I have no one else like him . . . you know that Timothy has proved himself, because as a son with his father he has served with me in the work of the gospel" (Phil. 2:20–22).
Timothy: In the Honor of God
Around AD 48, Paul brought the Christian message to Timothy's hometown of Lystra when he healed a disabled man there (Acts 14:8–19). When Paul returned a few years later with Silas, Timothy was already known as a faithful member of the churches in Lystra and Iconium. Because Timothy's father was a Gentile, his family had not circumcised him on the eighth day as the Law of Moses required (Lev. 12:2–4). Paul circumcised Timothy so that Jewish communities would accept him during their mission work (Acts 16:1–3). This decision did not change the Council of Jerusalem's ruling around AD 50, when James, the brother of Jesus, said that Gentile believers did not need to be circumcised (Acts 15:1–35).
Timothy traveled with Paul and Silas to Macedonia around AD 50. He began as a young disciple but soon became Paul's trusted co-worker in spreading the gospel. Paul noted that Timothy sometimes struggled with timidity (1 Cor. 16:10) and dealt with health issues, even encouraging him to drink a little wine for his stomach (1 Tim. 5:23).
When Paul wrote his letter to the Romans from Corinth in the winter of AD 57, Timothy stayed with him (Rom. 16:21). Around Passover in AD 58, Timothy traveled with Paul through Macedonia before they sailed to Troas (Acts 20:3–6). Around AD 65, Paul laid hands on Timothy and appointed him as an overseer (Greek: episkopos, G1985) of the church in Ephesus (1 Tim 1:3, 4:14). Early Christian tradition says that Roman authorities later held Paul in the Tullianum prison in Rome as he awaited trial before the emperor Nero (r. AD 54–68). During that time, Paul called for Timothy to visit him one last time. Paul's first letter to Timothy explains the responsibilities of church leaders, while his second letter serves as Paul's final message to his beloved co-worker.
For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time for my departure is near. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing. . . . I sent Tychicus to Ephesus. When you come, bring the cloak that I left with Carpus at Troas, and my scrolls, especially the parchments (2 Tim. 4:6–8, 12–13).
The author of Hebrews also says that Timothy was imprisoned at least once (Heb. 13:23).
Conclusion
Timothy played a key role in the early church and showed steady faith and dedication. His mother, Eunice, and grandmother, Lois, taught him the Scriptures from childhood, even though his family followed different traditions. His close partnership with the apostle Paul shaped his work in spreading Jesus' message. Timothy traveled and served with Paul, who praised his kindness, hard work, and commitment to the gospel. His name means "honoring God," and his life reflected that meaning. His story shows how sincere faith and dedication can make a lasting impact.
Prayer
Blessed are you, LORD our God, King of heaven and earth. You called your servant Timothy to spread the gospel across many lands. Inspire evangelists and messengers everywhere, so your church may proclaim the good news to all nations. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Bibliography
Graves, Dan. "Who Was Timothy in the Bible? How Did He Help Paul?" Christianity.com. April 23, 2024. [link].
Houdmann, S. Michael. "Who Was Timothy in the Bible?" Got Questions. January 4, 2022. [link].
Rutherfurd, John. "Timothy." In The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, edited by James Orr, John Nuelsen, Edgar Mullins, Morris Evans, and Melvin Grove Kyle. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1939.
