The Message of 1 Timothy & Titus

Mid-levelBusy pastors, Lay readers / small groups, Pastors-in-trainingStrong recommendation
Bible Book: 1 Timothy Titus
Publisher: IVP
Theological Perspective: Broadly Evangelical Reformed
Resource Type: Commentary
Last updated: December 1, 2025
Looking for alternatives? Compare 1 Timothy commentaries.

Evaluation

Overall Score: 8.8/10

A dependable, gospel-rooted guide to the Pastoral Epistles that combines faithful exposition with pastoral insight.

Publication Date(s): 1996
Pages: 232
ISBN: 9780851111728
Faithfulness to the Text: 9/10
Stott maintains close attention to the flow and structure of Paul’s arguments, faithfully presenting the meaning of each passage.
Christ Centredness: 9/10
The gospel and the saving work of Christ remain at the heart of his exposition and application for church life.
Depth of Insight: 8/10
While not highly technical, the book offers thoughtful theological and pastoral insight into church order, sound teaching and Christian maturity.
Clarity of Writing: 9/10
The writing is clear, warm, and accessible—well suited to pastors, elders and lay leaders alike.
Pastoral Usefulness: 9/10
Very useful for sermon preparation, elder training, small-group discussion and congregational teaching.
Readability: 9/10
Engaging and easy to read, even for busy pastors under pressure of ministry demands.

Summary

At a Glance

Length
232 pages
Type
Application, Expositional, Homiletical
Theo. Perspective
Broadly Evangelical, Reformed
Overall score
8.8 / 10
Strength
Faithful to the text, pastorally warm, and highly useful for church leaders.
Limitation
Not a technical commentary for original-language or in-depth exegetical study.

In The Message of 1 Timothy & Titus, John R. W. Stott brings Paul’s pastoral letters into sharp and loving focus for the modern church. He unfolds how the gospel shapes not only personal faith but the life of the local congregation. Stott leads the reader through the responsibilities given to church leadership, the call to godliness among believers, and the manner in which sound doctrine safeguards the community.

He shows how these letters tackle both internal church order—eldership, teaching, care for the needy—and the believer’s public witness in a world drifting away from truth. Through balanced exposition Stott helps us see that Paul’s instructions remain vitally relevant for doctrine, worship and Christian living today.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

This volume serves pastors, teachers, and serious Bible-students who seek a commentary that is both faithful and accessible. Stott’s approach makes 1 Timothy and Titus understandable without diluting their demands. For preaching or teaching it supplies thoughtful guidance on pastoral responsibility, church discipline, family relationships, and congregational life shaped by the gospel.

The theological grounding is robust and evangelical, affirming the authority of Scripture and the centrality of Christ while warning against false teaching and moral compromise. Stott’s pastoral tone and warm conviction make it a safe yet stimulating companion for engaging church leaders or small groups with the weight and hope of Paul’s pastoral vision.

Closing Recommendation

We strongly recommend this commentary for any pastor, elder or Bible-teacher who values clarity, gospel integrity and church usefulness. It stands as a trustworthy guide for preparing sermons, leading elders’ meetings or deepening one’s own understanding of church life under Scripture.

🛒 Purchase here

Classification

  • Level: Mid-level
  • Best For: Busy pastors, Lay readers / small groups, Pastors-in-training
  • Priority: Strong recommendation

Reviewed by

An Expositor