### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Timótheos**, represented by `{{G5095}}`, is defined as **dear to God**. It appears **28 times** across **28 unique verses** in the Bible. This name belongs to Timothy, a prominent and highly regarded Christian in the early church, known for his close companionship and service with the apostle Paul.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Timothy is introduced in the biblical narrative as a **disciple** `{{G3101}}` from Lystra. He is the **son** `{{G5207}}` of a believing **Jewess** `{{G2453}}`, though his **father** `{{G3962}}` was a **Greek** `{{G1672}}` [[Acts 16:1]]. His relationship with Paul is portrayed as exceptionally close; Paul repeatedly refers to him with terms of endearment, such as his "beloved `{{G27}}` **son** `{{G5043}}`" [[1 Corinthians 4:17]] and "my own **son** `{{G5043}}` in the **faith** `{{G4102}}`" [[1 Timothy 1:2]]. Timothy was a trusted **brother** `{{G80}}` [[2 Corinthians 1:1]] whom Paul sent to minister to the churches, describing him as a **minister** `{{G1249}}` of God and a **fellowlabourer** `{{G4904}}` in the **gospel** `{{G2098}}` of **Christ** `{{G5547}}` [[1 Thessalonians 3:2]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illuminate Timothy’s character and role in the early church:
* `{{G80}}` **adelphós** (a brother): This term emphasizes Timothy’s standing as a peer and fellow believer. Paul often includes him in his greetings, referring to him as "Timothy `{{G5095}}` our **brother** `{{G80}}`" ([[Colossians 1:1]]; [[Philemon 1:1]]).
* `{{G5043}}` **téknon** (a child): This word defines the deep, paternal nature of Paul's relationship with Timothy, whom he calls his "**son** `{{G5043}}`" [[1 Timothy 1:18]] and to whom he entrusts significant spiritual responsibilities.
* `{{G4904}}` **synergós** (a co-laborer): This describes Timothy's active partnership in ministry alongside Paul. He is called "Timotheus `{{G5095}}` my **workfellow** `{{G4904}}`" [[Romans 16:21]], highlighting his role as a trusted colleague in the Lord's work.
### Theological Significance
The portrayal of Timothy carries significant weight for understanding key Christian principles.
* **Spiritual Sonship:** The relationship between Paul and Timothy, described as **father** `{{G3962}}` and "**son** `{{G5043}}`" [[2 Timothy 1:2]], provides a powerful New Testament model for spiritual mentorship and the passing of leadership to the next generation.
* **Faithful Ministry:** Timothy is presented as an exemplar of a dedicated servant. He is called "**faithful** `{{G4103}}` in the **Lord** `{{G2962}}`" [[1 Corinthians 4:17]] and is sent to **establish** `{{G4741}}` and **comfort** `{{G3870}}` believers concerning their **faith** `{{G4102}}` [[1 Thessalonians 3:2]].
* **Guarding the Gospel:** Paul gives Timothy a solemn **charge** `{{G3852}}` to **war** `{{G4754}}` a good **warfare** `{{G4752}}` [[1 Timothy 1:18]] and to **keep** `{{G5442}}` "that which is committed to thy trust" `{{G3872}}` [[1 Timothy 6:20]], underscoring the duty to protect sound doctrine.
* **Collaborative Mission:** Timothy is frequently named alongside Paul and other key figures like **Silvanus** `{{G4610}}` as a co-sender of epistles [[1 Thessalonians 1:1]]. This demonstrates the cooperative and team-based nature of the early apostolic mission.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5095}}` Timotheus is far more than a name in a salutation. He embodies the ideal of a faithful minister, a beloved spiritual son, and a steadfast co-laborer in the gospel. Through his deep relationship with Paul and his dedicated service to the **church** `{{G1577}}`, Timothy’s life illustrates the importance of mentorship, faithfulness in service, and the collaborative effort required to spread the message of **Jesus** `{{G2424}}` **Christ** `{{G5547}}`.
TRV