Jermo Van Nes, Evangelische Theologische Faculteit, Leuven

The Ecclesial Implications of 1 Timothy Being a Pseudepigraphon: A Thought Experiment Lecture held at the Lanier Theological Library, May 20, 2022 Of all thirteen New Testament letters attributed to Paul, 1 Timothy has been most disputed by modern scholars for its claim to apostolic authorship. Supposing that biblical scholars advocating the pseudonymity of 1 Timothy are correct, it is argued on the basis of ancient sources that they inevitably disagree with the letter’s inclusion in the canon. This triggers the question what distinctive theological teachings in 1 Timothy would be missing from the canon and withdrawn from the eyes of contemporary Bible readers. Based on the results, implications are drawn for contemporary church life and recommendations are given for clergy when developing church policy.