In order to understand Paul's instructions in his letter to Timothy, Frank Ritchel Ames investigates the culture in which Paul is writing by analyzing how the cult of Artemis deeply penetrated the lives of the Ephesians. He explains the fashion trends and religious atmosphere of ancient Ephesus and how Paul's reference to these elements of their culture and their significance would have been recognized immediately by even Christian Ephesians. Understanding this cultural background leads to the conclusion that Paul's true focus of this letter to Timothy is that Christians are called to pray in a new way.

Workshop Session, 43 mins.
Seeking Justice and Loving Mercy
CBE 10th International Conference, Denver, Colo.

FRANK RITCHEL AMES (Ph.D., University of Denver/Iliff School of Theology) is professor of biblical studies at Colorado Christian University. He has served as director of programs and initiatives for the Society of Biblical Literature.