Which of the following best describes the action Paul took regarding Timothy on the second journey?

• A. He circumcised Timothy to avoid conflict with the Jews.
• B. He baptized Timothy.
• C. He ordained Timothy as elder.
• D. He sent Timothy away.

Answer: (A)

The action being tested is Paul’s strategic decision to circumcise Timothy in order to remove a barrier to gospel outreach with Jewish audiences on the second journey. Timothy had a Jewish mother and a Greek father, and he had not been circumcised before. Paul chose this Step so that when they moved through areas with many Jews and synagogues, Timothy wouldn’t be hindered by accusations of disregarding the law. This shows Paul’s practical flexibility in mission: he prioritizes the spread of the gospel and uses culturally appropriate measures to prevent unnecessary obstacles, while still upholding the stance that Gentiles need not be circumcised for salvation. The other actions—baptizing Timothy, ordaining him as elder, or sending him away—do not describe what happened in this context, where the emphasis is on circumcision as a missionary aid rather than sacramental acts, church leadership, or removal from the mission.