1 Timothy 3

V 1-7

Paul is giving Timothy specific instruction regarding who is to put in charge of the church

While scripture does speak directly to our hearts, God also has given us very clear instructions on how the church is to be run

Overseer Vs. Deacon

Overseer (Pastor, Elder)- Oversight over the teaching and church practices. Responsible for the direction of where the church is going.

ACC Org Chart Example

Deacon: Person who serves under the direction of the overseer. Can be in an official capacity or in a volunteer capacity

Qualifications

Most of the qualifications that are given are not random qualifications, but rather they are commands of all Christians

respectable

not a drunk

husband of one wife

Self controlled

These people called to be pastors are simply called to be Godly men. The standard is just higher for them

Why?

When that standard is not met, you can see the fruit of that in a congregation

“Pastors are not qualitatively different than congregants. They are just poor sinners telling poor sinners where to get bread.” -DA Carson

1 unique qualifications given to this particular authority

Ability to teach

Not referencing an ability to be charismatic or an ability to be an extrovert, but rather someone who when they get on stage can proclaim the word of God in a way that both does justice to the text and has personal application for the audience member

V 8-12

Deacons possess the same pivotal qualifications that overseers do, but theres are more oriented toward a congregant or an average Christian

These are lay leaders within the church who are not necessarily responsible for oversight, but have a hand in leadership in some capacity

Note that these qualifications are not extraordinary. These are not supernatural standards that one must live by

rather these are common christian principles that the average follower of Christ should look to hold themselves to as well

Literal translation to “servant”

V 14-15

Paul concludes by making sure Timothy has these instructions

places incredibly high value on the church. It is “pillar of truth”

What is this truth that the church is foundational built upon?

The gospel

In these 6 lines should be the foundational elements of faith that we should all agree on