1 Timothy 3

The Book of Acts closes with Paul imprisoned in Rome. Most commentators feel that he arrived there () about a.d. 59. Paul was kept under very lenient restraint. He had his own rented home, and welcomed many visitors. It was during this time that he wrote the Prison Epistles—Colossians, Ephesians, Philippians, and Philemon. The apostle eventually gained his opportunity to appeal to the emperor, and won his release.

This time, Paul’s captives were very lenient towards him.

says about his time there:

Acts 28:30–31 NKJV

Then Paul dwelt two whole years in his own rented house, and received all who came to him, preaching the kingdom of God and teaching the things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ with all confidence, no one forbidding him.

It was during this time that he wrote what are called the Prison Epistles - because he wrote them while held by Rome.

says

Those epistles were Colossians, Ephesians, Philippians, and Philemon.

The apostle eventually gained his opportunity to appeal to the emperor, and won his release.

He had his own rented home, and welcomed many visitors. It was during this time that he wrote the Prison Epistles—Colossians, Ephesians, Philippians, and Philemon. The apostle eventually gained his opportunity to appeal to the emperor, and won his release.

Paul eventually gained his opportunity to appeal to the emperor, and won his release.

His release was around a.d. 60 or 61 and it is thought that Paul then went to as far west as Spain.

We know that a visit to Spain was in Paul’s plans because of where he wrote, “Whenever I journey to Spain, I shall come to you.”

Paul’s release from his first imprisonment probably took place around a.d. 60 or 61. His journey to Spain may have taken two years, say till 63. On his return Paul revisited many churches and wrote supportive letters to young Timothy and Titus (early 64). Then came a series of events that unleashed opposition to Christianity throughout the empire!

Romans 15:24 NKJV

whenever I journey to Spain, I shall come to you. For I hope to see you on my journey, and to be helped on my way there by you, if first I may enjoy your company for a while.

Romans 15:24

I journey to Spain, I shall come to you

As much as Paul wanted to preach the Gospel, he wanted the Gospel to be heard.

The expanding Roman empire made it possible for him to expand his ministry further west.

Now, the Bible doesn’t say for sure whether Paul made it to Spain or not, but the majority of scholars believe that he did make it.

In fact, church historians from the early fathers to much later maintained that Paul actually went as far west as Britain, preaching the Gospel.

His journey to Spain and beyond may have taken 2 years, probably until 63-64AD.

His journey to Spain may have taken two years, say till 63. On his return Paul revisited many churches and wrote supportive letters to young Timothy and Titus (early 64). Then came a series of events that unleashed opposition to Christianity throughout the empire!

On his return Paul revisited many churches and wrote these letters to Timothy and Titus that we call the Pastoral Epistles.

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Then came a series of events that unleashed opposition to Christianity throughout the empire.

A suspicious fire broke out in Rome, clearing enough land for Emperor Nero to begin construction of his huge new Palace.

Though the fire was probably orchestrated by Nero, Christians were blamed and heavy persecution by Rome against Christians began.

At the same time, events were playing out in Israel, leading Rome to tighten their already iron grip.

The Jewish believers in Israel were beginning to leave, sensing that something bad was about to happen.

Those believers were making their way to the places where Paul had ministered, and the churches needed to prepared for this influx of Jewish believers.

This meant taking the time to address and solidify church structure … gender roles and leadership, expectations of behavior in the church, and contending for the faith.

In the churches, even though the church was young, already there were those who were twisting the doctrines of the Bible.

Some were taking Paul’s letters and twisting his words to mean things he did not intend.

Even the Apostle Peter recognized this, saying, “There are some things in them that are hard to understand, which the ignorant and unstable twist to their own destruction, as they do the other Scriptures.”

There are some things in them that are hard to understand, which the ignorant and unstable twist to their own destruction, as they do the other Scriptures.

Do not read below:

2 Peter 3:16 NKJV

as also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things, in which are some things hard to understand, which untaught and unstable people twist to their own destruction, as they do also the rest of the Scriptures.

He wrote:

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In chapter 1, Paul took some time to encourage Timothy in his calling and to address some doctrinal concerns.

Then, in chapter 2, Paul addressed etiquette and gender roles.

Today, in chapter 3, Paul again addresses solidifying church structure by addressing leadership.

First, Paul will discuss elders, who have the role of oversight, spiritual guidance and sound teaching in the local church.

Those believers were making their way to the places where Paul had ministered, and the churches needed to prepared

Paul now moves to discuss elders, who do have the role of issuing authoritative teaching in the local church. Eldering is a noble task (3:1) which requires the elder to have a developed Christian character (vv. 2–7). Deacons also are to be “worthy of respect” and demonstrate maturity in the faith (vv. 8–13). The church of God is such a special fellowship, the very household of the Lord, that people must conduct themselves in it correctly (vv. 14–15). Surrendering to the wonder of it, Paul introduces another brief poem which may be one of the earliest creedal statements of the church (v. 16).

Serving in the role of an Elder, Paul will say, is a good work. (3:1)

It requires the elder to have a mature Christian character (vv. 2–7).

The terms “pastor,” “elder,” and “bishop” refer to the same office.

Paul will also say that those who meet the physical needs of the church (Deacons) also are to be “worthy of respect.”

Deacons take care of the physical needs of the church and must demonstrate maturity in the faith (vv. 8–13).

The church of God is a special fellowship, the very household of the Lord.

In recognition of that, people should conduct themselves in it correctly … reverently, respectfully.

Surrendering to the wonder of it, Paul introduces another brief poem which may be one of the earliest creedal statements of the church (v. 16).

Now, Paul has just written in chapter 2 that women are not to hold positions of authority over men in the church.

What Paul presents here in regards to qualifications and virtues is not unique to this letter OR to the Bible.

But he did not want to leave the impression that just any man is qualified.

No man is qualified to be a spiritual leader in the church just because of his gender.

What Paul presents here in regards to qualifications and virtues is not unique to this letter OR to the Bible.

Lists of qualifications and appropriate virtues for various leadership positions appear in both Jewish and Gentile sources outside of the Bible.

The lists commonly applied to political or military offices but also religious ones.

Certain officials in the Greek world, in both cities and associations, were naturally called “overseers.”

The Dead Sea Scrolls also use the Hebrew equivalent of the term for an office of leadership at Qumran.

And, these qualifications are equivalent to the synagogue leaders responsible for the synagogue service.

it is probably equivalent to the synagogue leaders responsible for the synagogue service.

The Dead Sea Scrolls also use the Hebrew equivalent of the term for an office of leadership at Qumran

Today we might see something similar when performing a job search … usually there is a list of qualifications and expectations.

It’s just common sense that positions, whether worldly or spiritual are better served by those with the proper credentials.

In the church of Jesus Christ, the greatest credential is what we would call “being saved” and “identification with Christ,” which means we have left the old sinful life and fully embraced new life in Christ.

identification with Christ, which means having left their old sinful lives and fully embracing the new life in Christ

having left their old sinful lives and fully embracing the new life in Christ

All other qualifications depend on that one GRAND qualification.

Without that one, there is no way a man can perform the duties of an elder or deacon in the church.

The term translated “overseer” (NIV, NASB) or “bishop” (KJV, NRSV) was elsewhere in use in the ancient world for leaders, and Paul uses it synonymously with “elders” (, ), a leadership title used in synagogues.

God has specific qualifications for leaders in the church.

Leaders are not to be chosen at random, nor just because they volunteer, nor because they aspire to the position, nor even because they are "natural leaders."

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Also in our chapter, Paul explains that the church promotes godliness, that is, “The truths of salvation and righteousness in Christ, which produce holiness in believers”

the truths of salvation and righteousness in Christ, which produce holiness in believers”

Paul also instructs Timothy on the things that exemplify the teaching of a good minister. Beginning in and continuing through 6:2, Paul gives Timothy twelve things that he should “command and teach.”

The church of God is a special fellowship, … the very household of the Lord.

Lists of qualifications for offices appear in both Jewish and Gentile sources; lists of virtues appropriate to such offices are even more common. These lists were applied both to political or military offices and religious ones (e.g., judges in Jewish sources). Exceptions were not stated in general lists of qualifications but might be made in extenuating circumstances. The term translated “overseer” (NIV, NASB) or “bishop” (KJV, NRSV) was elsewhere in use in the ancient world for leaders, and Paul uses it synonymously with “elders” (, ), a leadership title used in synagogues.

In recognition of that, people should conduct themselves in the church correctly … reverently, respectfully.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we ask this morning that you would open Your Word up to us that we may understand it and perform it. You are returning soon and we desire to live in such a way to be pleasing to You when You do. Speak to us today not in man's word and wisdom but in Your Word and Wisdom. We pray this in the name of your precious Son, Jesus.

V1-7

“Bishop” here is the Greek word ἐπισκοπή Episkopos, which means overseer.

Depending on the translation that you are using, you may see the word “elder,” “overseer,” “shepherd,” or “guardian.”

All of these correspond closely to our term “pastor.”

“elder,” “overseer,” “shepherd,” or “guardian,” corresponding closely to the current term “pastor.”

Jesus is called, “The Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.”

The terms “bishop,” “pastor,” and “elder” are synonymous.

1 Peter 2:25 NKJV

For you were like sheep going astray, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.

The elders had the responsibility of overseeing the work of the church.

the elders had the responsibility of overseeing the work of the church (, ; ). “Elder” is the translation of the Greek word presbutes, which means “an old man.” Paul used the word presbytery in , referring not to a denomination, but to the “eldership” of the assembly that ordained Timothy. Elders and bishops (two names for the same office, , ) were mature people with spiritual wisdom and experience. Finally, “pastor” means “shepherd,” one who leads and cares for the flock of God.

In , Paul called the elders of the Ephesian church to himself and said to them:

Acts 20:28 ESV

Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood.

“Elder” is the translation of the Greek word πρεσβυτης Presbutes, which means, “an old man.”

“Elder” is the translation of the Greek word presbutes, which means “an old man.” Paul used the word presbytery in , referring not to a denomination, but to the “eldership” of the assembly that ordained Timothy. Elders and bishops (two names for the same office, , ) were mature people with spiritual wisdom and experience. Finally, “pastor” means “shepherd,” one who leads and cares for the flock of God.

Paul used the word πρεσβυτέριον Presbyterion (Prezbu-terion) in , referring not to a denomination, but to the elders of the Ephesian church.

Elders, Bishops, Overseers were to be mature people with spiritual wisdom and experience.

In regards to being teachers of the flock, they were to “feed the flock” … following in the shoes of Paul who said:

Acts 20:27 NKJV

For I have not shunned to declare to you the whole counsel of God.

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The first thing that Paul says is that a man who desires the position of a Bishop desires a good work.

(I think he says that because after reading the list of qualifications, you’d have to be crazy to take the job, so he wants to start on an encouraging note.)

But the idea is that this is a good, noble, honorable work, requiring good, noble, honorable men.

It’s not, “Here’s a good job to go after ... it’s stable with a good, steady income.”

This is a good, noble, honorable work. Timothy, you need to look for good, noble, honorable men.

In fact, if you are teaching the Bible as it is written and not tickling ears, you aren’t going to be getting rich, and your job will be in danger because people want someone who will tickle their ears.

There is a parallel passage in that covers this same list of qualifications, with elders in mind.

Church organization was quite simple in apostolic days.

When you compare the qualifications given here for bishops with those given for elders in , you quickly see that the same office is in view. Church organization was quite simple in apostolic days: There were pastors (elders, bishops) and deacons (). It seems that there was a plurality of elders overseeing the work of each church, some involved in “ruling” (organization and government), others in teaching ().

Church organization was quite simple in apostolic days: There were pastors (elders, bishops) and deacons (). It seems that there was a plurality of elders overseeing the work of each church, some involved in “ruling” (organization and government), others in teaching ().

There were pastors (elders, bishops) and deacons.

You might remember that in Philippians Paul greeted the bishops and deacons of the church in Philippi.

It seems that there was not just one, but several elders overseeing the work of each church.

Some were involved in “ruling” (organization and discipline) while others were involved in teaching.

It seems that there was a plurality of elders overseeing the work of each church, some involved in “ruling” (organization and government), others in teaching ().

That was good because it is incredibly hard to have one man doing both and do both well.

But these men had to be qualified.

Very often, what man looks at as qualifications don’t match up with what God says.

Going to seminary doesn't make one qualified.

Being a good talker doesn't make one qualified for spiritual leadership.

Natural or spiritual gifts in themselves do not qualify one for spiritual leadership.

What one gives in money or volunteer time does not qualify them for spiritual leadership.

What qualifies a man for spiritual leadership is godly character.

It was good for a growing believer to aspire to the office of bishop, but the best way to achieve it was to develop Christian character.

A person’s character is the sum of his or her disposition, thoughts, intentions, desires, and actions.

And it is good to remember that character is gauged by general tendencies, not on the basis of a few isolated actions.

So when we talk about this list of qualifications, understand that nobody is perfect and there may be times when an elder mis-speaks about something or makes a bad judgment call.

Does that mean he is now disqualified because he is not blameless?

No, because a few mis-spoken words or a bad decision does not negate a pattern of blamelessness over a number of years.

A good example of this is Abraham.

He is thought of as a man of great faith.

However, there are several times we could point to when he did not have faith.

David is the same way.

But scripture characterizes these men as having great faith.

Faith was the tone of their lives, despite times when their faith wavered.

Hey … The Bible characterizes Lot as righteous.

Now, that is not to excuse bad choices or faulty actions … it’s just that we can read through these things and come to improper conclusions because we’ve got the wrong idea.

Or it could cause us to say, “I could never be an elder because I’m not perfect.”

Very often, what man looks at as qualifications don’t match up with what God says.

Going to seminary doesn't make one qualified.

Being a good talker doesn't make one qualified for spiritual leadership.

Natural or spiritual gifts in themselves do not qualify one for spiritual leadership.

What one gives in money or volunteer time does not qualify them for spiritual leadership.

What qualifies a man for spiritual leadership is godly character.

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In the church, becoming an elder is a serious decision, one not to be treated lightly.

Paul gave 16 qualifications for a man to meet if he expected to serve in this function.

Blameless, The husband of one wife, Temperate, Sober minded, Of good behavior, Hospitable, Able to teach, Not given to wine (notice that is wine, not whine … sometimes we have to whine a little), Not violent, Not greedy for money, Gentle, Not quarrelsome, Not covetous, a Godly family, Not a novice, A good testimony outside the church.

Let’s take a look at each of these individually.

Blameless :

This word literally means “Nothing to take hold upon.”

That is, he should strive to have nothing in his life that Satan or the unsaved can take hold of to criticize or open the church up to attack.

No one can stand up and rightfully accuse the man of a grievous pattern of sin.

No man living is sinless, but we must strive to be blameless, or “above reproach.”

No one can stand up and rightfully accuse the man of grievous sin.

In fact, in verse 10 when speaking about deacons, Paul used the phrase “being FOUND blameless.”

This is a broad term for a man who lives a righteous life that can be seen as righteous. No one can stand up and rightfully accuse the man of grievous sin.

In , in speaking about deacons, Paul used the phrase being found blameless. This implies being blameless is demonstrated by a track record of behavior.

This implies being blameless is demonstrated by a track record of behavior.

This doesn’t mean that nobody WILL accuse this man.

This word literally means “nothing to take hold upon”; that is, there must be nothing in his life that Satan or the unsaved can take hold of to criticize or attack the church. No man living is sinless, but we must strive to be blameless, or “above reproach” (niv).

Joseph was blameless and yet accused and jailed by Potifer.

Daniel was accused.

Jesus and His disciples were also accused.

We should be careful

Before we move on

We should take note that all of the qualifying adjectives in this passage are masculine.

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While there is ample scope for feminine ministry in a local assembly, the office of elder is not given to women.

The next qualification is this:

The husband of one wife:

An elder’s home-life is very important, and especially his marital status.

(We will see that this same requirement applies to deacons, according to .)

The elder is to be a “one woman man.”

The idea is that his love and affection and heart is given to one woman, and that being his lawful and wedded wife.

The idea is that is love and affection and heart is given to one woman, and that being his lawful and wedded wife.

Polygamy was not practiced in the Roman world outside Israel, though illegal bigamy and certainly adultery were, and concubinage was practiced.

Given the context here, “Husband of one wife” no doubt means a faithful husband and so it presupposes marriage.

That’s not to say that there is no forgiveness for divorce, but there is a standard that is set here

Paul was certainly not referring to polygamy, since no church member, let alone a pastor, would be accepted if he had more than one wife. Nor is he referring to remarriage after the death of the wife; for why would a pastor be prohibited from marrying again, in the light of and ? Certainly the members of the church who had lost mates could marry again; so why penalize the pastor?

It’s clear that a man’s ability to manage his own marriage and home indicate ability to oversee a local church (). A pastor who has been divorced opens himself and the church to criticism from outsiders, and it is not likely that people with marital difficulties would consult a man who could not keep his own marriage together. I see no reason why dedicated Christians who have been divorced and remarried cannot serve in other offices in the church, but they are disqualified from being elders or deacons.

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Paul also says the elder is to be:

Temperate:

This means “careful” and “deliberate.”

“Temperate in all things” (, literal translation).

Another way to put it would be, “Calm, cool, and collected” or able to “keep your head in all situations.”

An elder needs to be able to exercise sober, sensible judgment.

It doesn’t mean he won’t lose his cool at times, or misjudge what he should do in a situation, but overall he is resolved not to jump to extremes.

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The next one is:

Sober or Sober-minded:

The Greek word σώφρων Sōphrōn means “prudent, self controlled.”

This does not mean that the overseer has no sense of humor, or that he is always solemn and somber.

Rather it suggests that he knows the value of things and does not cheapen the ministry or the Gospel with foolishness.

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Paul says that the Bishop must be:

Of good behavior:

“Orderly” would be a good translation.

It is the same Greek word that is translated “modest” in , referring to women’s clothing.

“Appropriate” is another term that works here.

The pastor should be organized in his thinking and his living, as well as in his teaching and preaching.

His manner and behavior is appropriate for his calling.

The pastor should be organized in his thinking and his living, as well as in his teaching and preaching. It is the same Greek word that is translated “modest” in , referring to women’s clothing.

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Also, the overseer is:

Given to hospitality:

Literally, the term means, “Loving the stranger.”

This was an important ministry in the early church when traveling believers would need places to stay (; ; ).

But even today, it is important that a pastor and wife are willing to receive others into their homes and minister to strangers.

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A pastor should be:

Apt to teach:

He should be skilled enough in the Bible to teach others … not just the milk, but the meat of the Word.

Skilled enough in the Bible to teach, either in a public or one-on-one setting.

As for what he should teach, Paul has been very clear on that.

He should teach no other doctrine than that which has been given to us by God through His Word.

2 Timothy 2:2 NKJV

And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.

Teaching the Word of God is one of an elder’s main ministries.

A pastor is automatically a teacher.

And elders should be involved in a teaching ministry and might be called upon to teach in the assembly.

2 Timothy 2:2 NKJV

And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.

Phillips Brooks, an American pastor of the 1800s, said about being Apt to Teach, “It is not something to which one comes by accident or by any sudden burst of fiery zeal.”

A pastor must be a careful student of the Word of God, and of all that assists him in knowing and teaching that Word.

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Regarding this position, Paul also says that the elder should:

Not be given to wine:

The Greek word means “addicted to wine.”

The fact that Paul advised Timothy to use wine for medicinal purposes () indicates that total abstinence was not demanded of believers.

However, the believer should be led by the Spirit and not by addictions.

Ephesians 5:18 NKJV

And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit,

The fact that Paul advised Timothy to use wine for medicinal purposes () indicates that total abstinence was not demanded of believers. Sad to say, some of the members of the Corinthian church got drunk, even at the love feast that accompanied the Lord’s Supper (). The Jewish people diluted their wine with water to make sure it was not too strong. It was a well-known fact that water was not pure in those days, so that weak wine taken in moderation would have been healthier to drink.

You might remember that Paul criticized some of the members of the Corinthian church for getting drunk at the love feasts that accompanied the Lord’s Supper ().

You know, it is often supposed that in Bible times, grape juice inevitably fermented if kept for any length of time.

And so whenever the Bible mentions “wine,” it is referring to the alcoholic beverage commonly called “wine” today.

However, ancient civilizations had several ways of preventing fruit and fruit juices from fermentation.

The Jewish people diluted their wine with water to make sure it was not too strong or would boil it or even filter it to remove the gluten and prevent it from fermenting.

Just drinking the grape juice or even the watered down wine of those days would not make one an alcoholic or drunk.

For that, one would need to drink the strong stuff.

And that would be served at special gatherings

However, there is a vast difference between the cultural use of wine in Bible days and supporting the alcohol industry of today.

However, there is a vast difference between the cultural use of wine in Bible days and supporting the alcohol industry of today. Paul’s admonition and example in (especially ) would apply today in a special way. A godly pastor would certainly want to give the best example and not be an excuse for sin in the life of some weaker brother.

In regards to an overseer, Paul’s admonition and example in (especially ) would apply today in a special way.

Romans 14:21 NKJV

It is good neither to eat meat nor drink wine nor do anything by which your brother stumbles or is offended or is made weak.

A godly pastor and elder would certainly want to give the best example and do his best to never be an excuse for sin in the life of some weaker brother.

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Next, Paul says that the elder should:

Not be violent:

The Greek word πλήκτης Plēktēs means “violent, bully.”

There are pastors who use bullying tactics on their congregation to get people to serve, to make financial offerings, or to do what he wants them to do.

But the Bible says here that the overseer is not to be one who uses manipulation, which is committing violence against his own congregation.

Romans 12:17–19 NKJV

Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord.

He also should not pick fights

Charles Spurgeon told his Pastor’s College students, “Don’t go about the world with your fist doubled up for fighting, carrying a theological revolver in the leg of your trousers.”

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And next, the Bishop should:

Not be greedy for money:

John Calvin wrote, “The man who will not bear poverty patiently and willingly, will inevitably become the victim of mean and sordid covetousness.”

"I repeat that the man who will not bear poverty patiently and willingly will inevitably become the victim of mean and sordid covetousness."

There are those who use the ministry with the aim of fleecing the sheep.

Over the past few weeks when speaking of false doctrines being taught in our time … these are some of the people who do that.

(Not that pastors are paid that much in most churches!)

Covetous pastors will have “deals” going on outside their churches, and these activities erode their character and hinder their ministry.

They probably manage to work “giving” into every sermon, book, or television broadcast and they are probably antagonistic or manipulative of their congregations.

In contrast, Peter wrote that Pastors should, “Not [work] for dishonest gain” ().

1 Peter 5:2 NKJV

Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly;

This is a long list, isn’t it?

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Next, elders are to be:

Gentle:

The pastor must listen to people and be able to take criticism without lashing out.

He should permit others to serve God in the church without being overbearing, manipulative, or dictating to them.

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In today’s mega-church mentality there is the concept of a visionary leader who hears from God and then casts the vision for the church.

The church is then to unite under that vision.

Most of those who

The next qualification is:

Not quarrelsome:

Pastors must be peacemakers, not troublemakers.

This does not mean they must compromise their convictions, but that they must “disagree” without being “disagreeable.”

As another pastor once told me, “Short tempers do not make for long ministries.”

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The next quality is:

Not covetous:

You can covet many things besides money: popularity, a large ministry that makes you famous, and so forth.

But the Greek word used here specifically means, “Not loving money.”

Money moves a lot of people to do a lot of rotten things and a pastor should be moved by God rather than money.

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We’re getting to the final 3 here.

The next one is:

A godly family:

This does not mean that a pastor must be married, or, if married, he must have children.

It means that the person he is at church is the same person he is at home … not putting on a show at work and then someone completely different at home.

Let me explain … and really, this is true for all Christians … but those serving in authority roles should be examples to the rest of the flock.

So … For Christians, the church and the home are one.

We should oversee both of them with love, truth, and discipline.

The pastor cannot be one thing at home and something else in church.

If he is, his children will detect it, and there will be problems.

The same is true of all Christians.

Of course, we all know that every child has the capacity to rebel and many children from good homes do.

But if rebellion is to happen, it should be in spite of the parents rather than because of the parents.

The word “rule” in verse 4 &5 means “to preside over, to govern,” and suggest that a pastor is the one who directs what goes on in the church.

According to , that should be not in a “lording over” way, but as a godly example.

Do not read below:

1 Peter 5:3 NKJV

nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock;

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Paul says the overseer is:

It is used in the Parable of the Good Samaritan to describe the care given to the injured man ().

Not to be a novice:

This is the Greek word νεόφυτος Neophytos (nay-OH-phoo-tohs) meaning “newly converted.”

The more modern word Neophyte is connected to this word.

So, Paul is speaking of a young Christian here.

Age is no guarantee of maturity, but it is good for a man to give himself time for study and growth before he serves in any leadership role in the church.

Some men mature faster than others, of course.

But many pastors have fallen very hard because they were not mature enough in the faith to serve in that capacity.

They may have lots of Biblical knowledge, but very little maturity which comes from testing and trials.

Satan enjoys seeing an untested pastor succeed and get proud; then Satan can tear down all that has been built up.

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And #16 of the top 16 qualifications of a Bishop, Elder, Overseer is …

A good testimony outside the church:

These characteristics should be evident to all, even unbelievers.

These characteristics must be evident to all, even unbelievers to see. The potential leader must be a good Christian outside the walls of the church.

Does he have a good reputation among unsaved people with whom he does business? (see and )

The elder must be a good Christian not only inside the church or around the congregation, but everywhere in the presence of everyone.

The IVP Bible Background Commentary: New Testament 3:1–7—Qualifications for Overseers

The ever-present danger of false accusation required leaders to do everything in their power to avoid scandal; a solid reputation was helpful for church leaders

The ever-present danger of false accusation from the Judaizers, peddlers of false doctrines, and those seeking to persecute the church required leaders in Paul’s day to do everything in their power to avoid scandal.

A solid reputation was helpful for church leaders.

You know, no pastor, elder or church leader ever feels that he is all he ought to be, and the congregation he serve need to pray for him constantly.

No pastor ever feels that he is all he ought to be, and his people need to pray for him constantly.

It is not easy to serve as a pastor/elder, but it is much easier if your character is all God wants it to be.

V8-13

The English word deacon is a transliteration of the Greek word διάκονος diakonos, which simply means “servant.”

The office of deacon is similar to the office of the attendant in the synagogue.

is probably parallel to the office of the chazan in the synagogue. This synagogue attendant was responsible for the synagogue building and would normally have been the owner of the home in which a house synagogue met. Unlike elders (3:2), this sort of “deacon” may have fulfilled an administrative function without much public teaching.

This synagogue attendant was responsible for the synagogue building and would normally have been the owner of the home in which a house synagogue met.

Unlike elders, this sort of “deacon” may have fulfilled an administrative function without much public teaching.

Keener, C. S. (1993). The IVP Bible background commentary: New Testament (). Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press.

With regard to the Christian church, it is likely that the origin of deacons is recorded in .

There, the need was realized for men to serve the physical needs of the body while the Apostles ministered to spiritual needs.

That’s not to say that the work of the deacon is un-spiritual or even less than that of an elder or bishop.

In fact, the first deacon, Stephen, later became the first martyr of the church.

In churches today deacons relieve the pastors/elders of other tasks so that they may concentrate on the ministry of the Word, prayer, and spiritual oversight.

Even though deacons are not given the same authority of elders, they still must meet certain qualifications.

Some overlap with the qualifications of the elders.

One might expect that, since most of the time today an elder started out as a deacon … of course, that means that these qualifications also apply to elders.

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The first qualification is:

The Deacon must be reverent

The Greek word means, “Dignified and worthy of respect.”

A deacon should be worthy of respect, a man of Christian character worth imitating.

He should take his responsibilities seriously and use the office, not just fill it.

----

The second qualification of the deacon is:

Not double-tongued:

The Greek word here is δίλογος Dilogos (THEE-lohgohs) and means insincere.

He does not tell tales from house to house; he is not a gossip.

He does not say one thing to one member and something entirely opposite to another member.

And you can depend on what he says.

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The next qualification is that he is:

Not given to much wine:

Like with the elders, the deacon should be given over to the Spirit of God, not to alcohol.

The Deacon, like the pastor and elder holds an important office in the church and one that makes him visible to the congregation.

He would certainly want to give the best example and do his best to never be an excuse for sin in the life of some weaker brother.

----

The deacon must be:

Not greedy for money:

Deacons may at times help with the offerings and lead benevolence ministries.

It may be tempting to steal or to use funds in selfish ways.

So, very practically, a deacon should have a testimony of not being greedy for money.

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Also the Deacon must be, “Holding the mystery of the faith with a pure conscience.”

Doctrinally sound:

Paul uses the Greek word mysterion to mean, “Truth once hidden but now revealed by God.”

The doctrines of the faith are “hidden” to those outside the faith, meaning they cannot be understood by them.

You may have noticed this in the way that those outside of the church make light of the Trinity, Regeneration, Salvation by Grace through Faith, and so forth.

BUT, these things can be understood by those who trust the Lord.

Deacons must know, understand, and obey Christian doctrine with a good conscience.

It is not enough to sit in meetings and make ministry decisions.

They must base their decisions on the Word of God, AND they must back up their decisions with godly lives.

We can have expectations of sanctuary and ettiquete it is important to manage the affairs of a church on the basis of the Word of God. The Scriptures were the “constitution” of the early church! A deacon who does not know the Bible is an obstacle to progress in a local assembly.

A pastor friend of mine, now home with the Lord, took a church that was a split from another church and constantly at war with itself. From what he told me, their business meetings were something to behold! The church constitution was revered almost as much as the Bible. The people called it “the green book.” My friend began to teach the people the Word of God, and the Spirit began to make changes in lives. But the enemy went to work and stirred up some officers to defy their pastor in a meeting.

“You aren’t following the green book!” they said.

My friend lifted his Bible high and asked, “Are we going to obey the Word of God, or a green book written by men?” This was a turning point in the church, and then God blessed with wonderful growth and power.

A deacon who does not know the Word of God cannot manage the affairs of the church of God.

A deacon who does not live the Word of God, but has a “defiled conscience,” cannot manage the church of God.

Popularity, success in business, or being generous in his giving does not qualify anyone to serve as a deacon.

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Next, the Deacon must be:

Tested (and proved):

A man demonstrates his fitness for office in the church by his conduct.

This implies watching their lives and seeing how they conduct themselves.

Someone who is new to the church or who has been attending and wants to participate may begin serving God in hospitality, sound booth, sparkle, or greeting and other ways.

As they prove themselves faithful in those ministries, they may be considered for leadership roles.

This is the principle in : “Thou hast been faithful over a few things; I will make thee ruler over many things.”

Don’t read below:

Matthew 25:21 NKJV

His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.’

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Quite a few leaders mentioned in the Bible were first tested as servants.

Joseph was a servant in Egypt for 13 years before he became a second ruler in the land.

Some of that time he spent in prison.

Moses cared for sheep for 40 years before God called him.

Joshua was Moses’ servant before he became Moses’ successor.

David was tending his father’s sheep when Samuel anointed him king of Israel.

David also spent 10-15 years in exile before becoming king.

Even our Lord Jesus came as a servant and labored as a carpenter; and the Apostle Paul was a tentmaker.

First a servant, then a ruler.

It’s the Biblical way of raising up leadership in the church.

An untested Christian is an unprepared Christian.

“Maybe Jim will attend church more if we make him a deacon,” is a statement that shows ignorance both of Jim and of the Word of God. An untested Christian is an unprepared Christian. He will probably do more harm than good if you give him an office in the church.

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There are a few more qualifications for deacons to go here:

Godly homes (vv. 11–12). The deacon’s wife is a part of his ministry, for godliness must begin at home. The deacons must not be men who have been divorced and remarried. Their wives must be Christians, women who are serious about the ministry, not given to slanderous talk (literally “not devils,” for the word devil means “slanderer, false accuser”), and faithful in all that they do. It is sad to see the damage that is done to a local church when the wives of elders or deacons gossip and slander others.

In verse 11, like he did with overseers, Paul now directs attention to the homes of deacons.

The next qualification is:

Godly homes:

The deacon’s wife is a part of his ministry ... godliness must begin at home.

If they are married, their wives must be Christians.

She should be serious about the ministry, not given to slanderous talk and gossip, and faithful in all that they do.

The wives of overseers should be the same way … and examples to the wives of deacons.

Some Bible scholars believe that verse 11 refers, not to the wives of deacons, but to another order of ministers—the deaconesses.

Some students think that refers, not to the wives of deacons, but to another order of ministers—the deaconesses. Many churches do have deaconesses who assist with the women’s work, in baptisms, in fellowship times, etc. Phebe was a deaconess from the church at Cenchrea (, where the word is diakonon). Perhaps in some of the churches, the wives of the deacons did serve as deaconesses. We thank God for the ministry of godly women in the local church, whether they hold offices or not! It is not necessary to hold an office to have a ministry or exercise a gift.

And that may be the case … the wording of the text in the original language will permit either possibility.

wording will permit either possibility.

Many churches do have deaconesses and it is Biblical.

wording will permit either possibility.

informs us that Phebe was a deaconess from the church at Cenchrea.

Perhaps in some of the churches, the wives of the deacons did serve as deaconesses.

Thank God for the ministry of godly women in the local church, whether they hold offices or not!

It is not necessary to hold an office to have a ministry or exercise a gift.

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Now look at verse 13.

There Paul closes out this section on leadership roles in the church with a requirement.

The Deacon (and I believe this holds to the higher offices as well … elder and pastor) are to USE the office, not just FILL the office.

God remembers their faithful service, even in tasks which some would consider menial. There is little doubt that you will see more deacons with a great reward than bishops or pastors.

He is to be faithful in the office to which he’s been called.

A faithful deacon has a good standing before God and men, and can be used of God to build the church.

Certainly a part of this blessing could include the possibility of a “spiritual promotion.”

Certainly a part of this blessing could include the possibility of a “spiritual promotion.” What a joy it is to a pastor to see deacons become elders, and then to see some of the elders called into pastoral ministry on a full-time basis. (It should be remembered that, in the New Testament churches, the elders were called from out of their own local congregations. They were not usually imported from other places.)

What a joy it is to a pastor to see deacons become elders, and then to see some of the elders called into pastoral ministry on a full-time basis. (It should be remembered that, in the New Testament churches, the elders were called from out of their own local congregations. They were not usually imported from other places.)

It is a serious matter to serve in church.

Each of us must search his own heart to be certain that he is qualified, not setting aside or discounting the grace of God and the sanctifying work He is doing in your life.

V14-16

Elders, deacons, and church members need to be reminded of what church is.

In this brief paragraph, Paul gave 3 pictures of the church.

Elders, deacons, and church members need to be reminded of what a local church is. In this brief paragraph, Paul gave three pictures of the church.

First in verse 15, Paul says the church is the:

1. House of God

The Greek word for house here is οἶκος oikos which means “House, Home, and Household.”

God’s church is a family, and I believe that “household” is the better translation, as captured by the ESV, NLT, NASB, and NIV.

When a sinner believes in Jesus Christ as Savior, he immediately is born again into God’s family.

John wrote in his gospel:

John 1:12 NKJV

But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name:

John 1:12

Later, in chapter 5, Paul advises young Timothy to treat the members of the local church as he would treat the members of his own family ().

Paul advised young Timothy to treat the members of the local church as he would treat the members of his own family ().

Now, because the local church is a family, it must be fed; and the only diet that will nourish the people is the Word of God.

In , Jesus said that the Word of God is our bread.

Do not read below:

Matthew 4:4 NKJV

But He answered and said, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.’ ”

In Hebrews 5, the Bible says that God’s Word is milk and meat:

1 Corinthians

Do not read below:

1 Corinthians 3:1–2 NKJV

And I, brethren, could not speak to you as to spiritual people but as to carnal, as to babes in Christ. I fed you with milk and not with solid food; for until now you were not able to receive it, and even now you are still not able;

Hebrews 5:12–14 KJV 1900

For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.

In , the Bible says that God’s Word is

Hebrews 5:12–14 NKJV

For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of God; and you have come to need milk and not solid food. For everyone who partakes only of milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, for he is a babe. But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.

And in , it says that God’s Word is honey.

12 For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. 13 For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. 14 But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.

Don’t read below:

Psalm 119:103 NKJV

How sweet are Your words to my taste, Sweeter than honey to my mouth!

The Word of God is our bread, milk and meat, and honey.

It is good food to be consumed, but it is our choice to consume it.

A pastor must take time to nourish himself so that he might nourish others ().

A church does not grow by addition, but by nutrition … it’s not about a big church, but about big Christians.

Ephesians 4:11–16 NKJV

And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ—from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.

Also like a family, a church needs discipline in love.

Like a family, a church needs discipline in love. Children who are not disciplined become rebels and tyrants. The spiritual leaders of the assembly should exercise discipline (; ). Sometimes the children need rebuke; other times the discipline must be more severe.

All children have the potential to rebel, but children who are not disciplined are far more likely to do so.

The spiritual leaders of the assembly should exercise discipline.

Sometimes people may need rebuke; other times the discipline must be more severe.

In any household, the children also need encouragement and example.

And as Paul has mentioned in this letter as well as in 1 Thessalonians, godly example to the household of the church is important.

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The next picture of the church that Paul gives is:

The church, or assembly:

The word church is a translation of the Greek word ἐκκλησία ekklesia (ek-klay-SEE-a), which means “Called out assembly.”

It is used about 100 times in the New Testament to refer to local assemblies of called out believers.

The Greek word means “those called out.”

Paul wanted young Timothy to know how to “conduct himself” as a leader of a local assembly.

The Pastoral Epistles are guidebooks for conduct of a church.

Scores of books have been published in recent years, purporting to tell us how to start, build, and increase a local church; and some of them contain good counsel.

However, the best counsel for managing a local church is found in these three inspired letters.

The young pastor in his first church, as well as the seasoned veteran in the ministry, should saturate himself with the teachings Paul shared with Timothy and Titus.

There are many different kinds of “assemblies,” but the church is the assembly of the living God.

Because it is God’s assembly, He has the right to tell us how it ought to be governed.

And because, as reads, the church has been purchased with the blood of God’s Son, we should conduct ourselves in ways that please God.

Don’t read below:

Acts 20:28 NKJV

Therefore take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood.

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The pillar and ground of the truth (vv. 15c–16). This is an architectural image which would mean much to Timothy at Ephesus, for the great temple of Diana had 127 pillars. The word ground suggests a bulwark or a stay. The local church is built on Jesus Christ the Truth (; ); but the local church is also itself a pillar and bulwark for the truth.

And finally, the 3rd picture of the church here is:

The pillar and ground of the truth

This is an architectural image which would mean a lot to Timothy at Ephesus ... the great temple of Diana had 127 pillars.

That great temple was built on swampy land, but made stable using

The word ground suggests an earthen defensive wall.

tells us that the church is built on Jesus Christ the Truth.

John 14:6 NKJV

Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.

Do not read below

1 Corinthians 3:9–15 NKJV

For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, you are God’s building. According to the grace of God which was given to me, as a wise master builder I have laid the foundation, and another builds on it. But let each one take heed how he builds on it. For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if anyone builds on this foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw, each one’s work will become clear; for the Day will declare it, because it will be revealed by fire; and the fire will test each one’s work, of what sort it is. If anyone’s work which he has built on it endures, he will receive a reward. If anyone’s work is burned, he will suffer loss; but he himself will be saved, yet so as through fire.

But here Paul also says that the church is itself a pillar and defense for the truth.

It’s a pillar in that the church’s ministry relates primarily to displaying the truth of the Word, like a work of art might be put on a pedestal so all can see it.

We must hold forth on display the truth of God’s Word so the world can see it.

Philippians 2:16 NKJV

holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain.

The local church puts Jesus Christ on display in the lives of faithful members.

As a defensive wall, the church protects the truth and makes sure it does not fall.

When churches turn away from the truth of God’s Word and allow false doctrines and compromise in their ministry, then the enemy makes progress.

Sometimes church leaders must take a militant stand against sin and apostasy.

This does not make them popular, but it does please the Lord.

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Now, look with me to verse 16.

According to verse 16, the main truth to which a church should bear witness is the person and work of Jesus Christ.

(—it is probable that this verse is quoted from an early Christian hymn).

Jesus Christ was God manifest in the flesh, not only at His birth, but during His entire earthly ministry ().

Justified is next, but “vindicated” is a better translation.

Though His own people as a nation rejected Him, Jesus Christ was vindicated in the Spirit; for the Spirit empowered Him to do miracles and even to be raised from the dead.

We could say that Jesus was justified by the Spirit in the sense that He was declared to be, by the Holy Spirit, what He always was - completely justified before the Father.

Seen of angels suggests the many times that the elect angels were associated with the life and ministry of our Lord.

Seen of angels suggests the many times that the elect angels were associated with the life and ministry of our Lord. (The word angelos, translated “angels,” also means “messengers.” See . Perhaps Paul was referring to the chosen messengers who witnessed the resurrected Christ.) However, Christ did not die for angels, but for lost sinners; and so He was preached unto the nations. This reminds us of the commissions the Lord gave to His church to carry the Gospel to the ends of the earth, where He is believed on in the world. At the Ascension, He was received up in glory (, ); and He will return one day to take His church to share that glory.

It could also speak of messengers … The word angelos, also means “messengers.”

See .

James 2:25 NKJV

Likewise, was not Rahab the harlot also justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out another way?

Perhaps Paul was referring to the chosen messengers who witnessed the resurrected Christ.

However, Christ did not die for angels, but for lost sinners; and so He was preached among the nations (ethnos means nations).

This reminds us of the commissions the Lord gave to His church to carry the Gospel to the ends of the earth, where He is believed on in the world.

At the Ascension, He was received up in glory (, ); and He will return one day to take His church to share that glory.

One interesting thing about this text is that overseers, elders, and deacons are all normal ordinary people.

They are not super-people or special in some way, except that by grace they have been saved through faith.

How encouraging it is to see the mission of the church being committed to ordinary people.

Reserved.

How encouraging it is to see the mission of the church being committed to ordinary people. Retiring. Perhaps a bit shy. Sincere, but uncomfortable with opposition, and all too often unable to cope. Just ordinary people, like you and me. Yet Christ’s church has endured and, from generation to generation, communicated the life that is our Saviour’s enduring gift to those who choose to make Him their own. How important then Paul’s last words to Timothy would be. They comfort us ordinary people, and give us guidelines for maintaining the church of Jesus Christ as His living, growing family.

Perhaps a bit shy.

Sincere, but uncomfortable with opposition.

People who are often unable to cope.

Just ordinary people, like you and me … permitted by God to serve Him in many ways in His church.

Yet Christ’s church has endured.

And, from generation to generation, His church has communicated the LORD’s enduring gift to those who choose to make Him their own.

How important then Paul’s last words to Timothy would be.

They comfort us ordinary people, and give us guidelines for maintaining the church of Jesus Christ as His living, growing family.

Prayer:

Lord, we thank you for this time we have had together worshipping You and studying Your Word. We thank you that You are faithful and Your mercy endures forever. Increase our love for one another and for all, establish us in all things. Keep our minds and our hands from evil and protect us from the deceptions of our enemy the devil. Thank you for the leaders and teachers that you give to us. Thank You for being our Strength and our Shield. Lord, we place ourselves before you to do Your will. Lead us in victory, and use us to spread knowledge of Jesus Christ to the unsaved world.

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