I Timothy 3: Qualifications for Church Leaders and the Mystery of Godliness
This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work.
A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach;
Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous;
One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity;
(For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?)
Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil.
Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.
Likewise must the deacons be grave, not doubletongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre;
Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience.
And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, being found blameless.
Even so must their wives be grave, not slanderers, sober, faithful in all things.
Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well.
For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.
These things write I unto thee, hoping to come unto thee shortly:
But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.
And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.
I Timothy 3 delves into the crucial aspects of church leadership and the profound mystery of godliness. This chapter provides guidance on selecting qualified individuals for positions of leadership, emphasizing character and spiritual maturity, while also highlighting the church's vital role in upholding and proclaiming the truth. I Timothy 3 offers timeless principles for healthy church structure and a deeper understanding of the Christian faith.
Qualifications for Overseers (Elders) (I Timothy 3:1-7)
Paul begins by affirming that desiring the office of an overseer (also known as an elder or pastor) is a noble ambition (I Timothy 3:1). The terms "overseer" and "elder" are used interchangeably in the New Testament (see Acts 20:17, 28; Titus 1:5-7), referring to those charged with the pastoral duty of shepherding the church. However, this desire must be coupled with the character and capabilities necessary for such a significant role.
The qualifications Paul outlines focus primarily on the character of the man aspiring to leadership. He must be above reproach (I Timothy 3:2), meaning blameless and free from any justifiable accusation of improper behavior. Other key qualifications include:
- Husband of one wife (I Timothy 3:2): This stipulation, necessary in a culture where polygamy was practiced, emphasizes faithfulness and commitment within marriage.
- Self-controlled (I Timothy 3:2): Not enslaved to fleshly desires, but disciplined in thought and action.
- Sensible (I Timothy 3:2): Wise and balanced in judgment.
- Respectable (I Timothy 3:2): Living an ordered and honorable life.
- Hospitable (I Timothy 3:2): Selflessly willing to share with others.
- Able to teach (I Timothy 3:2): Capable of communicating God's truth effectively.
- Not an excessive drinker (I Timothy 3:3): Not addicted to alcohol.
- Not a bully but gentle (I Timothy 3:3): Characterized by tenderness and kindness.
- Not quarrelsome (I Timothy 3:3): Not given to starting fights or arguments.
- Not greedy (I Timothy 3:3): Free from the love of money.
Furthermore, an overseer must effectively manage his own household and lead his children well (I Timothy 3:4-5). Paul argues that if a man cannot manage his own home, how can he be expected to care for God's church? Competent management doesn't mean the absence of problems, but rather taking responsibility for addressing them biblically and properly.
Finally, an overseer should not be a new convert (I Timothy 3:6). A new believer may be easily tempted to conceit and pride, which led to the devil's downfall. He should also have a good reputation among those outside the church (I Timothy 3:7), so that he does not bring disgrace on Christ's name. While outsiders may not share the church's beliefs, they should respect the overseer for his character and integrity.
Qualifications for Deacons (I Timothy 3:8-13)
After addressing overseers, Paul turns to the qualifications for deacons (I Timothy 3:8). The Greek word for deacon, diakonos, means "servant." Deacons are to execute the ministry for the well-being of the people by serving them under the leadership of the overseers/elders.
The qualifications for deacons are similar to those of overseers, emphasizing high-quality character (I Timothy 3:8-9). They include:
- Dignified (I Timothy 3:8): Worthy of respect.
- Not double-tongued (I Timothy 3:8): Sincere and truthful in their speech.
- Not addicted to much wine (I Timothy 3:8): Moderate in their consumption of alcohol.
- Not greedy for dishonest gain (I Timothy 3:8): Not motivated by financial gain.
- Holding to the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience (I Timothy 3:9): Well-grounded in Christian doctrine.
Potential candidates for deacon should be tested first (I Timothy 3:10), demonstrating faithfulness and service in the life of the church before assuming the role.
The passage also addresses the qualifications for deaconesses or the wives of deacons (I Timothy 3:11). They must be:
- Dignified (I Timothy 3:11): Worthy of respect.
- Not slanderers (I Timothy 3:11): Not given to malicious gossip.
- Sober-minded (I Timothy 3:11): Level-headed and responsible.
- Faithful in all things (I Timothy 3:11): Trustworthy and reliable.
Like overseers, deacons must be husbands of one wife and be able to manage their children and households well (I Timothy 3:12). Those who function faithfully as deacons and deaconesses gain a good standing and confidence in the faith (I Timothy 3:13).
The Church: Pillar and Foundation of the Truth (I Timothy 3:14-16)
Paul explains that he is writing these instructions to Timothy so that he will know how people ought to conduct themselves in God’s household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth (I Timothy 3:15). The church is not merely a human institution; it is the family of God, purchased by Christ's blood (Acts 20:28) and governed by His authority (Ephesians 1:22; Colossians 1:18).
The church's mission is to uphold and proclaim the truth (I Timothy 3:15). Truth is the fixed standard by which reality is measured, God's perspective on every subject. The church is tasked with undergirding and upholding this reality, pointing people to Jesus, who is "the way, the truth, and the life" (John 14:6).
Paul concludes this chapter with a hymn-like confession, a "mystery of godliness" (I Timothy 3:16), celebrating the core beliefs about Jesus Christ:
- He appeared in the flesh (I Timothy 3:16): Refers to the incarnation of the Son of God.
- Was vindicated by the Spirit (I Timothy 3:16): Declared by the Father as His beloved Son, empowered by the Spirit to perform supernatural works, and raised from the dead.
- Was seen by angels (I Timothy 3:16): Heavenly beings attended Jesus at His birth, temptation, resurrection, and ascension, signifying divine approval.
- Was preached among the nations (I Timothy 3:16): The gospel was proclaimed to the world.
- Was believed on in the world (I Timothy 3:16): People put their faith in Christ for forgiveness of sins and eternal life.
- Was taken up in glory (I Timothy 3:16): Christ ascended into heaven.
This hymn summarizes the good news about Jesus Christ, the foundation upon which godliness is built. It's a reminder that the church's life and witness are rooted in the person and work of Jesus Christ.
This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work.
A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach;
Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous;
One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity;
(For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?)
Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil.
Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.
Likewise must the deacons be grave, not doubletongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre;
Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience.
And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, being found blameless.
Even so must their wives be grave, not slanderers, sober, faithful in all things.
Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well.
For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.
These things write I unto thee, hoping to come unto thee shortly:
But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.
And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.
I Timothy 3 delves into the crucial aspects of church leadership and the profound mystery of godliness. This chapter provides guidance on selecting qualified individuals for positions of leadership, emphasizing character and spiritual maturity, while also highlighting the church's vital role in upholding and proclaiming the truth. I Timothy 3 offers timeless principles for healthy church structure and a deeper understanding of the Christian faith.
Qualifications for Overseers (Elders) (I Timothy 3:1-7)
Paul begins by affirming that desiring the office of an overseer (also known as an elder or pastor) is a noble ambition (I Timothy 3:1). The terms "overseer" and "elder" are used interchangeably in the New Testament (see Acts 20:17, 28; Titus 1:5-7), referring to those charged with the pastoral duty of shepherding the church. However, this desire must be coupled with the character and capabilities necessary for such a significant role.
The qualifications Paul outlines focus primarily on the character of the man aspiring to leadership. He must be above reproach (I Timothy 3:2), meaning blameless and free from any justifiable accusation of improper behavior. Other key qualifications include:
- Husband of one wife (I Timothy 3:2): This stipulation, necessary in a culture where polygamy was practiced, emphasizes faithfulness and commitment within marriage.
- Self-controlled (I Timothy 3:2): Not enslaved to fleshly desires, but disciplined in thought and action.
- Sensible (I Timothy 3:2): Wise and balanced in judgment.
- Respectable (I Timothy 3:2): Living an ordered and honorable life.
- Hospitable (I Timothy 3:2): Selflessly willing to share with others.
- Able to teach (I Timothy 3:2): Capable of communicating God's truth effectively.
- Not an excessive drinker (I Timothy 3:3): Not addicted to alcohol.
- Not a bully but gentle (I Timothy 3:3): Characterized by tenderness and kindness.
- Not quarrelsome (I Timothy 3:3): Not given to starting fights or arguments.
- Not greedy (I Timothy 3:3): Free from the love of money.
Furthermore, an overseer must effectively manage his own household and lead his children well (I Timothy 3:4-5). Paul argues that if a man cannot manage his own home, how can he be expected to care for God's church? Competent management doesn't mean the absence of problems, but rather taking responsibility for addressing them biblically and properly.
Finally, an overseer should not be a new convert (I Timothy 3:6). A new believer may be easily tempted to conceit and pride, which led to the devil's downfall. He should also have a good reputation among those outside the church (I Timothy 3:7), so that he does not bring disgrace on Christ's name. While outsiders may not share the church's beliefs, they should respect the overseer for his character and integrity.
Qualifications for Deacons (I Timothy 3:8-13)
After addressing overseers, Paul turns to the qualifications for deacons (I Timothy 3:8). The Greek word for deacon, diakonos, means "servant." Deacons are to execute the ministry for the well-being of the people by serving them under the leadership of the overseers/elders.
The qualifications for deacons are similar to those of overseers, emphasizing high-quality character (I Timothy 3:8-9). They include:
- Dignified (I Timothy 3:8): Worthy of respect.
- Not double-tongued (I Timothy 3:8): Sincere and truthful in their speech.
- Not addicted to much wine (I Timothy 3:8): Moderate in their consumption of alcohol.
- Not greedy for dishonest gain (I Timothy 3:8): Not motivated by financial gain.
- Holding to the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience (I Timothy 3:9): Well-grounded in Christian doctrine.
Potential candidates for deacon should be tested first (I Timothy 3:10), demonstrating faithfulness and service in the life of the church before assuming the role.
The passage also addresses the qualifications for deaconesses or the wives of deacons (I Timothy 3:11). They must be:
- Dignified (I Timothy 3:11): Worthy of respect.
- Not slanderers (I Timothy 3:11): Not given to malicious gossip.
- Sober-minded (I Timothy 3:11): Level-headed and responsible.
- Faithful in all things (I Timothy 3:11): Trustworthy and reliable.
Like overseers, deacons must be husbands of one wife and be able to manage their children and households well (I Timothy 3:12). Those who function faithfully as deacons and deaconesses gain a good standing and confidence in the faith (I Timothy 3:13).
The Church: Pillar and Foundation of the Truth (I Timothy 3:14-16)
Paul explains that he is writing these instructions to Timothy so that he will know how people ought to conduct themselves in God’s household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth (I Timothy 3:15). The church is not merely a human institution; it is the family of God, purchased by Christ's blood (Acts 20:28) and governed by His authority (Ephesians 1:22; Colossians 1:18).
The church's mission is to uphold and proclaim the truth (I Timothy 3:15). Truth is the fixed standard by which reality is measured, God's perspective on every subject. The church is tasked with undergirding and upholding this reality, pointing people to Jesus, who is "the way, the truth, and the life" (John 14:6).
Paul concludes this chapter with a hymn-like confession, a "mystery of godliness" (I Timothy 3:16), celebrating the core beliefs about Jesus Christ:
- He appeared in the flesh (I Timothy 3:16): Refers to the incarnation of the Son of God.
- Was vindicated by the Spirit (I Timothy 3:16): Declared by the Father as His beloved Son, empowered by the Spirit to perform supernatural works, and raised from the dead.
- Was seen by angels (I Timothy 3:16): Heavenly beings attended Jesus at His birth, temptation, resurrection, and ascension, signifying divine approval.
- Was preached among the nations (I Timothy 3:16): The gospel was proclaimed to the world.
- Was believed on in the world (I Timothy 3:16): People put their faith in Christ for forgiveness of sins and eternal life.
- Was taken up in glory (I Timothy 3:16): Christ ascended into heaven.
This hymn summarizes the good news about Jesus Christ, the foundation upon which godliness is built. It's a reminder that the church's life and witness are rooted in the person and work of Jesus Christ.