In 1 Timothy 3:1a, Paul introduces the paragraph reminding Timothy of the confidence found within the following statement: “If a man desires the office of an overseer he desires a good work.” This statement stands as a preparatory and yet equally indispensible declaration to the rest of the paragraph. This statement informs the reader of the inner dynamics of the heart of an individual who might be called by God to do the ministry of an overseer. His heart’s disposition is an intense longing and desire to do the work of the ministry which Paul asserts is a good or honorable work. The intense desire to care for God’s flock is honorable only as it is tethered to the qualifications that follow. Thus, desire left alone can easily become the snare of Satan (3:6-7), the seedbed of pride and consequently a detriment to Christ’s church.Discuss: What strategies or disciplines have I implemented into my life that would stand as a defense to the snares of Satan?
Paul begins in verse 2 by imperatively stating a primary yet general character quality that finds practical description and specificity in the following characteristics. It is primarily binding upon the overseer that he be an individual who is not culpable or who is not given over to legitimate accusations. He is above reproach.
The overall qualification of an overseer is not contingent upon accusations but rather the valid condition of those accusations. Hence it was necessary for Paul to include the qualities that follow in order that the example set by the overseer before the people inside and outside the church might be more attentively and specifically safeguarded.
This assumes that all of the character qualities mentioned in 3:1-7 are held out as an example to all the church (1 Tim. 4:12). Since the overseer’s life is laid open before his people, accusations upon his life should receive the benefit of the doubt from his congregation unless multiple witnesses can testify (1 Tim. 5:19).
Discuss: How is credibility achieved?
When does spiritual imperfection necessitate an elder’s dismissal?
1. Have you ever thought of being an elder?
2. Have you considered that your lack of desire might be an indication of spiritual complacency or misdirection?
3. Why do you desire to be an elder? Are you aware of anything impure in your motives? If so what are they?
4. Is there anything in your life you feel disqualifies you for serving as an elder?
5. Have you ever considered what would happen to the church, to the sheep, if they have no shepherd? Does your hearts respond the same way as Jesus at the sight of shepherdless sheep? (Matt. 9:36)
6. Does your life command the respect of others because they trust you do what is right?
7. Would any of your coworkers or family be surprised to hear that you were a leader in your church?
Read through the Pastoral Epistles 2x and log the character qualities of Paul, Timothy, and Titus. Second, note the character qualities that Paul exhorts Timothy and Titus to embrace.