The next three character qualities that Paul mentions have been strung together most likely because they tend to complement one another. Sobriety refers to an individual who is not controlled by an addiction to substances. Specifically, Paul is writing about the use of alcohol. Ryken mentions, “An alcoholic cannot serve as an overseer because he is incapable of the kind of sober judgment that good spiritual leadership requires.”[1] The overseer must be a man of discernment; therefore he must be free from addictions in all areas of life.Discuss: Define addiction. What areas of my life tend toward addiction? What are possible addictions besides pornography and substance abuse?
The Greek philosophers at times referred to a drunkard as a brawler.[2] Drunkenness carried with it the idea of violence or rage. The overseer must not be impatient or easily agitated by the people he is responsible to care for. In 2 Timothy 2:24, Paul exhorts Timothy to be gentle in correcting the false beliefs of those at the church of Ephesus. Therefore, gentleness does not condone passivity. Rather it is a life being lived out with Christ-like meekness (power/authority under control).
Discuss: What areas of my life do I tend to be passive in? What areas of my life do I lack patience and gentleness?
Finally, an overseer must not be quarrelsome, divisive, or argumentative. Consequently, it is necessary for the overseer to be selective on what battles are worthy to engage (1 Tim. 4:6-10; 2 Tim. 3:14-26). As the overseer engages in battles he must exemplify sobriety and gentleness, yet unwavering commitment to the Word of God.
Discuss: What theological issues am I most concerned about? What is my attitude when the terms fundamentalism, evangelicalism or reformed theology are mentioned?
Answer the following questions:
1. How do you measure appropriate sobriety?
2. Do you partake of alcohol and if so is it with appropriate sobriety?
3. What are some cardinal issues of the faith and what are some contemporary “foolish and stupid arguments”?
4. In regards to church-life and theological issues, at what times do you tend to be impatient or lack gentleness?
5. In regards to family life, at what times do you tend to be impatient or lack gentleness?
6. In what ways do/can you seek to be a peacemaker?
Read: Thomas Brooks, Precious Remedies against Satan’s Devices, 25-49
[1] Ryken, Phillip. 1 Timothy. (Phillipsburg, NJ: PandR Publishing, 2007) 112.
[2] Paraphrased from Ryken, Phillip. 1 Timothy. (Phillipsburg, NJ: PandR Publishing, 2007) 112.