Study 3 From The Book of 1 Timothy is: 1
Timothy 3:13
1. Verses 1-7. What are the
qualities required in those who exercise leadership in the Church? Note what
Paul says about their (a) personal character, (b) Christian experience, (c)
general reputation, and (d) abilities.
Why does Paul put such stress upon the personal life of a Christian
Leader?
2. What qualities are necessary
for deacons (verses 8-10, 12, 13) and deaconesses (verse 11)? Compare your
answer with the answer to Question 1. Note how largely the element of
self-discipline enters into these qualifications. In the light of this passage,
how do I measure up to the standard God requires?
Notes
1 Verse 1. ‘Bishop’: the bishop
here must not be identified with a present-day bishop. The Greek word means ‘one who exercises
oversight’. There were a number of such men in each congregation (see Phil.
1:1); and they were also called ‘elders’ or ‘presbyters’. See Ti. 1:5, 7; Acts 20:17, 28, av and rv.
2 Verse. ‘Married only once’: cf.
3:12; 5:9; Rom. 7:1-3.
3 Verse 6. ‘The condemnation of
the devil’: this probably means to fall into the condemnation incurred by the
devil for his sin of pride.
