1 Timothy 2: What is the Character of a Godly Leader?

Class Outline:

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Eyes on the horizon, not the cockpit lights.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Welcome To

BARAH MINISTRIES

 

Al Gleason

Guest Teacher

 

Good morning!

 

Welcome to Barah Ministries…an intimate, local Christian Church with a worldwide impact.  My name is Al Gleason, and I will be teaching today.  Thank Pastor Rory Clark for sharing the pulpit with me, as it is always a privilege and an honor to get the opportunity to do so. For those that are here, thank you for coming and to everyone, thank you for listening to this Bible lesson!

 

TODAY’S BIBLE LESSON

What is the Character of a Godly Leader?

 

LESSON INTRODUCTION

 

Before a plane ever leaves the ground, there’s a detailed checklist every pilot must go through. Why? Because the lives of everyone on board depend on the focus, integrity, and preparedness of the one at the controls. In the same way, when it comes to spiritual leadership, Paul lays out a checklist of character qualities, not for status or recognition, but because the spiritual health and direction of the church hinges on the integrity of its leaders. In First Timothy, Chapter 3, Verses 1 to 7, we see that leading God’s people is a noble calling, but also a serious responsibility. And just like in aviation, when leaders are distracted or unqualified, the consequences can be tragic. That brings us to a story that I want to share with you. One that reminds us why character matters more than charisma, and why leadership must never be taken lightly.

 

In December 1972, Eastern Air Lines Flight 401 was preparing to land in Miami. The flight crew became distracted by a malfunctioning landing gear indicator light. All three cockpit crew members which were the captain, the first officer, and the flight engineer, focused their attention on the bulb, trying to fix the malfunctioning light. I want to reiterate, they were trying to fix a light they knew was malfunctioning. There was no concern that the actual landing gear was malfunctioning. Meanwhile, no one was flying the plane. To complicate matters, they didn’t notice that the autopilot had been accidentally turned off.

 

The plane slowly descendedunnoticed, until it crashed into the Florida Everglades, killing over 100 people.The tragedy wasn’t caused by a massive engine failure or bad weather. It happened because the leadership team lost focus on their main job: flying the plane. They got caught up in a small issueand as a result, lost sight of what mattered most.

 

It seems silly that well-trained, intelligent men, whose lives were at stake (including the lives of all the other passengers), could get so caught up in a little blinking light that they all forgot about their responsibility. But it happened. This distraction cost them their lives.

 

As I thought about how this could happen, a few things came to mind worth considering. In any given situation we can succumb to peer pressure. Maybe the captain was the first person to express concern about the malfunctioning light, then the others in the crew shifted their attention to it because they didn’t want to disappoint the leader. It may not have been well received if the engineer told the captain, “While you are playing with the light, who’s flying the plane?”

 

The other consideration is the devastating effects of distraction.  We are familiar with it but rarely take it seriously. I say this because the world is so distracted in general. We have a tendency to get comfortable with routines or things we feel we knowso as tolet our guards down, which leaves us open for distraction. Some examples? Driving. Many people allow themselves to become distracted while driving because they are comfortable with driving. People will put on make-up while driving, eat while driving, take their eyes off the road to engage in a conversation, or search for music. Even more so today, people will focus on their phone and neglect their driving. Similar to the flight crew, they get distracted by a little flashing light or vibration from the phone and forget their main responsibility which is piloting their car safely so they don’t kill themselves. Man, that also sounds silly to me when I say it out loud like that….

 

Just like the cockpit crew was entrusted with the lives of those on board, church leaders are entrusted with the spiritual well-being of God’s people. Paul emphasizes that leaders must be above reproach, self-controlled, not easily distracted or swayed, and capable of managing themselves and their households well. When leaders lose focus, when they’re distracted by power, status, or sin, the consequences can be devastating, not only for themselves, but for the people they serve.

 

This story reminds us that leadership is not above reproach. Leaders must be vigilant, focused on their responsibility. God calls His leaders to keep their eyes on the mission, to guard the flock, and to always walk with integrity.

 

OPENING SONG INTRODUCTION

 

The song we are going to start with echoes the heart of today’s message. Leadership in the kingdom of God starts with character. Paul’s words to Timothy lay out clear standards for those who lead, but they apply to all of us. To walk blamelessly, to be faithful, to live with integrity…that begins with a clean heart. Before we step into purpose, we must surrender in purity. So, as we sing, let this be more than melody. Let’s worship together as we listen to Give Me a Clean Heart by Fred Hammond.

 

MUSIC

OPENING SONG

Give Me a Clean Heart

 

GIVE ME A CLEAN HEART

Fred Hammond

 

OPENING PRAYER

 

Let us pray…

 

Heavenly Father…we come before You with grateful hearts, ready to receive from Your Word today. Thank You for the opportunity to gather as one body, to grow, to be challenged, and to be transformed. As we open Your Scriptures, particularly this powerful letter of First Timothy, we ask that You open our eyes to see clearly, our ears to hear You deeply, and our hearts to obey without delay.

 

Let Your Spirit move in this place. Help us to understand what You require of those who lead and follow in Your church. May we not only learn truth, but be doers of it. May our lives be filled with integrity, humility, and order that reflect Your character.

 

Lord, lead this session. Let every word spoken and every thought meditated upon bring glory to Your name. We surrender this time to You.

 

…we ask for these things through the power of God the Holy Spiritin Christ’s name… Amen.

 

TODAY’S BIBLE LESSON

What is the Character of a Godly Leader?

 

LESSON PART ONE

 

One of Paul’s goals was to ensure Timothy knew how to conduct himself in God’s household. He also was aware that Timothy would need help to be effective in warding off false teachers and false doctrines, equipping the saints to pursue godliness.

 

The Greek word for bishop is translated overseer. It also refers to those who lead or are in charge, and is used in cultic, tribal, or military contexts. As we have seen in Paul’s previous writing in this letter, He likes using military terms to illustrate spiritual responsibilities.

 

The Greek word for Pastor is Poimane, and it’s literal meaning is shepherd, the term often used in the New Testament to refer to those who care for and lead a congregation.

 

To be an overseer in the New Testament church, you had to have the desire to do it, and also the resources to do it. Attending a service was not like we are used to today, when we gather at building somewhere that is set up with screens and microphones to listen to someone speak. Pastors had to lead Christian meetings in homes. They had to care deeply for believers and possess Pastoral gifts which could be used in hospitality, visiting the sick and vulnerable, and helping believers reconcile disputes.

 

Let’s read First Timothy, Chapter 3, Verses 1 to 7...

 

FIRST TIMOTHY 3:1

It is a trustworthy statement: if any man aspires to the office of overseer, it is a fine work he desires to do.

 

FIRST TIMOTHY 3:2

An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, prudent, respectable, hospitable, able to teach,…

 

FIRST TIMOTHY 3:3

not addicted to wine or pugnacious, but gentle, peaceable, free from the love of money.

 

FIRST TIMOTHY 3:4

He must be one who manages his own household well, keeping his children under control with all dignity…

 

FIRST TIMOTHY 3:5

…(but if a man does not know how to manage his own household, how will he take care of the church of God?),

 

FIRST TIMOTHY 3:6

…and not a new convert, so that he will not become conceited and fall into the condemnation incurred by the devil.

 

FIRST TIMOTHY 3:7

And he must have a good reputation with those outside the church, so that he will not fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.

 

Today’s message from First Timothy, Chapter 3, Verses 1 to 7 is not just a checklist for church leaders; it’s a call to every believer to live lives that reflect the character of Christ. Paul’s instructions to Timothy come at a time when integrity was rare and spiritual leadership was under pressure. But God was calling His people to rise above culture and walk in purity, humility, and self-control. Today, integrity is rare and spiritual leadership is under pressure. The enemies’ tactics have not changed. So, when we return from the break, let’s investigate these verses with open hearts, asking the Lord to help us not only to understand the requirements but also to embody them as we pursue lives that honor Him.

 

Take a five-minutebreak.

 

FIVE-MINUTE BREAK

NOBODY

Casting Crowns

 

 

TODAY’S BIBLE LESSON

What is the Character of a Godly Leader?

 

OFFERING INTRODUCTION

 

Generosity is both a response to God’s goodness and an act of worship. In Second Corinthians, Chapter 9, Verse 7, Paul writes, “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” When we give with clean hands and pure hearts, like we just sang about, we honor God not only with our words but with our substance.Let’s welcome upDeacon Denny Goodall with today’s offering message.

 

 

THE OFFERING

Denny Goodall

 

OFFERING VERSE

 

MATTHEW 26:41

“Keep watching and praying that you may not enter into temptation; the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”

 

OFFERING SONG

HERE I AM TO WORSHIP

William McDowell

 

TODAY’S BIBLE LESSON

What is the Character of a Godly Leader?

 

LESSON PART TWO

 

Welcome back!

 

Now let’s studyFirst Timothy, Chapter3, Verses 1 to 7. The requirement for leadership is laid out clearly to ensure there is no confusion about what’s required.

 

Just like the pilots of Eastern Flight 401 were trusted with lives and lost focus on what mattered most, spiritual leaders in the church are entrusted with something even greater: the souls of God’s people. That’s why Paul begins this chapter with such clarity and care. He doesn’t talk about popularity, talent, or charisma. Instead, he talks about character.

 

Let’s take a look at Verse 1 and begin walking through Paul’s leadership checklist. These aren’t just qualifications. They represent a clear path that will lead us to the promised land in our lives, and keep us from straying into the wilderness. They remind us that in God’s eyes, who you are matters more than what you can do. Just like in that cockpit, distraction can lead to devastation. The distractions of compromise, pride, or even the desire for comfort, can lead to devastation. But integrity? That’s what keeps the church flying straight.

 

As we study First Timothy, Chapter 3, Verses 1 to 7,let’s keep three things in mind like we did in the other lessons of First Timothy:

 

KEEP IN MIND THREE THINGS

 

1

What was happening in the church at Ephesus at the time

 

2

Why Paul wrote the letter the way he did

 

3

How the letter applies to us today

 

Let’s study First Timothy,Chapter 3, starting with Verse 1…

 

FIRST TIMOTHY 3:1

It is a trustworthy statement: if any man aspires to the office of overseer, it is a fine work he desires to do.

 

"It is a trustworthy statement" is Paul’s way of emphasizing the value and credibility of what follows in this writing. He is affirming that it is an honorable and worthwhile pursuit to desire the office of a shepherd or pastor. In the early church, this phrase carried the weight of authority, signaling to the reader that the statement should be fully accepted and taken seriously. It’s similar to when someone swears to tell "the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth" in court after placing their hand on the Bible. Once that oath is taken, the court is bound to treat what is said with legitimacy. In the same way, Paul is affirming that this call to leadership is a trustworthy and noble aspiration.First Timothy, Chapter 3, Verse 2:

 

FIRST TIMOTHY 3:2

An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, prudent, respectable, hospitable, able to teach,;

 

Here Paul gets into the leadership check list. He lays out sixteen qualifications for those who want to be Pastors. Let’s start with the five that are listed in this verse.

 

To be without reproach literally means “nothing to take hold upon.” There must be nothing that Satan or unbelieverscould “take hold upon” to criticize or attack the church. This does not mean perfection.  It means to not deserve criticism or blame. It refers to a person with a high level of integrity and high moral standards in various contexts, like personal conduct, professional ethics, or public service like the ministry.

 

Next, the husband of one wife. Some theologians debate whether this means the man has not committed polygamy, is not a celibate, has not remarried after divorce, or has not remarried after being widowed. Other scripture and cultural practices make all of these unlikely. Paul was simply saying an overseer must be faithful to his wife. For man during this time, this is where it could get tricky. In the Greco-Roman culture, married men often visited brothels or had sex with prostitutes during banquets. Most men in that region grew up with a conception of sexuality that included this type of sexual behavior. Some moral philosophers condemn this practice to an extent, but not outright.Most sources indicate that it was normal for married men to give free reign to their sexual desires with prostitutes. So, in stark contrast to the cultural standard, the overseer must be faithful to his wife. Of an interesting note, if the leader was remarried it had to be a legitimate marriage. Some during those times would not go through the process to make marriage official.

 

The next qualification is temperate. In the Old Testament this term was used to describe a person that is moderate indrinking of wine, or they lived a life that was not given to excess or flippancy.An overseer had to be serious, or keep his head in all situations, using sensible judgement in all things. This qualification was also required of female deacons.

 

Prudent or Sober minded is the Greek word Sophron. This word is also used when referring to an overseer in Titus, Chapter 1, Verse 8, when referring to older men and in Titus, Chapter 2, Verse 2, and in Titus, Chapter 2, Verse 5 when speaking of young wives. The best translation in this verse means self-control or temperance. Sensible was considered one of the four cardinal virtues in most circles of Greek philosophy and the principal virtue that a woman wants to display.

 

A good translation of respectable or orderly would be of good behavior. A Pastor should be organized in his thinking and his living, as well as in his teaching. The word used here is the same Greek word that is translated “modest one” referring to women's clothing and First Timothy, Chapter 2, Verse 9, which speaks of proper decorum.

 

In today's society there seems to be a destain for order. There is such an emphasis placed on being an individual and finding your own truth, that the implication becomes to reject order or standards. I am for you forging your own path as God leads you, but there are some standards tofollow, and order is important. Let’s look at First Corinthians, Chapter 14, Verse 40:

 

FIRST CORINTHIANS 14:40

But let all things be done decently and in order.

 

Here Paul is addressing how spiritual gifts are used in public worship, but this verse is a reminder that if God is not the author of confusion, then things should be done a certain way.

 

Let’s read Ecclesiastes, Chapter 3, Verse 1…

 

ECCLESIASTES 3:1

For everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven…

 

In Verses 2 through 8 that follow, the author lays out numerous things and situations for which there are specific times. There is a specific time for everything under the sun.

 

In Exodus 25-40, God gives painstaking details about how the Tabernacle should be built and maintained. He gives specifics on materials, measurements, and time frames; nothing is random.In First Kings 6 through 8, Solomon’s temple follows a similar strict order. When reading the creation story in Genesis, you will see a strict order in how God does things. Order was important to Jesus as well. Before Jesus performed a miracle, He organized the crowd in Mark 6:39-41…

 

 

 

MARK 6:39

And he commanded them that all should sit down by companies upon the green grass.

 

MARK 6:40

And they sat down in ranks, by hundreds, and by fifties.

 

MARK 6:41

And he took the five loaves and the two fishes, and looking up to heaven, he blessed, andbrake the loaves; and he gave to the disciples to set before them; and the two fishes divided he among them all.

 

In these three verses you see God gave instructions for them to sit down.  He told them the specific order of how they should sit down.  Then,Jesus used a delivery system to feed the masses. He looked up to heaven then blessed the food. He handed that blessed food to the disciples that took the food to the people that were sitting on the grass. Jesus did not put someone in position to fail by asking them to bless the food and break it. He didn’t try to run food out to the people by Himself. He organized the event so that it would flow smoothly and that we would get His objective of feeding everyone accomplished.

 

You can ignore order and do things your way, but there will be consequences. Can you imagine the chaotic scene that would have taken place if the crowd was charging Jesus trying to get a plate of food? Can you imagine Jesus trying to lift the food up to bless it, and people were pulling His arms down trying to snatch it because they don’t think it’s enough food to go around?  All of them probably would not have gotten fed. Maybe the lack of order in your life is why you have not gotten fed what you want in your life.

 

Hospitableis translated “the loving of the stranger.” Back then it was a very important ministry because traveling believers would need places to stay. During those times, the conditions of inns often were appalling and dangerous. Today the reception and entertainment of strangers or guests without reward, or being kind and generous without reward might represent much of its function today. Hospitality is the act of being cordial and generous in the reception of all guests.

 

The final requirement in this scripture is“one that is able to teach.”This does not mean that the overseer must be able to be an uncommonly eloquent speaker. This means that an overseer must have the capacity to teach sound doctrine. His knowledge of the gospel must be such that he can refute false teachers. This is not something that will automatically happen. A Pastor must be a diligent student of the Word of God andmust intentionally employ all that assists him in knowing and teaching the Word.

 

Let’s look at First Timothy, Chapter3, Verse 3…

 

FIRST TIMOTHY 3:3

…not addicted to wine or pugnacious, but gentle, peaceable, free from the love of money.

 

The overseer should not be a brawler. Other translations use the word drunkard. Essentially, a person who regularly drinks in excess would be denied the position of overseer. Not much different than today, drunk people would often engage in violent behavior or bullying. When it comes to drinking alcohol, however, believers are not required to have total abstinence. Paul advises Timothy to use wine for medicinal purposes. Some members of the church got drunk, and some even got drunk at the Lord’s Supper (First Corinthians 11:21), although it was customary for Jewish people to dilute their wine during the Lord’s Supper to avoid getting drunk.

 

As strange as it may sound, wine was also a drink of choice because it was considered a healthier drink than water because water wasn’t so pure in those days. If you remember, Jesus’ first miracle was turning water into wine and his mama made him do it! My mom has never asked me to go to the store to buy alcohol.  Even with this event happening, many today have tried to reason the miracle away or not address drinking alcohol at all. It is interesting how the churches’view of drinking in this country has developed into what it is today.

 

The next qualification on the list is to “not be a bully.”A pastor should not be contentious or not looking for a fight. The leader should be peaceable. Our Lord actually told us to turn the other cheek instead of fighting.

 

Free from the love of money is considered a major virtue that all believers should have. Itserious issue because of the function of money in our lives. Jesus is telling disciples a money and life principle in Matthew 6:24-25. The amplified version of the Bible says it this way:

 

 

MATTHEW 6:24

No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon [money, possessions, fame, status, or whatever is valued more than the Lord].

 

MATTHEW 6:25

Therefore, I tell you, stop being worried or anxious (perpetually uneasy, distracted) about your life, as to what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, as to what you will wear. Is life not more than food, and the body more than clothing?

 

If you choose to serve money at some point it will conflict with what God wants you to do when you serve him. If you consider money more important, you're more likely to cheat or steal to get it. In those days this virtue was also very important for an overseer, because they typically were the ones that handled money for church distribution. Again, not much different than today. Other desires like fame or status tend to have people acting just like they would if they were lovers of money. In recent years there have been several overseers that seem to value status and fame more than the Lord, and they were found in some precarious situations.

 

Aside from making money or other things more important than God, I think it's important for us to have a right perspective as it relates to money. We cannot live the life Christ died for if we do not understand this. A leader that believes in order, who is above reproach and sober minded should definitely be this way when it relates to money. When we read scripture about our Heavenly Father, He is royal and majestic, full of wisdom and love, and none can stand against Him. He is the King of kings and Lord of lords. Wealth and opulence come with the territory. Gold, which has always represented wealth throughout time, was even in the Garden of Eden when only Adam and Eve were there (Genesis 2:11-12).

 

Many religious views consider poverty as some kind of virtue and lean on one particular scripture to justify this stance. It has caused people to be dishonest about money (even though they don’t love it), and to neglect their responsibilities as it relates to money. This viewpoint leads to what Jesus was talking about in Matthew 6:25, where people are worried about money all the time, and forget what's most important in life.

 

Let’s read First Timothy 6:10 from the King James version:

 

 

FIRST TIMOTHY 6:10 (KJV)

For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.

 

The is one of the most misunderstood scriptures in the Bible. It has led people to pretend they don't value money because they didn't want to be mistaken for someone who loves money. So many well-meaning Christians spend most of their waking hours at work, they buy houses in certain locations based on where they work, they live a lifestyle that caters to what work requires of them. Their whole life is built around making money that they say they don't care about. It also leads to neglect when it comes to learning about money so that we can prosper like God intends. This ignorance has led to many sorrows as well. There is one passage that is a great example of this that we should consider today. These are the words of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Let’s read Matthew 25, Verses 14 through 30.

 

MATTHEW 25:14

For it will be like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted to them his property.

 

MATTHEW 25:15

To one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one, to each according to his ability. Then he went away.

 

MATTHEW 25:16

He who had received the five talents went at once and traded with them, and he made five talents more.

 

MATTHEW 25:17

So also he who had the two talents made two talents more.

 

MATTHEW 25:18

But he who had received the one talent went and dug in the ground and hid his master’s money.

 

MATTHEW 25:19

Now after a long time the master of those servants came and settled accounts with them.

 

MATTHEW 25:20

And he who had received the five talents came forward, bringing five talents more, saying, ‘Master, you delivered to me five talents; here I have made five talents more. ’

 

MATTHEW 25:21

His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master. ’

 

MATTHEW 25:22

And he also who had the two talents came forward, saying, ‘Master, you delivered to me two talents; here I have made two talents more. ’

 

MATTHEW 25:23

His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master. ’

 

MATTHEW 25:24

He also who had received the one talent came forward, saying, ‘Master, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you scattered no seed,

 

MATTHEW 25:25

…so I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the ground. Here you have what is yours. ’

 

MATTHEW 25:26

But his master answered him, ‘You wicked and slothful servant! You knew that I reap where I have not sown and gather where I scattered no seed?

 

MATTHEW 25:27

Then you ought to have invested my money with the bankers, and at my coming I should have received what was my own with interest.

 

MATTHEW 25:28

So take the talent from him and give it to him who has the ten talents.

 

 

MATTHEW 25:29

For to everyone who has will more be given, and he will have an abundance. But from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away.

 

MATTHEW 25:30

And cast the worthless servant into the outer darkness. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. ’

 

This passage is powerful on so many levels. It's important to remember that Jesus is telling this story to the disciples. There is an established system that is designed to increase the money that you're entrusted with, and there is an expectation for you to do so. If we don’t pay attention to how money works, we won’t do this. Our ignorance will hurt us. The servant that was given the least amount was the least trusted, least capable and was fearful. As a result, what he had was taken away from him. In addition to that, he was considered worthless and cast into a place where there be weeping and gnashing of teeth. This is a reference to the lake of fire. The poor person in Jesus’ story was cast out and sent to hell. Let’s look at one more scripture that underscores the importance of having money, First Timothy 5:8. Paul says this:

 

FIRST TIMOTHY 5:8

But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.

 

The enemy has done some serious damage in the church. Many believe that poverty is a virtue, but the book we believe says that if you can’t provide for your own you have denied the faith and you are worse than an unbeliever!

 

There is a disconnect between what most believe God said and what He actually said. As an overseer, it is important to know the difference. Many leaders that have come before us have led the body astray and we're currently experiencing the consequences of it.

 

Sometimes people believe that money was evil, even though the Scripture does not say that. The Scripture actually says if you don’t have money, you are worse than an unbeliever. If money and wealth is evil why would God put gold in the garden?Why would He cast the servant with two talents out, and say he’s worthless and cast him into hell? Something is really off here.Let’s read the New American Standard Version of First Timothy 6:10:

 

FIRST TIMOTHY 6:10 (NAS)

For the love of money is a root of all sorts of evil, and some by longing for it have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.

 

The Greek here makes it clear that the love of money is the root of all sorts of evil, or all different kinds of evil, not the root of every single evil. We just read in Matthew 25:30 that poverty is evil because the servant was cast into hell. Another way of saying it is that people do all kinds of evil things because they love money. It is not saying that having an affinity for money is evil. If you stay away from learning and understanding money, it’s difficult to manage your household well, and you open the door for the evil know as poverty that can have devastating consequences.Here’s the next requirement listed in First Timothy, Chapter3, Verse 4…

 

FIRST TIMOTHY 3:4

…He must be one who manages his own household well, keeping his children under control with all dignity;

 

Ruling his house well would include his nuclear family and any servants or slaves if they had any.Managing the household included maintaining order, administration and caring for all those in the household. It was widely believed in Ephesus that only a virtuous man could manage his household well, which would also mean that he could manage the city-state as well.

 

His children “under control with all dignity,” refers to an overseer’s children obeying him. This was not necessarily just minors in the home, but also any adult children that live in the home which was not uncommon. The expectation back then was that children would show absolute respect for their father. If they did not, it was considered scandalous and a profound violation. Let’s look at verses 5-6:

 

FIRST TIMOTHY 3:5

…(but if a man does not know how to manage his own household, how will he take care of the church of God?),

 

Here Paul is reiterating that a person who cannot manage their private affairsare likely to fail at managing larger public affairs of the church as well.

 

FIRST TIMOTHY 3:6

…and not a new convert, so that he will not become conceited and fall into the condemnation incurred by the devil.

 

An overseer “not a new convert” means that he cannot be a new believer. Paul's concern was that a new believer may easily be puffed up with conceit and fall into the condemnation of the devil. Sufficient spiritual maturity was required to make sure the leader doesn't get puffed up. The same word here is used when speaking of false teachers that no longer teach sound doctrine.Let look at Verse 7:

 

FIRST TIMOTHY 3:7

And he must have a good reputation with those outside the church, so that he will not fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.

 

In Verse 7, Paul is saying that the overseer must have a good reputation with outsiders to make sure he doesn't fall into disgrace, or into a trap of the devil. Paul is painting the picture that the devil is actively seeking to disgrace the overseer

(First Peter 5:8). The implication here is that a damaged reputation with unbelievers would lead to them speaking evil of the gospel.

 

The qualifications to be an overseer may seem like a lot. In First Timothy Chapter 3, Paul is speaking specifically to overseers.The truth is every believer is called to a life of integrity, discipline, and spiritual maturity. Leadership in the church simply magnifies the qualities to whichall Christians should aspire. The standard is not about perfection, but it's about pursuing a life worthy of the gospel. It's about living a full life that Christ died for us to have. Paul states this as well in some of his other letters. Let’s look at Romans 12:1-2:

 

 

ROMANS 12:1

Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship.

 

ROMANS 12:2

And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.

 

Paul is entreating us to live in a way that's acceptable to God by renewing our mind to how He does things versus what we understand from the world. This act is considered worship to God. Let's look at Galatians 5,Verses 22 and 23:

 

GALATIANS 5:22

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness…

 

GALATIANS 5:23

…gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.

 

Before these two verses Paul was expressing to us that if we are led by the Spirit, we won't be subject to the law. He then lists the deeds of the flesh and how we can recognize them, and that list is longer than the requirements we just read to bean overseer. The point is, as individuals we are still called to a high standard that mirrors those requirements of an overseer.

 

Leaders must model the life all believers are called to live: self-controlled, faithful, hospitable, and above reproach. God’s desire is that the entire body of Christ would reflect His character, not just in title, but in testimony. Because ultimately, our lives, not just our words, preach the gospel every day.

 

THE GOSPEL MESSAGE

The Good News of Jesus Christ’s Salvation Offer to the Human Race

 

The closing moments of this lesson could be the ten most important minutes of your life.  You’ll be introduced to the good news concerning how you can spend all eternity in heaven when you close your eyes in this life.  We want you to know that…

 

GOD WANTS YOU!

He Wants You to Make the Most Important Decision of Your Life

 

…and what He wants for you is that you make the most important decision of your life.

 

God wants a RELATIONSHIP with you!  The Lord’s half-brother says in James, Chapter 4, Verse 8…

 

JAMES 4:8

Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.

 

The enemy of God, Satan wants you to be part of a RELIGION.  Religion is Satan’s strategy against the human race and it is designed to make you indifferent or antagonistic to God.  It works!  The Bible describes religion in Second Timothy, Chapter 3, Verse 5 as…

 

SECOND TIMOTHY 3:5

…a superficial form of godliness (a counterfeit to Christianity)… that denies godliness’ divine power…

 

You have a choice…relationship or religion…what’s your choice?

 

Religion can’t get you to heaven!  Religions propose that if you don’t do everything their “god” expects, the god will be disappointed.  Regardless of your best efforts to follow religious rituals, the religion does not GUARANTEE you will get to heaven.

 

In Matthew, Chapter 23, Verse 27 and 28, the Lord Jesus Christ Himself expresses his disdain for religion…

 

MATTHEW 23:27

“Woe to you (religious) scribes and Pharisees…you hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs…which on the outside appear beautiful…but inside they are full of dead men’s bones and all uncleanness.”

 

 

 

MATTHEW 23:28

“Outwardly youappear righteous to men, but inwardly you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness (you are unrighteous unbelievers).”

 

The Bible is a gift from God that introduces you to the possibility of a relationship with the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.  Hebrews, Chapter 4, Verse 12 describes the power of Scripture…

 

HEBREWS 4:12

For the word of God is alive and powerful and sharper than any two-edged sword…and it’s piercing…even as far as the division of soul and spirit…of both joints and marrow…and it is a critic of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

 

God’s plan is to teach you the truth about how to have a relationship with Him through the Bible.  Satan’s plan is to teach you lies that obscure the truth of the Bible.

 

What happens when you close your eyes in this life?  If you have a relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ, counting on Him to save you, good things happen.  If are counting on religion to save you, bad things happen.

 

The Bible makes it clear that salvation is a gift that we receive through faith. Let read a few scriptures that illustrate this…Ephesians, Chapter 2, Verses 8 and 9…

 

EPHESIANS 2:8

For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God…

 

EPHESIANS 2:9

…not as a result of works, so that no one may boast.

 

Titus, Chapter 3, Verse 5…

 

TITUS 3:5

He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness, but according to His mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit,

 

Romans, Chapter 3, Verses 23 and 24…

 

ROMANS 3:23

…for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God…

 

ROMANS 3:24

…being justified as a gift by His grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus…

 

No matter how much work you do, you can’t work your way into heaven and be able to brag.

 

The requirement to get saved is simple. Acts, Chapter 16, Verse 31…

 

ACTS 16:31

They said, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved by God, you and everyone in your household who also believes."

 

Romans, Chapter 10, Verses 9 and 10…

 

ROMANS 10:9

…if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God the Father raised Him from the dead, you will be saved…

ROMANS 10:10

…for with the heart a person believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation.

 

It is as simple as making a decision and having faith that God will do the rest. We cannot do it on our own.

 

When you die it is heaven or the Lake of Fire for all eternity.  You get to make the choice where you spend eternity.  Relationship or religion?  What’s your choice?

 

God wants a relationship with you because He doesn’t want ANYONE to spend eternity in the Lake of Fire.  Second Peter, Chapter 3, Verse 9 says…

 

SECOND PETER 3:9

The Lord is not slow about His promise of salvationas some accuse Him of…instead, He is patient toward unbelievers…not wishing for any of you to perish (in the Lake of Fire) … but for all of you to come to repentance (a change of mind about having a relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ).

 

THE GOSPEL MESSAGE

The Good News of Jesus Christ’s Salvation Offer to the Human Race

 

CLOSING SONG INTRODUCTION

 

As we close today’s message, we’re reminded that no matter the qualifications, the responsibilities, or the high standard set for leaders and believers alike—our greatest call is to trust in the One who makes all things possible.Just like Paul instructed Timothy to remain rooted in truth and integrity, we too are called to stand firm—not in our own strength, but in the finished work of Christ. As this song reminds us, when life shakes us, it’s our belief in Jesus that holds us steady. Here’s Believe in Jesus, by Evvie McKinney & DOE.

 

MUSIC

CLOSING SONG

Let’s Sing the Lord’s Praises

 

BELIEVE IN JESUS

Evvie McKinney & DOE

 

CLOSING PRAYER

Let us pray...

 

Heavenly Father…

 

…thank You for being here today. Thank you for the truth of Your Word, for the wisdom You’ve poured out through First Timothy, and for the clarity You’ve given us on what it means to lead, to follow, and to live lives worthy of the calling we’ve received.

 

Lord, help us to take what we’ve learned and let it shape our character, our choices, and our conduct. Let integrity define us. Let love guide us. Let our leadership, in our homes, churches, and communities, reflect the grace and truth of Christ.

 

For those of us in positions of influence, give us clean hands and pure hearts. For those still learning and growing, surround us with godly examples. And for all of us, may we walk humbly with You, empowered by Your Spirit and grounded in Your Word.

 

Bless each person here, their families, their ministries, and their journeys. Go before us, walk beside us, and dwell within us.

 

…we ask these things through the power of God the Holy Spirit…in Christ’s name...Amen.

 

THE ANNOUNCEMENTS

 

Please make it a habit to listen to the announcements.  They are posted separately.  Keep current on the things going on and coming up in Barah Ministries.

 

GOT BIBLICAL QUESTIONS?

 

Ask the Pastor

pastor@barahministries.com

 

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Send your request to pastor@barahministries.com

 

KEEP ON STUDYING THE WORD OF GOD DAILY!

 

Thanks for coming!

Thanks for watching!

Thanks for listening!

 

www.barahministries.com