The Word of God: Showing Us How to Live!! August 20, 2014 1 Timothy 3:1-16: Today’s reading offers explicit instructions for “church leaders” (3:1), known also as bishops. In the early church, a bishop was the chief leader of a local congregation. The passage also gives instructions for “church helpers” (3:8) also known as deacons. They had the task of serving people and taking care of their needs. Today’s Scripture: 1 Timothy 3:13 Those helpers who do their work well win for themselves a good standing and are able to speak boldly about their faith in Christ Jesus. Today’s Reading 1 This is a true saying: If a man is eager to be a church leader, he desires an excellent work. 2 A church leader must be without fault; he must have only one wife, be sober, self-controlled, and orderly; he must welcome strangers in his home; he must be able to teach; 3 he must not be a drunkard or a violent man, but gentle and peaceful; he must not love money; 4 he must be able to manage his own family well and make his children obey him with all respect. 5 For if a man does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of the church of God? 6 He must be mature in the faith, so that he will not swell up with pride and be condemned, as the Devil was. 7 He should be a man who is respected by the people outside the church, so that he will not be disgraced and fall into the Devils trap. 8 Church helpers must also have a good character and be sincere; they must not drink too much wine or be greedy for money; 9 they should hold to the revealed truth of the faith with a clear conscience. 10 They should be tested first, and then, if they pass the test, they are to serve. 11 Their wives also must be of good character and must not gossip; they must be sober and honest in everything. 12 A church helper must have only one wife, and be able to manage his children and family well. 13 Those helpers who do their work well win for themselves a good standing and are able to speak boldly about their faith in Christ Jesus. 14 As I write this letter to you, I hope to come and see you soon. 15 But if I delay, this letter will let you know how we should conduct ourselves in Gods household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and support of the truth. 16 No one can deny how great is the secret of our religion: He appeared in human form, was shown to be right by the Spirit, and was seen by angels. He was preached among the nations, was believed in throughout the world, and was taken up to heaven. Reflect According to this passage, what kinds of people should be leaders in the church? What instructions are given to church leaders? Think of strong church leaders that you know. What makes them strong leaders? What is the “secret” mentioned in verse 16? Have you had opportunity to share this “secret” with others and speak boldly about your faith? Prayer!! Holy God, bless and care for the leaders of your church. Equip them with integrity, good sense, wisdom, boldness, courage and love, that they may help the church become a reflection of your realm. By your Holy Spirit, empower me to speak boldly to others about my faith in Christ Jesus. In Jesus Name I pray, Amen.
Posted on: Wed, 20 Aug 2014 10:43:55 +0000
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