Download Sermon Notes September 21st, 2014 1 Timothy 3 Introduction Paul

Sermon Notes
September 21st, 2014
1 Timothy 3
Introduction
Paul gives qualifications for godly leadership within the church
Scripture References
1 Timothy 3:1-16
Notes
1.
Before Paul gets into the qualifications, he first tells the church that the role and work of an
overseer/elder is noble ministry. The men in this role have a great responsibility to take care
of God's flock. This ministry is not for the faint of heart.
2. The first phrase "above reproach" is the key character of the list. Everything else explains
what this means. Elders need to have a life that is a picture of Christ likeness and integrity to
outside observers. Not only are inward workings of the spirit important, but how that is
displayed on the outside is also critical.
3.
"Husband of one wife" literally means one woman man. Regardless of past marital history, is
the current state of the elders marriage a picture of fidelity and love. Does the elder have a
reputation of moving on to a different wife when bored or frustrated with the current one?
4. Managing his own household well means that this person has demonstrated great ability to
take care of and provide what his family needs. Both in physical and spiritual terms.
Leadership characterized by loving care.
5. While elders do more broad vision and shepherding tasks, deacons take care of more specific
ministry jobs within the church. They fulfill special roles as servant leaders. They are held to
very similar standards.
6. Both elders and deacons are to be people of godly character, integrity, and have good
reputations in the church AND community.
7. Paul ends this chapter with a picture of Jesus. He is the perfect example of godly leadership
for the church. It's Jesus that develops these qualities.
6. Godly leadership is developed by the redemptive work of Jesus Christ