1 Timothy 3 - 4.8.26

Scripture: I Timothy 3:14-15

Although I hope to come to you soon, I am writing you these instructions so that, if I am delayed, you will know how people ought to conduct themselves in God’s household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth.

Observation

Did you ever read a chapter in the Bible and think, “That doesn’t apply to me?” Well today is not that day! 2 Tim. 3:16-17 “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”

In I Timothy 3, Paul lays out the requirements to be an overseer (elder) or a deacon (trustee). But these expectations are not only for the elders and trustees. Paul explains that these instructions are for all of us – anyone who is a part of God’s household.

“What Paul has done here is simply given a list of behavioral standards (that’s what these are) that are, in fact, applied to all Christians … and said, in effect, whatever ought to be the standard in Christian conduct generally must be particularly exemplified in the leaders.” Don Carson

Application

As you read the list of expectations for leaders, you will see that these are reasonable expectations for every Christ follower – that we are growing in the wisdom and knowledge of God and the fruit of the spirit should be evident in our life. And this is emphasized in verse 7, “He must also have a good reputation with outsiders, so that he will not fall into disgrace and into the devil’s trap.”

Our reputation matters. People who don’t know Jesus are watching us every day. They want to know if our actions match our words. When I was younger, many people put fish symbols on their cars. I remember thinking, “I don’t want to put a symbol on my car and be held accountable for my driving!” But I need to remember that I am an ambassador for Jesus at all times, not just when I feel like it.

This was a reminder for me today to examine myself. If Jesus is Lord of my life, it should be evident all day, every day. I don’t want to be a different person at church than at the DMV.

Prayer

Lord, please forgive me for the times that I haven’t been a great example of your love. Thank you for this reminder today. Continue to work on my heart and grow me in patience, love for others, and self-control. Be the Lord of my life in every situation.

- Debbie Dunn