Organization of an Organism

Purpose of the Epistle

The First Epistle of Timothy was written by the Apostle Paul to young
Timothy, his son in the spirit and a young leader in the church of Ephesus.
Paul wrote Timothy in order that he might encourage and instruct this young
pastor during a time when he needed it much. The lessons that are taught in
this epistle are not only applicable to pastors, but to all of the saints of God.

Background to the Epistle

The author of First Timothy is the Apostle Paul who wrote this letter from the
area of Rome or Macedonia approximately AD 64, and just prior to his second
and final imprisonment in Rome. Timothy was one of Paul’s closest and
dearest companions in the ministry. He had earlier sent young Timothy to the
church of Ephesus to serve as pastor in a church that was encountering much
false teaching. Paul hoped that Timothy could counter such false teaching in
Ephesus (1 Timothy 1:3-4).

It is probable that Timothy had served for a time as a leader in this church,
and no doubt Paul had great confidence in his leadership abilities. This would
account for the reason that Paul chose Timothy to serve as its pastor.
Timothy had proven his faithfulness many times in the past, but still he
needed encouragement and instruction, just as all of us do in the ministry. It
is for this specific reason that Paul wrote Timothy.

Key Verse of the Epistle

There is some controversy among scholars over what is the most important or
“Key Verse” of First Timothy. There are two verses that seem to distinguish
themselves as one reads this book:

1 Timothy 3:15 – “But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou
oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the
living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.”

1 Timothy 4:12 – “Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of
the believers, in word (doctrine), in conversation (manner of life), in charity
(love), in spirit (motivation), in faith (belief), in purity (godliness).”

Both of these verses contain important truths that all believers should
observe and heed. The main idea is that all believers, especially pastors and
deacons, should understand the importance and obligations we have as
children of God. The church is the pillar and the ground of the truth. How can
we conduct ourselves as saints in the local assemblies has great influence
upon both the saved and the lost.

Major Themes of the Epistle

Sound Doctrine –

Paul instructed Timothy to preserve the Christian faith by teaching “sound
doctrine”. There was much false teaching in the days of Paul and Timothy, as
there is today, and the only way to combat such heresy is to educate the
saints. Without “sound doctrine”, immature believers will be led astray by
the false doctrines of men (Eph. 4:11-16).

Public Worship –

Prayer in public and private worship must be done with the proper attitude
toward God and fellow believers. Christian character must be evident in every
aspect of worship. Anger, resentment, and offensive behavior does nothing
but disrupt public worship and cause discord among the brethren. Church
unity is vital to the successful ministry of the church.

Jesus said, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another;
as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know
that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another” (John 13:34-35).

There is a saying that is very appropriate in regard to the church and its
ability to love others: “People will never care how much we know until they
know how we care.”

Church Leadership –

Paul gives specific instructions concerning the “qualifications” for church
leadership. Without qualified leadership, the church will not function
properly. Although Christ is the head of the church, we find in Philippians 1:1
that there actually three groups that make up the church body: bishops
(pastors), deacons, and the saints of God. Paul outlines for Timothy and us
the proper actions and attitudes of all three.

One of the greatest problems that exists in the New Testament church today
is that of proper spiritual leadership. There are many leaders today that are
motivated by the wrong reasons. There are many young preachers today that
are painfully impatient with God’s timing. Many churches today often thrust
young, immature converts into positions in which they are ill prepared.

There is a great need today to better disciple converts before sending them
out like sheep before the wolves, and there is a need among the congregation
to better understand what God’s Word says about positions of leadership. Paul
clearly explains the responsibilities of all three groups within the church.

Personal Discipline –

It takes discipline to be a leader within the church. Timothy, like all pastors,
had to guard himself, his motives, and his faithfulness in order to live above
reproach. It is often said, “Although God forgives, people most often do not!”
All believers, especially pastors, must keep morally and spiritually fit. It is
said to see a pastor fail to do so and lose his ability to lead a congregation.

Paul instructs Timothy to stay in good spiritual condition by “studying and
obeying the Word of God.” It is never enough to simply know what the Word
of God has to say. One must obey the Word as well!

Caring Church –

The church has a responsibility to care for those in need within its own
congregation, especially the sick, the poor, and the widowed. However, there
are specific qualifications that apply. Caring must go beyond having sympathy
and good wishes. There are many that feel sorry for those in trouble, but
feeling sorry does not fill an empty stomach, pay an unpaid debt, or warm a
child that is cold.

Caring churches will have a great impact upon those in the communities in
which they minister. No one on this side of heaven can possibly know what
impact the church’s ability will have upon an unbelieving world.

Introduction

The Apostle Paul wrote three epistles, 1st & 2nd Timothy and Titus, which
collectively are referred to as the “Pastoral Epistles”. This is an appropriate
name for these three letters because they were written to young pastors
involved in the leadership of churches. These three epistles constitute a kind
of “handbook for pastors”.

Paul had led both Timothy and Titus to the Lord Jesus Christ, and they had
shared many hardships and blessings with Paul on his missionary journeys in
the Roman Empire. The Apostle Paul had left Timothy in charge of pastoring
the church in Ephesus. In this first epistle to Timothy, Paul both encourages
and instructs the young pastor by providing counsel and guidance concerning
how to conduct himself as the spiritual leader of the church.

We can read in the book of Acts that Paul was under “house arrest” in
Rome, where he spent two years. Most scholars believe that after his release
from this first imprisonment, Paul traveled with both Titus and Timothy
around the Roman Empire before turning to the East. We know that Paul left
Titus on the Isle of Crete in order that he might serve as pastor there. Paul
then brought Timothy to Ephesus where he left him in charge of the difficult
task of pastoring a church in the midst of an ungodly, idolatrous people. Paul
himself continued on his journey to the area of Macedonia. Some believe that
Paul may have continued his journey to Spain, and possibly even on the
British Isles, but there is no concrete evidence to support either of these
claims. After Paul left Timothy, the apostle was subsequently arrested a
second time and again imprisoned in Rome. It was from this cold, dark prison
that the Apostle Paul wrote his second letter to Timothy, shortly before the
Romans beheaded Paul for his faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.

Purpose of the Epistle

Timothy was the son of a Jewish mother and Greek father. As a child, young
Timothy was greatly influenced by his mother, Eunice, and his grandmother,
Lois (2 Tim. 1:5; 3:15). Thank God for mothers and grandmothers who are
willing and faithful to rear their children in the nurture and admonition of
the Lord. Timothy became the first “second-generation Christian” mentioned
in the New Testament. As Timothy grew older, he was influenced by another
godly believer, the Apostle Paul. There are three major divisions in 1st
Timothy:

Teaching Sound Doctrine (1 Timothy 1:1-11)

Proclaiming the Gospel (1 Timothy 1:12-17)

Defending the Faith (1 Timothy 1:18-20)

These three divisions teach us valuable lessons concerning “The Church &
Its Message”. There is a great need for all believers to review what the
message of the church should be in light of God’s Word. One must agree that
in this day in which we live the church is being influenced by the world, more
than the world is being influenced by the church. Let’s examine the
instruction Paul gave to young Timothy, pastor of the church of Ephesus.

Teaching Sound Doctrine (1:1-11)

vs. 1-2 Paul begins his epistle in a rather formal manner, but as always, Paul
was not one to waste words. In Acts 20:17-32 Paul had warned the elders of
the church of Ephesus of grievous wolves that would attack the church. He
even suggested that after his departure, some of these wolves would come
from among the church’s elders themselves.

The purpose of Paul’s formal introduction in this epistle was to remind the
Ephesians that he had been commissioned by God, not man. There is no
higher authority by whom one may be called. So often members of churches
fail to realize that ministers are ordained by God, not by committees or
deacon boards. God calls, commissions, and ordains these ministers to
shepherd the flocks within the local church.

Paul identified Timothy’s as pastor as being two-fold. The first aspect of his
ministry involved “stopping the false teaching that was taking place within
the church.” The second aspect of Timothy’s ministry involved “correcting
their misconceptions of the law.” Both of these problems still exist in the New
Testament church today, and constitute a real need for pastors to take
measures to correct them. Unfortunately, many rely more on traditions than
“Thus saith the Lord….”

vs. 3-6 Paul begins by giving Timothy instruction concerning how to stop false
teaching within the church of Ephesus. He admonishes him to “challenge
(charge) certain teachers!” It is the responsibility of pastors to guard and
ward off any and all attacks from Satan within the church. The devil would
desire nothing more than to infiltrate the teaching programs of churches and
cause heresy rather than truth to be taught. Many in teaching positions are
not qualified nor gifted to teach the Word of God, but for various reasons,
they have been thrust into the positions within the local church. It is a
tragedy when men, women, and sometimes even young teenagers are thrust
into the position of “teacher” when there is no evidence that they have been
gifted in the area of teaching. It has become commonplace in many churches
today for these people to “fill” positions simply because no one else will do
the job. God have mercy upon us if we consider such an awesome
responsibility as teaching with such low regard! The gift of teaching is given
by the Holy Spirit of God, and churches are blessed whose teachers are
capable and responsible in their obligations to teach with reverence to God
and compassion for classes. Teachers should never be chosen on the basis of
popularity. As a matter of fact, we see concrete evidence in this passage that
the pastor of the church has the responsibility guarding against the such
teachers being placed in such positions. Teachers should not be selected by
the congregations, but we learn that it is the pastor that has the responsibility
of choosing teachers.

Paul addressed this problem to the Hebrews when he said, “For when for the
time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be
the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of
milk, and not of strong meat. For every one that useth milk is unskilful in
the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. But strong meat belongeth to
them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses
exercised to discern both good and evil” (Hebrews 5:12-14.) We see in this
passage that being a child of God is not enough to qualify one to instruct
others in the Word of God. Teachers should be of full age (mature), not
novices in the Word. We must first teach new converts to mature before
sending them into areas of teaching. Who is better qualified in the church to
determine who are qualified to teach doctrine than the pastor, the man
ordained and sent of God to shepherd the sheep of the church? (Ephesians 4:
11-14)

The word “charge” literally means “to give strict orders from a superior
officer.” The pastor is the undershepherd whom God Himself has ordained to
care for the flock of a church. Paul instructs Timothy, as pastor, to challenge
or charge certain teachers within the church who were teaching false
doctrines. Once these teachers are identified, they should never be allowed to
continue to teach doctrines, fables, traditions, or any other heresies. This is
not a pleasant task for any pastor. Many are negligent in fulfilling this
important responsibility. The calling of a pastor is not an easy vocation, but
God does promise He will give grace. Pray for your pastor that God will give
him boldness and confidence to perform the difficult duties of shepherding
the flock to which the Lord has appointed him. Pray that God will give him
wisdom, understanding, discernment, boldness, and most of all love to serve
the Lord faithfully.

There was a good reason why Paul instructed Timothy to challenge these false
teachers. There should always be a good reason when we rebuke others
overtaken in a fault (Gal. 6:1). The “aim of the charge” is revealed in verse 5
– to promote a “pure heart, good conscience, and faith unfeigned (sincere
faith).” The people of Ephesus needed to be corrected and instructed
spiritually. The most difficult task of any pastor is to “rebuke a member of
the congregation.” Paul uses the words “doctrine, teach, teacher, teaches,
and teaching” a total of thirty-two (32) times in the three Pastoral Epistles.

There is a great need today among churches for qualified teachers who are
willing to put the time into “studying to show themselves approved unto God”
(2 Tim. 2:15) Many teach traditions, fables, wives’ tales rather than the truth
of God’s Word. Paul calls this kind of teaching, “vain jangling” in verse 6.
The teaching that is done by those that “swerved and turn aside” from the
truth of God’s Word is summarized as “empty; void; vain”! There seems to
be a trend today toward “emotionalism” rather than the teaching of doctrinal
truth. Doctrine restricts how we live! Emotionalism is preferred because
people do not want their live style restricted. The only way we will grow,
however, is by learning the sincere, unadulterated Word of God (1 Peter 2:2).

Paul emphatically admonished Timothy in 2 Timothy 4:2, “PREACH the
Word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all
longsuffering and DOCTRINE. Many teachers and preachers have
compromised their convictions. God had committed the truth of the Word to
the Apostle Paul (1 Tim. 1:11), and now Paul is committing the truth of the
Word to Timothy (1 Tim. 6:20). It was his responsibility as a “good soldier of
Jesus Christ” to guard the faith and to pass it on to other faithful men who
would in turn teach others (2 Tim. 2:2).

vs. 7-11 In the closing verses of this section, Paul describes those that desire
to be teachers of the Law. He says that they do not understand what they are
saying. It has been aptly said, “When there is a midst in the pulpit, there is a
cloud in the congregation!” Paul further suggests in verse 8 that those who
desire to teach the Law do so with ulterior motives. The Pharisees and
religious leaders of Paul’s day had often subjected the Jews to burdensome
laws that they themselves were not willing to obey. Jesus rebuked these
leaders for such vile treatment of their brethren, and ultimately He was
crucified for so doing. Paul suggested the real reason that the Law was given
to mankind in verses 9-11. The Law was given to reveal the sinfulness of
mankind! It is a measuring device, a schoolmaster show just how far short of
God’s glory man has come (Romans 3:23). The Law was given so that man
might realize his need of a Savior, and in so realizing, come to Jesus who is
the Savior of all men, specially them that believe (1 Tim. 1:15; 4:10)!

Proclaiming the Gospel (1:12-17)

vs. 12 – Paul first thanks Jesus Christ for “enabling” him to preach the
Gospel. It is important to notice it was Paul’s “faithfulness” that qualified
him for the ministry. Any believer who desires to be used in the service of the
Lord should realize that “Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be
found faithful” (1 Cor. 4:2).

This can be seen clearly in the lives of the twelve disciples that followed Jesus
Christ in His earthly ministry. There were three members of that group of
men who made up the “inner circle” of disciples, Peter, James, and John.
These three men were privileged on several occasions to experience
opportunities of blessings that far exceeded the others. It was these three
men who ascended the mountain and witnessed the transfiguration of our
Lord. It was these three men whom the Lord took into the Garden of
Gethsemane to pray, while leaving the others on the outskirts of the garden.
It would seem that these men were so blessed because of there faithfulness.
So it is in the ministry of our Lord today. If one truly desires to be placed into
the service of God, one must be found faithful. Paul clearly states that the
reason that Jesus Christ chose him for the ministry is because the Lord
counted him “faithful”.

vs. 13-14- In these verses Paul expounds upon the mercy and grace of God
who took sinner Saul and made preacher Paul. Before Paul became a
preacher, he was Saul the sinner who blasphemed and persecuted the Church
of Jesus Christ. How loving and kind is our Lord to look upon such vile
sinners and see the end result of His exceeding abundant grace! Oh, let us
never forget what wretched sinners we were before Jesus reached down in His
tender love and mercy and grace and brought us out of that horrible pit of
iniquity! Praise His Holy Name!

vs. 15 – In this verse we have one of greatest, most dynamic verses of the
entire Word of God. This verse presents the complete Gospel for the salvation
of lost souls. If the lost could comprehend just a portion of this wonderful
verse of Scripture, there would far less who would go to hell, and there would
no doubt be countless thousands, perhaps millions of people saved.

Within the Pastoral Epistles we find “5 Faithful Sayings”. This is the first of
those five sayings – “This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation,
that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.”
There are many important lessons to be learned in this particular verse.

First, we see a “Word of Description- Jesus came to save SINNERS”.

Jesus did not come into the world to save good, moral people. Jesus did not
come into the world to save those that were wealthy and self-sufficient. Jesus
did not come into the world to save those who thought that they save
themselves. No! No! A thousand times, No! Jesus came into the world to save
SINNERS! My friend, before a person will ever come to the Lord Jesus Christ,
he must first realize he or she is a sinner in need of salvation. People who are
lost today are lost for one reason – They do not BELIEVE they are lost! If a
person truly believed that they were hell-bound sinners who can not save
themselves, then they no doubt would turn to the only one who could help
them – The Lord Jesus Christ who came to save Sinners!

Secondly, we see a “Word of Definition – Salvation”.

Jesus did not come to show us “how to save ourselves.” Jesus did not come to
“HELP us save ourselves.” Jesus did not come to “get us started on the road
to salvation” and then expect us to finish the job. Jesus came to SAVE
sinners! Whatever we might say about salvation, we must conclude that
salvation is of God, not man. Ephesians 2:8-9 clearly states, “For by grace are
ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of
works, lest any man should boast.” Romans 3:21-31 gives us everything that
we need to know concerning the salvation of the soul in Christ Jesus. In
Romans 3:24-26 we read, “Being justified freely by his grace through the
redemption that is in Christ Jesus; Whom God has set forth to be a
propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the
remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; to declare, I
say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just and the justifier of
him which believeth in Jesus.” It is God who justifieth, and He only justifies
those that exercise faith in the finished work of Christ. In Romans 3:27-28
Paul concludes his argument by stating, “Where is the boasting then? It is
excluded. By what law? Of works? Nay; but by the law of faith. Therefore we
conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.”

Thirdly, we see a “Word of Designation – CHRIST JESUS CAME”.

If there had been any other way to secure mankind’s salvation, no doubt God
would have chosen it rather than send His only begotten Son to die on a cruel
cross. However, as we read the writer of Hebrews we find that there was no
other way. “…looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who
for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame,
and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God” (Hebrews 12:2). John
14:6 clearly teaches, “Jesus Christ is THE Way, THE Truth, and THE Life,
and no man can come unto the Father but by HIM.”

If you know a person who is lost, it is imperative that you help them to
realize that they are a sinner. Jesus can not save those that do not see their
need of Him. He will not force Himself upon them. However, we do have God’
s promise that “as many as received Him, to them gave he power to become
the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:” (John 1:12).

vs. 16-17- Paul speaks of the Sovereignty of God, and he clearly believed that
God saved him to be an example of God’s amazing grace. If God could save
such a man as he, Paul reasoned that God can save any man. If God’s grace
was sufficient to transform the heart of a persecutor into the heart of a
loving, compassionate preacher, then God can transform all hearts. If God
could melt the coldness of a murderer and mold him into a missionary, then
God has the power to transform your life and mine. Paul became an example
to all sinners that the grace of God does transform lives no matter how vile
and wretched!

Paul is also a great example to the present nation of Israel. Paul had been
born a Jew of the tribe of Benjamin. Paul was a religious rabbi who had been
instructed by the greatest minds in Judaism during his day, yet he was lost.
In his spiritual blindness, Paul thought that he did a great service by
persecuting the Church of Jesus Christ. But God, who is rich in mercy and
grace, reached down from Heaven that day on the road to Damascus and
broke the heart of Saul. God transformed him into the greatest preacher,
besides Jesus, that the world has ever known! In Romans 10, we learn that
Israel today has a “zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. For they,
being ignorant of God’s righteousness, and going about to establish their own
righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of
God” (Romans 10:2-3). Sadly, many people fall into this same category of not
understanding God’s righteousness. God’s righteousness can never be
satisfied by our good works or zealous actions. God’s righteousness can only
be satisfied by the Lord Jesus Christ. We must receive Christ by faith and
faith alone in order that we may be justified in God’s sight (Romans 5:1) “For
Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth”
(Romans 10:4).

Defend the Faith (1:18-20)

vs. 18 – Paul has thus stated that two of the ministries of the church is to
“Teach Sound Doctrine” (1:1-11) and to “Proclaim the Gospel” (1:12-17). Now
Paul teaches a third ministry of the church – “Defending the Faith” (1:18-20).
Here Paul uses military terminology to emphasize that we are engaged in a
spiritual warfare with the forces and powers of hell. The word “charge”
means “to command like an officer to a subordinate”. Paul issues a charge to
Timothy to “war a good warfare.” In 2 Timothy 2:3 Paul instructs Timothy
that he should be a “good soldier of Jesus Christ”. Too many believers today
view the walk of faith as if it were a playground rather than a battleground.
As members of a local church we are to be equipped to ward off the attacks of
Satan. Ephesians 6:10-18 explains the “armor of God” all Christians wear in
order to protect us against Satan’s attempts to cause us to stumble.

vs. 19 – Paul says, “Holding faith, and a good conscience;” This is one the
keys to success in the believers daily walk. Colossians 2:6-7 states, “As ye
have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: Rooted and
built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding
therein with thanksgiving.” The only way to receive Christ Jesus the Lord
“BY FAITH.”

One man said of his pastor, “He is such a good preacher, he should never get
out of the pulpit. But he is such a poor Christian, he should never get in it!”
It was Paul’s intent to remind Timothy that he had an obligation to remain
faithful to the Lord throughout his ministry. Sometimes we get comfortable
and complacent with our walk, and we seem to think that we have earned the
right to “reward ourselves” for our faithfulness by resting. Paul told both the
Galatians (Gal. 6:9) and the Thessalonians (2 Thess. 3:13), “…be not weary in
well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” It is said that the
conscious is that “inner voice which warns us that someone is watching.” We
should remember that God sees everything that we do, whether or not anyone
else does.

vs. 20 – Paul provides two men who were not faithful for examples. These two
men were obviously guilty of blasphemy. In 2 Timothy 2:16-18 we have some
insight as to what Hymenaeus did. He evidently taught heresy (false teaching)
concerning the resurrection of the saints. In 2 Timothy 4:14 we have a
possible reference to Alexander, although it was such a common name during
that period of time that it is impossible to know whether this is in reference
to the same Alexander mentioned by Paul or not. If it is the same man, then
he too was guilty of teaching false doctrine.

It is interesting to notice that Paul called such false teaching “blasphemy”.
Today there is a great epidemic of blasphemy infiltrating the New Testament
church! Many are teaching doctrines that are contrary to the Word of God.
Why are so many false doctrines being taught in the local church today? In 2
Timothy 3 Paul describes the last days. In these last days there will be those
“having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof:” (2 Timothy 3:5)
There will be those who are “Ever learning, and never able to come to the
knowledge of the truth” (2 Timothy 3:7). And Paul also says of the last days,
“For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after
their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;
And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto
fables” (2 Timothy 4:3-4).

May God help teachers and preachers and all believers to understand the
importance of rightly dividing the Word of God; to pray and hold faith and a
good conscience; to walk in faith as we have received the Lord Jesus Christ;
and to grow in grace and knowledge of our Lord.

Introduction

Paul told the church at Corinth, “Let all things be done decently and in
order” (1 Corinthians 14:40). Although the Church is an “organism”, it still
must be “organized.” Paul states that there are three groups or members of
the New Testament church – Bishops (pastors), Deacons, and Saints
(Philippians 1:1). In 1 Timothy 2 and 3, Paul instructs Timothy and the church
of Ephesus how each of these groups should conduct themselves and
coordinate their efforts within the church. The successful ministry of the
church depends upon all three groups doing their part.

In 1 Timothy 2 Paul gives instruction concerning the “Saints”. This group
makes up the majority of the local assembly and contains men, women, and
children. There are many lessons the church should learn in 1 Timothy
Chapter Two. As we study this chapter, we will find that prayer is the essence
of our Christian walk.

Praying Men in the Church (1 Timothy 2:1-8)

vs. 1 – The importance of prayer can never be overemphasized! Prayer should
be preached in the pulpit, taught in the Sunday school class, and instructed to
our youth. Prayer is the single most vital aspect of our Christian walk of life.
Without spending time in prayer, we are powerless to serve God effectively.

Paul states, “First of All”. This is clear indication that there is no greater
matter of importance in our individual lives or in corporate worship. Prayer is
communing with God on a personal basis. There is a greater need of praying
saints in the church today than any other ministry. ALL saints can participate
in prayer, but few do so with regularity. There are no prerequisites for prayer,
except one be born-again.

Jeremiah 33:3 says, “Call upon me, and I will answer thee, and show thee
great and mighty things, which thou knowest not.” It is interesting that God
has to command us to do what we should desire to do as His children. Prayer
secures for the individual the power of God needed to complete whatever task
is at hand.

Paul presents four types of prayers that we should pray: supplications,
prayers, intercessions, and the giving of thanks. Each of these are somewhat
different, but all are necessary. Supplications are the earnest requests made
to God for something in our life. Prayers refers to praise and worship by one
offering prayer. Intercessions involve praying on the behalf of others. The
giving of thanks refers to our expressions of appreciation to God for His grace
and mercy. Volumes of books are written on the importance of prayer.
Suffice it to say that Paul believed in the necessity of prayer within the
church.

Paul instructs the church to “pray for ALL men.” This includes praying for
our enemies and those with whom we may not politically agree. As Christ
hung upon the Cross He prayed, “Father, forgive them; for they know not
what they do” (Luke 23:34). The Lord instructed us to “pray for them that
despitefully use you, and persecute you” (Matt. 5:44). We will always find it is
difficult to harbor ill feelings towards others when pray for them regularly.

vs. 2 – Paul recognized the need of the church to pray for those in authority.
Romans 13:1 states, “Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For
there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.” By
praying for those in authority over us, we are praying in the will of God. One
of the motivations for Christians to pray for those in authority over us is
explained in verse 2: “that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all
godliness and honesty.” It is so important that we recognize that though this
is not our world, we are ambassadors of Christ in this world. When others see
us conducting ourselves as good citizens, God is glorified. If we are rebellious
and contentious, we bring reproach upon the name of the Lord.

vs. 3 – Paul accentuates the importance of prayer in our lives – “For this is
good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior;” There is no greater
reason for praying than to please God our Savior!

vs. 4 – This is one of the greatest verses in the Word of God! Paul reveals that
God desires that ALL men be saved. There are those today who believe in
“limited atonement”. They believe that the blood of Jesus Christ is able to
save only a “select” group of people whom the Lord has ordained to be saved.
They contend that the blood CANNOT save those whom the Lord has not
chosen to be saved. This false teaching suggests that man is NOT a “free
moral agent” and therefore, a person cannot resist the drawing of the Holy
Spirit of God. The Word of God does not teach this doctrine. In 1 John 2:2 we
read, “And he (Jesus Christ) is the propitiation (that which satisfies the
holiness and righteousness of God) for our sins: and NOT FOR OURS ONLY,
but ALSO FOR THE SINS OF THE WHOLE WORLD.” It is quite clear that
the blood of Jesus Christ is sufficient to atone for EVERY MAN’S SINS!

Paul states in 1 Timothy 2:4 that God would have all men to be saved! Aren’t
you glad to know that He cares about you? Aren’t you glad to know that no
matter who you are or what you have done, no matter where you live or what
race you belong to God desires that YOU BE SAVED? Praise His Holy Name!

We should all be thankful that God is “longsuffering toward ALL of
mankind, not willing that ANY should perish, but that ALL should come unto
repentance” (2 Peter 3:9). Romans 10:13 teaches us that “WHOSOEVER
shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” There are many today
who ARE LOST, but, praise God, they CAN BE SAVED if they obey the
Gospel. What is the Gospel? The Gospel is the Good News that Jesus Christ
died (for the sins of the world), according to the Scriptures, and that he was
buried, and that He rose again on the third day according to the Scriptures (1
Corinthians 14:3-4). By realizing that you are a sinner, and realizing that
Christ has done for you what you could never do for yourself, you can repent
(change your attitude toward sin and self) and trust in Jesus Christ as your
only means of salvation. Romans 10:9-10 states, “That if thou shalt confess
with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath
raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man
believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto
salvation.”

In Romans 6:17 we read, “But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of
sin, but ye have OBEYED from the heart that form of doctrine which was
delivered you.” This is the very essence of “obeying the Gospel.” Before one
can be saved, there must first be the delivery of “doctrine.” Paul states that
those who have heard the doctrine and believed in the teaching had been
delivered from the bondage of sin and were no longer servants of sin, but
servants of righteousness. They had been forgiven of their sins on the basis of
Christ sacrificial death, burial, and resurrection, they had OBEYED from the
HEART that doctrine which he had delivered. Many today believe the gospel
intellectually (in their minds), but this type of belief does not exhibit faith and
will not save them. We must believe in our hearts, trust in the Lord Jesus as
the only means of salvation available, have confidence that He is able to save
to the uttermost all them that repent of their sins and call upon Him. Faith
does not question, “Why?” Faith boldly asks, “Why Not?”

An acrobat once performed a daring feat at Niagara Falls. He pushed a
wheelbarrow across a tight rope stretched across the rapidly flowing river.
Many news reporters and other spectators were there to watch this
remarkable attempt to do what seemed to be to most, the impossible. Finally,
after successfully crossing over the tight wire, not once, but twice, the man
was mobbed by enthusiastic reporters. As they came to interview him, many
proclaimed that they had witnessed one of the most remarkable achievements
performed by man; unbelievable they shouted. One reporter, however, stated,
“I never for a moment doubted that he could cross over and back safely!” To
which the acrobat replied, “Sir, did you really think that I could do this feat?”
“Yes, without a doubt!” proclaimed the reporter. “Sir, if I were to cross the
tight rope again, do you think that I could do so successfully?” Again the
reporter confidently said, “Why, of course you could.” “Then get into the
wheelbarrow!” said the acrobat. The truth is that many people believe that
the Lord Jesus Christ died upon the cross for the whole world, but they do not
exercise faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Faith puts us in the wheelbarrow.
Faith is the manifestation of what we truly believe.

2 Thessalonians 1:7-10 states, “…..when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed
from heaven with his mighty angels, In flaming fire taking vengeance on
them that know not God, and that OBEY NOT THE GOSPEL of our Lord
Jesus Christ: Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the
presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power; When he shall come to
be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in ALL THEM THAT
BELIEVE….” Will you be one of the people that will see the Lord coming in
flaming fire taking vengeance, or will you be one of those in which the Lord
will be glorified and admired because you have believed in the Gospel message
delivered unto you? The CHOICE is yours today!

vs. 5-7 In these three verses we learn what is the “Basis of our Prayer”.
Prayer is based upon the finished work of Jesus Christ as our Mediator. By
His sacrificial death, burial, and resurrection, the wages of sin has been
satisfied and our justification has been secured. By the ascension and position
taken by Christ at the right hand of the Father, we have a Great High Priest
who is ever making intercession for believer daily (Hebrews 4:14-16; 7:24-25).
There is only One who mediates between God and man – The Man Christ
Jesus. A person need not confess their sins to an earthly priest because only
Christ can mediate between God and man.

Why is Christ Jesus qualified to be our Mediator? Paul explains in verse 6,
“Who gave Himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.” There is
only One Mediator because there is only One who could secure our salvation
by His death, burial, and resurrection – The Lord Jesus Christ.

Paul boldly proclaims that it is by Jesus Christ, the Son of God, that he is
“ordained” (appointed) a “preacher,” (herald of the King). He proclaimed
that it was this same Jesus Christ who also ordained him an “apostle,” (one
sent with a special commission) and a “teacher,” (one who instructs). The
same One who “ordains the end” (Salvation of the soul) also “ordains the
means to the end” (those who spread the Gospel message).

If the “Basis of Prayer” is the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ upon the
Cross of Calvary, then PRAYER is vitally important as an activity of the
church. Paul admonished the church to pray for ALL men because Jesus
Christ died for ALL men. To not pray for some is deny that Christ Jesus died
for ALL. When we harbor ill-feelings toward others, we deny that they are
important to the Lord who died for ALL men everywhere. If Christ loved
them enough to suffer the anguish of the Cross, then we should be willing to
pray for them!

vs. 8 – Paul not only instructs us concerning the “activity of prayer”, but he
also instructs us concerning the proper “attitude of prayer.” He gives four
instructions concerning our attitude. Paul says that all men pray
“Everywhere”. How sad when we allow location to restrict our prayer lives.
We should never be ashamed to bow our head and pray at a restaurant or at
work. We should be willing to pray wherever or whenever the Holy Spirit
impresses us to do so. He says that we should pray “lifting up holy hands”. It
seems many today are afraid of being labeled “charismatic” if they lift up
their hands in praise or prayer. “Lifting up holy hands” suggests that we
“have a holy life”.

The Psalmist David stated that the Lord will not hear his prayer if he
regarded iniquity in his heart (Psalms 66:18). One should first spend time
confessing sins before making supplications and intercessions known to the
Lord. It has been said that ACTS (adoration, confession, thanksgiving, and
supplication) is a good formula use in prayer. May I suggest that CATS would
be better. Confession should precede adoration, thanksgiving, and
supplication in order that God hear our prayers.

“Without wrath” suggests that we should never attempt going to the Lord in
prayer when we have ought against others. The attitude of our prayer should
always be done without harboring ill-feelings toward people. “Without
doubting” indicates that when we pray we should have faith that God will
answer our prayers, if we pray in the will of God. James 1:6-8 teaches, But let
him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a waave of
the sea driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he
shall receive any thing of the Lord. A double-minded man is unstable in all
his ways.”

Paul is teaching that “effective praying” requires that we have a “right
attitude”. Having a right attitude means that we have both a “right
relationship with God” and a “right relationship with our fellow man.” There
is much praying that does not ascend to the throne of God. We should
examine our attitudes and motives before we pray. God desires that we pray,
but proper prayer requires that we do so in light of God’s Word.

Praying Women in the Church (1 Timothy 2:9-15)

One preacher entitled a sermon preached on this passage, Adam’s Rib or
Women’s Lib.” It would seem that this passage has nothing to do with
whether or not women are to be thought of as second class citizens, as some
might teach. This passage is concerned with the attitude of women in the
activity of prayer. The key verse to consider is found at the beginning of 1
Timothy 2:9, “In like manner also…” Paul has been discussing the attitude
of praying men in the church. Now Paul addresses the attitude of women in
their prayer life.

The Lord is not concerned with the outward man, so much as He is with the
inward man. In the Apostle Paul’s day, it was not uncommon for women to
wear apparel that drew attention to themselves within the church. We find
the same thing often occurring today. The house of God is a place where the
saints are to be edified and the Gospel preached to the lost. Prayer is a major
part of corporate worship, and there should be no room for “religious
floorshows.”

vs. 9 – Paul contends that what a person wears outwardly is a reflection of
what they think inwardly. He states that women should be “adorned
themselves in modest apparel”. The word “modest” has the connotation of
“decently; orderly. “Shamefacedness” means “modest; that which avoids
extremes”. “Sobriety” means “having a sound mind; using good sense”. “Not
braided hair, gold, pearls, costly array” means that women should use “good
judgment” in what they wear. In this passage, Paul instructs believers to
evaluate their motives.

vs. 10 – Here we find clarification of verse 9. Paul emphatically states that
women (men and children should be implied as well) should dress in a manner
which “professes godliness”, not “goddessness.” No doubt many women
desired to draw attention to themselves, rather than to the Lord. Our main
objective as believers should be to lead others to the Lord Jesus Christ.
Whenever we attempt to draw attention to ourselves, we do disservice to the
ministry of Christ. John the Baptist sought to direct others to Jesus Christ,
not himself. He serves as a good example for believers to emulate. God have
mercy upon ministers who desire to be the center of attention in corporate
worship! This is the result of the flesh rearing its ugly head in our lives. We
should constantly guard against being puffed up and vain. We should
diligently guard our hearts against seeking to glorify ourselves instead of the
Lord whom we serve.

vs. 11-12 These two verses have been widely misunderstood. Keep in mind
that verse 9 begins with “In like manner also…”. The Apostle Paul is not
suggesting that women have no part in corporate worship. He is teaching
truth concerning our “attitude toward prayer.” There are many godly women
who minister in a variety of ways in the church. However, some have
misinterpreted these two particular verses to suggest that women should
never speak within the church.

The word “silence” literally means the same thing as the word “peaceable” in
1 Timothy 2:2. It means that women should not be contentious, nor should
they desire to “usurp the authority over the man” whom God has placed in
positions of leadership. In Paul’s day many of the Ephesian women were
abusing their positions in the New Testament church, and they were creating
discord and disturbances. Ephesus was the site of the Temple Diana, a Greek
idol which was worshipped as the “goddesses of the fertility”. Women were
very prominent in the idolatrous worship of Diana, and many of the women
were accustomed to asserting themselves in corporate worship. There seems
that there was a carry-over of this same attitude within the Church of
Ephesus. Some of these same women were attempting to disregard God’s
divine order as stated in 1 Timothy 2:13-14 and in 1 Corinthians 11:3; 8-9.

Paul never suggested that women have no part in corporate worship, nor did
he state that women should never teach. He did state that women should not
teach men when he wrote, “But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor usurp
authority over the man, but to be in silence” (vs. 12). The problem with many
New Testament churches today is that there are not enough god fearing and
devoted men to do the work that God has ordained the men to do! Women are
not to preach, teach men, nor deacon. These positions in the church are
divinely ordered in the Word of God.

Regardless what society has taught concerning the equality of women, God
does not ordain women to preach, become deacons, or to teach men. The ways
and thoughts of God are not in subjection to the ways and thoughts of liberals
in America! God is still “Sovereign”, and He is immutable (unchanging). God
has ordained the man as the head of the home, regardless of what the ACLU
or women activist groups might contend. We will learn more about the
qualifications of pastors and deacons later in our study.

vs. 13-14 – Paul takes Timothy and us back to the creation of man. As we read
the account in Genesis 1-2, we know that Adam was created before Eve. Eve
was created by God as a “helpmeet” for Adam. Eve was created from Adam’s
rib, and Adam and Eve were united by God as a family. Adam was appointed
as the federal head of the family, but with this came spiritual responsibilities
so often neglected by husbands. Notice that verse 14 reveals that it was Eve,
the woman, that was deceived and therefore was the one who sinned first. In
Romans 5:12 we read, “Wherefore, as by one MAN sin entered into the world,
and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:”
If Eve sinned first, why is Adam blamed for sin being in the world? It is
because Adam served as the federal head of the first family, and ultimately,
Adam is responsible for the fall of man.

Paul is emphasizing this important aspect of headship, and in so doing, he
reiterates the fact that God has divinely ordained man, not women, to hold
positions of leadership in the church. Women are not to contend with men for
these positions.

vs. 15 – If women are not to “usurp the authority over the man” in the
church, then what ministries are available for women? Many women play
prominent roles within the New Testament church today. They are active in
teaching children, young women, music, working in the nursery, serving and
helping others who are hurting in a variety of ways. Women serve in many
ways in which they are far more gifted than most men. Every church should
be thankful for the godly women who serve in different capacities, and do so
without complaint or murmuring.

Paul suggests one ministry in particular which women are well suited. We
should first look at two key words in verse 15 that sheds light on this
ministry: “saved” and “childbearing”. The word “saved” in verse 15 does not
have the usual meaning of “regenerate” or “born-again”. Here the word
“saved” means “to find significance or fulfillment.” Paul teaches that women
shall find significance or fulfillment in Christian service by rearing up her
children in the “nurture and admonition of the Lord.” Proverbs 22:6 states,
“Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not
depart from it.”

There is a great need for godly mothers who are dedicated to training up their
children according to the Word of God. There is a decline in godly mothers
who are concerned with teaching their children the principles of God’s Word.
There is a direct correlation with the decline of motherhood to the increase of
juvenile delinquency. Juvenile prisons are filled today with young boys and
girls today who have been neglected by uncaring and unsaved parents.
Timothy had been reared by his godly mother, Eunice, and a godly
grandmother, Lois (2 Timothy 1:5). How many mothers have failed in raising
their children properly? The importance of motherhood is far greater than
what today’s society would have us to believe. No doubt, the current attitude
toward motherhood is a doctrine conjured up by Satan himself! God bless
Christian mothers who have not compromised their convictions to raise their
children as taught in the Word of God! Solomon addressed the virtues of
motherhood in Proverbs 31:10-31. There is not a greater virtue for a woman,
nor is there a more needed ministry for women to enter.

Introduction

“This is a true (faithful) saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop
(pastor), he desireth a good work” (1 Timothy 3:1). This is the second of the
five (5) “faithful sayings” recorded in the Pastoral Epistles. Philippians 1:1
instructs us that there are three distinct groups which make up the New
Testament Church, “Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, To all
the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, with the bishops and
deacons.” There are bishops, deacons, and the saints. In our last chapter we
studied the need for praying men and women which constitute the saints in
Christ Jesus. In this chapter we will examine the remaining two groups which
are the bishops and deacons.

The New Testament Church is an “organism”, a growing body of born-again
believers united by the Holy Spirit of God in Christ (1 Peter 2:1-5; 9-10; 1
Corinthians 12:12-14). This body has been growing since Pentecost, and it will
one day be assembled collectively when the Lord Jesus Christ returns for His
Bride, the Church (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; 1 Corinthians 15:51-54).
However, the Lord today works through the local assemblies of believers all
around the world in order to do His will. Paul referred to this body of believers
as the “household of faith” (Galatians 6:10). Though the church is an
“organism”, we should understand that the church must be “organized” (1
Corinthians 14:40). God’s Word clearly teaches us His Divine Order of the
church in Ephesians 5:22-6:9. In our present chapter under consideration, let
us examine first the qualifications of a godly “bishop”. A church with weak
leadership will be a weak church. These qualifications may seem stringent,
but keep in mind that God demands leaders be examples to the rest of the
church.

Qualifications of Bishops (1 Timothy 3:1-7)

The terms “pastor”, “elder”, and “bishop” all refer to the same office. The
word “elder” is a translation of the Greek word “presbuteros”, and it is often
used as the word “presbytery” (1 Timothy 4:14). It simply means “an older,
mature person”. The term “bishop” comes from the Greek word
“episkopos”, and it means “an overseer”. The pastor of a New Testament
Church should be an “elder” (spiritually speaking), and he should “oversee”
the ministry of the local assembly of believers.

There is no evidence in the Word of God that supports the idea that a church
should be presided over by an area of bishops or an association. What happens
in most cases where this is practiced is that inevitably the “Doctrine of the
Nicolaitanes” which occurs when the “nicao” or clergy lords over the “laity”
or people. The local church should be indigenous from such organizations so
that Christ may be allowed to take His proper place as the Head of the
Church clearly defined in Ephesians. Neither should the pastor nor the
deacons assume that they are in control of the church. Both of these offices
are to be viewed as “servants of the church.”

Beginning in 1 Timothy 3:2 through verse seven we find a list of qualifications
for the bishop or pastor. We shall examine these seventeen (17) qualifications
in three different categories: 1.) Personal Qualifications 2.) Family
Qualifications 3.) Spiritual Qualifications.

Personal Qualifications (vss. 2-3)

A bishop should first be “blameless”. This does not mean sinless, but rather
it has the idea that the man of God should be without reproach or literally,
“that cannot be laid hold of”. If a pastor’s life is such that others have reason
to speak adversely concerning his life style, then his ministry will be
hindered, and ultimately the church will also suffer reproach.

A bishop should be “the husband of one wife”. This qualification has been
contested by liberals that conclude that this means not having more than one
wife at a time. However, it would seem to better be interpreted as “not having
been married and divorced.” In verse four it states that the man should be
“one that ruleth well his own house.” Having been divorced and remarried
would seem to indicate that he has not done so in the past, and it would
disqualify him in the eyes of many from serving as a counselor to others who
might be experiencing marital or family difficulties. It also would tend to
disqualify a man from the first qualification because he would become the
prey of many who seek to lay hold of him.

It should never be thought that those who have been divorced and remarried
are “second class” people. God has used many people as productive Christians
within the New Testament Church who have been through such difficulties.
Often times there are circumstances beyond the person’s control. However,
we must remember that these are qualifications for the office of pastor, and it
must be understood that God never limits us, we ourselves do.

The third qualification of the pastor is that he be “vigilant”. This means that
he should be “watchful; careful to make good judgments”. How often wisdom
and discernment must be exercised in pastoring a church. May God give all
pastors more wisdom and discernment to make good judgments in the daily
affairs of the church.

The fourth qualification listed in these verses is that a bishop be “sober”.
This means that he should be “serious-minded; self-controlled; single-
minded; purposeful”. Many pastors believe that they are no longer allowed to
have fun in life. This is not the case at all. The pastor should simply be
motivated and sensitive to the need of spiritual matters at all times. Often
when people begin to relax and laugh with others, they soon forget
themselves and yield to temptations.

A bishop or pastor should also be “of good behavior”. Obviously, this is a
quality that all believers should make a part of their lives. It has the idea of
being “orderly; of a good testimony; gentlemanly”.

Another personal qualification of a pastor is that he should be “given to
hospitality”. This means that he “loves people; enjoys fellowship with
others”. Can you imagine a man trying to pastor a church who does not love
people? What a terrible situation for a church to find themselves in if their
pastor does not love them and enjoy their company.

Another important characteristic that should govern the life of a bishop is
that he is gifted by the Holy Spirit in the area of teaching – “apt to teach”.
There are many good teachers that are not pastors, but every pastor should
be able to communicate the Word of God to others. Some do not believe that
they should spend time in fervent study of God’s Word. They do not agree
that men of God called to preach the Gospel should attend Bible college or
seminary. They contend that God will teach them all that they need to know.

The Apostle Paul had something to say about formal Bible education in his
letter to the Ephesians, “And he gave some apostles; and some, prophets; and
some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the
saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till
we all come in the unity of the faith, and the knowledge of the Son of God,
unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ:
That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about
with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness
whereby they lie in wait to deceive; But speaking the truth in love, may grow
up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ” (Ephesians 4:11-15).

This was written to reveal how that the Holy Spirit gifts men and ordains
them to participate in the furtherance of the gospel of Christ. In verse seven
of the same chapter of Ephesians Paul said, “But unto every one of us is
given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ.” There is little
doubt that all believers are gifted to do something, and pastors are gifted to
both preach and teach others. There are many wonderful Bible colleges and
seminaries that “rightly divide the Word of Truth” and greatly benefit men
and women in training them for the work of the ministry, whether in local
churches or on the mission field.

The bishop should not be “given to wine”. The effects of alcohol are always
negative. Statistics prove that many deaths are the result of drunk drivers;
many wives and children are physically and verbally abused as the result of
drunken husbands; many rape victims were overtaken by drunken men;
countless homes have been broken by unfaithful, drunken husbands; and no
one could begin to count all of the other crimes committed each year by those
who are influenced by drink. Alcohol and Christianity do not mix, and they
never will. Strong drink is a mocker and the results of being given to wine is
always harmful to self and others.

Bishops should “not be greedy of filthy lucre”. Money is not evil, but the love
of money is. The word “filthy” means “that which is gained unlawfully.”
Money is not filthy, but to acquire money in an inappropriate manner causes
it to become filthy. A pastor should not be motivated by a big salary, but
rather by the love of Christ and the burden for souls. It is amazing how few
pastors desire to go to a church with a larger bank account. You rarely hear
any pastor coveting a church that cannot pay him a larger salary. Churches
should not think that pastors should not be adequately supported financially,
but pastors should not seek positions that are out of the will of God.

Bishops are also to be men who are “patient; not a brawler; not covetous”.
These are three of the most difficult characteristics for any person. A bishop
must often show restraint in dealing with others. There are many occasions in
the life of a pastor when his patience will be sorely tried by congregation
members. Blessed is the pastor whose members love him and never put his
patience to the test. Pray for your pastor that God will give grace in this area
particularly. Neither should a pastor be “contentious”. Some people just enjoy
arguing with other people. Obviously, a pastor that enjoys arguing will have a
wonderful time in the pastorate, but it will most likely be short lived. Finally,
a pastor must not be covetous. It will be impossible for a pastor to prepare
and fulfill the duties of the ministry if he sets his eyes upon the “things” of
the world. Christ must maintain preeminence in his life. The pastor must not
covet the ministries of others either. We must all give an account of
ourselves to God, so we will be accountable for the opportunities, not the
numbers, or our ministries.

Family Qualifications (vss. 4-5)

The second category of the qualifications of a bishop is that of the family.
Every bishop should be a man who “rules his house well”. This seems rather
chauvinistic in the day in which we live, nevertheless, it is a principle of God’s
Word. The Bible clearly teaches that the husband is the “head of the home”,
but this concept has been misplaced somewhere along the history of the
world. This does not mean that he has the right to trample upon his family,
nor does he have the right to use or abuse his wife and children. Paul
addresses how a husband should love his wife as Christ loved the Church and
gave Himself for it in Ephesians Chapter Five. A loving husband and caring
father is one who will gain the respect of his family by earning it, not
demanding it.

A bishop should have his “children under subjection”. This does not mean
that a pastor’s children are sinless, but it does mean that their attitudes and
actions reflect the strong, spiritual leadership of their father and mother.
Children who are consistently taught Biblical principles at home will reflect
that teaching by having a healthy respect for authority. Paul comments in 1
Timothy 3:5, “For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he
take care of the church of God?”

Spiritual Qualifications (vs. 6-7)

The third category of qualifications for a bishop is that of his own personal
spiritual welfare. First of all, he should “not be a novice”. A novice is a
beginner. Obviously, a pastor should not be a new convert, nor an immature
convert. A pastor’s responsibility involves counseling people, couples, and
even whole families. Experience and a clear understanding of certain
principles of God’s Word are essential in dealing with the many situations of
leading a church. A pastor must not be a novice spiritually, but also a pastor
must not be a novice experientially. Every experience of life only better
enables a pastor to help minister to others. Paul addressed this same idea in 2
Corinthians 1:1-7. The experiences of life will help to build our faith, and the
faith increases helps us to better console those who are hurting by
encouraging them in the faith.

Too many men who have been called into the ministry today seem to want to
jump right into a ministry without learning the necessary spiritual skills. Paul
did the same thing before God took him to ABI – The Arabian Bible Institute
for a formal education. Zeal is good, but zeal without knowledge can do more
harm than good! You will find that Elijah had three important experiences –
“a brook; a barrel; and a boy” – before he was used of God to “call down fire
from heaven.” The same must be understood by men desiring to be pastors of
churches today.

Another qualification is a “good testimony with the lost”. How sad when a
pastor loses his testimony among the lost! Often a pastor has had to leave his
ministry because he was careless outside of the pulpit. Some men have
become involved with other women, drink, gambling, unpaid debts, or some
other form of illegal actions. This is certainly sinful and harmful to one’s
testimony, but it also greatly damages the testimony of the entire church.
Many churches have closed their doors because of the testimony of a former
pastor has so damaged the church that it can no longer minister in its
community.

Qualifications of Deacons (1 Timothy 3:8-13)

In giving the qualifications of deacons, Paul begins by saying, “Likewise,” in
verse eight. This means that God deems it equally important that the same
qualifications for bishops (pastors) be used in the selection of deacons. The
word “deacon” comes from the Greek word, “diakonos” which means “to
serve; servant.” In Acts 6 we have instruction for the selection of the first
deacons in the church. They were chosen mainly to assist the apostles who
needed to spend time in word and doctrine, rather than waiting tables. Today
the deacon is to assist the pastor of the local church so that he might better
be able to study and pray and feed the sheep of the flock.

In 1 Timothy 4:14-16 Paul wrote, “Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which
was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery.
Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting
may appear to all. Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in
them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear
thee.” This is the job description of the bishop or pastor. It is therefore,
necessary that the pastor have those who will assist him in the affairs of the
church. This is the primary job description of the deacon – to assist the pastor
in order that he might “meditate; give of himself to the Word and ministry;
study doctrine; and prayer.” It should be said that “godly deacons” are a
blessing to both the pastor and the church. The work of faithful deacons is
often taken for granted by the men and women of congregations, and even by
their pastor, but God knows what a blessing these men are who “use the
office of deacon”.

There are at least ten (10) qualifications for deacons listed in 1 Timothy 3:8-
13. First, the deacon should be “grave”. This simply means that a man who
would enter the office of deacon should be “held in high respect by others.” If
a deacon is not respected by others in the congregation, they will be limited in
their capacity to minister within the church. Secondly, the deacon should “not
be double-tongued”. A deacon should be a man of his word; not a gossip

Introduction

In 1 Timothy 4:9-11 we find the third of “Five Faithful Sayings” recorded in
the Pastoral Epistles. This faithful saying has to do with the “Exhorting and
Teaching of God’s Word” for the pastor. A “good minister” of the church is
one who not only “preaches” the Word, but also “practices” and
“progresses” in the Word of God. This chapter of 1 Timothy is one of the
most practical chapters of the Bible in regard to pastoring a church. This
particular chapter serves as a “handbook” for ministers.

When God called me to the ministry, I was naïve enough to believe that I
actually knew something about the Word of God. After many years of
seminary and Bible study, it is painfully evident that I have much to learn.
However, this serves as a motivation to my personal devotions and study.

As a young boy in high school and a new convert, I was burdened for one of
my favorite teachers. I rehearsed my witness to him for days, then I took a
Bible tract written by Dr. John R. Rice entitled, “What Must I Do to Be
Saved.” I asked my teacher if I might have a moment of his time, and he
agreed to allow me to talk with him. I presented him the tract, and I said, “I
have met a new friend, and I would like for you to meet him too. His name is
Jesus Christ.” I then asked the teacher if he would care to read the tract that
I had given him, and that I would like to speak to him about it later. He
agreed to do so. I was so proud of what I had done! I had stood up for the Lord
and witness to my teacher. The next week I went to him and asked him if he
had read the tract. He told me that he had, so we began to talk about Christ.
Before long the teacher confronted me with many questions that I could not
answer. As a matter of fact, he quoted more Scripture than I knew. I was so
confused and embarrassed by the time we finished our conversation that I
went home and fell upon my knees in prayer crying uncontrollably. I felt that
I had miserably failed the Lord, and I did not know what to do.

Later the Lord led me to read 2 Timothy 2:15 – “Study to show thyself
approved unto God, a workman that needeth not be ashamed, rightly dividing
the Word of Truth.” The Lord spoke to my heart that day! I knew that I was
ashamed of my witness before my teacher that day. It was as if God allowed
me to go through that awful, embarrassing experience so that I might better
understand this verse. From that time until now, I have not forgotten what a
terrible feeling I had when a lost person knew more about the Word of God
than I did. Since that time I have purposed in my heart to learn all that I can
about God’s Holy Word. I have sought to learn better how to address the
questions of others, and I have also found that it is not a disgrace to simply
say, “I don’t know, but I will try to find out.”

The fourth chapter of 1 Timothy addresses the minister of Jesus Christ. It
gives practical instruction for the minister. As we study this chapter, we will
find that a “Good Minister” does three things: 1.) Preaches the Word 2.)
Practices the Word 3.) Progresses in the Word. May God cause our hearts to
burn within us as we examine this important chapter of His Word.

A Good Minister Preaches the Word (1 Timothy 4:1-6)

In both 1 Timothy 4:1-4 and 2 Timothy 4:1-4 Paul addresses the apostasy that
will characterize the “latter times.” Paul told Timothy that there was a great
need to “Preach the Word” because of this departure from the faith. It is not
difficult today to find people, churches, and even whole denominations that
were once fundamental, Bible-believing, and evangelical, who have departed
from truth and now teach heresy.

There are two great dangers within the church today – apathy and apostasy.
Apathy is “an unfaithfulness to the faith.” Apostasy is “turning from the
faith to a lie.” Both are extremely prevalent today and there is a great need
for preachers to boldly and unashamedly preach the Word without
compromise. Paul was exhorting young Timothy to do just that – to preach the
Word and to stand fast in the faith amid the pressures and winds of
compromise!

There are many today who have forgotten that it is the local church which has
been commissioned to do the work of the Lord – to evangelize the lost, to
edify the saints, and to make disciples until the Lord returns. Many believers
today are more concerned with becoming a part of a “Religious Floor Show”
rather than to commit to a fundamental local assembly which strives to follow
the Word of God. Christian organizations, televangelists, and authors of
books are constantly competing for the tithes and offerings that should be
brought into the church. It is the church that has been given the task of
going into the world to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ. Anyone who is doing
this without the authority and support of a local church is not authorized by
the Word of God.

In Ephesians 4:11-16 we find that the local church is gifted by God with people
are called to teach, preach, and edify the saints. These men and women of
God work through and in the local church “For the perfecting of the saints,
for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all
come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a
perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ: That
we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with
every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness whereby
they lie in wait to deceive; But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into
him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: From whom the whole body
fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth,
according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh
increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love” (Ephesians 4:12-16).

There has never been a time when there has been a greater need to “Preach
the Word!” We are living in both the “worst of times” and the “best of
times.” It is the worst of times because the depravity of man is evident on
every hand. Nation is warring against nation; people worshipping false gods;
children killing children; parents are becoming more and more irresponsible
in rearing their children; the majority of the world has lost all sense of
morality and consciousness toward God; and as in the days of Noah and 1
Kings – “every man did that which was right in their own eyes.” The
philosophy of the world has become, “Eat, drink, and be merry, for tomorrow
we may die!” Even the United States of America, a nation founded on the
very principles and precepts of God’s Holy Word, has become literally numb
toward God. Apathy and apostasy has overtaken the population in our once
God-fearing country.

In Jeremiah 6:15 the prophet described the nation of Israel by saying, “Were
they ashamed when they had committed abomination? Nay, they were not
ashamed, neither could they BLUSH….” They same could easily be said of the
majority of the world and the United States. There is no one “blushing” any
more. Blushing is a reaction to knowing one is wrong. The majority of the
world does not know that they are wrong, therefore, there is no blushing!
“Preach the Word! Preach the Word!” says Paul to Timothy. May God break
the hearts of all preachers who are not doing so with conviction and zeal today.

In 1 Timothy 4:1-5 Paul instructs Timothy why he needs to preach the Word
of God. In the “latter times” which meant the time in which both Paul and
Timothy lived, there would be a departure from the faith. Some, Paul says,
would give heed to “seducing spirits” and “doctrines of devils”. The devil is
quite able to “seduce” men and women; boys and girls. He has a way of
making “heresy” and “false teaching” look right. Today there are many
different religions in the world. However, there is still only one way to heaven
– Jesus Christ (John 14:6; Acts 4:12). These self-proclaimed leaders of cults
are deceiving men, women, and children at alarming rates. Every year there
are more and more cults being started by men and women who “speak lies
with hypocrisy.” Those who are turning from the truth to lies are having their
“conscience seared with a hot iron.” They are literally becoming more and
more insensitive to the Truth!

Many have adopted the policy of “no marriage”. More and more people
around the world are simply “living together” rather than getting married.
There is more and more people who are unwilling to make any type of
commitment in life. Television shows portray single parents who have never
been married as a normal family setting. Other programs attempt to teach
that “same sex marriages” is an alternative life style. This, of course, is in
direct opposition with the Word of God. God did not ordain the marriage of
Adam and Steve; He ordained the marriage of Adam and Eve. Yes, there is a
definite need to “Preach the Word” in the day in which we live.

Paul also spoke of those who would forbid the eating of meat as a means of
religious ritual. God has changed man’s diet three different times in history.
In the Garden of Eden Adam and Eve ate fruit. After the Fall of Mankind
they were expelled from the garden. At that time God instituted herbs into
man’s diet. Herbs are well-known for fortifying the body against disease. It is
interesting that God instituted herbs at this time. Sin would definitely bring
disease in the world of man. After the flood, God instituted “meat” into man’
s diet. It was not until after the flood do we read about “demons” and “evil
spirits” influencing and menacing mankind. Although it is difficult to explain,
there seems to be a correlation between the “eating of meat” and “demons”.
After God casts Satan and hell into the Lake of Fire, and He makes all things
new in Revelation 21, man’s diet will once again be what it was in the Garden
of Eden – “twelve manner of fruit” (Revelation 22:2).

It can never be overemphasized that all believers should beware of those who
come in sheep’s clothing, but are actually ravaging wolves. How can one know
what is truth and what is “seducing spirits and doctrines of devils”? One
preacher told the story of a man whose son left home to train with the F.B.I.
as an agent to detect counterfeiting. After being away from home for six
months training, the son finally came home. His father was so proud of his
son. When the family was all gathered, the father asked his son, “What can
you tell us about counterfeit money?” The son replied, “Nothing.” “What do
you mean, ‘Nothing’,” asked the father. “Didn’t you learn anything while
you were gone for these past six months?” The son replied that had learned a
great deal while he was gone. “Well, then,” said the father, “why can’t you
tell us what you learned about counterfeit money?” The son replied, “I didn’t
learn anything about counterfeit money. I learned about ‘real money’. I
learned so much about real money that if I ever see any counterfeit money, I
will recognize it immediately!” This is what more believers need to do – learn
more about the Truth, so if they ever come into contact with “seducing spirits
and doctrines of devils” they will recognize it is as false teaching immediately.

Paul admonishes Timothy to “put the brethren in remembrance of these
things”, and says that by so doing, “thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus
Christ” (1 Timothy 4:6). Paul’s desire was that Timothy would so feed the
sheep in the church of Ephesus that they would flee from such false teaching.
He encouraged Timothy to be sound in doctrine and faith. It was no easy task
that Paul commissioned young Timothy, but Paul both prayed for and
encouraged this young preacher as often as he could.

A Good Minister Practices the Word (1 Timothy 4:7-12)

Paul next instructs Timothy to “refuse (avoid) profane (godless) and old
wives’ fables (silly myths). Just as there were in Paul and Timothy’s day,
there are also many godless and silly religions in the world today. One would
think that people would become more conscientious concerning religion. It
does not seem logical that people in 1999 would be so naïve as to worship rats,
cows, bugs, rocks, trees, the sun or the moon. However, we know that in
India there are many people starving to death, yet the cow is a sacred animal.
They believe that their ancestors may be reincarnated in the form of a cow or
a rat. They believe that when they die they too will be reincarnated as a cow
or a rat. They also believe that when the cow or rat dies, it is reincarnated as
a human.

There are many other godless and silly religions in the world which have more
appeal. Islam, Mormonism, Romanism, Inglasia ni Christo, Jehovah’s
Witnesses, Christian Scientology, and many others deny that Truth and cling
to a man-made doctrine. One should heed the words of Paul’s warning
recorded in 2 Timothy 3:5, “Having a form of godliness, but denying the
power thereof: from such turn away.” He said in 2 Timothy 3:7 concerning
the rationale of people in our day, “Ever learning, and never able to come to
the knowledge of the truth.” To the Ephesians Paul wrote, “And have no
fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them…”
(Ephesians 5:11-16).

In 1 Timothy 4:7 Paul also teaches Timothy and all ministers to “Practice the
Word.” It is not enough to preach the Word only; ministers must also
practice what they preach. Paul continues his exhortation to Timothy by
stating that “godliness” is vital to being a “good minister”. Obviously, Paul
was not a “jogger”, or one who spent a great deal of time toning up his
physique. Notice what Paul says in verse 8, “For bodily exercise profiteth
little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life
that now is, and of that which is to come.

Introduction

In this 1 Timothy 5 we find instruction for “all saints”. Paul gives instructs
every born-again child of God how they are to treat other saints – “older
saints”; “older widows”; “younger widows”; and “officers of the church”. It
is vital that members of local assemblies treat one another properly so that
there will be no “strife” or “division” among the brethren.

In Proverbs 6:16-19 we read, “These six things doth the LORD hate: yea,
seven are an abomination unto him: A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands
that shed innocent blood. An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet
that be swift in running to mischief, A false witness that speaketh lies, and he
that soweth discord among the brethren.” Since God says that “sowing
discord among the brethren” is an abomination to Him, it is extremely
important that believers comprehend His Word concerning how we should
treat one another. Jesus said, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye
love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this
(loving one another) shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have
love one to another” (John 13:34-35).

A healthy church is one in which there is no strife or division, but a unity of
spirit and love and a common goal of proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ
to the whole world. May God help pastors to preach the message of “loving
one another” on a regular basis! This is one message that cannot be over
emphasized. Let us examine what the Apostle Paul teaches in Chapter 15 of 1
Timothy concerning how saints are to love other saints.

How Saints Are to Treat Other Saints (1 Timothy 5:1-2)

The work of the pastor requires diversity. A good minister of Jesus Christ
must learn how to minister to a variety of different age groups without
showing partiality. Often pastors are tempted to minister to saints that are
their own age, while they either consciously or unconsciously neglect other
age groups. Paul teaches that the good minister is to resist this temptation
and make sure that saints of all ages be ministered to properly. Since
Timothy was a young man and inexperienced pastor in Ephesus, Paul exhorted
him to treat elderly saints with proper regard.

In 1 Timothy 5:1 Paul writes, “Rebuke not an elder, but entreat him as a
father; and the younger men as brethren.” This means that Pastor Timothy
should not search for faults in the lives of elders of the church, but rather he
should maintain a respectful attitude toward them. This does not mean that
Timothy should compromise the doctrines of God’s Word, but he should
maintain a healthy attitude and respect of men of more experience. Paul also
addresses the need for the pastor to treat the elders as fathers. This carries
the idea that children should respect their parents, therefore, pastors should
not disrespect elderly saints in the church. In regard to the younger saints,
Paul instructs Timothy to treat the younger men of the church his brethren.

In 1 Timothy 5:2 Paul writes, “The elder women as mothers; the younger as
sisters, with all purity.” It is clear that God views all saints, whether old,
young, men, or women, as members of the same family. If believers would
also consider this same truth, there would be more love and less strife in the
church. What member of a family would allow his brother, sister, mother, or
father to suffer without trying to come to their aid? What family is not
brought closer together whenever their is a family crisis?

At the moment of salvation, every believer becomes a child of God. This is
taught in many passages of the Word of God. In Colossians 2:12 Paul writes
concerning those who have received Christ, “Buried with him in baptism,
wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God,
who hath raised him from the dead.” Every person who has been saved has
been “plunged; birthed; buried” into the family of God and raised in the
newness of life. Every thing that occurred to Jesus “physically” in His
baptism by John the Baptist happened to the believer “spiritually” at the
moment of salvation. In 1 Corinthians 12:13 we read, “For by one Spirit are
we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be
bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.” This is the
“baptism of the Spirit”.

It is this operation of God that transforms us from the sons of Adam unto the
sons of God. Paul wrote the Romans and taught this principle – “For ye have
not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the
Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth
witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: And if children, then
heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ…” (Romans 8:15-17). This
same “adoption” is again referred to by Paul in Galatians 4:4-7, “But when
the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman,
made under the law, To redeem them that were under the law, that we might
receive the adoption of sons. And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth
the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father. Wherefore thou
art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through
Christ.”

Now, since we are all sons of God through Christ and part of the same family,
there should be “love one for another.” One of the greatest problems of the
church is strife and division among believers. It is obvious that unbelievers
are not compelled to Christ whenever those who profess His name are odds
with one another. It is a certainty that unbelievers know more about
problems in the church than do most of the membership. Those who are lost
make a point of finding out what is wrong in the church so that they will have
an excuse why not to come. All saints should take heed to these first two
verses of 1 Timothy 5 and do them.

How Saints Are to Treat Older Widows (1 Timothy 5:3-10)

When Israel was an infant nation wandering in the wilderness, God made
provisions for widows (Exodus 22:22). God has a tender spot in His heart for
widows and orphans. One of the primary ministries of the New Testament
church is to care for the widows and fatherless (Acts 6:1) It has been said,
“People will never care how much we know until they know how much we
care.” However, it is also important to realize that the church is not
responsible for “all widows” as we will learn.

As a pastor of a New Testament church, one will soon become “painfully
aware” of how often others will attempt to take advantage of the church.
There are those who will ask the church for money, food, gasoline, a place to
stay, and many other things. While many of these people would not dare
darken the doors of the church, they are bold in asking the church for its
help. This presents a great problem for the pastor and the New Testament
church. What should the church do? Should they give money? Food?
Gasoline? Will turning people away reflect poorly upon those who are lost?
How much is enough? Some people would “milk” the church for all they can,
so there is a definite decision to be made.

It would seem that this passage dealing with “widows” gives us some insight
into how to deal with situations such as these. Paul distinguishes between
“widows” and “widows indeed” (1 Timothy 5:3). In the following verse (vs. 4)
we find that, while God’s heart is sensitive to widows (Ex. 22:22), He gives
clear instructions for dealing with their problems. Widows who have children
or nephews are to be taken care of by them, not the church. Children or
nephews who are mature enough to care for their parents should do so, thus
relieving the church of the burden of responsibility. Paul adds, “…for that is
good and acceptable before God.”

As for “widows indeed”, God’s Word gives specific qualifications to
distinguish them from other “widows”. In 1 Timothy 5:5-10 Paul lists seven
(7) qualifications that must be met before a widow should be considered a
“widow indeed” and supported and cared for by the church. First, in vs. 5b, we
find that the widow must be one who “trusteth in God” – is saved. If a widow
is not born-again, that widow is not the responsibility of the local New
Testament church. It is obvious that no church can support all of the widows
of a town, so the first prerequisite for being a widow indeed is that they are of
the “household of faith” (Galatians 6:10). Secondly, in vs. 5a, we find that the
widow must be desolate – without support. Any widow who has relatives willing
and able to support her should do so. In vs. 8 we find that those who are not
willing have denied the faith. Thirdly, in vs. 5c, we find that a widow indeed is
a “faithful child of God” who continues (consistently) in prayer and
supplications night and day. What a testimony of faith! One who is given to
much prayer is a delight unto the Lord. Jeremiah 33:3 informs believers that
if they call upon God, He is faithful to answer their call and show them great
and mighty things that they know not. God’s Word clearly teaches that God
will care for those who put Him first in their lives. Fourthly, in vss. 6-7 we
find that a widow indeed is a woman who is not self-indulgent. A church is not
responsible to meet the needs of a widow who seeks only to satisfy the lusts of
her own flesh by lavish spending. Fifthly, we learn in vs. 9a that a “widow
indeed” must be a least sixty (60) years of age. Obviously, it is not a common
practice for women this age to remarry, so they will need assistance. Sixthly,
a widow indeed must not be a woman given in marriage to more than one man
(5:9b). This is another evidence that God is not pleased with marriage,
divorce, and remarriage. Seventhly, a widow indeed is a woman who has a
legacy of godly service. She is one “well reported of for her good works.”

As we study these seven (7) qualifications of a “widow indeed” we find that
many widows do not qualify in our churches. We also learn that taking care of
the needs of every person that knocks on the doors of the pastor or church is
not the responsibility of the church. The New Testament church must first be
responsible for the “household of faith”. However, the church must also be
careful to maintain its vision of reaching out to the lost. There is nothing
wrong with providing food, gasoline, utility payments, etc. for those that are
in need. This is a wonderful testimony, and it is a means in which the lost
may come to Christ for salvation. However, there must be careful
consideration and prayer given before the church spends money on those who
desire to “prey” on the treasury of the church. It is never a good idea to give
“money” to strangers who ask for it. There is no way of knowing what they
will use the money for. Some would spend it on drink or drugs or both, while
others may use it wisely to purchase a hungry baby some milk. It would seem
the best policy to set up an account with a local gasoline station, grocery
store, or have your own food pantry on hand to assist those in need.
Whenever possible, encourage those you are helping to attend church
services, listen to the story of Jesus Christ, or read a gospel tract. Be sure to
tell them that you will pray for them and invite them to join you in prayer.

How Saints Are to Treat Younger Widows (1 Timothy 5:11-16)

Paul now addresses how that the church is to treat widows that are not
“widows indeed.” In verse 11 Paul says that younger widows are to be
refused. The word “refused” means that they are not to be supported by the
local assembly of believers. No doubt Paul had women much younger than
sixty years of age in mind. He comments that there is a reason for this
refusal, “….for when they have begun to wax wanton against Christ, they will
marry” (5:11b).

This commentary of Paul suggests that there were many younger women that
were “spiritual” so long as their husbands were alive, but soon after the
death of their husbands, they became “wanton against Christ.” This phrase
has the idea of “turning away” from Christ. In other words, younger widows
had a tendency to “grow cold and indifferent” spiritually. It is obvious that
the natural yearning of the flesh was the problem. It seems that they forgot
their commitment to Christ when their husbands died. There are many
disturbing results of this “turning away.” First, they lacked faith in Christ as
their sufficiency. No doubt they feared that they would become destitute with
no man to care for them. Paul suggests that eventually they will marry.
Secondly, because of the carnal condition, Paul suggests that they will marry.
This marriage many times was the result of desperation and little or no
consideration was given to marrying in the will of God. Verse 12 reveals that
the marriage is one of “damnation” because they had “cast off their first
faith” or “prior commitment.” Thirdly, the result of their “turning away” is
described in 1 Timothy 5:13. Paul describes these young widows as “idle” and
“wanderers” – they often become spiritual hobos wandering about from
church to church, no doubt seeking a church to satisfy their own desires,
rather than seeking to serve God in a local assembly of believers; “tattlers”
and “busybodies” – these young widows become more concerned about talking
of the affairs of others and attempting to get involved in the lives and
business of others now that they are without their husbands. How sad when
people who suffer the loss of a spouse no longer feel productive and fulfilled.
If they would but give themselves solely to the Lord, they would know the joy
of “abundant life” that Christ offers.

Paul continues giving instruction to Timothy and the church in regard to
younger widows. Paul shares his heart by saying, “I will therefore that they
younger women marry, bear children, guide the house, give none occasion to
the adversary to speak reproachfully” (1 Timothy 5:14). Paul clearly teaches
that “younger widows” would be better off remarrying, rearing children, and
taking care of their households, than to be consumed with being idle,
wandering, tattling (gossiping), or being a busybody. Of course, this is good
advice for everyone to heed! Sadly, Paul suggests that some (younger widows)
have already “turned aside” (turned away from their prior commitment to
Christ), and they have been led by Satan. This is a very vulnerable time for
“young widows”. It is a traumatic event in their lives, and they are in need of
the church to have compassion on them. Many times when a person goes
through a tragic trial of life such as this, others will tend to distance
themselves from them because they feel uncomfortable. Although the church
is not required to support “younger widows” monetarily, it is advisable that
those in the church take an interest in talking, consoling, and helping these
widows and any other person for that matter, who is hurting. The
consequences is that they will be “led away by Satan.”

Paul suggests in verse 16, “If any man or woman that believeth (are
Christians) have widows (family relatives), let them relieve them, and let not
the church be charged; that it may relieve them that are widows indeed.” This
would seem logical that believers who have relatives who are widows, whether
young or older, they should take care of them. Obviously, the church will be
financially burdened any time it cares for a “widow indeed”, therefore, when
relatives care for their relatives the church is “relieved” of this burden.

How Saints Are to Treat Officers of the Church (1 Timothy 5:
17-25)

This section of 1 Timothy 5 refers to how saints are to treat “officers of the
church.” Paul uses the term “elders” to describe the officers, and concludes
that those who “rule well”, as opposed to those who do not rule well, are to be
counted worthy of “double honor”. It seems apparent that officers in the
church who are “true servants” are to be treated with respect, honor, and
dignity. Keep in mind that the overseeing of a church is often a difficult task.
Those who willingly give of themselves as “servants” or “ministers” to others
ought to be appreciated, not ridiculed and held in contempt.

Paul adds to verse 17 that those who “labor in word and doctrine” are
especially deserving of respect. Most congregation members are not aware of
the time and effort that is involved in ministering to the saints. There seems
to be many in the church that are oblivious of the sacrifices that those who
labor in word and doctrine make. Ministers are not often afforded some of the
simple pleasures of life, friends, and families because of the time and effort it
takes to study, meditate, and pray over messages and planning of church
ministries. The pastor of a church is often called upon to visit in the hospitals,
preach funerals, officiate weddings, preach at various meetings and events,
and counsel those who have a variety of needs. Those who come to church
only occasionally or who never participate in any ministries or activities of the
church have little or no idea of the daily responsibilities of the minister.

Paul teaches us that these men are to be “counted worthy of double honor”.
Church members should be mindful that although the pastor provides
leadership in the church, he is still just a man. In John 1:6-7 we read about
John the Baptist. The Apostle John wrote, “There was a man sent from God
whose name was John. The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the
Light, that all men through him might believe.” We learn much about
ministers in this passage. First, we learn that John the Baptist was a MAN. He
was not a superman, nor was he perfect. He was clearly described as a man. A
man is capable of doing things wrong. He is not omniscient, omnipresent, nor
omnipotent. As one preacher said, “The BEST a man can do is still only the
best a MAN can do!” Secondly, we learn that John the Baptist was a “man
SENT from GOD”. The pastor of the church should be “a man sent from
God”, not a man selected by the congregation. Often churches looking for
pastors look for a man that fits their preconceived idea of a pastor. They go
about looking with their committees for a man that fits the mould, rather
than for the man in whom God wants for their church. Is the pastor of your
church the man whom God has sent, or is he the pastor that men sent? You
will find in the Word of God that whenever there was a need among Israel or
the church, God sent a man. He did not send a program; He did not send a
song; He did not send a building; He sent a MAN! This is God’s methodology
of accomplishing His will. Thirdly, we learn that John was sent by God for a
specific reason – “The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light.”
This should be the main concern of ministers – to be a witness of Jesus
Christ. The minister is not the Light, nor is the church – Jesus Christ is the
Light, and the church is the candlestick. We are to “hold forth the Word of
Life” by our words and our works. We are to “hold up the Light” in a
manner that others may see the Light. This should be the major concern of
every born-again child of God. Are YOU holding up the Light? Fourthly, we
find the purpose of this reason – “that all men through him (Christ) might be
saved.” Every ministry of the church should be designed with this ultimate
goal in mind – to see souls saved!

In 1 Timothy 5:18 we learn that pastors should be compensated financially.
There are many in the church today that do not understand this principle.
Paul clearly teaches, “The laborer is worthy of his reward.” Because of the
time and effort required to minister to a church, pastors need to be free from
having to work a secular job. Those who must work are hindered in
administering the church, and the quality of their ministries suffer. It is also
sad when many of these members complain that the pastor is not able to visit
or perform some duty that they expect him to do. What a dilemma for
ministers! A good pastor is certainly worthy of his reward. No wonder Paul
says, “Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honor,
especially they who labor in the word and doctrine.”

One of the greatest errors of the church today involves “church discipline”.
Most churches do not practice church discipline at all, while others go to the
opposite extreme and abuse the exercise of discipline. In all cases, discipline
should be bathed in prayer and exercised only for the purpose of
“restoration”, not “revenge”. There are many passages in the Word of God
which gives instruction concerning “church discipline” – Matthew 18:15-18;
Romans 16:17-18; 1 Corinthians 5; 2 Corinthians 2:6-11; Galatians 6:1-3; 2
Thessalonians 3:6-16; 2 Timothy 2:23-26; Titus 3:10; and 2 John 9-11 are just
a few that should be studied.

In the case involving an “elder”, there are certain important steps that
should be followed that are outlined in 1 Timothy 5:19-21. Paul sets forth
criteria that should be considered when disciplining “leadership” of the
church. First, always be sure of the “facts”. Too often people have the habit
of jumping to conclusions without first checking out the accusations.
Sometimes people are prone to exaggerate or out-right lie about others,
especially those in positions of leadership. Secondly, facts should be supported
by witnesses, not rumors. We should always be skeptical of those who want to
remain anonymous when they are speaking evil of others. Thirdly, when a
leader is accused, all witnesses should be present. Everyone has a right to
“face their accusers”, and the leadership of the church is no exception.
Fourthly, those leaders who have been proven guilty of some gross
misconduct should be “rebuked publicly”. This public rebuke is an important
aspect of church discipline. Paul states the reason for this rebuke in 1
Timothy 5:20, “Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear.”
When the church membership witnesses public rebuke, they will clearly
realize that if leaders are rebuked, they will be also if found guilty of such
conduct. Fifthly, those who are in charge of church discipline should always
obey God’s Word. Personal feelings should not be considered in disciplining a
members of a local assembly, whether a leader or not. Sixthly, there should
be no “good ole boy” tactics practiced either. So often we find that man is
guilty of being a “respecter of persons”. This should never be considered in
church discipline. If it is, then the whole church will greatly suffer.

Paul’s next discussion concerning elders within the church involves the
“selection and ordaining” of elders. In 1 Timothy 5:22-25 Paul states that the
church should “Lay hands suddenly on no man”. This means that elders
should never be selected and ordained before they have had a chance to be
“proven”. Every time a man preaches his individual reputation and
credibility, as well as that of the church is at stake. For this reason, neither
new converts nor novices should be placed into a position of teaching or
preaching. All elders, including both pastors and preachers, should be proven
men of God. They should be well determined by others concerning their
“spirituality”. They should be men given to faithfulness, prayer, Bible study,
and fidelity. Before the church selects such a leader, they should carefully
and prayerfully investigate the qualifications of the person. The position of
leadership in the church is never to be taken lightly by those who assumes
the positions, nor by those who select those who will lead. Therefore, it is for
this reason that Paul emphatically declares, “Lay hands suddenly on no
man.” In 1 Timothy 5:22 Paul states, “neither be a partaker of other men’s
sins; keep thyself pure.” This means that “to ordain such unqualified men is
to take part in their sins.”

In verses 24 Paul teaches that some men’s sins are easy to detect – “open
beforehand…and some men they follow after.” The thought is that those who
are placed into positions of leadership who are not qualified will cause those
who are spiritually immature to stumble as they follow after these leaders. In
stark contrast Paul states in verse 25, “Likewise also the good works of some
are manifest beforehand; and they that are otherwise cannot be hid.” The
idea here is that those who are “qualified leaders” will produce good works
which will have a “positive affect” upon the same immature believers.
Leadership is much more than teaching and preaching the Word – it also
involves being a good example for others to imitate. No wonder Paul
instructed Timothy in verse 23, “Drink no longer water, but use a little wine
for thy stomach’s sake and thine often infirmities.” Obviously, Timothy was
suffering from “stomach problems” which are often the result of anxiety and
stress involved with leadership positions. While God does not want us to
worry, it is painfully obvious that “the Spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
Church members – “Pray for your pastors and other leaders within your
church!”

Introduction

In this last chapter Paul continues instructing the church concerning its
ministry. As a military general giving orders to a subordinate, Paul “charges”
Timothy to be a good soldier of Jesus Christ. There are four main divisions
found in 1 Timothy 6. The first division is found in verses 1-2 where Paul
instructs how saints should treat their employers (masters). Secondly, in
verses 3-10 Paul discusses the marks and motives of false teachers. This was
a much a problem then as it is now. Thirdly, in verses 11-21 Paul teaches
Pastor Timothy that he should flee evil, follow righteousness, fight the good
fight of faith, and to be faithful. Finally, Paul instructs Timothy of the snare
of riches. He gives four important principles concerning wealth as we will see.

Christian Slaves (Servants) – 1 Timothy 6:1-2

As we examine 1 Timothy 6:1-2 we find that believers are to aware of their
opportunity to witness as employees. Although Paul uses the term “slaves”
and “masters”, we should find no problem correlating these same principles
in our own employment. The same instruction can be found in Titus 2:9-10. In
Titus 2:11-14 Paul also gives that young pastor a wonderful reason that should
motivate the incorporation of these principles.

Paul teaches that the main reason that employees should be respectful of
their employers is so that the name of God and His doctrines (teachings) be
not blasphemed. Whenever professing Christians complain, are disrespectful
to their employers, and are slothful and irresponsible, the name of God is
tarnished. Our testimonies will either uphold the Lord or bring reproach upon
Him. We have no choice in this matter. Whether we want to be soldiers of
Jesus Christ or not is immaterial. If we have been saved by the blood of Jesus
Christ, we ARE soldiers. The question we need to answer honestly is, “What
kind of soldier are we?” Paul adds to verse 1 by stating that if we have
“believing masters (employers), we most certainly should have no reason to
despise them since they are brethren. This is another way of stating the same
thing that Christ said, “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if
ye have love one to another” (John 13:35).

If a person has a Christian employer, Paul says that there is even more
reason that we should honor them. Again let us consider the principle taught
in John 13:35, “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have
love one to another.” Sadly, there are many believers who take advantage of
their employers because they are Christians! Paul states three reasons why
servants (slaves) should respect “believing masters (employers): 1.) Because
they ARE faithful (believing) 2.) Because they are Beloved by God 3.) Because
everyone benefits from the blessings that follow.

False Teachers – 1 Timothy 6:3-10

In this section of 1 Timothy 6 Paul deals with the subject of handling false
teachers. These lessons can be divided into two sections: 1.) The Marks of
False Teachers (vss. 3-5a) 2.) The Motives of False Teachers (vss. 5b-10). Let
us take a close examination of what the Apostle Paul teaches young Timothy,
who was encountering a great deal of false teaching in the city of Ephesus.
We will find that these same important lessons will be very helpful in our
present day as well.

vss. 3-5a In dealing with the “Marks of False Teachers” Paul states in verse 3
that they “teach otherwise, and consent not to the wholesome words, even the
words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which according to
godliness.” The first and greatest acid test of teacher is true or false is their
discernment of the Word of God. However, if a believer is not a student of the
Word himself, it will be impossible for them to know the difference. This
should motivate every Christian to “study to shew thyself approved unto
God” (2 Timothy 2:15a).

Paul addressed the need for believers to learn the Scriptures in Ephesians 4:
11-15, citing that those who are not knowledgeable are like “children, tossed
to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of
men, and cunning craftiness whereby they lie in wait to deceive.” Believers
should have an insatiable appetite for the Word of God! A person who has
fallen in love wants to know all that there is to know about the object of their
affection. The same should be true in the spiritual realm. When a person has
fallen in love with Christ there should be a desire to know all that there is to
know about Him. This was Paul’s thought in Philippians 3:10, “That I may
know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his
sufferings, being made conformable unto his death.”

Secondly, Paul identifies another mark of false teachers as being “proud”.
Teachers of the truth have a “burning heart”, not a “big head”. Arrogance
has no place in the pulpit! Pride is the first thing that is mentioned on God’s
seven most hated attributes of mankind (Proverbs 6:16-19).

Thirdly, Paul identifies false teachers as “knowing nothing”. When a person
studies and learns what the Word of God teaches, it will become painfully
obvious that many people who profess to be scholars actually are not! As a
new convert people are prone to believe anything a preacher says simply
because he is called a preacher. After studying and maturing as a believer,
however, one learns that not all so-called preachers “rightly divide the Word
of God.” In 2 Timothy 4:1-4 Paul charges Timothy to “Preach the Word; be
instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long
suffering and DOCTRINE. For the time will come when they will not endure
SOUND DOCTRINE; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves
teachers (false teachers), having itching ears; And they shall turn away their
ears from the TRUTH, and shall be turned unto FABLES (false teachings).”
We are living in such a day as foretold by Paul. Many false teachers have no
concept of the Word of God, yet they stand and emphatically proclaim
“another gospel” than that which our Lord Jesus Christ preached.

Fourthly, Paul says that these false teachers are actually “doters”. The word
“doting” means “filled with a morbid desire; sick”. Paul states that false
teachers are “sickening” and with their questions do no more than gender
envy, strife, railings, and evil surmising. They stir up more trouble than do
good. They major on the minors and appeal to the flesh rather than the
spiritual. One of the greatest tragedies of the charismatic movement today is
that they love to brag “receiving the Holy Ghost”. They contend that “the gift
of the Holy Ghost” is conditioned upon their ability to “speak in tongues”,
which is nothing but pride packaged in religious garble! The truth is given in
Romans 8 which teaches that it is impossible for a person to be born-again
without the Holy Spirit. To teach that a person can be saved, yet not be a
recipient of the Holy Spirit is “false teaching.”

Fifthly, Paul characterizes false teachers as “men of corrupt minds and
destitute of the truth supposing that gain is godliness”. Their teachings do not
gain them anything but condemnation! These men are self-centered, corrupt,
and without knowledge of the truth! No wonder Paul emphatically exhorts all
believers to withdraw themselves from such false teachers.

vss. 5b The next aspect of false teachers instructed by Paul concerns the
“Motives for False Teachers” and is recorded in 1 Timothy 6:5b-10. Paul gives
several motives why false teachers do not desire to teach the truth. First, he
states that they are motivated by “financial gain”. “Filthy lucre” is monetary
gain which has been acquired by wrong or immoral methods. How sad that
there are men and women who use the pulpit to pad their own pocketbooks!
There are many “false teachers” who “PRAY” with their congregations on
Sundays, and then they “PREY” on them the rest of the week!

Paul states that money is the determining why these false teachers teach.
Preachers are certainly laborers worthy of their hire (1 Timothy 5:17-18), and
they who preach and teach the truth should be counted worthy of double
honor. No one should ever make an accusation concerning pastors without
two or three witnesses (1 Timothy 5:17; 19), but Paul says that these false
teachers teach heresy in order to take advantage of their flocks.

vss. 6-10 Paul takes up the matter of covetousness in these verses since it is
such a prominent motive for false teachers. He warns Timothy of the terrible
affect that materialism and covetousness has on the believer. These five
aspects are important lessons for everyone, whether saved or lost, and we
should take heed to remember them. First, he states that “Money does not
bring contentment” (vs. 6). Paul stated the same principle to the Philippians
in Chapter 4:11. Solomon teaches us the same important lesson in the Book
of Ecclesiastes. Secondly, Paul states that “Money is not lasting” (vs. 7). It is
a surety that no man can take his material possessions with him when he
dies. As one preacher said, “I have yet to see a hearse with a U-Haul attached
to it headed for the graveyard.” Thirdly, he teaches us that “Contentment
should be the comfort in knowing that our basic needs of life are met daily”
(vs. 8). What a lesson for us all to take heed to in our lives. So often we are
guilty of complaining and coveting what we do not have. We forget that God
has promised to supply ALL of our NEEDS, not all of our desires. Fourthly,
Paul teaches us that the “Riches are often a snare which cause us more harm
than good” (vs. 9). How true this principle of God’s Word is! When we are
consumed with getting ahead materially, we soon find ourselves in worse
financial shape than before! Certainly, we find ourselves worse off spiritually.
We are exhorted to “Seek ye first the kingdom of God and His
righteousness”, and when we give God His proper preeminence in our hearts
and lives, everything will fall in its proper order. Fifthly, he teaches us that
the “LOVE of money leads to SIN” (vs. 10). Money is not the root of all evil,
but the love of it is. Those who put their desire of money before God are
practicing idolatry. Paul states that “they have erred from the faith, and
pierced themselves through with many arrows.” Those who spiritually suffer
for this reason have no one to blame but themselves! This brings us back to
verse 6 – Money does not bring contentment – Godliness does.

The Pastor – 1 Timothy 6:11-16; 20-21

vs. 11a Now Paul instructs Timothy concerning the behavior of pastors. First,
he admonishes young Timothy to “Flee from Evil!” The world views “fleeing”
or “running away” as being cowardly, however, in spiritual matters, running
away from or fleeing temptations is not considered weak; rather it is often
WISE!

Paul taught the Corinthians, “All things are lawful unto me, but all things
are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under
the power of any.” All believers should realize that we are no match for the
forces that oppose the Spirit. However, as we yield ourselves to God, He is
able to overcome the lusts of the flesh, the world, and the devil. Fleeing evil is
good advice that should be heeded by all believers.

vs. 11b Secondly, Paul instructs Timothy to “Follow after righteousness,
godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.” All of these attributes describe a
person who is Spirit-filled or led by the Holy Spirit. “Righteousness” deals
with one’s character, while “Godliness” deals with one’s conduct. A believer’s
conduct is directly affected by one’s character. What is in our heart always
manifests itself in our words and our works.

vss. 12-16 Thirdly, in these closing verses Paul gives Timothy charge to “Fight
the Good Fight of Faith”. There is much involved in fighting this fight. The
verb “fight” literally means “to keep on fighting”. It refers to the believer
who is in a battle with Satan and his demons. We should be constantly in a
position as Christians to “contend for the faith” (Jude 3). Just as Nehemiah
and his men carried both a trowel in one hand and a sword in the other, we
too will find ourselves building and battling against the forces that oppose
Christ.

When will this “battle” ever end? Paul tells us that we are to continuing
“fighting the good fight of faith” until the “appearing of our Lord Jesus
Christ: Which is his times he shall show, who is the blessed and only
Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords: Who only hath immortality,
dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath
seen, nor can see: to whom be honor and power everlasting. Amen.

vss. 20-21 Fourthly, Paul admonishes Pastor Timothy to “Be Faithful”. The
word “keep” is a military term which means “to guard” or “garrison”. We
are to constantly keep an eye on our own spiritual well-being. So often
ministers are so concerned with ministering to others that they forget to
“keep that which is committed to thy trust.” May God help us as preachers to
remember this important admonition.

Being faithful means so much more than simply coming to church regularly.
It also means “avoiding profane and vain babblings”. Again we find Paul
teaching Timothy to “flee”; “guard against”; “keep a distance from” SIN.
We can never be too conscious of our own spiritual welfare. Backsliding is a
result of taking our mind off of the things of God and placing them upon the
things of the world or the flesh. No wonder Paul taught the Philippians to
“think on these things” (Philippians 4:8).

Paul had received the truth from the Lord Jesus Christ. Now Paul commits
Timothy to pass it on to others. This is how the message of Jesus Christ has
been spread from the beginning. In Paul’s 2nd Epistle to Timothy Paul wrote,
“Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And
the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same
commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also” (2
Timothy 2:1-2). This is the commission to all preachers, but every born-again
believer should be able to communicate the Gospel of Jesus Christ to others
in some capacity.

The Rich – (1 Timothy 6:17-19)

We conclude Chapter 6 by discussing verses 17-19. Here Paul again addresses
the issue of wealth or riches. It would seem obvious that the “rich” in
Ephesus were causing young Pastor Timothy problems in the church. It would
seem that things never change. There are still wealthy people in churches
today that try to persuade others to agree with them because of their
financial influence. Furthermore, it is even more sad that many of the
congregation members are swayed by their appeals.

Paul gives good advice to pastors in regard to ministering to the rich folks
within the church. He states “4 Principles of Wealth” that should be preached
from the pulpit. 1.) Do not allow money to cause one to become arrogant. 2.)
Trust in God, not riches. 3.) It is alright to enjoy wealth because it is God who
gives riches 4.) Wealth should be utilized by believers to help others come to
Christ.

It is obvious that these same principles need to be taught from the pulpits of
churches today. Paul wrote to Timothy in his 2nd Epistle by saying, “All
scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for
reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God
may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works” (2 Timothy 3:16-
17). Let us pray that we will all become “more thoroughly furnished unto all
good works” as we study His precious, wonderful Word.

1st Timothy
Chapter One

1.    What are the two key verses to the 1st Epistle to Timothy? Write the references and the verses.

2.    Paul instructed young Timothy in five (5) major doctrines of the church.
In what five (5) areas did Paul instruct Timothy?

a.

b.

c.

d.

e.

3.  What church did Paul send young Timothy to pastor?

4.  What three (3) epistles make up the “Pastoral Epistles”?

5.  What is the purpose of the “Pastoral Epistles”?

6.  What is the 1st Chapter of 1st Timothy mainly concerned with?

7.  List the three (3) major divisions of Chapter One with their references?

a.

b.

c.

8.  What were the two (2) main aspects of Timothy’s work as a pastor?

a.

b.

9.  In vss. 3-6, Paul uses the word “charge” – What does the word “charge” mean?

10.  What the “aim of the charge” that Timothy was to give?

11.  What is meant by “fables and geneologies”?

12.  In vs. 12, who does Paul thank for “enabling” to preach the gospel?

13.  Write the verse and the reference of the first of five (5) faithful sayings found in the Pastoral Epistles.

14.  What does this first faithful saying mean to you?

15.  Paul stated that the main ministry of the church is to do what three (3) things?

(vss. 1-11) –

(vss. 12-17) –

(vss. 18-20) –

1st Timothy
Chapter Two

1.  Although the “Church” is an Organism, it still must be “organized”.
Write 1 Cor. 14:40.

2.  There are three (3) groups of people who make up the Church. List these
groups according to Philippians 1:1.

a.

b.

c.

3.  According to 1 Timothy 2:1, what is the most important thing that any
child of God should do?

4.  Some people believe in “Limited Atonement” – the belief that Christ’s
sacrificial death is only sufficient to atone for the sins of some, but not for
ALL people. Read 1 Timothy 2:1-4; John 3:16; Romans 10:9-13; and 1 John 2:
1-2 and explain how these particular passages disprove such “False Teaching.”

5.  According to Romans 6:17, what must one do to be saved?

6.  According to 1 Timothy 2:5, what is the “Basis” of our prayers? (Read
Heb. 4:14-16; 7:24-25)

7. In 1 Timothy 2:7, Paul states that he had been ordained (appointed) what
three (3) ministries by Christ?

a.

b.

c.

8.    1 Timothy 2:8 gives three (3) essentials for effective prayer for men. List
them and give a brief explanation of each.

a.

b.

c.

9.  In 1 Timothy 2:9, Paul begins discussing the “Prayer Life of Women” in
the Church. What four words reveal that Paul is discussing proper attitudes
for women to pray?

10.   In 1 Timothy 2:9-10 Paul discusses how women should dress and adorn
themselves. How does this reflect their attitudes in their prayer life?

11.  What does the word “Silence” mean in 1 Timothy 2:11?

12.  What do you think that 1 Timothy 2:12 means in relation to the Church?
(Also Read 1 Cor. 11:3; 8-9).

13.  What does the word “Saved” mean in 1 Timothy 2:15?

14.  If a woman should not usurp the authority of a man within the Church,
then how can she minister within it?

15. How else can the woman find fulfillment and significance as a servant of
the Lord? (1 Tim. 2:15; Prov. 22:6; Prov. 31:10-31)

1st Timothy
Chapter Three

1.  Write the second of the five (5) faithful sayings found in the Pastoral
Epistles.

2.  The New Testament Church is said to be an “Organism”. Read 1 Peter 2:1-
5; 9-10; Gal. 6:10; and Ephesians 5:22-6:9. Explain why the N.T. Church is
considered an “Organism”.

3.  In 1 Timothy 3:2-3 we can find the “Personal Qualifications” of a
“Bishop”, which is the same office as “Elder” or “Pastor”. Name the thirteen
(13) personal qualifications of a Pastor:

4. What does it mean to be the “Husband of one wife”? How does this
qualification prohibit women from being “Pastors”?

5.  What does “Filthy Lucre” mean?

6.  In 1 Timothy 3:4-5 we find the “Family Qualifications” of a Pastor. Name
the two (2) family qualifications of a Pastor.

7.  In 1 Timothy 3:6-7 we find the “Spiritual Qualifications” of a Pastor.
Name the two (2) spiritual qualifications of a Pastor.

8.  What does it mean by “not a Novice”?

9.  In 1 Timothy 3:8-13 we find that Paul also gives a list of “Qualifications
for Deacons”, those who are selected by the local assembly to assist the
Pastor. List the nine (9) qualifications for a Deacon.

10.  In 1 Timothy 3:10, we find that the Deacon is not to “HOLD” the office
of deacon, but rather he is to what the office of deacon?

11.  How do we know that a woman is not to be a Deacon? (1 Tim. 3:11-12)

12.  Being a “Leader” in a New Testament Church is much more than just
“Holding a Position” or “Having a Title”. The qualifications for Pastors and
Deacons are very strict, and they should be. What are the qualifications for
wives of both the Pastors and Deacons. (1 Timothy 3:11-13)

13.  In 1 Timothy 3:14-16 we find that there are also “Guidelines for the
Saints”. Explain what YOU think that 1 Timothy 3:15 means in context with
the rest of Chapter 3.

14.  Explain how 1 Timothy 3:16 summarizes the earthly ministry of Jesus
Christ.

15. What does it mean “A Church Grows by Nutrition, Not Addition” in
relation to the following passages of Scriptures: 1 Peter 2:1-2; Ps. 119:9-11;
Joshua 1:8; 2 Timothy 2:15

1st Timothy
Chapter Four

1.  This chapter speaks of the Church and Its Minister. List the three (3)
divisions of this particular chapter of 1st Timothy.

a.

b.

c.

2.  Give a brief description of the latter times that Paul spoke of in the first
five (5) verses of 1 Timothy 4. How does this reflect the day in which we are
now living?

3.  What is the admonition that Paul gives young Timothy in 1 Timothy 4:6-8?
Explain.

4.  Paul says that “bodily exercise” profits us to some degree, but what does
he urge believers to do instead of exercise our body? Explain in your own
words what this means.

5.  List three (3) ways in which “Godliness” profits the Believer.

a.

b.

c.

6.  Read all of the following passages of Scripture and then give a brief
explanation of what they should mean collectively to ALL Christians. Eph. 5:
11-16; Eph. 4:3;13; Rom. 16:17; Psalm 26:4-5; 2 Timothy 3:5;7.

7.  In 1 Timothy 4:11 Paul admonishes Timothy to “command and teach”. In
your own words explain what you think Paul meant for Timothy to do as a
Pastor of Ephesus.

8.  What did Paul mean in vs. 12 – “Let no man despise thy youth”?

9.  In 1 Timothy 4:13 list the three (3) things that Paul charges young
Timothy to “give attendance to” as the Pastor of the Church of Ephesus.

a.

b.

c.

10.  In 1 Timothy 4:15 Paul exhorts Timothy to “Practice the Word as well as
Preach the Word”. This is good advice for ALL believers! Explain what Paul
meant in vs. 16 by stating “…for in so doing this thou shalt both save thyself,
and them that hear thee.”

1st Timothy
Chapter Five

1. 1 Timothy Five gives instruction concerning how the “Saints” should
minister to “other saints”. Read Proverbs 6:6:16-19 and John 13:35. Explain
what YOU think that these passages mean.

2.  In 1 Timothy 5:1-2 saints are given instruction concerning how to treat
what two groups of other believers?

a.

b.

3.  In 1 Timothy 5:3-10 we find that Paul addresses the issue of ministering to
“Widows Indeed”. Explain what is meant by “indeed”.

4. Paul lists seven (7) qualifications of widows indeed in vss. 3-10. List them
and give the verse.

5.  In 1 Timothy 5:11-16 Paul gives instruction to ministering to “Younger
Widows”. Explain who these widows are and explain what Paul says about
ministering to “younger widows.”

6.  1 Timothy 5:17-25 discusses a pastor’s relationship with “other Elders”
within the 1st Century New Testament Church. Obviously there were
sometimes more than one pastor. What two types of Elders were found in
these churches? Read 1 Timothy 4:13-16 and 1 Cor. 2:28 and briefly describe
the ministries of these two types of Elders.

a.

b.

7.  Read 1 Timothy 5:17-18. Explain what YOU think that these two verses
mean. (Also read 1 Cor. 9:7-14)

8.  Church Discipline is seldom practiced in New Testament churches today,
and when it is, it is often practiced for the wrong reasons. Read 1 Tim. 5:19-21
and explain how that a Pastor is to be disciplined. (For other verses dealing
with Biblical and proper Church Discipline read Matt. 18:15-18; Rom. 16:17-
18; 1 Cor. 5; 2 Cor. 2:6-11; Gal. 6:1-3; 2 Thess. 3:6-16; 2 Tim. 2:23-26; Titus 3:
10; 2 John 9-11)

9. There are six (6) criteria that churches should follow when disciplining
Leaders of the church. Name them:

10.  1 Tim. 5:22-25 gives instruction and guidance for the Selection of Leaders
in the church. Explain what 1 Tim. 5:22.

1st Timothy
Chapter Six

1.  How does 1 Timothy 6:1-2 apply to believers today? Explain in your own
words.

2.  Paul gives three (3) reasons why slaves (employees) should respect their
masters (employers), especially masters that are Born-Again (Saved). List
these reasons.

3.  In 1 Timothy 6:3-10 Paul instructs Timothy and the church concerning how
to handle “false teachers”. Explain the “Marks of a False Teacher”.

4.  What four (4) things does Paul say the sin of “Covetousness” in vs. 6-10?

a.

b.

c.

d.

5.  What four (4) important things does Paul admonish young Timothy to do
as a Pastor of Ephesus in 1 Timothy 6:11-21?

a.

b.

c.

d.

6.  In 1 Timothy 6:17-19 Paul instructs Timothy to deal with those that are
“Rich”. What four (4) important principles does Paul give concerning wealth?

a.

b.

c.

d.

7.  Do YOU think that the 1st Epistle to Timothy is important enough to study
again and again???