A note from our Pastor:

“A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach;“

1 Timothy 3:2

Good Morning Dearly Beloved,

In our study verse this week, the Apostle continues to teach on the role of Bishop or Pastor within the community of believers. The instructions provided in this chapter are intended to guide Timothy and other ministers in evaluating whether young men were fit for the ministry and to also guide the churches in calling Pastors to teach the flock.

In this particular instruction, the Apostle sets forth seven characteristics which should be looked for in a potential Pastor. As you look at these keep in mind they are characteristics not standards. In other words, the community of believers should be looking for these aspects to be exhibited but not seeking opportunities to judge and indict a Pastor.

Blameless — A Pastor is not different than any other person in the congregation. He makes mistakes, commits sins, and at times behaves in ways that require an apology. This characteristic does not mean a Pastor has to be without sin and without fault. Rather, it implies how the man is viewed by the community of believers and others looking in. Does the man behave himself with dignity, honor, and integrity.

Husband of One Wife — Polygamy was a common practice among the Jews and other cultures in the time the Apostle was writing this. This statement was not intended to address the institution of marriage or issues around remarriage, but rather it directly addressed the practice of polygamy. A Pastor or potential Pastor was not to engage in this practice.

Vigilant – The meaning here is to be self-restrained or temperate not just in drink but in all things. In other words, the Pastor is supposed to engage in careful analysis and critical thought and not just the latest opinions or outrage. A Pastor should bring that careful thought to how the community of believers is taught and led.

Sober — The word translated as sober here is better understood to mean prudent or discreet. In other words, the Pastor can be trusted to listen to members of the flock and not go sharing their concerns and business with others among the flock. When asked, he can be counted on to give advice which is scriptural but limited.

Good Behavior — This characteristic can quickly become a standard to judge one by, but the simple understanding is the Pastor should be orderly. He should present himself well both within the community of believers and without.

Given to Hospitality — This was of vital importance in the days of the Apostles as the modern conveniences available in our society were not present then. It was also important because often the community of believers met in homes and being willing to welcome in the congregation was of vital importance. Today, the hosting is not nearly as necessary but the spirit of hospitality is still important in the sense of the Pastor caring for the flock.

Apt to Teach — This is without a doubt the most important. A man can have all of the other characteristics, but if he is not apt to teach he should not be a Pastor. Great harm has been done to God’s children because too many men who were good at caring for the building, visiting the sick and infirmed, or helping with actual worship services have been ordained to be Pastors. A Pastor must be willing to dedicate the time and effort to study and translate the study into learning for the community of believers.

Our Prayers are with you daily,

Brother Jeremiah