A note from our Pastor:

“Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous;”

1 Timothy 3:3

Good Morning Dearly Beloved,

In our study verse this week, the Apostle Paul continues to instruct Timothy and indirectly the church at Ephesus regarding the characteristics to look for in a pastor. This instruction is preserved by the Holy Spirit and is still a guide for the community of believers in selecting their teacher and pastor.

These characteristics, like all spirituality, fall on a continuum and, thus, the community of believers should remember they provide a guide as a whole. Great danger is caused when the community of believers makes each absolute and sets an artificially high standard. A pastor is subject to the weakness of the flesh in the same way all congregants are subject to make mistakes.

The first half of the verse provides the behaviors which should be avoided while the second half of the verse provides the equal action to be desired. In this study we group them together.

Not given to wine but patient — This instruction from the Apostle was not a statement regarding abstaining from all wine or other forms of alcohol. Rather, it had the larger meaning of not being impudent, or arrogant with intoxication. The Apostle was warning about the conduct of the potential pastor, not about the wine being consumed. Instead, the pastor should be patient. Understanding the child of God moves toward the divine in gradual steps and not in sudden changes.

No Striker/not a brawler — This again is a warning regarding behavior. Is the potential pastor inclined to react to situations with anger and harsh words? Is the potential pastor inclined to try to solve things with violence whether verbal or physical? Is the potential pastor likely to be mentally, emotionally, or physically violent with his family? All of these are concerns in calling the man to pastor a congregation. The man should show humbleness and meekness.

Not greedy of filthy lucre/not covetous — The pastor should not be engaged in the work for the sake of seeking financial reward. This points directly back to the old Jewish customs which Jesus and the Apostle had both left. In that tradition the leaders of the Synagogue desired wealth and power. They sought positions of authority which placed them over the people. In contrast, the New Testament church is centered around love, grace, and mercy. In order to accomplish this the Pastor must seek to serve not to be served.

These guidelines have been relevant throughout the history of community of believers seeking to follow after Christ. Disciples should avoid applying extra-cultural meaning to them and apply them as scripture intends for the health of the church.

Our Prayers are with you daily,

Brother Jeremiah