1 Timothy 3:1
Verse
Context
Sermons
William MacDonald
Chuck Smith
John Piper
Brian Brodersen
George Verwer
Tim ConwaySummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
This is a true saying - Πιστος ὁ λογος· This is a true doctrine. These words are joined to the last verse of the preceding chapter by several of the Greek fathers, and by them referred to the doctrine there stated. The office of a bishop - Επισκοπης· The episcopacy, overseership or superintendency. The word ορεγεται, which we translate desire, signifies earnest, eager, passionate desire; and επιθυμει, which we translate desire, also signifies earnestly to desire or covet. It is strange that the episcopacy, in those times, should have been an object of intense desire to any man; when it was a place of danger, awl exposure to severe labor, want, persecution, and death, without any secular emolument whatsoever. On this ground I am led to think that the Spirit of God designed these words more for the ages that were to come, than for those which were then; and in reference to after ages the whole of what follows is chiefly to be understood. A good work - A work it then was; heavy, incessant, and painful. There were no unpreaching prelates in those days, and should be none now. Episcopacy in the Church of God is of Divine appointment, and should be maintained and respected. Under God, there should be supreme governors in the Church as well as in the state. The state has its monarch, the Church has its bishop; one should govern according to the laws of the land, the other according to the word of God. What a constitutional king should be, the principles of the constitution declare; what a bishop should be, the following verses particularly show.
John Gill Bible Commentary
This is a true saying,.... Some think this clause belongs to the last verse of the preceding chapter; and then the sense is, this is a doctrine that is true, and to be believed, that there is salvation through the birth of a Son, or through the incarnate Son of God, for men and women that believe in him, and continue in the faith of him, and love to him, joined with works of righteousness and holiness. And so the same phrase seems to belong to what goes before in Ti1 4:8. Though it regards what follows in Ti1 1:15 and so it seems that it should be considered here; and is used to excite attention, and suggests that what was about to be said was of moment and importance, and what was without controversy, and unquestionably true. The apostle, having denied to women the work and office of teaching, proceeds to observe, that though this belonged to men, yet not to every man; and therefore he gives the qualifications of such; which might serve as a direction to churches, in the choice of them; as well as be a means of stirring up persons in such an office, to a proper regard to themselves and their work: if a man desire the office of a bishop; which is the same with that of a pastor or elder; and so here the Syriac version renders it, "if a man desires presbytery, or eldership"; and it lies in preaching the word, administering the ordinances of the Gospel, and taking care of the discipline of the church, and in the visiting, inspection, and oversight of it; as the word "episcopacy", here used, signifies; and this work and office may be lawfully and laudably desired, with a view to the glory of God, and the good of immortal souls. Nor should any undertake it, but such who find in themselves an hearty desire, and inclination to it, on such principles, and a real delight and pleasure in it; and such an one he desireth a good work: the office of a bishop, elder, or pastor of a church, "is a work", and a very laborious one; wherefore such are called labourers in the word and doctrine: it is not a mere title of honour, and a place of profit, but it is a business of labour and care; yet a good one, a famous and excellent one; it being an employment in things of the greatest excellency in themselves, and of the greatest usefulness for the good of men, and the honour of God; as the doctrines, ordinances, and discipline of the Gospel; and so must be excellently, honestly, pleasantly, and profitably a good work.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
The two epistles to Timothy, and that to Titus, contain a scripture-plan of church-government, or a direction to ministers. Timothy, we suppose, was an evangelist who was left at Ephesus, to take care of those whom the Holy Ghost had made bishops there, that is, the presbyters, as appears by Act 20:28, where the care of the church was committed to the presbyters, and they were called bishops. It seems they were very loth to part with Paul, especially because he told them they should see his face no more (Act 20:38); for their church was but newly planted, they were afraid of undertaking the care of it, and therefore Paul left Timothy with them to set them in order. And here we have the character of a gospel minister, whose office it is, as a bishop, to preside in a particular congregation of Christians: If a man desires the office of a bishop, he desires a good work, Ti1 3:1. Observe, I. The ministry is a work. However the office of a bishop may be now thought a good preferment, then it was thought a good work. 1. The office of a scripture-bishop is an office of divine appointment, and not of human invention. The ministry is not a creature of the state, and it is a pity that the minister should be at any time the tool of the state. The office of the ministry was in the church before the magistrate countenanced Christianity, for this office is one of the great gifts Christ has bestowed on the church, Eph 4:8-11. 2. This office of a Christian bishop is a work, which requires diligence and application: the apostle represents it under the notion and character of a work; not of great honour and advantage, for ministers should always look more to their work than to the honour and advantage of their office. 3. It is a good work, a work of the greatest importance, and designed for the greatest good: the ministry is conversant about no lower concerns than the life and happiness of immortal souls; it is a good work, because designed to illustrate the divine perfections in bringing many sons to glory; the ministry is appointed to open men's eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, etc., Act 26:18. 4. There ought to be an earnest desire of the office in those who would be put into it; if a man desire, he should earnestly desire it for the prospect he has of bringing greater glory to God, and of doing the greatest good to the souls of men by this means. This is the question proposed to those who offer themselves to the ministry of the church of England: "Do you think you are moved by the Holy Ghost to take upon you this office?" II. In order to the discharge of this office, the doing of this work, the workman must be qualified. 1. A minister must be blameless, he must not lie under any scandal; he must give as little occasion for blame as can be, because this would be a prejudice to his ministry and would reflect reproach upon his office. 2. He must be the husband of one wife; not having given a bill of divorce to one, and then taken another, or not having many wives at once, as at that time was too common both among Jews and Gentiles, especially among the Gentiles. 3. He must be vigilant and watchful against Satan, that subtle enemy; he must watch over himself, and the souls of those who are committed to his charge, of whom having taken the oversight, he must improve all opportunities of doing them good. A minister ought to be vigilant, because our adversary the devil goes about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour, Pe1 5:8. 4. He must be sober, temperate, moderate in all his actions, and in the use of all creature-comforts. Sobriety and watchfulness are often in scripture put together, because they mutually befriend one another: Be sober, be vigilant. 5. He must be of good behaviour, composed and solid, and not light, vain, and frothy. 6. He must be given to hospitality, open-handed to strangers, and ready to entertain them according to his ability, as one who does not set his heart upon the wealth of the world and who is a true lover of his brethren. 7. Apt to teach. Therefore this is a preaching bishop whom Paul describes, one who is both able and willing to communicate to others the knowledge which God has given him, one who is fit to teach and ready to take all opportunities of giving instructions, who is himself well instructed in the things of the kingdom of heaven, and is communicative of what he knows to others. 8. No drunkard: Not given to wine. The priests were not to drink wine when they went in to minister (Lev 10:8, Lev 10:9), lest they should drink and pervert the law. 9. No striker; one who is not quarrelsome, nor apt to use violence to any, but does every thing with mildness, love, and gentleness. The servant of the Lord must not strive, but be gentle towards all, etc., Ti2 2:24. 10. One who is not greedy of filthy lucre, who does not make his ministry to truckle to any secular design or interest, who uses no mean, base, sordid ways of getting money, who is dead to the wealth of this world, lives above it, and makes it appear he is so. 11. He must be patient, and not a brawler, of a mild disposition. Christ, the great Shepherd and Bishop of souls, is so. Not apt to be angry or quarrelsome; as not a striker with his hands, so not a brawler with his tongue; for how shall men teach others to govern their tongues who do not make conscience of keeping them under good government themselves? 12. Not covetous. Covetousness is bad in any, but it is worst in a minister, whose calling leads him to converse so much with another world. 13. He must be one who keeps his family in good order: That rules well his own house, that he may set a good example to other masters of families to do so too, and that he may thereby give a proof of his ability to take care of the church of God: For, if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God. Observe, The families of ministers ought to be examples of good to all others families. Ministers must have their children in subjection; then it is the duty of ministers' children to submit to the instructions that are given them. - With all gravity. The best way to keep inferiors in subjection, is to be grave with them. Not having his children in subjection with all austerity, but with all gravity. 14. He must not be a novice, not one newly brought to the Christian religion, or not one who is but meanly instructed in it, who knows no more of religion than the surface of it, for such a one is apt to be lifted up with pride: the more ignorant men are the more proud they are: Lest, being lifted up with pride, he fall into the condemnation of the devil. The devils fell through pride, which is a good reason why we should take heed of pride, because it is a sin that turned angels into devils. 15. He must be of good reputation among his neighbours, and under no reproach from former conversation; for the devil will make use of that to ensnare others, and work in them an aversion to the doctrine of Christ preached by those who have not had a good report. III. Upon the whole, having briefly gone through the qualifications of a gospel-bishop, we may infer, 1. What great reason we have to cry out, as Paul does, Who is sufficient for these things? Co2 2:16. Hic labor, hoc opus - This is a work indeed. What piety, what prudence, what zeal, what courage, what faithfulness, what watchfulness over ourselves, our lusts, appetites, and passions, and over those under our charge; I say, what holy watchfulness is necessary in this work! 2. Have not the best qualified and the most faithful and conscientious ministers just reason to complain against themselves, that so much is requisite by way of qualification, and so much work is necessary to be done? And, alas! how far short do the best come of what they should be and what they should do! 3. Yet let those bless God, and be thankful, whom the Lord has enabled, and counted faithful, putting them into the ministry: if God is pleased to make any in some degree able and faithful, let him have the praise and glory of it. 4. For the encouragement of all faithful ministers, we have Christ's gracious word of promise, Lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world, Mat 28:20. And, if he be with us, he will fit us for our work in some measure, will carry us through the difficulties of it with comfort, graciously pardon our imperfections, and reward our faithfulness with a crown of glory that fadeth not away, Pe1 5:4.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:1-13 The topic shifts to church leadership by elders (3:1-7) and deacons (3:8-13). Timothy’s role in the appointments is less clear than that of Titus (see 5:17-22; Titus 1:5), possibly because the church in Ephesus was more mature and thus better able to manage the process (cp. Acts 6:2-6). The criteria listed here pertain to character rather than function and are partly a response to the local heretics. Reading this letter in the churches would make the criteria public and demonstrate the unfitness of the heretics for leadership. 3:1 trustworthy saying: See study note on 1:15. • a church leader: The translation assumes that “overseer” and “church leader” (see study note on 5:17-18) are the same office (see Titus 1:5-7). In the Greco-Roman world, an overseer was a religious, civic, or military supervisor.
1 Timothy 3:1
Qualifications for Overseers
1This is a trustworthy saying: If anyone aspires to be an overseer, he desires a noble task. 2An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of but one wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach,
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Titus - Part 6): Set in Order the Things That Are Wanting
By A.W. Tozer3.9K39:05TitusMAT 6:33ACT 6:4EPH 4:141TI 3:1TIT 1:5HEB 6:11PE 5:2In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of organization and structure in the church. He uses the example of a man with a physical disability to illustrate the need for order and organization in the body of Christ. The speaker also emphasizes the role of certain individuals who are called by God to dedicate their time to spiritual activities. He mentions the example of John of the Nedward, who spent 13 hours a day in prayer, Bible study, and writing. The speaker also highlights the importance of recognizing spiritual authority in the church, but cautions against giving any individual dictatorial power. He references the apostle Peter's words about being examples and shepherds to the flock. The sermon concludes with a discussion of the letter to Titus and the importance of setting things in order and appointing elders in every city.
The Local Church 1 - Part 5
By William MacDonald2.9K08:38ISA 40:15MAT 16:18ACT 15:14EPH 3:10COL 1:251TI 3:1
This sermon emphasizes the significance of the church as a divine institution that will endure against all odds, serving as a witness to angelic beings and forming the capstone of scriptural revelation. The church is portrayed as a place where believers are refined and unified, fulfilling God's purpose to call people to His name and propagate the faith. The importance of elders in local assemblies is highlighted, showcasing God's deep regard for the church over worldly empires.
(Through the Bible) 1 Timothy 3-4
By Chuck Smith1.7K1:19:321TI 3:1In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the phrases used by Paul in his letter to Timothy, emphasizing their importance and truthfulness. The speaker also highlights the struggle of trying to be like God while facing hindrances and temptations. Drawing from Romans chapter 7, the speaker acknowledges the inner conflict between the desire to do good and the inability to consistently perform it. The sermon also emphasizes the challenges of living a Christian life in a world filled with seductive influences, particularly in the last days. The speaker encourages believers to make a firm commitment to live for God and rely on the power of the Holy Spirit to navigate these challenges.
Biblical Eldership - Lesson 3
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(1 Timothy) the Qualifications of a Pastor
By Brian Brodersen9881:00:11MAT 6:332CO 5:17EPH 4:261TI 3:1In this sermon, the speaker discusses the qualities and characteristics of an overseer or pastor in the ministry. He emphasizes the importance of being gentle, peaceable, and not quarrelsome, as the pastor will inevitably encounter disagreements and conflicts. The speaker also highlights the need for an overseer to be moderate, temperate, and not addicted to wine, as these traits are inconsistent with being an orderly and balanced leader. Additionally, the sermon touches on the historical development of the role of bishops in the church, tracing it back to the fourth century and the emergence of a single bishop in charge of multiple churches.
Leadership Series - I
By George Verwer57849:351TI 3:1In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the challenges and difficulties faced by a group of young people who were learning to walk with Jesus. He emphasizes that problems within a team should not be seen as a departure from the vision of Operation Mobilization. The speaker then discusses the importance of clarifying what the movement should not become in order to understand what it should be. He also highlights the significance of effective communication when presenting the work of OM to churches.
Homiletics: Called to Preach - Part 2
By Tim Conway5401:45:201CO 2:4EPH 4:111TI 3:12TI 2:15HEB 4:12
This sermon discusses the importance of proper interpretation of Scripture for sermon preparation, emphasizing the significance of understanding the text before preaching. The speaker shares a personal experience of a powerful encounter with God during a sermon, highlighting the impact of being immersed in the Word and preaching. The sermon also touches on the qualities of a true leader in the church, emphasizing the need for supernatural leadership qualities that inspire others to follow. The prayer at the end seeks for healthy foundations, a thriving church, revival, and impactful preaching in the generation.
Guarding Against Evil Reports - Part 2
By K.P. Yohannan50513:31GossipNUM 12:21TI 3:1In this sermon, Brother K.P. O'Hannon discusses the negative impact of evil reports within the church. He highlights how evil reports can lead to division, conflicts, and the discrediting of spiritual leadership. O'Hannon emphasizes the importance of guarding against these reports and encourages listeners to ask critical questions before accepting and spreading them. He also shares his personal experience with discouragement and the comfort he finds in the book of Numbers. Overall, the sermon serves as a reminder to build each other up and avoid participating in gossip and destructive talk.
Leadership 1
By George Verwer48450:01Leadership1TI 3:1In this sermon transcript, the speaker discusses the practical principles and goals of their movement. They emphasize that they do not want their movement to become focused on buildings, offices, bureaucracy, and committees. Instead, they want to prioritize evangelism and following the distinctives that God has given them over the years. The speaker encourages the audience to read and study the leadership manual, particularly the chapter on ultimate goals and aims. They also mention the importance of leaders being knowledgeable and able to answer questions about the work.
2 Timothy - Part 6
By John Hunter43929:32GAL 4:6EPH 1:31TI 3:11TI 4:62TI 1:142TI 2:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of belief in becoming a son of God. He refers to Galatians 4:4-5, which states that God sent his son to redeem those under the law so that they may receive adoption as sons. The speaker also highlights the concept of beauty and attractiveness in relation to the truth of God. He mentions that Timothy has been entrusted with this truth and encourages him to hold fast to it. The sermon concludes with the speaker referring to the gospel and the entire truth of God as "that good thing" which has been committed to Timothy.
Qualifications for Eldership
By Phil Beach Jr.311:04:31Church LeadershipEldership1TI 3:1Phil Beach Jr. teaches on the qualifications for eldership as outlined in Scripture, emphasizing the high standards set for leaders in the church. He explains that eldership is not confined to local assemblies but extends to overseeing the body of Christ universally. The sermon delves into specific qualifications from 1 Timothy, Titus, and 1 Peter, highlighting the importance of character, self-control, and the ability to teach and guide others. Beach stresses the need for elders to be examples of Christ-like behavior, demonstrating love and hospitality to all, and maintaining a good reputation both within and outside the church. Ultimately, he calls for a return to biblically sound leadership to combat the compromises of the current age.
7. Where Are the Men?
By Denny Kenaston12SA 23:1PRO 22:6ISA 3:1LAM 2:19MAL 4:6EPH 5:251TI 3:1Denny Kenaston preaches about the importance of men rising up to walk in God's ways, challenging them to be mature, financially stable, loving husbands, wise fathers, and dynamic leaders filled with the power of the Holy Spirit. He emphasizes the need for men to acknowledge their shortcomings, prioritize their relationship with God, and be the spiritual leaders in their homes, following the example of David and the Jewish tradition of blessing their children. The sermon calls for a revival that transforms homes and urges men to accept the challenge of spiritually mature manhood.
Ordinances of the Apostles
By Clement of Rome0ACT 20:281TI 3:1TIT 1:5HEB 13:171PE 5:2Clement of Rome addresses the importance of maintaining the office of the episcopate and the succession of approved ministers in the Church. He emphasizes the need for those who have served blamelessly and humbly to be respected and not unjustly dismissed from their ministry, warning of the sin that comes from ejecting such faithful servants. Clement praises those who have finished their course well and obtained a fruitful departure, highlighting the security they have in their eternal place. He expresses concern over the removal of men of excellent behavior from the ministry, calling for honor and respect for those who faithfully fulfill their duties.
The Church
By Marvin Cowan0MAT 7:15MAT 16:18ACT 2:47ACT 11:26ACT 20:29EPH 2:201TI 3:11TI 3:8TIT 1:5HEB 1:1Marvin Cowan preaches about the differences between Mormonism and the New Testament Church, emphasizing the LDS belief in a universal apostasy from the Christian doctrine and the need for a restoration of the Gospel. He challenges the LDS claim of being the one true church and questions the validity of their prophets and apostles. The sermon delves into the discrepancies between the LDS Church's structure and the offices in the New Testament Church, highlighting the importance of aligning with the biblical teachings and qualifications for church leadership.
The Bishops
By William MacDonald0Qualifications of EldersChurch Leadership1TI 3:1William MacDonald emphasizes the distinction between the New Testament understanding of a bishop and the modern interpretation. In the early church, bishops were mature Christians serving the spiritual needs of their local congregations, rather than appointed dignitaries overseeing multiple churches. MacDonald highlights the qualifications and duties of bishops, stressing that they should be humble servants rather than figures of authority, and that their selection is ultimately guided by the Holy Spirit. He also points out that the church's recognition of elders should be based on their spiritual qualifications rather than worldly success. The sermon concludes with the importance of the church's attitude towards elders, advocating for respect and support for their leadership.
I Have Exhorted You to Unity
By Ignatius of Antioch0JHN 16:131CO 1:101CO 2:10EPH 4:31TI 3:1Ignatius of Antioch emphasizes the importance of spiritual discernment, stating that his spirit is guided by God and can detect the secrets of the heart. He urges the congregation to heed the leadership of the bishop, presbytery, and deacons, emphasizing unity and love while avoiding divisions. Ignatius asserts that his knowledge and guidance come from the Spirit and not from human sources, encouraging the believers to follow the teachings of the apostles and Christ.
The Holy Spirit
By James Arminius01TI 3:1Marvin Vincent and W. E. Vine discuss the Greek word 'oregomai,' which means to stretch out or reach after, metaphorically symbolizing desire, ambition, and longing. The patriarchs, like Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, and Jacob, exemplified this heavenly mindset of desiring a better country. The Bible describes this desire as a reflection of faith in God's promise, leading to reliance on His promises and obedience. John MacArthur and D. Edmond Hiebert emphasize the importance of having a strong internal desire that drives outward action, contrasting legitimate aspirations with the love of money that leads to spiritual wandering and self-inflicted sorrows.
Pastoring With Less Pain, Part 2
By David Servant0MAT 18:20ACT 20:35ROM 16:5EPH 4:121TI 3:1David Servant preaches about the challenges pastors face in dealing with church members, emphasizing the importance of pastoring genuine sheep who are willing to be discipled and follow Jesus. He encourages pastors to purge their churches of 'goats' by preaching the truth and, if necessary, practicing biblical excommunication. David highlights the discrepancy between contemporary church structures and what Jesus intended for His church, urging pastors to consider restructuring their churches biblically to alleviate stress and burnout among pastors.
Of Church-Officers, Particularly Pastors.
By John Gill0Church LeadershipRole of Pastors1TI 3:1John Gill emphasizes the vital role of church officers, particularly pastors, in the organized body of the church. He explains that pastors are shepherds under Christ, responsible for feeding and guiding the flock with knowledge and understanding, and outlines the qualifications necessary for this office. Gill also discusses the distinction between extraordinary and ordinary officers, noting that while apostles and prophets were foundational, the roles of pastors and deacons are essential for the church's ongoing ministry. He stresses the importance of a pastor's character, ability to teach, and the necessity of a proper call to the ministry. Ultimately, Gill calls for a return to scriptural principles in the appointment and function of church leaders.
Let Nothing Be Done Without the Bishop
By Ignatius of Antioch01CO 11:21TI 3:1TIT 1:5HEB 13:171PE 5:1Ignatius of Antioch emphasizes the importance of following the leadership within the Church hierarchy, comparing it to the relationship between Christ and the Father. He stresses the reverence and obedience towards bishops, presbyters (elders), and deacons, highlighting their roles as appointed by God. Ignatius underscores the necessity of the bishop's presence in Church activities, such as administering the Eucharist, baptizing, offering sacrifices, and leading love-feasts, as everything done under the bishop's authority is pleasing to God.
Shepherds and Hirelings
By Zac Poonen01SA 17:34EZK 34:3EZK 34:111TI 3:11PE 5:8Zac Poonen preaches on the role of shepherds in the church, drawing from Ezekiel 34 to highlight the contrast between hirelings who seek their own gain and true shepherds who sacrificially care for and protect the flock. He emphasizes the importance of spiritual fathers who go beyond preaching to personally care for and strengthen the spiritually sick and lost, likening them to shepherds who fight against spiritual enemies to deliver the lambs. Poonen warns that the failure of shepherds can lead God's people into spiritual Babylon, urging aspiring elders to see it as a noble work of serving and blessing others rather than seeking titles or honor.
Leadership
By T. Austin-Sparks0Divine AppointmentSpiritual LeadershipJDG 5:2MAT 20:26ACT 20:281CO 11:1EPH 4:11PHP 3:171TI 3:1HEB 13:17JAS 3:11PE 5:2T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the critical role of leadership in both spiritual and practical realms, asserting that effective leadership is essential for overcoming challenges and guiding communities. He argues that true leadership is divinely appointed rather than based on natural abilities or personal ambition, and that leaders must often endure personal struggles while inspiring others. Sparks highlights the importance of recognizing the unique role of spiritual leaders within the church, who, while subordinate to Christ, are necessary for maintaining order and direction. He encourages all believers to embody leadership qualities by inspiring others to pursue their faith actively. Ultimately, he calls for a recognition of the divine imperative of leadership in the church and the necessity of following the example of Christ as the ultimate leader.
Nicolaitanism - the Rise and Growth of the Clergy
By F.W. Grant0JHN 4:24JHN 10:27JHN 18:37ACT 20:281CO 12:42CO 4:2GAL 1:111TI 3:12TI 2:2REV 2:6F.W. Grant delves into the issue of Nicolaitanism, highlighting the danger of clerisy and the rise of a spiritual caste within the Church. He emphasizes the departure from truth and the establishment of a worldly Church under Satan's influence, leading to the subjection of the laity by a privileged clergy class. Grant challenges the traditional concept of ordination, stressing that spiritual authority should come from God's Word and individual gifting, not human authorization. He calls for a return to the true essence of ministry, where every believer is a minister and priest, responsible for contributing to the body of Christ and ministering to one another in love.
1 Timothy 3:1-4
By St. John Chrysostom01TI 3:11TI 3:6TIT 1:6John Chrysostom preaches on the qualities of a Bishop, emphasizing the importance of being blameless, vigilant, sober, of good behavior, hospitable, and apt to teach. He highlights the need for a Bishop to be a good manager of his own household, ruling well and having his children in subjection with gravity. Chrysostom warns against appointing novices or new converts as Bishops, stressing the importance of having a good reputation even among those outside the Church to avoid falling into the snare of the devil.
Primitive Episcopacy
By J.H. Newman0ACT 14:23EPH 4:111TI 3:1TIT 1:51PE 5:1J.H. Newman preaches about the early stages of evangelizing heathen countries in primitive times, where the first step was to establish a central city with a Bishop surrounded by clergy, gradually expanding to form an organized Church. The dioceses extended over the heathen country, with the Bishop's mission reaching all who had not heard the Christian faith. The early Church's polity naturally evolved into a Provincial and Patriarchal system, with a tendency towards large dioceses in its infancy and multiple smaller ones as Christianity grew stronger in a region.
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
This is a true saying - Πιστος ὁ λογος· This is a true doctrine. These words are joined to the last verse of the preceding chapter by several of the Greek fathers, and by them referred to the doctrine there stated. The office of a bishop - Επισκοπης· The episcopacy, overseership or superintendency. The word ορεγεται, which we translate desire, signifies earnest, eager, passionate desire; and επιθυμει, which we translate desire, also signifies earnestly to desire or covet. It is strange that the episcopacy, in those times, should have been an object of intense desire to any man; when it was a place of danger, awl exposure to severe labor, want, persecution, and death, without any secular emolument whatsoever. On this ground I am led to think that the Spirit of God designed these words more for the ages that were to come, than for those which were then; and in reference to after ages the whole of what follows is chiefly to be understood. A good work - A work it then was; heavy, incessant, and painful. There were no unpreaching prelates in those days, and should be none now. Episcopacy in the Church of God is of Divine appointment, and should be maintained and respected. Under God, there should be supreme governors in the Church as well as in the state. The state has its monarch, the Church has its bishop; one should govern according to the laws of the land, the other according to the word of God. What a constitutional king should be, the principles of the constitution declare; what a bishop should be, the following verses particularly show.
John Gill Bible Commentary
This is a true saying,.... Some think this clause belongs to the last verse of the preceding chapter; and then the sense is, this is a doctrine that is true, and to be believed, that there is salvation through the birth of a Son, or through the incarnate Son of God, for men and women that believe in him, and continue in the faith of him, and love to him, joined with works of righteousness and holiness. And so the same phrase seems to belong to what goes before in Ti1 4:8. Though it regards what follows in Ti1 1:15 and so it seems that it should be considered here; and is used to excite attention, and suggests that what was about to be said was of moment and importance, and what was without controversy, and unquestionably true. The apostle, having denied to women the work and office of teaching, proceeds to observe, that though this belonged to men, yet not to every man; and therefore he gives the qualifications of such; which might serve as a direction to churches, in the choice of them; as well as be a means of stirring up persons in such an office, to a proper regard to themselves and their work: if a man desire the office of a bishop; which is the same with that of a pastor or elder; and so here the Syriac version renders it, "if a man desires presbytery, or eldership"; and it lies in preaching the word, administering the ordinances of the Gospel, and taking care of the discipline of the church, and in the visiting, inspection, and oversight of it; as the word "episcopacy", here used, signifies; and this work and office may be lawfully and laudably desired, with a view to the glory of God, and the good of immortal souls. Nor should any undertake it, but such who find in themselves an hearty desire, and inclination to it, on such principles, and a real delight and pleasure in it; and such an one he desireth a good work: the office of a bishop, elder, or pastor of a church, "is a work", and a very laborious one; wherefore such are called labourers in the word and doctrine: it is not a mere title of honour, and a place of profit, but it is a business of labour and care; yet a good one, a famous and excellent one; it being an employment in things of the greatest excellency in themselves, and of the greatest usefulness for the good of men, and the honour of God; as the doctrines, ordinances, and discipline of the Gospel; and so must be excellently, honestly, pleasantly, and profitably a good work.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
The two epistles to Timothy, and that to Titus, contain a scripture-plan of church-government, or a direction to ministers. Timothy, we suppose, was an evangelist who was left at Ephesus, to take care of those whom the Holy Ghost had made bishops there, that is, the presbyters, as appears by Act 20:28, where the care of the church was committed to the presbyters, and they were called bishops. It seems they were very loth to part with Paul, especially because he told them they should see his face no more (Act 20:38); for their church was but newly planted, they were afraid of undertaking the care of it, and therefore Paul left Timothy with them to set them in order. And here we have the character of a gospel minister, whose office it is, as a bishop, to preside in a particular congregation of Christians: If a man desires the office of a bishop, he desires a good work, Ti1 3:1. Observe, I. The ministry is a work. However the office of a bishop may be now thought a good preferment, then it was thought a good work. 1. The office of a scripture-bishop is an office of divine appointment, and not of human invention. The ministry is not a creature of the state, and it is a pity that the minister should be at any time the tool of the state. The office of the ministry was in the church before the magistrate countenanced Christianity, for this office is one of the great gifts Christ has bestowed on the church, Eph 4:8-11. 2. This office of a Christian bishop is a work, which requires diligence and application: the apostle represents it under the notion and character of a work; not of great honour and advantage, for ministers should always look more to their work than to the honour and advantage of their office. 3. It is a good work, a work of the greatest importance, and designed for the greatest good: the ministry is conversant about no lower concerns than the life and happiness of immortal souls; it is a good work, because designed to illustrate the divine perfections in bringing many sons to glory; the ministry is appointed to open men's eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, etc., Act 26:18. 4. There ought to be an earnest desire of the office in those who would be put into it; if a man desire, he should earnestly desire it for the prospect he has of bringing greater glory to God, and of doing the greatest good to the souls of men by this means. This is the question proposed to those who offer themselves to the ministry of the church of England: "Do you think you are moved by the Holy Ghost to take upon you this office?" II. In order to the discharge of this office, the doing of this work, the workman must be qualified. 1. A minister must be blameless, he must not lie under any scandal; he must give as little occasion for blame as can be, because this would be a prejudice to his ministry and would reflect reproach upon his office. 2. He must be the husband of one wife; not having given a bill of divorce to one, and then taken another, or not having many wives at once, as at that time was too common both among Jews and Gentiles, especially among the Gentiles. 3. He must be vigilant and watchful against Satan, that subtle enemy; he must watch over himself, and the souls of those who are committed to his charge, of whom having taken the oversight, he must improve all opportunities of doing them good. A minister ought to be vigilant, because our adversary the devil goes about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour, Pe1 5:8. 4. He must be sober, temperate, moderate in all his actions, and in the use of all creature-comforts. Sobriety and watchfulness are often in scripture put together, because they mutually befriend one another: Be sober, be vigilant. 5. He must be of good behaviour, composed and solid, and not light, vain, and frothy. 6. He must be given to hospitality, open-handed to strangers, and ready to entertain them according to his ability, as one who does not set his heart upon the wealth of the world and who is a true lover of his brethren. 7. Apt to teach. Therefore this is a preaching bishop whom Paul describes, one who is both able and willing to communicate to others the knowledge which God has given him, one who is fit to teach and ready to take all opportunities of giving instructions, who is himself well instructed in the things of the kingdom of heaven, and is communicative of what he knows to others. 8. No drunkard: Not given to wine. The priests were not to drink wine when they went in to minister (Lev 10:8, Lev 10:9), lest they should drink and pervert the law. 9. No striker; one who is not quarrelsome, nor apt to use violence to any, but does every thing with mildness, love, and gentleness. The servant of the Lord must not strive, but be gentle towards all, etc., Ti2 2:24. 10. One who is not greedy of filthy lucre, who does not make his ministry to truckle to any secular design or interest, who uses no mean, base, sordid ways of getting money, who is dead to the wealth of this world, lives above it, and makes it appear he is so. 11. He must be patient, and not a brawler, of a mild disposition. Christ, the great Shepherd and Bishop of souls, is so. Not apt to be angry or quarrelsome; as not a striker with his hands, so not a brawler with his tongue; for how shall men teach others to govern their tongues who do not make conscience of keeping them under good government themselves? 12. Not covetous. Covetousness is bad in any, but it is worst in a minister, whose calling leads him to converse so much with another world. 13. He must be one who keeps his family in good order: That rules well his own house, that he may set a good example to other masters of families to do so too, and that he may thereby give a proof of his ability to take care of the church of God: For, if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God. Observe, The families of ministers ought to be examples of good to all others families. Ministers must have their children in subjection; then it is the duty of ministers' children to submit to the instructions that are given them. - With all gravity. The best way to keep inferiors in subjection, is to be grave with them. Not having his children in subjection with all austerity, but with all gravity. 14. He must not be a novice, not one newly brought to the Christian religion, or not one who is but meanly instructed in it, who knows no more of religion than the surface of it, for such a one is apt to be lifted up with pride: the more ignorant men are the more proud they are: Lest, being lifted up with pride, he fall into the condemnation of the devil. The devils fell through pride, which is a good reason why we should take heed of pride, because it is a sin that turned angels into devils. 15. He must be of good reputation among his neighbours, and under no reproach from former conversation; for the devil will make use of that to ensnare others, and work in them an aversion to the doctrine of Christ preached by those who have not had a good report. III. Upon the whole, having briefly gone through the qualifications of a gospel-bishop, we may infer, 1. What great reason we have to cry out, as Paul does, Who is sufficient for these things? Co2 2:16. Hic labor, hoc opus - This is a work indeed. What piety, what prudence, what zeal, what courage, what faithfulness, what watchfulness over ourselves, our lusts, appetites, and passions, and over those under our charge; I say, what holy watchfulness is necessary in this work! 2. Have not the best qualified and the most faithful and conscientious ministers just reason to complain against themselves, that so much is requisite by way of qualification, and so much work is necessary to be done? And, alas! how far short do the best come of what they should be and what they should do! 3. Yet let those bless God, and be thankful, whom the Lord has enabled, and counted faithful, putting them into the ministry: if God is pleased to make any in some degree able and faithful, let him have the praise and glory of it. 4. For the encouragement of all faithful ministers, we have Christ's gracious word of promise, Lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world, Mat 28:20. And, if he be with us, he will fit us for our work in some measure, will carry us through the difficulties of it with comfort, graciously pardon our imperfections, and reward our faithfulness with a crown of glory that fadeth not away, Pe1 5:4.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:1-13 The topic shifts to church leadership by elders (3:1-7) and deacons (3:8-13). Timothy’s role in the appointments is less clear than that of Titus (see 5:17-22; Titus 1:5), possibly because the church in Ephesus was more mature and thus better able to manage the process (cp. Acts 6:2-6). The criteria listed here pertain to character rather than function and are partly a response to the local heretics. Reading this letter in the churches would make the criteria public and demonstrate the unfitness of the heretics for leadership. 3:1 trustworthy saying: See study note on 1:15. • a church leader: The translation assumes that “overseer” and “church leader” (see study note on 5:17-18) are the same office (see Titus 1:5-7). In the Greco-Roman world, an overseer was a religious, civic, or military supervisor.