1 Timothy 3:4
Verse
Context
Qualifications for Overseers
3not dependent on wine, not violent but gentle, peaceable, and free of the love of money.4An overseer must manage his own household well and keep his children under control, with complete dignity.5For if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how can he care for the church of God?
Sermons
William MacDonald
H.J. Vine
F.B. Meyer
J. Hampton Keathley IIISummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The fourteenth qualification of a Christian bishop is, that he ruleth well his own house; του ιδιου οικου καλως προΐσταμενον, one who properly presides over and governs his own family. One who has the command, of his own house, not by sternness, severity, and tyranny, but with all gravity; governing his household by rule, every one knowing his own place, and each doing his own work, and each work having the proper time assigned for its beginning and end. This is a maxim of common sense; no family can be prosperous that is not under subjection, and no person can govern a family but the head of it, the husband, who is, both by nature and the appointment of God, the head or governor of his own house. See the note on Eph 5:22.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
ruleth--Greek, "presiding over." his own house--children and servants, as contrasted with "the church" (house) of God (Ti1 3:5, Ti1 3:15) which he may be called on to preside over. having his children--rather as Greek, "having children (who are) in subjection" (Tit 1:6). gravity--propriety: reverent modesty on the part of the children [ALFORD]. The fact that he has children who are in subjection to him in all gravity, is the recommendation in his favor as one likely to rule well the Church.
John Gill Bible Commentary
One that ruleth well his own house,.... His family, wife, children, and servants; and is not to be understood of his body, and of keeping of that under, and of preserving it chaste and temperate, as appears from what follows: having his children in subjection with all gravity; keeping a good decorum in his family; obliging his children to observe his orders, and especially the rules of God's word; and not as Eli, who did not use his authority, or lay his commands upon his sons, nor restrain them from evil, or severely reprove them for their sins, but neglected them, and was too mild and gentle with them; 1Sa 2:23 3:13 but like Abraham, who not only taught, but commanded his children and his household, to keep the way of the Lord; Gen 18:19 and so should those act who are in such an office as is here treated of; and should not only rule well in their families, preside over them, go before them, and set an example to them, and keep their children in obedience and subjection; but this should be "with all gravity": not only in the master of the family, but in the children; who as their father is, or should be, should be brought up in, and used to gravity in words and in dress; and in the whole of their deportment and conversation. This may he observed against the Papists, who forbid marriage to the ministers of the Gospel.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:4-5 The church as a household (3:15) overlapped with the family household. An overseer’s capacity to manage in one sphere reflected his capability in the other (see also 3:12; 5:17; Rom 12:8; 1 Thes 5:12). • The Greco-Roman household was united by familial bonds characterized by mutual responsibilities, roles, and stewardship. The household included the blood relatives living together along with other dependents, such as household servants.
1 Timothy 3:4
Qualifications for Overseers
3not dependent on wine, not violent but gentle, peaceable, and free of the love of money.4An overseer must manage his own household well and keep his children under control, with complete dignity.5For if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how can he care for the church of God?
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
A Biblical Family - a Tool in God's Hands (Part 1)
By Erlo Stegen6.2K1:24:24Biblical FamilyGEN 10:1EXO 20:2MAT 6:331TI 3:4HEB 4:12REV 1:14In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of parents sharing their personal stories of faith with their children. He encourages parents to start with their own testimonies of how they turned from sin and how God led them out of difficult situations. The preacher emphasizes the need for these stories to be shared regularly, whether during walks, at bedtime, or in the morning. He emphasizes that these stories form the foundation of children's beliefs in God and warns that without good stories to tell, parents may be lacking in their own faith. The sermon concludes with a prayer for God's grace and mercy to help parents stand for the truth in a wicked generation.
(Pure Testimony) Purity in Us and Our Children
By Zac Poonen1.6K1:00:04PurityPRO 14:14ISA 33:14EZK 33:301TI 3:4In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not just asking what is lawful, but also what is profitable in our lives. He encourages believers to be cautious and avoid doubtful things, as they are likely to be dirty. The preacher also highlights the need for parents to be involved and present in their children's lives, offering guidance and love. He emphasizes that a strong and godly home is the foundation for effective ministry in the church. The sermon references verses from Isaiah and 1 Timothy to support these teachings.
Studies in 1 Timothy-05 1 Timothy-5
By William MacDonald1.2K38:37DEU 25:4LUK 10:71TI 5:23The sermon transcript discusses various instructions given by Paul to Timothy on how to behave towards different classes in the Christian family. It begins by addressing the old and young, male and female, emphasizing the importance of showing honor and respect. The transcript then moves on to discussing the care and support of widows, highlighting the responsibility of the church in providing for them. It also touches on the role of elders in the church, emphasizing the need for financial care, caution in appointing men, and the importance of having multiple witnesses in cases of accusation. Overall, the transcript emphasizes the practical advice given by Paul to Timothy for the care of believers in the Christian assembly.
8) Building Our Homes With Wisdom (Kannada)
By Zac Poonen75859:191TI 3:4
This sermon emphasizes the importance of strong family relationships within the church, highlighting that God values discipleship and strong families over mere numbers. It contrasts the emphasis on family life in the New Testament with the lack of focus on it in the Old Testament. The sermon stresses the significance of husbands and wives living harmoniously, raising children well, and being examples of Christ's love and submission. It also addresses the role of wives in submission and the impact of their behavior on their families and the church.
Pre-Eminence
By H.J. Vine0JHN 5:23JHN 13:3ROM 5:8EPH 4:9PHP 2:9COL 1:182TH 2:71TI 3:4HEB 2:10H.J. Vine preaches on the pre-eminence of Christ in all things, settled by God Himself, highlighting how pride and ambition have historically aimed at pre-eminence, leading to the fall of Satan. The sermon emphasizes that pre-eminence belongs to Jesus Christ universally, encompassing both earth and heavens, and the importance of accepting God's settlement. It delves into the significance of Christ's work on the cross, His rejection by man, and the future exaltation where He will be glorified and honored by all.
Our Daily Homily - Esther
By F.B. Meyer0Godly LeadershipDivine Purpose1TI 3:4F.B. Meyer emphasizes the importance of godly leadership within the home, drawing parallels between a man's authority in his household and Christ's authority from the Father. He highlights Esther's pivotal role in God's plan for deliverance, illustrating how God prepares for our needs even when His presence is not overtly acknowledged. The sermon encourages believers to recognize their positions as opportunities for divine purpose and to act with love and integrity, as exemplified by Mordecai and Esther. Meyer reassures that God is always at work for our good, urging us to trust in His plans and to seek the welfare of others. Ultimately, he calls for a life marked by selflessness and a commitment to peace, reflecting Christ's character in our interactions.
The Principle of Control
By J. Hampton Keathley III01SA 15:23PRO 29:15ROM 13:1EPH 6:11TI 3:4HEB 13:17J. Hampton Keathley III delves into 'The Problem of Rebellion,' emphasizing the necessity of controls due to the inherent rebellion in all individuals as a result of the fall and sinful nature. The sermon explores various forms of rebellion, the importance of godly authority in different spheres of life, and the role of institutions like government, family, and church in maintaining order and protection against rebellion. Keathley highlights the need for parents to exercise control to foster obedience and prevent rebellion in children, both actively and passively.
God’s Solution
By J. Hampton Keathley III0PSA 128:1PRO 22:6EPH 6:41TI 3:4J. Hampton Keathley III preaches about the importance of having a 'training corral' in parenting, drawing parallels from training horses to training children. He emphasizes the need for parents to use biblical principles as the materials to build a nurturing environment for their children, promoting happy obedience and rest. The sermon highlights the biblical teachings on parenting, discipline, and the responsibility parents have in training their children to follow God's ways.
The Family Altar
By Raymond Golsworthy0DEU 6:6DEU 11:21JOS 24:15PRO 14:11EPH 6:4COL 1:181TI 3:42TI 3:15Raymond Golsworthy preaches about the importance of establishing a daily 'family altar' through the practice of 'family prayers', emphasizing the Biblical authority and background for this practice. He highlights the blessings and benefits that come from honoring the Lord in the home, such as spiritual growth, unity, and the training of children in the ways of the Lord. Golsworthy also addresses the battle against implementing family prayer, acknowledging the difficulties and offering guiding principles for overcoming obstacles. He encourages families to prioritize this practice, as it not only impacts the present but also lays a foundation for future generations and the testimony of the church.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The fourteenth qualification of a Christian bishop is, that he ruleth well his own house; του ιδιου οικου καλως προΐσταμενον, one who properly presides over and governs his own family. One who has the command, of his own house, not by sternness, severity, and tyranny, but with all gravity; governing his household by rule, every one knowing his own place, and each doing his own work, and each work having the proper time assigned for its beginning and end. This is a maxim of common sense; no family can be prosperous that is not under subjection, and no person can govern a family but the head of it, the husband, who is, both by nature and the appointment of God, the head or governor of his own house. See the note on Eph 5:22.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
ruleth--Greek, "presiding over." his own house--children and servants, as contrasted with "the church" (house) of God (Ti1 3:5, Ti1 3:15) which he may be called on to preside over. having his children--rather as Greek, "having children (who are) in subjection" (Tit 1:6). gravity--propriety: reverent modesty on the part of the children [ALFORD]. The fact that he has children who are in subjection to him in all gravity, is the recommendation in his favor as one likely to rule well the Church.
John Gill Bible Commentary
One that ruleth well his own house,.... His family, wife, children, and servants; and is not to be understood of his body, and of keeping of that under, and of preserving it chaste and temperate, as appears from what follows: having his children in subjection with all gravity; keeping a good decorum in his family; obliging his children to observe his orders, and especially the rules of God's word; and not as Eli, who did not use his authority, or lay his commands upon his sons, nor restrain them from evil, or severely reprove them for their sins, but neglected them, and was too mild and gentle with them; 1Sa 2:23 3:13 but like Abraham, who not only taught, but commanded his children and his household, to keep the way of the Lord; Gen 18:19 and so should those act who are in such an office as is here treated of; and should not only rule well in their families, preside over them, go before them, and set an example to them, and keep their children in obedience and subjection; but this should be "with all gravity": not only in the master of the family, but in the children; who as their father is, or should be, should be brought up in, and used to gravity in words and in dress; and in the whole of their deportment and conversation. This may he observed against the Papists, who forbid marriage to the ministers of the Gospel.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:4-5 The church as a household (3:15) overlapped with the family household. An overseer’s capacity to manage in one sphere reflected his capability in the other (see also 3:12; 5:17; Rom 12:8; 1 Thes 5:12). • The Greco-Roman household was united by familial bonds characterized by mutual responsibilities, roles, and stewardship. The household included the blood relatives living together along with other dependents, such as household servants.