Most of this chapter describes the requirements for a bishop or deacon. However, we can learn from this chapter even if we are never ordained to the ministry. It says that if a man desires the office of bishop, it is a good thing. This means that he desires it in order to humbly serve the congregation, not for his own pride and power. Bishops who flaunt their power and enjoy lording it over others are a detriment to the church. Here are some requirements that Paul lists:
- Blameless
- Husband of one wife
- Vigilant
- Sober
- Of good behavior
- Given to hospitality
- Apt to teach
- Not given to wine
- No striker (with hand or tongue)
- Not greedy of filthy lucre (or dishonest gain)
- Patient
- Not a brawler
- Not covetous
- One that rules his house well
- One that has his children in subjection
- Not a novice (he might become proud)
- Having a good reputation with those outside the church
Next, we move to requirements for deacons. They are much the same as the requirements for bishop. So, I won't go over them individually.
Next, Paul tells Timothy that he hopes to be able to see him shortly, but he has given the previous instructions in case that is not possible. In verse 16, Paul speaks of the mystery of godliness: the incarnation, Christ come to earth in the flesh. The last part of the verse seems to be part of an early Christian hymn. The phrases are parallel and each line has a similar amount of syllables in the original Greek.
Now, what can we learn from all this? First, we all should aspire to meet the qualifications in this chapter no matter what capacity we fill in the church. It is a high standard, but it is reachable by the grace of God and with the help of the Holy Spirit. Let's take them as a challenge and grow in our Christian lives.
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