Issue 24 - Day 3

1 Timothy 3

1 Timothy 3:2-5
2)  A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach;
3)  Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous;
4)  One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity;
5)  (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?)

There are two things we can draw from this passage. Firstly, regarding the church we can see that many churches are acting in error. We must be on our guard to avoid such error in our own church, and on the alert when we encounter churches with this error, for if they miss the obvious here, what other clear doctrines of Christ have they erred in? The requirements for bishops/pastors or elders, and likewise deacons later in the passage are the same in this respect. Are they eligible for the role if their children are running riot? No, being able to rule their own house well is one of the proving grounds. Can they fulfil all the criteria only as a married man with children. How many single people, or women are in leadership these days? And how many troubles result from ignoring this clear teaching.

Secondly, do you know if one day your father, current or future husband, or you yourself will be called by God to leadership? Of course not, but it could happen, so do your part now to make it possible. Children obey your parents, parents, learn to be good parents. everybody learn patience, hospitality, sobriety and so on. These are good things in anyone’s walk with God, and prepares you for any future plans God may have for you. This chapter has an instruction for everyone, so don’t skate over it because you are not a pastor.