1 Timothy 5:9-16 Widows

A widow is to be put on the list only if she is not less than sixty years old, having been the wife of one man, having a reputation for good works; and if she has brought up children, if she has shown hospitality to strangers, if she has washed the saints’ feet, if she has assisted those in distress, and if she has devoted herself to every good work. But refuse to put younger widows on the list, for when they feel sensual desires in disregard of Christ, they want to get married, thus incurring condemnation, because they have set aside their previous pledge. At the same time they also learn to be idle, as they go around from house to house; and not merely idle, but also gossips and busybodies, talking about things not proper to mention. Therefore, I want younger widows to get married, bear children, keep house, and give the enemy no occasion for reproach; for some have already turned aside to follow Satan. If any woman who is a believer has dependent widows, she must assist them and the church must not be burdened, so that it may assist those who are widows indeed. [1 Timothy 5:9-16 NASB]

Today's passage must be understood within its cultural context. In the first century Roman empire, there were no social programs for the elderly. Retirement programs were unheard of since a family's wages went to feeding and housing the family. A man was expected to work all of his life, until the day he died. There were very few business women. Most women raised a family and relied exclusively on their husbands or grown children to take care of them. It that culture, when the husband died, the woman was left desolate.

In this setting, the church took it upon itself to care for the widows within the church. Unfortunately, as often happens, what started as a good thing was taken advantage of and corrupted. Paul sent Timothy some guidelines to correct the abuses to the system.

First, he says that the widow must be "not less than sixty years old." At first glance, this seems like an arbitrary age. But there is a principle involved. In the first century, it was very rare for anyone to live beyond their sixties. It would be like saying 90 years old today. The point is that she has reached an age where she is too elderly to work, and is unlikely to remarry. If she has no means of support, and no prospects, then she is needy indeed.

She must have been demonstrating Christian virtues throughout her life, and not just when she is looking for help. The virtues demonstrated by her actions include faithfulness, generosity, responsibility, humility and compassion.

She also must have no children or grandchildren who are able or willing to take care of her.

Younger women were abusing the system by taking the support from the church, and then lazily going about being gossips and busybodies.

Paul also said that the younger widows tend to remarry, "thus incurring condemnation, because they have set aside their previous pledge." Before a widow was added to the list for support, she had to make a vow to the Lord to serve Him and the church through prayer and acts of service. They weren't to be distracted by any outside interests such as work, romance, or anything of a carnal nature. The young widows tended to remarry. There is nothing wrong with that in itself, except that it meant breaking a previous vow to the Lord.

Modern American culture is different from first century Ephesus in many ways. For starters, society has decided to take care of the elderly through social programs, effectively filling the role that once belonged to the the church.

Not only do most women work in some capacity, but many hold positions of power that once was the exclusive domain of men. It is not uncommon for parents to retire having more money than their children, making the question of children supporting their aging parents moot.

Most churches have some kind of benevolence fund to help people in need, but I am not aware of any church that fully, financially supports widows. Is this wrong? Let's consider.

A modern widow who fits the criteria to be truly needy needs to be elderly beyond the ability to work, she must have no other living family, and no other source of income. Even Social Security, though not a rich source of income, provides enough to live on. There are other programs for health care, and help with medications.

So, does that mean we can ignore this passage? No. There are still principles that apply.

We need to honor the elderly in our midst, and not dismiss them as "out of touch" or "irrelevant". We should be ready to help them whenever they have a need. Perhaps the need isn't financial, but physical. They may need a ride if they have lost the ability to drive. A person who is knowledgeable and "handy" can install grab bars in the bathroom so that they don't fall and injure themselves. Perhaps someone can make small repairs to the home, or mow the lawn. There are many practical ways to help, and honor the elderly.

Lord, I pray that you will give us wisdom in taking care of the elderly in our midst. Please give us the heart to value them and care for them when they need help.

1 Timothy 5:1-2 Respect

Do not sharply rebuke an older man, but rather appeal to him as a father, to the younger men as brothers, the older women as mothers, and the younger women as sisters, in all purity. [1 Timothy 5:1-2 NASB]

There is a Greek word that is used only once in the entire Bible. It is translated here as "sharply rebuke". The literal meaning is "to strike, or to lash out". In other words, don't harshly berate your elders. Instead, treat your elders with respect, as you would your own father.

This shouldn't be taken to mean that a leader shouldn't rebuke an elder at all, only that he does so respectfully. Paul said;

Those who continue in sin, rebuke in the presence of all, so that the rest also will be fearful of sinning. [1 Timothy 5:20 NASB]

The younger men are to be treated as equals. Timothy may have a position of authority, but that does not make him better than them. We are all equal under Jesus Christ, who is the head of us all.

In the same way, the older women are to be treated with the same respect that is shown to the older men, and the younger women are to be treated as equals as well.

There is an added dimension when a man is dealing with young women. Paul tells Timothy that his relationships with them must be "in all purity." A man of God must never be inappropriate with a woman. That includes more than just overt actions. There should be no flirting, no suggestive language, and no double entendres.

While this letter is addressed to Timothy in his role as an apostle, the principles apply to all believers.

The concept of "respect your elders" is largely lost in modern society. Instead of respect we get a dismissive "okay boomer." The younger generation is saying that their elders are irrelevant, and rather than treating them with respect, they speak to them and about them with contempt.

Young Christians need to keep themselves far from this attitude. Do not give in to the pressure of your peers in putting down older people. This is not just for the sake of your elders, but for your own relationship with God. If you are an example of godliness, showing respect, then you can influence your peers to do better.

Regarding relationships between men and women, sexual scandals have been a blight on the church since the early days. Paul addresses this situation in Corinth;

I have decided to deliver such a one to Satan for the destruction of his flesh, so that his spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus. [1 Corinthians 5:5 NASB]

There is no room for sexual immorality in the Christian church. Many formerly respected pastors have been brought down by their sin.

Vice President Mike Pence was mocked by the media when he said that he never allows himself to be in a room alone with a woman who is not his wife. Instead of being mocked, he should be praised for his wisdom.

I once had a college professor ask a class, "Is there a man in this room who can prove that he has never raped a woman?" As we discussed and considered the question, it became clear that the mere accusation of a private event is nearly impossible to disprove. The solution, of course, is to never allow yourself to be in a position where you can be accused.

A pastor should never counsel a woman alone behind closed doors. Leaders aren't the only ones at risk. I once knew a man and woman who shared a ministry which often put them alone during the church service. Then they started to see each other outside of the service, and eventually had an adulterous affair.

Whether you are a man or a woman, it is okay to refuse to be put in a potentially compromising position. you can say "no".

Christians need to stay above reproach in our relationships, whatever that relationship may be. We must be respectful and humble, and we must be mindful of Jesus Christ who lives within us, and of His reputation.

Heavenly Father, I pray for wisdom and Your love when dealing with people. Please remind me to be humble and respectful in all of my words and actions. Give me the grace to bring You into every relationship.

1 Timothy 4:13-16 Using Spiritual Gifts

Until I come, give attention to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation and teaching. Do not neglect the spiritual gift within you, which was bestowed on you through prophetic utterance with the laying on of hands by the presbytery. Take pains with these things; be absorbed in them, so that your progress will be evident to all. Pay close attention to yourself and to your teaching; persevere in these things, for as you do this you will ensure salvation both for yourself and for those who hear you. [1 Timothy 4:13-16 NASB]

Timothy's calling was to public ministry; the preaching and teaching of the word of God. Paul is using this letter to encourage Timothy in his task.

The Holy Spirit gave Timothy the gifts he needed to perform his ministry. Some misinterpret the scriptures that say that the gift "was bestowed on you." I have read and heard that the ordination ceremony with the laying on of hands bestowed Timothy's gift, and therefore bestows gifts on ordained preachers today. That is not the case.

It is the Holy Spirit who gives us spiritual gifts. Timothy's gift was bestowed by the Holy Spirit, who confirmed His work through prophetic utterance. The laying on of hands didn't confer the gift. It was a symbolic gesture acknowledging and confirming God's work.

I have heard references to Timothy's "ordination ceremony". It is a mistake to judge scriptures according to modern practices. We see an example of this practice in the book of Acts;

Now there were at Antioch, in the church that was there, prophets and teachers: Barnabas, and Simeon who was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. While they were ministering to the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” Then, when they had fasted and prayed and laid their hands on them, they sent them away. [Acts 13:1-3 NASB]

This wasn't a formal ceremony, or an ordination. It was a gathering of godly men who blessed other godly men before sending them on their journey. It wasn't until later generations that the church became more organized and "religious". 

Paul admonished Timothy to attend carefully to the work of the ministry, and not allow himself to be distracted from it.

He was also told to attend to himself, and to his teaching. He could not allow himself to be led astray, either in conduct or in doctrine. By persevering, he would be saved, and save others. 

Of course, salvation comes from God alone, by grace, through faith. None of us have the power to save another.  But God has chosen to partner with us to preach the word, to live as an example, and to lead people to the Lord. It is the power of Jesus' blood that saves, but God has given us the honor of working through us. That's why James could say;

My brethren, if any among you strays from the truth and one turns him back, let him know that he who turns a sinner from the error of his way will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins. [James 5:19-20 NASB]

Not all of us are called to a public preaching ministry, but the principles here apply to you whatever your ministry may be, whether it be preaching, ushering, accounting, sound mixing, or whatever.

God gives gifts for the work of the ministry. If you neglect your gifts, they will lie dormant and unused. You can serve without the benefit of a spiritual gift, but it will make for poor and ineffective service. If you use your gifts, then God can use you to be a blessing.

Often when people hear of spiritual gifts, they think of the gifts of power;

But to each one is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. For to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, and to another the word of knowledge according to the same Spirit; to another faith by the same Spirit, and to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit, and to another the effecting of miracles, and to another prophecy, and to another the distinguishing of spirits, to another various kinds of tongues, and to another the interpretation of tongues. [1 Corinthians 12:7-10 NASB]

It is my belief that all of these gifts are valid and current, and that God will use anyone who will faithfully use the gifts he has been given. But these are not the only spiritual gifts mentioned in the scriptures. Later in the same chapter, Paul says;

And God has appointed in the church, first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, various kinds of tongues. [1 Corinthians 12:28 NASB]

And also;

Since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, each of us is to exercise them accordingly: if prophecy, according to the proportion of his faith; if service, in his serving; or he who teaches, in his teaching; or he who exhorts, in his exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness. [Romans 12:6-8 NASB]

Your gift may be in administrative tasks like accounting or organizing, or helping, or giving, or praying for the sick, or whatever. The point is, whatever you are called to do, the Holy Spirit will give you the exact, perfect gifts you need to accomplish that work. Whether your gifts are accompanied by prophetic utterance and laying on of hands or not is not important. It is God who gives the gifts, not man.

Whatever your ministry, you need to look out for yourself. Paul said;

So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your salvation with fear and trembling; [Philippians 2:12 NASB]

It is God who saves by grace, through faith. But He wants to partner with you to preserve your salvation through godliness and devotion.

Lord, I thank you for Your salvation, for Your calling, and for Your gifts. Please give me the grace to walk in my calling, and to use my gifts according to Your will.

1 Timothy 4:11-12 Bridging Divisions

Prescribe and teach these things. Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but rather in speech, conduct, love, faith and purity, show yourself an example of those who believe. [1 Timothy 4:11-12 NASB]

Referencing the preceding verses, Paul is telling Timothy to command and teach the things that lead to godliness. He sees a potential obstacle to Timothy's successful mission, which is his age.

Youth, in the ancient Greek language referred to anyone up to the age of 40. Timothy was, at this time, about 30 years old. He was, of course, a fully grown and mature man, and not what we would call a "youth" today. Compared to Paul, however, who was in his 70's, Timothy was quite young. Youth is relative.

Timothy was tasked with teaching and correcting much older men. There is a tendency among older people to dismiss younger people due to their inexperience. At the same time younger people tend to dismiss their elders, considering them to be out of touch or irrelevant.

Timothy had to win over the older believers in order to effectively minister to them. Before he could teach them, he had to bridge the division between them. This wasn't going to happen by persuasive arguments, or displays of intellect or knowledge, but by being a living example of godliness.

Today, the United States is more divided than it has been in many years. Besides the still active division between the old and young, there are racial divisions, gender divisions, political divisions, and religious divisions.

Black Americans are demonstrating to let the world know that they will not be discriminated against. This is a good message and a worthy goal. However, the message is getting lost to the violence, the fear of rioting and looting, and politics.

White Americans, overall, don't want to see the blacks discriminated against. But they are afraid of losing their rights in favor of the minority. The fear is that the pendulum will swing too far the other way. Add to that the fact that many are turned off by scenes of rioting, vandalism, arson and looting which is associated with Black Lives movement.

It is hard for many to see that most blacks are not rioters and looters, just as most whites are not racist bigots. The actions of a few distort the picture. Ignorant people don't understand that it is only a few and not all. It's like seeing a red spot on a blank canvass, and concluding that the whole canvass is red.

Whatever the conflict, whether it be about racial equality, gender equality, immigration, politics, or whatever else, the issues will not be resolved by arguing or fighting. No matter how influential a person is with his words, that will not be enough to win over most people. The need to see actions. The influence of words is short-lived. In the end, people will be judged by what they do.

As Christians, we have a responsibility to be an example of godliness. Whatever our sphere of influence, no matter how limited or how great, we display God's love, not just with words, but by actively loving others. Jesus said;

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. [Matthew 5:9 NASB]

You may not have the influence to change an entire nation. But by modeling Christ in this world, you may have the opportunity to be used by God to heal one relationship, or one neighborhood, or one city.

If every Christian modeled Jesus instead of fighting over politics, or selfishly demanding their own rights over another, then we could bridge the gap between us. God said;

and My people who are called by My name humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, will forgive their sin and will heal their land. [2 Chronicles 7:14 NASB]

Lord, please search my heart and reveal any prejudice that may still reside there, that I may fully repent. Please give me the grace to love the world as You love the world. I pray also for my country, that You will heal the wounds and divisions that are caused by and illuminated by the recent unrest. Please heal our land.

1 Timothy 4:6-10 The Paradox of Spiritual Discipline

In pointing out these things to the brethren, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, constantly nourished on the words of the faith and of the sound doctrine which you have been following. But have nothing to do with worldly fables fit only for old women. On the other hand, discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness; for bodily discipline is only of little profit, but godliness is profitable for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. It is a trustworthy statement deserving full acceptance. For it is for this we labor and strive, because we have fixed our hope on the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of believers. [1 Timothy 4:6-10 NASB]

Paul is encouraging Timothy to point out the errors of legalism and asceticism in trying to earn godliness or spirituality. He compares such things to "old wives' tales".

There is a difference between asceticism and godly discipline. At first glance, that may seem like an obvious statement. After all, beating your own back with a whip in an act of self-flagellation is an extreme act with no spiritual benefit. But people still try to be holy by legalistic self-discipline.

Physical discipline differs from asceticism primarily in motive. I have seen people in the gym push themselves to the extreme of exhaustion and pain in an effort to discipline their bodies. There is nothing wrong with disciplining the body to keep yourself fit and healthy. Just understand that it is not the way to godliness. When the Bible says that your body is a temple of God, it means that you should keep it holy by refraining from sin. It is not an invitation to achieve holiness through physical fitness.

Paul said, "for bodily discipline is only of little profit." In other words, there is some value in it, but it is limited to this life only. He goes on to say, "but godliness is profitable for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come."

Paul distinguishes between physical discipline and godly discipline.

The first thing to understand about godly discipline is that no amount of discipline can make you holy. It is a free gift from God, along with your salvation. We discipline our minds in response to God's gift, so that we may live more completely for Him, and draw closer into our relationship with Him. Paul tells us;

And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect. [Romans 12:2 NASB]

Transformation comes through mental discipline. I don't mean that you have the power to transform your own mind, but rather, that by submitting your mind to the Spirit of God, you allow Him to transform you.

At its core, godly discipline means setting your mind on the Spirit of God. Paul said;

For those who are according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who are according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. For the mind set on the flesh is death, but the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace, [Romans 8:5-6 NASB]

Setting your mind on the Spirit simply means to think about God. It is simple in concept, but difficult in practice. It is natural for the human mind to wander; to worry about the past and future; to focus solely on the task at hand.

With discipline, you can train your mind to be aware of God's presence all day long, even while you perform other tasks or carry on conversations with other people. It doesn't happen through intense concentration, and it can't be forced. It is a matter of relaxing and being aware of God's presence just as you are aware of your surroundings. 

If you put great effort into it, and tell yourself that you must be aware of God, then you are making it a legalistic effort of the flesh. It doesn't take effort on your part, only awareness.

The paradox of godly discipline is that it requires less effort, and not more. It requires a commitment to not strive, but to surrender. You can't force yourself into God's presence, but you can allow His presence to wash over you. It is only in this way that we can overcome the legalistic efforts of the flesh. Paul said;

the requirement of the Law might be fulfilled in us, who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. [Romans 8:4 NASB]

It is the surrender of spiritual discipline that overcomes sin in our lives. Again Paul said;

But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh. [Galatians 5:16 NASB]

There are those who say, "I am a sinner, and can't help but sin, but I ask forgiveness and repent every day." That is not holiness. It is an indulgence of the flesh, and denies God's power to overcome sin in your life.

There are others who try to be holy by great efforts of self-discipline. They expend great effort to deny the desires and temptations that plague them. This too, is an indulgence of the flesh. It also denies God's power to overcome sin. It says, in essence, "God can't do it for me, so I will."

But if you accept God's grace, surrender your will to Him, and simply, effortlessly, turn your mind toward Him, He will show His power to overcome sin in your life. You will live a holy life - not because you have overcome sin, but because you are living in His presence.

Father, I thank You that You have placed Your Spirit within me to guide and teach me, and to empower me to overcome the flesh. I pray for the grace to keep my mind fixed on You through Your Spirit at all times and in everything I do.

1 Timothy 4:1-5 Superstitious Christians

But the Spirit explicitly says that in later times some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and doctrines of demons, by means of the hypocrisy of liars seared in their own conscience as with a branding iron, men who forbid marriage and advocate abstaining from foods which God has created to be gratefully shared in by those who believe and know the truth. For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with gratitude; for it is sanctified by means of the word of God and prayer. [1 Timothy 4:1-5 NASB]

Christians are a superstitious lot. Throughout the history of the Christian church, we have been seduced away from the truth by false teachings, which we seem all too eager to follow.

A perusal of Christian book titles will reveal such things as "7 steps to greater spirituality" or "How to pray more effectively". These are good goals, but you have to understand that spirituality can't be reduced to a series of steps, and the most effective prayer is the one that is prayed sincerely from your heart to God. There are no formulas, and there are no shortcuts.

One of the first major heresies in the early Christian church was the Gnostic movement. It was a mish-mash of Jewish legalism, pagan mysticism, and Christian doctrine. The result was a perversion of Christianity.

For example, the Bible teaches;

For the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you please. [Galatians 5:17 NASB]

The Gnostics took this concept to the extreme of asceticism. They thought that by punishing their flesh, they would "earn" God's favor, and increased spirituality. They would do things like walk out into the desert without water, until they were near death. They would spend days at a time leaning against a sharp rock so that they could not fall asleep. They thought that by "crucifying" the flesh in this way, they would be more holy. They didn't understand that our holiness is a gift from God, and cannot be earned. 

The irony is that by looking for a shortcut to holiness or spirituality, people achieve the opposite of what they want. Following "7 steps" is an act of the flesh. Praying according to a certain formula is an act of the flesh.

Among the Gnostic teachings were the forbidding of marriage, and abstaining from certain foods. Gnosticism is mostly extinct today, but we can still see remnants of it in the teaching that priests should not marry, and that people should abstain from eating meat on certain days, and in certain seasons.

We are told that "everything that God created is good". Everything is to be received with gratitude. Everything is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.

This doesn't mean that you have to speak the word of God over your food, or pray the word of God over your food. It means that God has told us that it is good. As Peter told us;

“I also heard a voice saying to me, ‘Get up, Peter; kill and eat.’ “But I said, ‘By no means, Lord, for nothing unholy or unclean has ever entered my mouth.’ “But a voice from heaven answered a second time, ‘What God has cleansed, no longer consider unholy.’ [Acts 11:7-9 NASB]

And "prayer" doesn't refer to a rote "blessing" before a meal, or a legalistic ritual in which you "must" pray before each meal. You will not become "unclean" if you fail to say the blessing. It simply means that a sincere Christian will want to come to God in prayer and thanksgiving.

Lord, I thank You that You have set me free from legalism, and the requirements of religion. I come to you with thanksgiving that You have created all things, and have made provision for me.

1 Timothy 3:14-16 The Common Confession

I am writing these things to you, hoping to come to you before long; but in case I am delayed, I write so that you will know how one ought to conduct himself in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and support of the truth. By common confession, great is the mystery of godliness:
He who was revealed in the flesh,
Was vindicated in the Spirit,
Seen by angels,
Proclaimed among the nations,
Believed on in the world,
Taken up in glory. [1 Timothy 3:14-16 NASB]

Paul wrote this letter to Timothy after his release from Roman imprisonment. He sent Timothy ahead of him to Ephesus - intending to catch up with him at a later date - so that he could correct the corruption and false teaching that had arisen within the leadership. He was tasked with replacing certain leaders with godly men, as well as raising up more godly leaders.

He encourages Timothy by reminding him of the value of the church. As the pillar and foundation of truth, the church must be cared for. This should not be misconstrued to think that the church is the source of truth. We know that God alone is the source of truth. 

A pillar in the ancient world served as more than just a support for the building. Public notices were attached to the pillars of prominent buildings for all to see. In the same way, the church is the pillar upon which the truth of God is displayed. And what is that truth? Paul reminds Timothy with these verses.

The phrase, "by common confession," simply means that what follows is commonly known throughout the churches.

The lines in verse 16 are given to us in the form of a poetic verse. They were most likely the words of a hymn that circulated among the early church.

The first two lines proclaim that He who came in the flesh was fully man, and vindicated in the Spirit, He is fully God.

"Seen by angels, proclaimed among the nations," He is glorified in both heaven and earth.

"Believed on in the world, taken up in glory," we trust in Him in the world, and He is waiting for us in heaven.

This is an example of Paul's admonition;

Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God. [Colossians 3:16 NASB]

The book of Psalms, which is the largest book of the Bible, is a collection of songs. It was given to us because God knows that music has a profound influence on our hearts and minds. This makes it important that we choose well what kind of music we listen to.

I am not one of those who preaches that all secular music is of the devil (although the lyrics of some music seems to be demonically inspired). We don't have a legalistic obligation to listen exclusively to Christian music. In fact, I sometimes enjoy the upbeat rhythms and positive lyrics of Creedence Clearwater Revival. But I make a habit of listening to positive Christian music.

I compare secular music to sour cream and cheddar potato chips. They make for a tasty treat, but they don't satisfy. And a diet of chips alone will lead to malnutrition. You need nourishing food.

Music has the power to influence your spirit. I think it is wise to listen to music that proclaims God's grace, that teaches you how to live the Christian life, and that encourages you to worship God. This kind of music will nourish your spirit and help you to grow.

Father, I thank You that You have put the gift of music in the heart of mankind. I pray that You will give me the wisdom to hear Your Spirit in the music. Please give us the wisdom to admonish and teach one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs.

1 Timothy 3:8-13 Deacons

Deacons likewise must be men of dignity, not double-tongued, or addicted to much wine or fond of sordid gain, but holding to the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. These men must also first be tested; then let them serve as deacons if they are beyond reproach. Women must likewise be dignified, not malicious gossips, but temperate, faithful in all things. Deacons must be husbands of only one wife, and good managers of their children and their own households. For those who have served well as deacons obtain for themselves a high standing and great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus. [1 Timothy 3:8-13 NASB]

We must not make the mistake of confusing the Biblical definition of a deacon with modern church government. In most denominations, the deacons govern the church. Often, they have the power to hire or fire the pastor. It is done in the name of "serving" in the church, but it most often a position of power and prestige. That is not how it was intended to be.

Acts describes the choosing of the first deacons;

Now at this time while the disciples were increasing in number, a complaint arose on the part of the Hellenistic Jews against the native Hebrews, because their widows were being overlooked in the daily serving of food. So the twelve summoned the congregation of the disciples and said, “It is not desirable for us to neglect the word of God in order to serve tables. “Therefore, brethren, select from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we may put in charge of this task. “But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” [Acts 6:1-4 NASB]

They chose godly men of good reputation, known for their wisdom, to serve tables. The word "deacon" is translated from the Greek word, "diakonos", which means "a servant". Paul used this word often when he referred to himself as a servant (deacon) of Christ.

Paul had no authority over Jesus. On the contrary, he subjected himself to Christ, to the point of dying for Him.

In the same way, a deacon is not supposed to have authority over the church, but to subject himself to it, and if necessary, die for it.

Like the overseers, the deacons need to be above reproach. Before they are recognized as deacons, they must first prove themselves to have a servant's heart. They must be able to put the needs of the church above their own.

If you want to serve in the church, that is a good thing. Only be sure it is from a sincere desire to serve. Don't seek a position in the church out of ambition. Jesus said;

“Do not be called leaders; for One is your Leader, that is, Christ. “But the greatest among you shall be your servant. “Whoever exalts himself shall be humbled; and whoever humbles himself shall be exalted. [Matthew 23:10-12 NASB]

Jesus can raise up leaders whenever He wants. What He needs is people who will humble themselves and become servants to their brothers and sisters in Christ.

Lord, I pray that You will give me a servant's heart. Please forgive me for my ambition and pride, and give me the grace to humble myself, to subject myself to others, and to serve others in Your name.

1 Timothy 3:1-7 Requirements for an Overseer

It is a trustworthy statement: if any man aspires to the office of overseer, it is a fine work he desires to do. An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, prudent, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not addicted to wine or pugnacious, but gentle, peaceable, free from the love of money. He must be one who manages his own household well, keeping his children under control with all dignity (but if a man does not know how to manage his own household, how will he take care of the church of God?), and not a new convert, so that he will not become conceited and fall into the condemnation incurred by the devil. And he must have a good reputation with those outside the church, so that he will not fall into reproach and the snare of the devil. [1 Timothy 3:1-7 NASB]

We need to understand what the Bible is talking about when it refers to "overseers". The word is translated "bishop" or "elder" in some other Bible versions. Our modern concepts of church hierarchy and the terminology related to it are somewhat different than they were when Paul wrote this letter.

We have the idea of a bishop as a regional governor over many churches. Such a role did not exist in the New Testament. The closest thing to this in the New Testament is the apostles, who were responsible for the churches that they planted.

Every city church had many overseers. The church didn't come together in a church building or cathedral. Instead they met in peoples homes, in small groups, throughout the city. It is likely that every home church had at least one overseer.

The closest equivalent that we have today to the Biblical overseer would be the church pastor.

The qualifications of a pastor revolve primarily around his character, and not his gifting. In all of the requirements that Paul lists, the only non-character related requirement is the ability to teach. The overseer had to be able to pass on his wisdom and knowledge of the Lord.

Beyond that, his character must be above reproach, both within the church and with those outside the church.

Some people make a great deal of the requirement that he be "the husband of one wife." This shouldn't be taken to mean that marriage is a requirement. Otherwise Paul and Timothy would have to exclude themselves. The literal translation of this passage says that he should be "a one woman man". That is, if he is married, he must be faithful to his wife, and not a polygamist (which was not uncommon in the first century) or an adulterer. 

The husband of one wife also means that he must not have had multiple wives through divorce and remarriage, unless it was based on Biblical grounds. Jesus had this to say;

“And I say to you, whoever divorces his wife, except for immorality, and marries another woman commits adultery.” [Matthew 19:9 NASB]

This doesn't imply that the adultery won't be forgiven, nor that he will not be effective in other types of ministry. Only that he cannot oversee the church. This goes along with statement that he must manage his own household well. As Paul says, "if a man does not know how to manage his own household, how will he take care of the church of God?"

An overseer has to be mature. This is a reference to maturity of faith and not of age. The two don't always coincide. Often, young Christians feel as if they are gifted and knowledgeable, and ready to share their gifts in ministry. The problem is that there is a tendency for immature Christians to become prideful, and fall into the same sin as Lucifer. Isaiah's prophecy describes his fall;

“How you have fallen from heaven,
O star of the morning, son of the dawn!
You have been cut down to the earth,
You who have weakened the nations! “But you said in your heart,
‘I will ascend to heaven;
I will raise my throne above the stars of God,
And I will sit on the mount of assembly
In the recesses of the north. ‘I will ascend above the heights of the clouds;
I will make myself like the Most High.’ “Nevertheless you will be thrust down to Sheol,
To the recesses of the pit." [Isaiah 14:12-15 NASB]

Ultimately, there is the danger of young leaders becoming arrogant, and sharing the same fate as the devil.

You may think, "None of this applies to me because I am not called to be a pastor or overseer". It is true that most people are not called to be pastors, but we are all called to live a life of good moral character which is above reproach. We all need to be faithful in marriage and manage our households well. And we all need to remain humble in all aspects of life.

The requirements for church leadership don't just apply to super-Christians. The overseers aren't supposed to be far above and beyond everyone else. They are simply people who are living the Christian life as best they can, and who, because of their maturity, can pass on their wisdom and experience.

You don't have to be a pastor, or hold any office of ministry to do the same. Whoever you are, and whatever your circumstance, you can do the work of God, and be a blessing to others.

Father, I pray that You will fill me with Your Spirit, and work out in me a good character. Help me to know my calling and to fulfill that calling by Your grace.

1 Timothy 2:11-15 The Role of Women in the Church

A woman must quietly receive instruction with entire submissiveness. But I do not allow a woman to teach or exercise authority over a man, but to remain quiet. For it was Adam who was first created, and then Eve. And it was not Adam who was deceived, but the woman being deceived, fell into transgression. But women will be preserved through the bearing of children if they continue in faith and love and sanctity with self-restraint. [1 Timothy 2:11-15 NASB]

This passage is difficult because it appears to run counter to our understanding of the relationship between the sexes, especially in regards to equality. Before we go any further, let me state that the Bible does not teach any inequality between the sexes. On the contrary;

There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free man, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. [Galatians 3:28 NASB]

While the Bible teaches equality between the sexes, it also teaches that there are different roles of authority for men and women in the public worship services.

Which leads me to the subject of context. Every scripture must be read within its context, not only of the verses immediately surrounding it, but of the whole Bible. In this context, Paul is speaking of the order of public services, in other words, how to behave in church. This does not apply outside of that context.

First, he says that women must receive instruction quietly, and submissively. Don't get hung up on the word "submissive". After all, we are told;

Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; [Philippians 2:3 NASB]

The principle is simply; don't be disruptive in church. Apparently, it was a problem in the some of the early churches. What I have been taught is that the churches in the first century were segregated with men on one side, and women on the other. During the service, the women would call across the room to her husband, disrupting the service.

Next, Paul says, "I do not allow a woman to teach or exercise authority over a man." Does this mean that a woman is never allowed to speak in church, or have any authority? No. The New Testament speaks of women who are prophets. Paul actually endorses women who prophesy in the church, and gives instructions to maintain order within the Corinthian culture (1 Corinthians 11:5).

Acts 18:24-26 tells us that Priscilla and Aquila (husband and wife) taught Apollos about Jesus. The issue is not one of teaching, but of teaching without being under the authority of a man.

This doesn't mean that women aren't allowed any authority. In Romans 16:1, Paul greets Phoebe, a deacon of the Roman church.

He has this to say about deacons;

Women must likewise be dignified, not malicious gossips, but temperate, faithful in all things. [1 Timothy 3:11 NASB]

For those who have served well as deacons obtain for themselves a high standing and great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus. [1 Timothy 3:13 NASB]

But the Bible makes no provision for women serving as elders. According to the Bible, a man must be in charge of the church service. And women, regardless of their gifting, must be under that authority.

This is not a question of equality, but of authority. Jesus is under the authority of God the Father, but is in every way equal to the Father. In the same way, women must be under the authority of a man, even though she is in every way his equal.

It is tempting to dismiss this passage as a cultural reference that no longer applies. After all, our society encourages women to be head pastors of churches, and leaders of preaching ministries.

It's true that there are cultural references in the Bible that no longer apply. When that is the case, you can be sure there is an underlying principle that does still apply. We no longer segregate men and women in the services, so yelling across the room is no longer an issue. But the principle remains that we have orderly services.

What about the issue of authority? Outside the church, there is no issue. A woman can be a CEO without violating any Biblical principles. But inside the church there is a principle of spiritual authority that must be observed.

The Father has authority over the Son. Jesus has authority over every believer. In marriage, which is a type of Christ and the church, the husband has authority over his wife (not superiority, but authority). And in the church, a man has authority over the whole church (under the authority of Christ). Women serve under that authority.

In the Garden of Eden, Eve was deceived and became the first person to sin. She then convinced Adam to sin. They were equally guilty of sin. But what we are taught is;

Therefore, just as through one man sin entered into the world, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men, because all sinned— for until the Law sin was in the world, but sin is not imputed when there is no law. Nevertheless death reigned from Adam until Moses, even over those who had not sinned in the likeness of the offense of Adam, who is a type of Him who was to come. [Romans 5:12-14 NASB]

Eve sinned first, but Adam takes the blame for bringing sin into the world. Why? Because, having been created first, he had the authority.

This principle of authority is not politically correct, but it is scriptural. It is especially hard for some modern women to accept. I only ask that you pray and search the scriptures for yourself. If you believe that I am mistaken in my understanding of this passage, then I am open to Biblical correction.

Father, I pray that You will give us wisdom to understand the roles of men and women in the church. Please forgive the men who claim superiority over women, as well as the women who have claimed ungodly authority. Help us all to accept and understand each other.

1 Timothy 2:9-10 Modesty in Public Worship

Likewise, I want women to adorn themselves with proper clothing, modestly and discreetly, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly garments, but rather by means of good works, as is proper for women making a claim to godliness. [1 Timothy 2:9-10 NASB]

This verse is generally interpreted to mean that a woman shouldn't dress to be sexually provocative. It's true that a woman shouldn't show off her body in a way that tempts weak men. This is consistent with other scriptures that deal with sexual sins.

However, in this context, the meaning is different. There is a contrast; dress modestly, not gaudily, displaying your wealth.

It was typical in Ephesus for women of means to dress to impress. They flaunted their wealth by the fineness of their clothes, and by the gold and pearls woven into the plaits of their hair.

Paul is not saying that braiding your hair is sinful, but flaunting your wealth in public worship is inappropriate. There are some churches where the center isle is a fashion runway. In some, the more elaborate the hat, the more impressive is the woman wearing it.

Some traditions have taken this verse to the extreme. You can wear no bright colors or anything that would be considered attractive. Basically, just throw a sackcloth over your head and be done with it. That's not what this is saying either.

At its essence, this is a call to humility. Don't try to impress people with your appearance. Instead, humble yourself and serve others. This is a truth for both men and women.

Paul said that a godly woman does good works. Some women have the time to volunteer, whether that be helping out at a soup kitchen, or a community center, or any other type of giving. Other women work full time either in the home or out. It's not a command to volunteer. It's a reminder to maintain the right attitude.

Psalm 31 speaks about the virtues of an excellent woman;

She looks for wool and flax

And works with her hands in delight. She is like merchant ships;

She brings her food from afar. She rises also while it is still night

And gives food to her household

And portions to her maidens. She considers a field and buys it;

From her earnings she plants a vineyard. She girds herself with strength

And makes her arms strong. She senses that her gain is good;

Her lamp does not go out at night. She stretches out her hands to the distaff,

And her hands grasp the spindle. She extends her hand to the poor,

And she stretches out her hands to the needy. [Proverbs 31:13-20 NASB]

There is more. The point is that good works has many forms. Here is a woman who cares for her household. She conducts business and earns money. And she gives to the poor. She is not a trophy wife; she doesn't demand that she be taken care of. She is known for her good works.

There is no single model for what a modern woman's life should look like. She may not need to work at a job, and may have plenty of time to give to helping others. She may work full time outside the home, doing the good work of providing for her family. She may do the good work of raising children. She may fit into multiple categories, or she may not fit into any category.

What is important is that she works as unto the Lord. That she comes humbly before God as His servant. Only then can she truly give to others from the abundance of what she has received from the Lord.

Father, I pray that You will give me a humble heart, Forgive me for trying to impress others by my own merit. Please use me to do good for others.

1 Timothy 2:8 Anger

Therefore I want the men in every place to pray, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and dissension. [1 Timothy 2:8 NASB]

"Therefore" refers back to verse 5, "For there is one God, and one mediator also between God and men, the man Christ Jesus," [1 Timothy 2:5 NASB] "Therefore I want the men in every place to pray, lifting up holy hands..."

There are many different customs and traditions when it comes to corporate prayer in church. Some raise their hands while worshiping, while others find that practice to be unacceptable. Some stand for prayer, others remain seated, and others kneel before praying.

When Paul said, "lifting up holy hands," he was referencing the practice in Ephesus of raising the hands with the palms up, in an attitude of prayer. What we need to take from this is not the posture of prayer, whether sitting, standing or kneeling, or whether the hands are raised, folded, clasped, or hanging by your side. The key word is "holy".

This could be paraphrased, "I want the men to pray, having been made holy by the grace of God, and without anger, and without rebelliously questioning God."

There is a great deal of anger in the United States right now, expressed by protests, rioting and looting. 

Protesters are angry with the police because some have abused their authority. The police are angry because some are lashing out at all of the police, based on the abuses of a few. Then there are those on the sidelines who are taking sides, and inflaming the anger and unrest of both sides with their rhetoric.

People are looking for legislation to fix the problems and put an end to racism and hate. But it is impossible to legislate away hate. Only the blood of Jesus is sufficient to cleanse the hate from our hearts. It was because of love that he "gave Himself as a ransom for all." [1 Timothy 2:6 NASB] And only God's love is sufficient to overcome hate.

Sadly, there are many, including many Christians, who refuse to give up their racial hatred.

What the Bible calls "dissension" in this verse is not dissension between men, but dissension between man and God. Some translations call it "doubting". It is an inner rebellion against God, within the mind.

It says, "I know God wants me to love everybody just as He does, but I will not love those people. That person isn't worthy of being loved. I can't love them; you don't know how much I've been hurt by white people, or black people, or Asians, or Hispanics, or Europeans, or anybody else. I won't love someone who tweets Twitter posts like that."

If you are harboring anger or hate in your heart, and you are unwilling to let the love of God heal the hurt, and replace the hate with love, then you are in rebellion against God. The Bible says;

BE ANGRY, AND yet DO NOT SIN; do not let the sun go down on your anger, [Ephesians 4:26 NASB]

God knows that people will get angry. But it is necessary to quickly let go of that anger. How? You can't legislate it away. You can't medicate it away. Psychology can only help you cope with it, not get rid of it.

You must surrender yourself to the Spirit of God. What does that mean? It means that in the middle of your anger, you turn your mind towards God. You speak to Him in prayer. The posture of prayer doesn't matter. You can be driving down the road. 

You can vent your anger towards God. He can take it, and He won't punish you for it. He already knows your heart, so you might as well tell Him everything that's in it. Maybe it's God that you're mad at. That's okay too. Again, He can take it. Anger is not sin. Refusing to let go of anger is.

If you come to God in anger, He will come to you with peace.

My God, I pray for Your peace. Not only for myself, but for the nation. Please heal the racial wounds that have been inflicted on all sides. Please take the anger that is in me, and replace it with Your love.

1 Timothy 2:5-7 There is One God

For there is one God, and one mediator also between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself as a ransom for all, the testimony given at the proper time. For this I was appointed a preacher and an apostle (I am telling the truth, I am not lying) as a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth. [1 Timothy 2:5-7 NASB]

There is only one God. He has revealed Himself to us as God the Father; Jesus, the Son of God; and the Holy Spirit of God. Three aspects, eternally coexistent.

It is important to know who God is, and to understand His nature - not so that we can win arguments against cultists, but so that we may know who it is that we worship, and that we worship Him in Spirit and in truth.

Satan's greatest tool in his war against Christians is deception, and it is the nature of virtually every cult and heresy throughout history, that they attack the nature of God. They deny the truth of the scriptures, or they redefine the meaning of scriptures to fit the image of the god that they have created in their minds.

For example, I have heard it taught that God was exclusively the Father in heaven. There was no Son. Then He left heaven and came to earth, and became God the Son. At this time there was not a Father in heaven, but only the Son. But remember what Jesus said;

“Pray, then, in this way: ‘Our Father who is in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. [Matthew 6:9 NASB]

Jesus prayed to the Father. Remember also when Jesus was baptized;

Now when all the people were baptized, Jesus was also baptized, and while He was praying, heaven was opened, and the Holy Spirit descended upon Him in bodily form like a dove, and a voice came out of heaven, “You are My beloved Son, in You I am well-pleased.” [Luke 3:21-22 NASB]

The Father, Son and Holy Spirit are revealed. We also have Jesus' instructions;

“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, [Matthew 28:19 NASB]

Some like to say that Jesus was only a man. Of course, they have to ignore passages such as;

He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by Him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things have been created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together. [Colossians 1:15-17 NASB]

and;

For in Him all the fullness of Deity dwells in bodily form, [Colossians 2:9 NASB]

Some say that the concept of God the Son is a New Testament invention. But Isaiah prophesied;

For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; And the government will rest on His shoulders; And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. [Isaiah 9:6 NASB]

Conversely, there are those who say that Jesus is God, but that He didn't come in the flesh. He was too spiritual to debase Himself in that way. But John tells us;

By this you know the Spirit of God: every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God; and every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God; this is the spirit of the antichrist, of which you have heard that it is coming, and now it is already in the world. [1 John 4:2-3 NASB]

Jesus is fully God. He is also fully man. He didn't stop being man when He ascended to heaven. Only now He is fully man in a glorified and resurrected body.

You need to know God. You can know Him through prayer, and also as He has revealed Himself to us in Scripture. If you don't know the God of the Bible, you may find that you have been worshiping a god of your own invention (which is idolatry). Pray, study, and know Him for yourself.

Thank You, Father, that You have revealed Yourself to us. Thank You Jesus, that You gave Yourself to pay the debt of my sin. I pray that Your Spirit will lead me into all truth, so that I may know You, and worship You in Spirit and in truth.