1 Timothy 5:3-16 Church Widows

3 Honor widows who are really widows. 4 But if any widow has children or grandchildren, let them first learn to show piety at home and to repay their parents; for this is good and acceptable before God. 5 Now she who is really a widow, and left alone, trusts in God and continues in supplications and prayers night and day. But she who lives in pleasure is dead while she lives. 7 And these things command, that they may be blameless. 8 But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever. 9 Do not let a widow under sixty years old be taken into the number, and not unless she has been the wife of one man, 10 well reported for good works: if she has brought up children, if she has lodged strangers, if she has washed the saints’ feet, if she has relieved the afflicted, if she has diligently followed every good work. 11 But refuse the younger widows; for when they have begun to grow wanton against Christ, they desire to marry, 12 having condemnation because they have cast off their first faith. 13 And besides they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house, and not only idle but also gossips and busybodies, saying things which they ought not. 14 Therefore I desire that the younger widows marry, bear children, manage the house, give no opportunity to the adversary to speak reproachfully. 15 For some have already turned aside after Satan. 16 If any believing man or woman has widows, let them relieve them, and do not let the church be burdened, that it may relieve those who are really widows.

Vs. 3 Beginning here in verse three right until verse sixteen, the Apostle Paul will address the issue of widows. An important issue in the early church since there was no social safety net per say. Yet in this he will make a distinction between widows who are really widows; that is a widow without any means of support, and those who had other options. As well as he mentions that there are widows who by reason of their ungodly conduct should not be supported by the church. The Apostle begins: “Honor widows who are really widows.” The word-translated honor here literally means, “to set a price on”. Thus we are to not only esteem their person as valued by God, by showing deference towards them. But also we are to honor them financially (consider Matt 15:4-9 and how Jesus uses the word there. In contrast this words antonym means, “to handle shamefully, with or without physical maltreatment.” See Mark 12:4; Acts 5:41; James 2:6). Therefore we are to honor widows both morally and financially. Since God throughout the Old Testament commanded Israel as His covenant people to honor/care for widows. For there He warns that His wrath and retributive judgment will fall on all those who mistreat and abuse them (consider Ex. 22:22-24; Isaiah 10:1-4; Malachi 3:5). For the Lord God of Israel unequivocally is the defender of widows and orphans (Psalm 68:5). Therefore He expects the same from His people; regardless of the Covenant (Old or New) we are in a relationship with Him by. The Apostle James likewise exhorts every believer and Christian assembly: "Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world." James 1:27
Honoring widows then as with the poor and elderly (James 2:1-6; Lev. 19:32) is to respect their person; provide for their sustenance; and spend time with them in their troubles. Now a widow can forfeit the honor God has commanded be given her (Isaiah 9:17). Yet great consideration and care must be used if one feels compelled to employ that principal to withdraw the honor due her. Therefore the Apostle Paul will list some qualifications with which the church can distinguish between those widows to receive not only honor from us; as their persons inherently deserve, but specifically finical support. Now a true widow here means a widow who cannot support herself and or has no surviving family members to support her. Such woman must have a priority in the churches charitable activities (Ps. 68:5; Acts 6:1-7; Gal. 2:10).

Vs. 4 Therefore if a widow is destitute; yet has believing children or grandchildren their first duty as Christians is to provide for her, to “…first learn to show piety at home, for this is good and acceptable before God.” For church always begins at home. Whether its parents rearing and providing for and teaching their children not only the Christian faith; but the sound life principals born out of it. Or adult children honouring their elderly, bereaved, or sick parents; church always begins in the home. On this point the Lord Jesus severely rebuked the Pharisees for nullifying God’s commandment to honor ones parents financially under the guise of financially honouring God instead (Matt. 15:1-9). For you don’t take what should go to your parents and then “tithe” it to God leaving your parents destitute. You financially honor your parents, and you financially honor God as well. Now the Lord Jesus places such a high value on widows that He warns that those in ministry who devour widow’s houses (i.e. exploit them for their own financial gain) will receive greater condemnation (Matt. 23:14).

Vs. 5-7 Having given a command that adult age children and grandchildren provide for their own widows. The Apostle Paul now makes a distinction between a Godly widow in verse five (Like Anna mentioned in Luke 2:36-37); and the one who only lives for her pleasures in verse six. Pleasure here means a voluptuous lifestyle. That is a lifestyle that is marked by living to indulge one's own appetites and desires (See James 5:5 and the words use there; and Louw Nida 88.252 & Enhanced Strongs 4684 for the definition given here). Therefore a true widow trusts in God and continues in supplications and prayers night and day (vs. 5). While the other only lives for pleasure and is dead while she lives (vs. 6). The word the Apostle uses to describe her as being dead while she lives is used only here in the N.T. in the sense of being spiritually dead, and thus such a widow is living with no expectation of the life that is to come. Being governed by her senses, and or sensuality, and not by the Spirit of God.
“And these things command, that they may be blameless.” ^{Vs. 7} Now this is the second time in this epistle that the Apostle Paul has exhorted Timothy to command all the things he is instructing him on (see 1 Tim. 4:11) that we might all be blameless before God. The Apostle Paul then is making it clear that he wants all adult children and grandchildren to support their widows, but also that all widows who receive church support to live Godly lives.

Vs. 8 “But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.” The Apostle Paul now strongly reaffirms his command in verse four about providing for ones own widows, and not burdening the church with ones own responsibilities. For to profess faith in Jesus Christ yet not provide for ones own parents or grandparents in their time of need is not only morally reprehensible; it is as the Apostle said to deny the faith. Therefore those who wilfully do so should be thought of in the lowest possible light. For both God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ command that we financially honor our parents, and providing for them in their time of need is a part of that.

Vs. 9-10 The Apostle Paul now lays down some guidelines for providing assistance to widows with no children or grandchildren, and thus have no other means of support. First a widow under sixty years of age was not to be taken into the number. That is be placed on the churches list of widows to receive ongoing support from the congregation. For if she is too young and is still capable of remarriage (or supporting herself by working) then she should do so. The Apostle Paul will later state why it is good for young widows to remarry rather then remain single. The other prerequisite is that she had been the wife of one husband. For a widow to be taken into “the number” was to be taken into church community and life and if necessary be supported for life by them. Why then should the church on an ongoing basis financially support a woman who was unfaithful to her husband and family or living in an ungodly manner? For all women in the church are exhorted to fidelity and motherhood (2:15). What message would that then covey to those who were if she were to receive ongoing support? Therefore before Timothy was to approve any widow for ongoing support she had also to have been “well reported for good works.” In other words she had to have been dedicated to her family and her church family and its well being before receiving lifetime support. The Apostle Paul lists five basic good works as character tests:

“If she has brought up children,” Raising children is what the church commends all women to (1 Tim. 2:15; Titus 2:3-5). For you generally don’t have Godly offspring without a Godly mother. Therefore in order for a widow to be considered for church support she must have been at least a faithful mother and often grandmother.

“If she has lodged strangers” (See Heb. 13:2). In the early church believers survival often depended on the hospitality of brethren; even unknown brethren, sheltering them in their time of need. The question then might be asked. How has she helped those in need? Which could’ve included lodging; clothing; feeding or assisting them in some tangible way (Deut. 10:17-19; Prov. 31:20; Luke 10:25-37; 14:12-14; Acts 9:36-42; Heb. 13:2; 1 John 3:17). Therefore what did she do to relieve God’s people in their time of need? (Matt. 25:31-46).

“If she has washed the saints’ feet,” The Lord Jesus washed the disciples feet as an example of humble service that we as believers are blessed if we follow (John 13:17). This was a stark contrast to the norms of the day when it was the household servant’s duty to wash the guest’s feet; or if there was no servant then it was the wife’s duty. However literal foot washing must not be over stressed, since generally no parallel exists for us today. Rather the idea of humbly serving other believers, in whatever capacities she could is the idea.

“If she has relieved the afflicted,” Afflictions are apart of the salvation pilgrimage as we share in Christ’s sufferings so that we may be glorified with Him (John 16:33; Acts 14:22; Rom. 8:17). Now the word translated relieved has the connotation of being strong for another. Therefore what did she do to relieve the afflictions of those people God brought her way in their times of distress? Did she visit them in sickness; provide aid; give moral support during a crises? Offer a consoling word, an encouraging smile, a gesture of kindness? For these are the most rudimentary things of following Jesus Christ. Therefore the Apostle Paul sums everything up by saying:

“If she has diligently followed every good work.” That is did she as a woman of faith prove her faith? The Apostle James adage that faith without works is dead is not unique to himself and certainly not contrary to the Apostle Paul’s understanding of salvation by God’s grace through faith in Jesus Christ. For here the Apostle Paul and elsewhere expects that all who have believed in the Lord Jesus Christ will be willing workers for Jesus Christ of doing good towards all; rather than evil (Consider Acts 26:19-20; Titus 2:13-15; 3:3-8, 14). Such a woman then would’ve proven she was committed to her family; to other believers, and her fellow person’s welfare, and thus Jesus Christ Himself. Therefore the church should support her in her time of need if she has no children or grandchildren to care for her.

Vs. 11-13 The Apostle Paul now commands Timothy to refuse younger widows. This though is not a rejection of their person as church members simply because of their age. It is a warning not to put them on the list with those elderly widows who will receive ongoing church support. The Apostle Paul gives two sound reasons why the younger widows are not to be supported; thus refused:

1)    Younger widows when they grow wanton against Christ desire to marry and incur condemnation for having cast off their first faith Christ (Vs. 11-12). Now there is a difference between desiring to marry (in of itself not sinful) and making marriage ones hope after one had pledged one’s life to Christ; likely a prerequisite to being on the list. Therefore to avoid this which younger widows would tend to do; the Apostle says do not even put them on the list. In regards to their having condemnation you have to remember the times and seriousness in which people's lives and faith was being lived out. For the Apostle Paul has already stated that Godly widows are left to themselves to live lives of prayer and faith trusting in God continually as he himself was doing (). Therefore the Apostle Paul did not want the church list of widows to receive ongoing support from the community to be a half-heartedly committed to Christ, and or the greater church community.

2)    Younger widows who are supported will learn to be idle; and wander from house to house; and become gossips and busy bodies, saying things they shouldn’t (vs. 13). For in the church able men or woman are not called to idleness, nor idle speech (2 Thess. 3:6-15).

Vs. 14 Therefore to avoid these things the Apostle Paul say’s he desires; he does not command; they marry. He only commands that they not be put on the church’s list (vs. 9-13). For the word Paul uses here to describe his own will (i.e. desire) presupposes the possibility of another’s freedom of decision. Therefore he desires the younger widows marry, bear children, manage the house etc. Thereby giving no opportunity for the adversary to speak reproachfully, about such a widow individually, or church collectively. Therefore by marrying and managing the home she would not become idle and disenfranchised from Christian virtues and negatively influence others. Now if a younger widow did not wish to marry, she was at liberty to pursue gainful employment and be self-supporting.

Vs. 15 “For some have already turned aside after Satan.”

Turning after Satan can be many things not the least of which is turning aside from Jesus Christ and a virtuous life and tongue and turning to idle living, gossiping or slander. Now in regards to these sins of the tongue consider how a life’s potential, or someone’s self esteem is frequently ruined by it. And thus it has far more serious implications than the talebearer ever contemplates. Consider how gossip devastates trust; ruins people’s reputations; destroys relationships; undermines reconciliation; crushes people's self esteem; prejudices people’s opinions about another person; destroys unity and fellowship. And generally forwards injustices, hatred and injury. Some of which will leave lifetime scars. And none of which Jesus Christ commands of His church collectively, or believers individually. To align themselves with the slanderer and accuser of the brethren and help him destroy people's lives, reputations, and potential. In a nutshell it creates a wide open door for Satan to walk into someone’s life, especially someone who professes faith in Jesus Christ (Rev. 12:11). Therefore believers are never called to speak ill of anyone (Titus 3:2) and certainly not other believers (Eph. 4:29-31; James 4:11-12). For such things are grievous to the Holy Spirit, violate the law (Ex. 20:16) and ultimately reproach God who is lawgiver and Judge. Now the seriousness which God views gossip is often lost on us, but passages like these remind us of it (Ex. 23:1; Lev. 19:16; Ps. 15:3; 50:20-21; 101:5; Prov. 6:19; 10:18; 11:9; 11:13; 16:28; 17:4; 9; 25;23; 26:20; 26:22; Matt. 5:22; 12:35-37; 18:15-17; Rom. 1:29-30; Gal 5:14-15; Eph 4:29; Titus 2:3; 1 Peter 2:1-3; 4:15).      

 

Vs. 16 Concludes the section on widows with the Apostle Paul again commanding (See vs. 4, 8) that believing men and woman must support their own widows and not burden the church so that it may relieve those who are truly widows.

Scripture Quotations
The New King James Version. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1982.
Note: this work is a draft version and may undergo changes as it is edited

1 Timothy 5:1-2 Treatment of Church Members

"Do not rebuke an older man, but exhort him as a father, younger men as brothers, 2 older women as mothers, younger women as sisters, with all purity. "


Brief Commentary
Vs. 1-2 The Apostle Paul’s command to Timothy here is to respect those entrusted to his care. Therefore Timothy must not to rebuke an older man but exhort him as a father, elder woman as a mother; younger men as brothers; and younger woman as sisters, in all purity.
Now word used here to describe elders is also used in 4:14; 5:17; 19 to describe elder men in church governance. Here the context dictates what the Apostle Paul has in mind is elder men and woman in the church who by rank of their age; not just their positions in the church; should be treated with respect, as ones own parents (Eph. 6:1-3). Thus its not just church leadership that should be treated with deference, but all the churches seniors. Since God places great emphasis on respect for the elderly (Lev. 19:32). Timothy then as church Pastor or in any other capacity must not rebuke, lit. chastise with words the churches seniors or anyone else in the congregation. Therefore Timothy must not be abusive with his words when correcting those on whom correction must come. Same with the younger men, though Timothy was in a prominant position of church oversight he should not think of himself as anything other then a brother to all the young men and woman in the church. Therefore he should conduct himself accordingly towards them, for elitism (Matt. 23:8) or immorality should have no place amongst brethren (Matt. 5:28-30). Now the word translated rebuke in verse one is to be distinguished from the word used in verse twenty, which is also, translated rebuke. The word used in verse one appears only here in the N.T. and is a word that means to inflict injury or insult. While the word used in verse twenty is given in a context of the Apostle Paul commanding Timothy as the church’s Pastor to expose and rebuke those that are sinning in the presence of all that the rest may fear (See Lev. 19:17 for a principal related to the Apostle’s command).

Scripture Quotations
The New King James Version. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1982

1 Timothy 4:12-16 Pastoral Conduct & Duties

12 Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity. 13 Till I come, give attention to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine. 14 Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you by prophecy with the laying on of the hands of the eldership. 15 Meditate on these things; give yourself entirely to them, that your progress may be evident to all. 16 Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you.

Vs. 12 “Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity.”

The Apostle Paul anticipating opposition to Timothy's leadership now charges Timothy not to let anyone despise his youth. The word Paul uses here in describing Timothy as a youth is to be distinguished from the word he used in 3:6 to describe new believers as being disqualified from church oversight. Timothy was young in years, and new to the office of Pastor, but he was not new to the faith. Now it is the Holy Spirit who chooses and equips and thus qualifies each believer to fulfill whatever functions in the Body of Christ we are to fulfill. Even before the Holy Spirit’s outpouring, rank or age was never the deciding factor (consider 1 Chron. 24:31; Luke 1:8-9; Acts 1:15-26). Hence if one is Spirit equipped then it is their level of Spiritual maturity that qualifies or disqualifies them for Christ's service, not their age or education level. Therefore Paul exhorts Timothy to let no one despise his youth, rather he is to be an example for all believers to follow:

In word, that is in doctrine, unlike the profane talk and idle speculations of the false teachers, who do not believe the actual spiritual truth's shown them. Timothy should be reverent and faithful in teaching the cross of Christ and the sound doctrine born out of it. And of course as a mature believer in Jesus Christ, Timothy must demonstrate a mature use of his tongue. For how one uses it, whether for instruction, edification, encouragement, exhortation, and when necessary Godly rebuke. Or for foolish talking, gossiping, cutting criticism, or putting down of others, says much about how mature or immature in the faith they really are (Eph. 4:31; James 3:2-10; 1 Peter 2:1).

In conduct, Timothy (like us all) must not only profess well but also live well, setting an example that others can emulate (Eph. 5:1). Now this we do when we follow the commandments of the Lord Jesus Christ and live out the fruits of the Spirit in our lives (John 14:21; Gal. 5:22-23). Thus not sinless "perfection", that only leads to hypocrisy; rather sound conduct that is above reproach.

In love, Since the gospel is a message of God’s immeasurable love for all people demonstrated through death and resurrection of His Son Jesus Christ we must never lose sight of love. Love is the greatest commandment the Lord Jesus Christ has given us as His disciples to obey (John 13:34-35). Therefore just as God is love, so everyone born of Him loves (1 John 4:7-8), for the first fruit of the Holy Spirit is love (Gal. 5:22). Love truly is then a measure of sincere and mature faith (1 Cor. 13).

In spirit, that is ones disposition; thus humility, kindness, soundness of faith etc. is how we are to live out and proclaim the faith. Conducting ourselves as men and women of God, not like those who do know Him. “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power; love and sound mind.” 2 Tim 1:7

In faith, the gospel is above all else a call to believe in the Lord Jesus Christ for salvation (John 3:16; 6:29) and live out one's faith in Him by grace and truth (John 1:17). The Pastor then is to model what “living by faith” looks like to all (2 Cor. 3:5-6; 17). Now in this the Apostle James also exhorts us that faith without works is dead (James 2:20, 26). Therefore living by faith means not only believing the Spiritual truths in God’s Word entrusted to us to keep, but also striving to exemplify them in all aspects of our lives. “For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him…” 2 Chron. 16:9

In purity, In the N.T. the word the Apostle Paul uses here appears only here, and in 5:2 of this same epistle. For believers purity is to be of prime importance in our following Jesus Christ (Rom. 12:1-2; 1 Cor. 5:9-13; 2 Cor. 6:14-7:1; 1 John 3:2-3; Rev. 18:2-4). Since the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness, righteousness and truth (Eph. 5:9). And so more than anything else this is the battlefield where Christian men and women living in a world well under the sway of Satan must stand firm and not be swayed into following or justifying the ever increasing moral decline that is this world (1 Thess. 4:3-4). Therefore it is incumbent upon us who believe, especially if we are in, or are aspiring to leadership, to pursue purity (1 John 5:18). For this in accord with our new nature In Christ and will keep us, and those who heed us, solidly rooted and grounded in the faith and free from the many pitfalls and sorrows that come to all those who sadly live ungodly lives (Psalm 33:10; Prov. 11:31; 12:28; 13:6, 21).
Now in the Spirit’s address in the Book of Revelation’s to the seven churches, two are specifically mentioned as committing or permitting sexual immorality, and thus the Spirit gives a strong rebuke that these are things that must be repented of (Rev. 2:12-17; 2:18-29). Therefore if a church congregation loses this fight and surrenders to the prevailing "morals" of the day; they will not only lose their witness for all that Jesus Christ came for; that is to set mankind free from the bondage of sin and death, but more perilously their place within Christ’s Body as useful vessel's for His service.

Vs. 13 “Till I come, give attention to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.”

Having given Timothy a command to pursue Righteousness and Godliness, the Apostle Paul now makes it clear there is but one way to that end, and that is to know and obey God and His will by His Word. For through God’s Word one not only grows in wisdom and knowledge and understanding, but one gains great discernment as well. Three things then every Pastor must focus on. The first is reading. A Pastor who neglects his own Scriptural studies will not be healthy spiritually, nor can he gainfully instruct others if he is neglecting the Word. Having then studied the Scriptures for himself a Pastor must continue on with the public reading or exposition of them. Consider everything Jesus received from God the Father He preached publicly. Therefore Jesus commands the same from us all, which is especially true if in a leadership role (consider Matt. 10:27-31; Mark 8:38). Now in regards to the public reading of the Scriptures the word used here is also used in 1 Thess. 5:27 and Col. 4:16 where the Apostle Paul commands that his epistles be read openly before the church. Three quick reasons for this:
First: the church is the pillar and ground of truth (1 Tim. 3:16) and as such has a God given mandate to keep and expound the truth openly and correctly (Eph. 4:14).
Second: reading the Scriptures keeps people focused and grounded in following Jesus Christ; both corporately and individually; correctly. For in abiding in Jesus Christ's Word believers not only grow up into Christ like maturity, but will bear fruit Spiritually (John 15:7). Therefore the Apostle Peter exhorts us all who desire Spiritual growth to look into God's Word for this, “as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby.” 1 Peter 2:1
Third: Sanctification. The Lord Jesus not only commands us as His disciples to abide in His Word. He also prayed to the Father on our behalf that we might be sanctified by it, when He prayed, “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.” John 17:17 Therefore God's Word is critical for not only a believer's sanctification but also the whole corporate body of believers sanctification.

The second area a Pastor must give attention to is exhortation. That is having read or had the Scriptures read publicly, the Pastor must exhort believer and non believer to obedience to the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ (2 Cor. 11:3-4; Gal. 1:6-10; 2 Thess. 2:16-17). Balanced with this is also encouragement for those who are struggling (Rom. 15:4), and consolation for those who suffer loses (Matt. 5:4). In other words the Pastor must not only be a man who is passionate about God’s Word and its proclamation, but God’s people, and their well being (2 Cor. 1:3-7). Speaking words of both exhortation and comfort; the same word is used of the Holy Spirit comforting the church in Acts 9:31; to build up the church and strengthen God’s people in faith and love (Philemon 7).

The third area that a Pastor must give attention to is doctrine (4:6). A Pastor must know the Scriptures and the sound doctrine born out of them in order to ward of heresy, which will only increase as the end draws near (consider Matt 24:24; 2 Thess. 2:1-11 etc.). Given the Apostle Paul’s warning of some heeding doctrines (same word) of demons at the start of this chapter it is paramount that every Pastor pays careful attention to his doctrine. For if the Pastor does not pay attention to his doctrine, then he will inadvertently lay the groundwork for deceivers and all kinds of deviations from the truth to rise up in his congregation (Acts 20:28-35; 2 Tim. 3:13-14). For there is already a bewildering amount of spiritual error out there and it is almost certain God’s people will stray, or get caught up in that error, if they are left to fend for themselves (consider Mark 6:34). Therefore the bulk of a Pastor’s time should be spent in reading, exhortation, and doctrine. “For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; 4 and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables. 5 But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.” 2 Tim 4:3-5
Therefore a Pastor must delegate most of the churches business to those Godly men who want to and are qualified to serve Christ in handling the daily affairs of the local church and or parachurch ministries, and instead serve with them primarily in an oversight capacity. Just as the Apostles did in assigning Spirit filled men to the daily distribution of food for widows, so that the Apostle’s could dedicate themselves to the Word of God and prayer (Acts 6:1-6). A Pastor then must always maintain his focus on fulfilling his primary calling; preaching and teaching; and thus delegate those other important duties to those that Christ has provided and equipped for Himself to do those things. Therefore put the Word of God first and everything else will fall into place.

Vs. 14 “Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you by prophecy with the laying on of the hands of the eldership.”

The Apostle Paul now commands Timothy not to neglect the gift that is in him. A gift which came to Him by the Holy Spirit who gives gifts to all of us who believe in Him for the building up of the church in love (Eph. 4:7-16). For as salvation comes as a gift of God’s love for us, so do His Spirit gifts. And these Spirit gifts remain in the hands of Providence to distribute according to His own will. Therefore Paul’s reference here to Timothy receiving a gift "...which was given to you by prophecy with the laying on of the hands of the eldership." may need some clarification. For one must be careful not to misunderstand the Apostle Paul here as saying Spirit gifts come by church elders laying on of their hands on anyone. For only the Holy Spirit gives gifts (1 Cor. 12:8) according to His own will for the building up of the church in love (1 Cor. 12:4-11). Even though the word translated gifts here has extensive Scriptural usage of man giving gifts; there simply is no Scriptural reference to the impartation of Spirit gifts being given by one person to another unless someone interprets this single verse in such a light. Which would then contravene all that the Apostle Paul said in 1 Cor.12 about the Holy Spirit alone giving gifts according to His own Will. Therefore Timothy had a gift that was given him by prophecy, that is the prophecy did not endow him with the gift. It merely affirmed his having it. Therefore the laying on of hands by the elders; including the Apostle Paul (2 Tim. 1:6) was confirming Timothy as a man called and equipped by God (See Acts 6:6; 13:3 for N.T. eldership examples). Now to see a direct correlation of this in Scriptures consider Joshua is Scripturally said to be full of wisdom because Moses laid his hands on him (Deut. 34:9). Yet this was according to God having already chosen and gifted Joshua by His Spirit with wisdom (Num. 27:18-23). Therefore the church elders were affirming Timothy’s calling by laying their hands on him. Their laying hands on Timothy did not endow him with a Spirit gift. It simply confirmed him as chosen by God and equipped by the Holy Spirit for the church’s service. Timothy then was to take this to heart knowing that Christ called him; the Holy Spirit gifted him; and the church elders commissioned him to be in the position he was in. Now if a man is not Spirit equipped to serve in the capacity he is in, he can have a thousand Godly men lay their hands on him, he would still be disqualified. Timothy though like the Apostle Paul was not disqualified (2 Cor. 13:5).

Vs. 15 “Meditate on these things; give yourself entirely to them, that your progress may be evident to all.

The Apostle Paul having reaffirmed young Timothy’s calling to him now exhorts Timothy to meditate on these things that he has been teaching him. Literally to go over again and again the things which Paul has written here. For being Spirit equipped is one thing, becoming Scripturally knowledgeable, discerning, and mature takes much time, thought and effort. Yet over time ones progress will become evident to all as one abandons themselves to the Scriptures. And by doing so Timothy would also be confirming his calling to those who doubted it. For Spiritual growth always requires that one move from infancy to maturity (Gal. 3:23-25; Heb. 6:1-3; 1 Peter 2:1-3).

Vs. 16 “Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you.”

The Apostle Paul’s warning here s relevant for us all. For both our conduct and doctrine are very important (1 Peter 4:17-18) since there is an undeniable link between them both and ones spiritual maturity (2 Cor. 10:3-4; Rom. 12:1-2 etc.). Therefore a Pastor must always take heed to himself and his doctrine. For if his conduct or doctrine is unsound, then so will the lives be who heed him. Finally that a standard body of literature known as the New Testament was not assembled till much later does not annul the fact that the churches universally held one body of teachings as authoritative for all (See Acts 15-16:4-5; 1 Cor. 4:17; 7:19 etc.). Therefore if a Pastor does not adhere to the sound doctrine which is encapsulated for us in the N.T. he will neither save himself nor have a saving effect on those who hear him (Heb. 13:7). The Pastor above all else then must remain faithful to the Lord Jesus Christ by continuing in both personal obedience to the gospel (Rom. 1:5-6) and the sound doctrine born out of it. Only then will many lives be saved through him by it. 

Scripture Quotations
The New King James Version. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1982

1 Timothy 4:6-11

If you instruct the brethren in these things, you will be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished in the words of faith and of the good doctrine which you have carefully followed. 7 But reject profane and old wives’ fables, and exercise yourself toward godliness. 8 For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come. 9 This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance. 10 For to this end we both labor and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of those who believe. 11 These things command and teach.

Vs. 6 The Apostle Paul now admonishes Timothy to instruct the brethren in all the things he has been teaching him. For in doing so Timothy will be a good minister of Jesus Christ; nourished in words of faith and good doctrine which Timothy has carefully followed. A good Pastor or Bible teacher then will not only hold fast to sound Biblical doctrine, but will make it their duty to instruct those who hear them in all things the Lord Jesus Christ has taught and commanded us directly, and by His Spirit, through His Biblical Apostles. Therefore the decrees contained within the N.T. are incumbent upon all of us who believe regardless of the culture they are given in, or generation in which they are received. For it is by them that we are both nourished in our faith, but also we grow into spiritually mature disciples.


Vs. 7-8  7 But reject profane and old wives’ fables, and exercise yourself toward godliness. 8 For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come.


And so in holding fast to the truth the Apostle’s exhortation here is to likewise reject the ungodly myths and folklore found in every culture that cannot sanctify ones soul. Yet inevitably some will try to weave their cultures fables, folklore, and or forms of "spirituality" into the faith. Nonetheless we must careful not to let such things is, as if they are "harmless". For if such things are left to take root they will inevitably distort or even supplant the gospels truth (Consider 2 Tim. 4:4; Titus 1:14; Jude 3). And so in the first chapter it was speculations about angels, and miss use of the law (likely coming from Jewish Christians, and or those Gentiles who wanted to appear as "authorities" in the law) that needed to be addressed and stopped. Here it is  "profane and old wives fables" that the Apostle is warning Timothy, and us all about. These then likely coming from those in the congregation whose pre-Christian beliefs, superstitions, and or cultures folklore, was not only being propagated amongst the brethren, but also to Timothy himself. Therefore the Apostle Paul commands Timothy to reject all such things, (since a pastor can also be swayed by his congregations miss adventures if he is not aware), especially if these are being "sold" to him that they might positively effect his own well-being. Since Timothy himself was often  given to infirmities as the Apostle mentions later, and so Paul tells Timothy there it's okay to use wine medicinally if it helps him with these (1 Tim. 5:23). While here it appears that these were those in Timothy's congregation who were also recommending Timothy begin a stout and heartily exercise regime, which can have bodily benefits, but if these things supplant ones own pursuit of godliness, they would in effect only be neglecting ones soul (vs. 7-8). And so here the Apostle warns Timothy to ascribe no value to those teachings, especially those that supplant the pursuit of Godliness (a Holy Spirit and moral pursuit) with mere exercise as a means to wholeness of person, of both body and spirit. Something that is quite fashionable today as fitness clubs often advertise their products and services as effectuating both body and soul; offering yoga classes and or eastern meditation techniques along with gym workouts. Something that a Christian should steer clear of. For we know the that such things don't affect both body and soul positively, because there is no Holy Spirit regeneration of a person in them, and thus no true life here and now, and no promise of Resurrection life and rewards to come. Which is a Godly motivation for a believers pursuit of Godliness here and now. So that we might attain to our greatest potential and usefulness here and now, and best rewards then (consider 1 Cor. 9:24-27; 2 Tim. 2:1-7; 4:7-8; 1 Peter 5:1-4).
Now in regards to the natural healing remedies (and eastern medicinal practices) that seem very fashionable these days; yet these often lack the medical evidence to back their claims. A word of caution both for your body and for your spirit. For though the gospel is a holistic message, just remember that "holistic" in today's world is a very broad umbrella, encompassing many beliefs and practices, and thus for believers holistic should be carefully and thoughtfully discerned before one jumps blindly into something called "holistic", lest one fall victim to shysters and or into spiritual perils. Now bodily exercise as the Apostle points out profits a little, “…but godliness is profitable for all things, having the promise of the life that now is and of that which is come.” In so stating then the Apostle Paul is not condemning bodily exercise, which would lead to asceticism, something he staunchly opposes (Col. 2:20-22). Rather he is saying give it a right focus. For to exercise oneself to godliness; that is a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and an active pursuit of those attributes that make for Godliness in ones life is far more transforming of both body and soul then mere bodily exercise; for the efforts one puts into Godliness remain forever.

Vs. 9-11 “This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance." By stating these things the Apostle Paul is positively exhorting Timothy to receive his sayings as being faithful and worthy of all acceptance because they are true. "¹⁰ For to this end we both labor and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of those who believe. ¹¹ These things command and teach.

Therefore the Apostle Paul is exhorting Timothy to keep his hope and trust in Jesus Christ and serve Him heartily as one who knows Him as his Savior and obeys Him as his Lord. For Jesus Christ is the Savior of all men; that is of all men, women and children everywhere in every generation. Regardless of their nations, cultures, ethnicity's, ancestry's, personal backgrounds, bodily sizes, shapes or colors; intellect or lack thereof, or anything else that one may try to distinguish one as a "better" people by (Rom. 3:23). Therefore the gospel does not need to be amended to suit any person or culture in which it is presented. Since God is not only the Creator of all people, He is the Savior of all people; especially of those who believe, regardless of their culture or background in which they believe. Thus the Apostle is emphasizing that God has a universal agenda to reach all of humanity with the gospel's message by which all men, women and children might be saved when they believe (Eph. 1:13-14). For it is God’s Spirit given to us through faith in Jesus Christ by which we receive not only the strength and abilities for whatever purposes he wants us to serve Him in here and now, but most importantly life, eternal and everlasting. The Lord Jesus’ said: “It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life.” ^{John 6:63} That is why the Apostle Paul both laboured and suffered reproach, because his hope and trust was in the Living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of those who believe. For that is the gospels universal purpose; the salvation of everyone who repents and believes, and thus receives the Lord Jesus Christ and what He has done to save them from sin and death and the judgment to come on all those who don't. Now the Lord Jesus Christ accomplished this salvation for us all by His own life, death, Resurrection from dead, and ascension back to heaven. All that needs to be done is for people to believe and obey Him. That is what it means to be a disciple of Jesus. Therefore the Apostle Paul reiterates what he has being instructing Timothy on, Timothy must likewise command and teach, and so must you and I if we wish to be faithful servants of God.

Scripture Quotations
The New King James Version. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1982

1 Timothy 4:1-5 Spirit Warns of Apostasy

"Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons, 2 speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their own conscience seared with a hot iron, 3 forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from foods which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth. 4 For every creature of God is good, and nothing is to be refused if it is received with thanksgiving; 5 for it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer."

Vs. 1 With a solid confession of faith given the Holy Spirit through the Apostle Paul now warns about a coming apostasy.“Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons.”

Thus the Holy Spirit is telling of an apostasy (lit. a falling away) from the true faith in latter times. Now the latter times is a phrase that appears in both the Old and New Testaments. But as it relates to humanities redemption from sin and death sees actuation with the Incarnation, Life, crucifixion death, resurrection from the dead, then ascension of the Lord Jesus Christ back to heaven as the pivotal opening event (Heb. 9:26). However the latter times will not be brought to completion until Christ's return for His bride the church, before He makes war against Satan and those who follow him to perdition (Rev. 19:1-21). Everything in between then (as it relates to age of redemption) could rightly be said to fall into the time-line of the latter days. That is why Jesus commands everyone to repent and believe in Him now so that they might enter the Kingdom of heaven while they can (Mark 1:15). Now for those who do there is both salvation here and now (Eph. 1:13-14), but also the future promise of resurrection glory in the Kingdom of heaven with Christ and God (John 6:40; 1 Cor. 15:20-25; 50-55; 2 Tim. 2:12). However for everyone who does not, but continues on in their sins, there will be a terrible day of judgment and eternal perdition for those who do not believe, nor obey the gospel (Rom. 2; Rev. 20:11-15). That said the latter days are an unfolding reality. As the Apostle Peter clearly saw them unfolding beginning with the Holy Spirit's outpouring quoting from the prophet Joel regarding this (See Acts 2:14-21). Similarly the Apostles Paul and John viewed the latter days as both unfolding in their day; yet declaring events still to come as the Spirit of God gave them revelation of the things that were still to be (Consider 2 Thess. 2; 1 John 2:18-23; 4:1-6; 2 John 7-9; Book of Revelations etc.). And that is what Jesus taught in the gospels, that the end would come over a period of time, with many troubling events unfolding leading up to His return, which will be a distinct and sudden event (Matt 24). Therefore Jesus commands our readiness and preparedness here and now (Matt. 25:1-30) by first making a decision for Him (John 1:12) then following Him in discipleship by keeping His and the Biblical Apostle commandments (John 15:10; Acts 1:1-3; 2:42) which must always be distinguished from the commandments of men who turn from truth (Isaiah 29:13; Matt. 15:1-9; Col. 2:20-22; 1 Tim. 1:3; 4:6; Titus 1:14). That some will depart from the faith during the latter times, and give heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons, is then a warning for all believers to heed whenever they are illuminated to the danger (Consider Heb 3:12-19).

Vs. 2 Having departed from the faith and giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons the Holy Spirit says these will be “speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their conscience seared with a hot iron”. These then will become agents for Satan; he will work his agenda through them, by sending and proliferating doctrines of demons through them (Consider 2 Cor. 11:5-15; vs. 13-15). Now the word translated seared appears only here in the N.T. it means to literally have ones conscience cauterized. It is then a conscience that is calloused over to the truth, and thus is utterly incapable of Spirit discernment. In 1 Cor. 2:10-16 the Apostle Paul addressees the unbeliever’s inability to interpret or render right spiritual judgments about the Word of God; here he addresses the apostate (Heb. 6:4-8). Therefore these are those who having heard the truth, at some point rejected it, and thus it is through such people that doctrines of demons will be proliferated in, and amongst, and sadly through the professing church. And thus it is through such diabolical means that the church often finds both factions within (1 Cor. 11:18-19), but also an abandonment or refutation of God's clear moral absolutes. Such as those in the Scriptures that clearly condemn homosexuality as an abomination in the eyes of God (Lev. 18). Yet this sin now finds justification and favor in segments of Christendom through what would otherwise be some well educated and or Biblically informed men and women. And so it is that some of these will be hypocritical preachers and teachers of the truth (or semblances of it). Yet they themselves will live (or justify) lives that are living contrary to it. Outwardly appearing like their in the faith, and thus likely saying many things that are relevant to the faith, but inwardly having departed from the faith, they will manifest by their lives, or by their spirit, a disposition that is hostile to the true faith and the children redeemed by God's grace (Gal. 4:21-31). In time excusing, justifying, or partaking in all manner of moral and spiritual abominations (Consider Matt. 7:15-20; 2 Peter 2; 1 John 3:15; Jude 3-19; Rev. 18:3-4 etc.).

Vs. 3-5 Now the Holy Spirit warns they will expound two errors: “forbidding to marry,and commanding to abstain from foods which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth.”

That they forbid marriage is to be a clear mark of their apostasy from the faith. Something that existed in segments of ancient Judaism, but here the clear reference is to the the professing church. Something which started to take root earlier on in in the monastic and priestly systems of Christendom and remains there unrefuted and unrepentant off till this day. Make no mistakes about it those who forbid marriage and or the freedom to partake of all foods are hypocrites and liars and are proliferating doctrines of demons. Imposing on themselves or others ideals that God does not. Whether as a means to salvation and thus works (Rom. 4:4-5) or as a means to so called sanctification (and thus it is legalism, not sanctification) for true sanctification only comes through the Spirit of God and obedience to the Word of God given by Him. It does not come by obeying the doctrines and commandments of men (Titus 1:14). For heterosexual marriage was sanctified by God in the beginning as an integral part of God’s Divine plan for humanity (Gen. 2:18-25). So that through it both man and woman could find relational/sexual fulfillment as unique, yet complementary individuals. And thus the human race could be propagated and greater society established through it. Heterosexual monogamous marriage then is to be the basis of every stable home and healthy society. Something which the Lord Jesus Himself reaffirmed in the face of the Pharisees laxity towards their own marriage vows; another serious error (Matt. 19:1-9). And thus in forbidding marriage, as if that would make one more "spiritual" or "holy" or "consecrated"; they only undermine God's plans to create stability and joy in the individual, family, church and or greater society. And thus true to the devil's nature which is to steal, kill and destroy, so they forward his doctrines of demons that do likewise (consider Jesus' Words in John 10:10). Placing individuals under law (and a man made "law" at that) they only incite all manner of evil within them (consider Rom. 7:8; 1 Cor. 15:56) clearing a path for all moral corruption and hypocrisy to take its root.
That's natural and straightforward and obvious to all who retain their sensibilities. Now on the Spiritual side of the coin (if I can use that as a metaphor) So consecrated is marriage that both the nation of Israel and the church itself are portrayed in this type of relationship with God Himself (Isaiah 62:5; Hosea 2:19-20). Therefore to forbid it, moves way beyond just legalism, it is a heresy that is fully demonic in origins. For it literally denies Jesus Christ’s covenantal relationship with His bride, the church (Rev. 21:9-14). For heterosexual monogamous marriage in many ways is to reflect that loving and sanctified relationship Christ has with the church (Eph. 5:30-32).

Having then reaffirmed that to forbid marriage is a blatant apostasy from the faith; I must now state that neither is marriage to be commanded of us. Again marriage exists and is a wonderful expression of a unique human relationship of the genders that can help meet the needs of both. In terms of physical as well as emotional needs. But believers are not to think that marriage itself can provide what only God through His salvation in Christ can, and that is fullness of life within us, both new and everlasting. Our relationship then with Jesus Christ must supplant all others in terms of priority. Not that we abandon our unbelieving spouses (if that is case with us) and our responsibilities to them; or our families and extended families, but we keep these in perspective to our relationship with Christ (Matt. 10:34-39; Luke 14:25-33). Looking then at 1 Corinthians 7 where the Apostle Paul addresses marriage amongst believers. There he taught because of the current distress the church was under being single was preferred, but not commanded (1 Cor. 7:1; 7). For marriage is good in preventing sexual immorality (1 Cor. 7:2-5). Yet Marriage has many aspects which can distract one from serving the Lord devotedly (1 Cor. 7:35). For the married person is generally concerned with the things of the world, seeking to please their spouse, while the single person is freer to fully seek to please the Lord (1 Cor. 7:32-33). However, and I want to emphasize this point again; the Apostle Paul never forbids marriage he only advises that there are troubles that come with it (1 Cor. 7:28). In fact Paul makes the point that if a person cannot live single without burning in lust it is better for them to marry (1 Cor. 7:8-9). For not all are made in such a way as to be able to live single. As well many come into the faith already married, and in no way is destroying ones home and family in accord with the gospel. Marriage then is neither forbidden, nor is it commanded (Matt. 19:1-12). It is a free choice to marry or not to marry, to have children or not to have children. Commanding one or the other is to move outside of N.T. teachings authority and into ones own authority. Therefore being married does not make you less spiritual, just as being single does not make you more. Many of the Biblical Apostles were married, (though Paul was not) not the least of which were the Lord’s brothers and the Apostle Peter (1 Cor. 9:3-6). Again the Apostle Paul commends both Pastoral and deacon candidates to be husbands of one wife. Though this does not mean they must be married, just that if married or previously married, they are to have been a husband of one wife. Later Paul commands Timothy that young widows seeking church support should marry and manage the home rather then burden the church. Since such were likely to become gossips and busy bodies (1 Tim. 5:14). Only in regards serving Jesus Christ without distractions does the Apostle Paul commend singleness as a better choice (1 Cor. 7:7) and he conditions that by saying if you cannot control your passions your far better married then single and burning in lust, which is not serving the Lord without being distracted (1 Cor. 7:32-38). Finally the N.T. attests to some exemplary Spirit filled married couples who served the Lord very well, in particular Priscilla and Aquila, converts and co-workers of the Apostle Paul (Acts 18). “Marriage is honorable among all, and the bed undefiled; but fornicators and adulterers God will judge.” ^{Heb. 13:4}

The second heresy the Holy Spirit warns against is that they will command believers “…to abstain from foods which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth.” Therefore the individual believer who trusts in Jesus Christ as Lord of everything is not under any sort of dietary restrictions. For God has given every herb and every moving thing for mans food; only blood is to be abstained from, for it is the beings life (See Gen. 9:4; Acts 15:28-29; and Rom. 14 for principals of eating and living by faith). Now as with voluntarily abstaining from marriage there is nothing wrong with voluntarily abstinence from food. The problem is that in both these instances someone is forbidding marriage and or commanding abstinence from certain types of food. Which the Holy Spirit warns is demonic in origins. “For every creature of God is good, and nothing is to be refused if it is received with thanksgiving; ⁵ for it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.” ^{Vs. 4-5} Therefore the Holy Spirit warns us not to heed nor submit to anyone who commands abstinence from foods or marriage; whether this comes through the miss use of the law, or some other rational. The warning is clear. Those who do so have departed from the faith and we are not to heed them at all (Titus 1:15-16).

Beware then of anyone who forbids marriage or commands that you must abstain from enjoying whatever types of food you enjoy, whether meats, or vegetables, or fruits or any combination of them anytime you want to enjoy them. For you are at liberty to do so, as you see fit (Deut. 12:20-25; 1 Cor. 10:23-33). Know for certain then that you will get no closer to God by obeying the doctrines and commandments of men rather than the grace of God (Gal. 2:3-5; 4:9-11; Col. 2:20-22; Titus 1:14-16). For where the Spirit of the Lord is there is liberty (2 Cor. 3:17). Therefore decide for yourself whether you will marry (1 Cor. 7:9, 36) or not (Matt. 19:11-12). Or whatever kinds of foods you will eat (Deut. 12:20-23; Acts 15:29; Rom. 14:14) or not (Rom. 14:1-2). For that is apart of glorious liberty the Lord Jesus Christ gives us all. “Therefore do not let your good be spoken of as evil; 17 for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. 18 For he who serves Christ in these things is acceptable to God and approved by men. Rom 14:16-18

Again“…food does not commend us to God; for neither if we eat are we the better, nor if we do not eat are we the worse.” 1 Cor. 8:8 Only in regards to another’s conscience does one sin if they eat knowingly giving offence to another person (Rom. 14:15, 21; 1 Cor. 8:9-13; 10:27-33). Or if they eat believing it is wrong for them to do so. Since whatever is not of faith is sin (Rom. 14:23). Again the Scripture says “All things are lawful for me, but not all things are helpful; all things are lawful for me, but not all things edify. 24 Let no one seek his own, but each one the other’s well-being.” 1 Cor. 10:23-24 So then do not destroy with your personal convictions about food; or anything else the one for whom Christ died. And do not judge His servants for exercising the glorious liberty the Lord Jesus Christ has given to us all.

Scripture Quotations
The New King James Version. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1982

1 Timothy 3:14-16

14 These things I write to you, though I hope to come to you shortly; 15 but if I am delayed, I write so that you may know how you ought to conduct yourself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth. 16 And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness:

 God was manifested in the flesh,

 Justified in the Spirit,

 Seen by angels,

 Preached among the Gentiles,

 Believed on in the world,

 Received up in glory.

Vs. 14 The Apostle Paul now changes his focus a little and encourages Timothy that though he is writing him to remain at his post, and teach and instill such extensive instructions during this difficult time, he is not leaving him to shoulder the burden alone, for he hopes to come to Timothy shortly.

Vs. 15 “but if I am delayed, I write so that you may know how you ought to conduct yourself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.”

If there is ever any doubt/debate as to how we are conduct ourselves in the house of God. Those issues can be resolved by looking into and obeying the Apostle's writtings. For everything in the Apostle Paul’s epistle; in fact the entire New Testament comes to us by the Holy Spirit and is the Word of God (John 14:26; Acts 1:2-3). And it is given to us so that we all might know how to conduct ourselves not only in the world, but specifically in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth. That is the church's duty to uphold and to expound Scriptural truth. For in a world which lies under the sway of the Devil, where the truth is held as relative, and God's Word is under constant attack. God's house must be the mainstay of the truth. That being so, what the Apostle has written is applicable for all believers, for all time. There isn’t one set of commandments for one assembly, then another somewhere else (consider 1 Cor. 4:17; 7:17). For the Lord Jesus Christ and the Biblical Apostle’s commandments are universally applicable, given for us all. Regardless of the culture or generation in which we believe. For though there are many children in the house of God (notice it's house, not houses; a Spirit reality) from a diversity of cultures and backgrounds. We are all One Body under Christ’s Headship and Lordship. And thus wherever two or more gather in Jesus’ Name there is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of truth; as long as we hold to the truth about Jesus Christ; and keep His and the Biblical Apostle’s commandments, we then are living out the truth (Matt. 28:19-20; John 8:30-32; 51-52, 12:44-40, 14:15-21; 15:10; Acts 1:2; Rom. 1:1-7; 16:25-27 etc.).

Vs. 16 The Apostle Paul now unveils the mystery of the faith he alluded to in 3:9. “And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness:

God was manifested in the flesh,

Justified in the Spirit,

Seen by angels,

Preached among the Gentiles,

Believed on in the world,

Received up in glory.”

 “And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness.”

The mystery of godliness is found exclusively in and through the Person of the Lord Jesus Christ. Consider then how God can take anyone dead in their sins and trespasses, being fully separated from Him. And through faith in His Son the Lord Jesus Christ's Person, bring them to new and everlasting life. All because of Jesus' crucifixion death which pays for our sins here and now; while Jesus' resurrection from the dead, then ascension back to the Father in heaven opened the Kingdom of heaven to us all; and assures us all who believe in Him of a resurrection life from the dead. And so the Holy Spirit was poured out into the world. So that by God's Spirit He could bring us to life by His indwelling us; as well as unite us here and now. So that He could transform us into His people bearing His Holy image, fit for the Kingdom of heaven; because of the indwelling presence of Christ by the Spirit of God. And thus having released us from our sins; His eternal judgment against them; and even death itself. He instills within us a growing passion for godliness. Whereas once before the only passions we had were geared to feeding the sinful nature and its desires; which ultimately would lead to our own demise (Rom. 3:23). Now we have a new nature; God's Nature in all His fullness within us and thus we have an ever growing passion deep within us, wanting to be more and more like Christ; which culminates with our being eternally with Christ in the Kingdom of heaven (Rom. 6:22-23; 1 Peter 1:9). Though this mystery remains veiled to those who do not believe, nor obey the truth (Consider 2 Thess. 2:7-12). It is available to all, to everyone repents and believe. Thus the Apostle Paul confirms that the faith is already settled. There is nothing left to debate. Only thing left to do is believe and obey (Jude 3).

“God was manifested in the flesh”. The mystery of Godliness begins with God Himself becoming a Man. Jesus Christ wasn’t just a man. He is God come completely in the flesh as a whole Man (John 1:1). Denying Jesus Christ’s full humanity then is to deny Him (1 John 4:1-3).

“Justified in the Spirit” When Jesus Christ was baptized by John according to God’s commandment God sent His Spirit upon Him (thus justifying Him) and declaring Him as His Beloved Son (Matt. 3:13-17). That is why everyone who also obeys God; by repenting of their sins and believing in Jesus is likewise justified by the indwelling Presence of the Holy Spirit of God (Acts 5:32; Rom. 8:9).

“Seen by angels” God created the angels to serve Him and to glorify Him, and thus by default serve and glorify His Son. That is why angels were present there at Jesus Christ’s Incarnation as His heavenly witnesses; both praising God in the heavens and telling the wise men on earth, of His Incarnation (Luke 2:8-14). It was also angels who ministered to Jesus in His weakened mortal state after His temptation and trial with the devil (Matt. 4:11). And again during Jesus' arrest in Gethsemane's garden Jesus warned His disciples not to try to stop it saying, He could pray to His Father and that God would immediately send twelve legions of angels to end His arrest if He so desired it (Matt. 26:53). Nonetheless Christ wanted to do His Father's Will as His own; so that through His crucifixion death we all could have remission of all our sins and be brought to life when we believe In His Person. And so it is at the empty Tomb when Jesus having already risen from the dead that angels are there to tell the disciples of Christ's resurrection. Therefore so called angelic "orders" mean nothing in the light of the Son of God’s arrival (Col. 2:18-19; Heb. 1:13-14).

“Preached among the Gentiles” If God had intended only to redeem the Jews; Jesus Christ would’ve never been proclaimed by the will of God to the Gentiles (Read Acts 10). But God has ordained that Jesus Christ be preached to everyone, everywhere. For Jesus Christ is Savior of the whole world (John 3:16-17; 1 Tim. 4:10). He is not just the Savior of the Jews or the Caucasian Gentiles; Jesus Christ is both Savior and Lord of everyone who repents and believes (Mark 1:15).

“Believed on in the world” Jesus Christ isn’t only proclaimed in the world He is our Living Lord and Savior who is being believed on in the world, by both Jews and Gentiles. And this from ethnicity's and backgrounds as diverse as creation itself! Therefore it is our re-born persons by faith in the Lord Jesus Christ Person that gives testimony to the Living reality of His Glorious Person and Life (Titus 3:4-7).

“Received up into glory” After Jesus rose from the grave He spent forty days amongst the disciples before He ascended back to the Father in the presence of the Apostle’s (Acts 1:1-11). Resuming His Eternal Heavenly Place at the right hand of God the Father, now as our Great High Priest (Heb. 4:14-16) and Advocate (1 John 2:1). Waiting till all His enemies are put under His feet (1 Cor. 15:25).

Scripture Quotations

The New King James Version. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1982.

1 Timothy 3:8-13 Deacon Qualifications

8 Likewise deacons must be reverent, not double-tongued, not given to much wine, not greedy for money, 9 holding the mystery of the faith with a pure conscience. 10 But let these also first be tested; then let them serve as deacons, being found blameless. 11 Likewise, their wives must be reverent, not slanderers, temperate, faithful in all things. 12 Let deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well. 13 For those who have served well as deacons obtain for themselves a good standing and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.

Preamble
In this section the Apostle Paul lays out the requirements for the position of deacon. Basically, a deacon is a servant of church, one who exercises church authority under the auspices of the Overseer/Pastor. Thus he is often involved in duties of trust and oversight. The position has its origins in Acts 6:1-7; but is not limited to the duties mentioned there. The qualifications are given bellow.

Vs. 8-13
Deacons must be reverent. That is a person who is Godly; morally sound and ethically principled, one who has respect for the Word of God and the institutions that expound it. That is paramount.

Deacons must not be double-tongued. The word literally means telling a different story; in essence a lie. Therefore they must not be deceitful or hypocritical (Titus 3:2). Deacons must be men of their word inside and outside of the house of faith. And like the Pastor proclaim the Word of God with integrity.

Deacons must not be given too much wine. No vices. Yet if cultural norms are wine with a meal there are no Biblical grounds for commanding abstinence from that sort of wine consumption (Matt. 26:26-30). There are though many commandments and warnings forbidding its abuse (Lev. 10:8-11; Prov. 20:1; 23:29-35; Gal. 5:20-21; 1 Cor. 11:20-22; Eph. 5:18). For drunkenness is not for those who aspire to governance (Isaiah 5:22; 28:7-8; Prov. 31:4-5).

Deacons must hold the mystery of the faith with a pure conscience. In other words they must hold onto the mystery of the faith and not deviate into strange teachings (Heb. 13:9). As well they must live the truths of the Christian faith (vs. 9). A person who lives two lives, one in the church and one away from it should never even be considered. The position is one of integrity, not duplicity.

Deacons are to be tested. Then if found blameless (that is above reproach) they can be commissioned into church service.

Deacon’s wives must also be reverent. Not slanderers (malicious gossips NKJ margin). That is honourable in character; reverence in their conduct; temperate, faithful in all things.

 Deacons must be husbands of one wife. Ruling their children and houses well. The word the Apostle Paul uses in regards to ruling means to be at the head of; or set before; for oversight, guardianship, and care. It also appears in (Rom. 12:8; 1 Thess. 5:12; 1 Tim. 3:3-4; 12; 5:17) and in Titus 3:8, 14 where it is translated maintain in the sense of being devoted to good works. While the word Apostle Paul uses regarding deacons houses means ones whole household, i.e. his family, property and anyone or anything entrusted to him and or under his auspices. This is the same requirement of a Pastor in vs. 3-4. For if a deacon cannot manage his own affairs well then it is unlikely he can manage the churches. Verse thirteen concludes with a promise that those who serve well as deacons obtain for themselves a good standing and great boldness in the faith. A very great blessing indeed.

Scripture Quotations
The New King James Version. Nashville : Thomas Nelson, 1982