1 Timothy 3

-8 1 3 2 -9 1 0 0 0 0 13 96 -9 2 0 0 2 0 1 RVStyle2 7 StyleNameNormal textFontNameArialUnicode Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaUnicode Size Standard StyleNameJumpFontNameTahomaStylefsUnderlineColorclBlue HoverColorclMaroonHoverEffects rvheUnderlineUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameHeading - Module name SizeDoubleFontNameTahomaColorclMaroonUnicode SizeStandard StyleName"Heading small - Module descriptionFontNameTahomaColorclMaroonUnicode Size Standard StyleNameHeading - LinkFontNameTahomaColorclNavy HoverColorclPurpleUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaStylefsUnderlineColorclBlueUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaColorclBlue HoverColorclMaroonNextStyleNoUnicode Jump Size -9 2 0 0 2 0 2 RVStyle2 jBiDiModervbdLeftToRightTabs StyleNameCentered Alignment rvaCenterTabsStandardTabs-9 2 0 0 2 0 4 RVStyle2 -9 0 0 0 0 0 7 1 18 2 8 0 0 CHAPTER III) Outline of Chapter 3) Theme: The Apostle Paul, Writing to Timothy, Gives Directions For the Administration of the Church) Directions with respect to the) Institution of the Offices) 3:1 7 A. Incentive for becoming an overseer; the glorious character of the work.) Directions regarding the necessary qualifications of overseers.) 3:8 13 B. Directions regarding the necessary qualifications of deacons and of women who assist them.) Incentive for faithful performance of the task of deacons and of women who assist them: their glorious reward.) 3:14 16 C. The reasons for conveying these instructions in written form:) 1. Though I hope to see you soon, I fear that I may be delayed.) 2. Yet, the matter permits of no delay, for it concerns God s house, the church, which is great because of its exalted Head, Jesus Christ.

Hymn in adoration of the Christ.) Public worship generally precedes the institution of the offices. Hence, it is not surprising that Paul, having discussed the former, now proceeds to give directions regarding the latter. In the present chapter he shows that elders, deacons, and women who render auxiliary service must be spiritually and morally qualified in order to perform their tasks in the church of Jesus Christ, the One who was made manifest in the flesh & taken up in glory. ) ) 3:1 7) 3 1 Reliable is the saying, If anyone aspires to the office of overseer, he desires a noble work. 2 The overseer therefore��58�� must be above reproach, one wife s husband, temperate, self-controlled, virtuous, hospitable, qualified to teach; 3 not (one who lingers) beside (his) wine, not given to blows, but genial, not contentious, not fond of money, 4 managing well his own household, with true dignity keeping his children in submission 5 (for if a person does not know how to manage his own household, how will he take upon himself the care of God s church?), 6 not a recent convert, in order that he may not become befogged by conceit and fall into the condemnation of the devil. 7 He must also have a favorable testimony from outsiders, lest he fall into reproach and a snare of the devil.��59��) ) 1. Accordingly, the apostle begins by writing: Reliable��60�� is the saying, If anyone aspires to the office of overseer, he desires a noble work.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.1.15|AUTODETECT|” This is the second of five reliable sayings or trustworthy current proverbs, wisdom maxims. For their general character see on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.1.15|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 1:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 3 2 8 0 0 It is sometimes maintained that the present saying is not only devoid of great significance or value but is even harmful, encouraging sinful aspiration to office! But this opinion results from the fact that the saying is read in the light of later conditions. Some interpreters reason as follows, It is decidedly wrong for anyone to stretch out his hand (note the verb @����) in order to lay hold on the holy office. Such sinful ambition deserves to be condemned. The office should seek the man, not the man the office. Hence, it is very strange that Paul seems to have a word of praise for such sinful striving.

But over against this the following two points deserve emphasis:) a. Although it is true that praise for the man who aspires is implied in the saying, it is not definitely expressed. The apostle simply says, If anyone aspires. It is the office rather than the striving that is definitely described as being excellent or noble .) b. Though it is nevertheless true that praise for the aspirant is implied, it must be borne in mind that in the early history of the church willingness to serve as an overseer meant sacrifice. Again and again persecution would rage, from the side of the Jews, of the Gentiles, or, as often, of both.

False teachers did their utmost to undermine the true foundation. Truly, in such a time and amid such circumstances an incentive to overseership and a word of implied praise for the man who indicated a willingness to serve in this high office were not at all out of place. And the office itself was surely a noble work. It still is, but it was never more so than in the early decades!) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.1.5-56.1.7|AUTODETECT|” When Paul speaks about the office of overseer (�������, ��), he has in mind the divinely authorized task of the elders, as has been (and will be) indicated 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.1.5-56.1.7|AUTODETECT|” Titus 1:5 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). These overseers or elders constituted a presbytery or board of presbyters or elders. With respect to age and dignity its members were called presbyters or elders, just as in Israel. With respect to the nature of their task they were called overseers or superintendents.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.28|AUTODETECT|” The manner in which, on the whole, these men conducted themselves in the sacred office, and their willingness to suffer innumerable hardships for the cause of Christ, justified the current saying, If anyone aspires to the office of overseer, he desires a noble task. Let no one look down upon the overseer! Let no one despise him because he does not have all the special gifts. He is eager to give of his time and energies, and is even willing to sacrifice his physical ease and safety for the noble work of feeding the church of the Lord which he purchased with his own blood 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.28|AUTODETECT|” Acts 20:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). May the glorious character of the work be an incentive to all who are considering overseership, so that they may eagerly desire it!) 1 28 2 8 0 0 But just because the work is so noble and the task so grand certain qualifications are stipulated. In order that these qualifications may be seen as the apostle groups them, the following verses are here printed together according to what appears to be their intended and natural classification:) 2 7.) 2. The overseer therefore must be) above reproach) one wife s husband) temperate) self-controlled) virtuous) hospitable) qualified to teach) 3. not (one who lingers) beside (his) wine) not given to blows) but genial) not contentious) not fond of money) 4. managing well his own household, with true dignity keeping his children in submission; 5. (for if a person does not know how to manage his own household, how will he take care of God s church?)) 6. not a recent convert, in order that he may not become beclouded by conceit and fall into the condemnation of the devil.) 7. He must also have a favorable testimony from outsiders, lest he fall into reproach and a snare of the devil.) It is immediately clear that according to Paul s inspired teaching the prospective overseer must have a favorable testimony from two groups: (a) insiders, that is, church-members, and (b) outsiders, that is, those who are outside the church.) As was to be expected, the emphasis falls on the first, the reputation which the man has among church-members. The various items which belong to this first classification are divided into two sets of seven items each. However, the very first item above reproach may be considered a kind of caption or heading for all the items in both sets of this first classification.

The second classification is summarized somewhat similarly, but without a list of detailed requirements.) Beginning with the first category, as far as his standing or reputation with the members of the church is concerned, the overseer must accordingly be without reproach.) Note that the first set of seven characteristics is positive (except for the caption itself: without or above reproach or un-assailable). The second set is largely negative. Five times we read not (of these five, three have ��; two have -privative). Thus, in all there are eight (6 plus 2) requirements expressed positively, six (1 plus 5) expressed negatively.) It must not escape our attention that the very first and the very last of the eight positive requirements describe the qualified person s relation to his family. That relationship is again emphasized in connection with the deacons. Paul (and the Holy Spirit speaking through Paul) must have regarded this family-relationship as being of great importance.) In the first set of seven requirements the subdivision is as follows: under the caption above reproach we find first a set of four requirements having to do with the man s attitude to Christian morality in general: he must be maritally pure, temperate, sensible, virtuous.

Then, two requirements describing the man s attitude toward (and influence upon) people who stand in some definite relation to the church. How does he treat guests from other churches, etc.? Is he hospitable? What influence for good does he exert on those who require guidance or instruction? Is he qualified to teach?) In the second set of seven requirements we see the man in his daily life, rubbing elbows with his fellow-men at work and everywhere. The item not (one who lingers) beside (his) wine easily merges with the next one, namely, not given to blows, for drunkenness often leads to blows.

Over against this stands the positive requirement genial. Paralleling it is not contentious. The contentious person is generally selfish, hence fond of money. The question, accordingly, is this, Can the candidate under review be trusted with the church s funds? (Note how here, just as at the close of the first set of seven requirements, the attention is focused once more on the man s relation to the church.) Also, can he take care of its affairs? How does he manage his own family? That ought to show whether he can take upon himself the care over the affairs of the church!

And finally, can it be reasonably expected that he will command the respect of its members, the experienced as well as those recently converted? But in that case he himself must be a man of some experience in Christian living. He must not be a novice.) We see, therefore, that the items in the list are not just thrown together in haphazard fashion. They follow each other logically and are neatly arranged.) A few remarks will now be made with reference to each of the fifteen (7 plus 7 plus 1) requirements. The first set of seven is as follows: The overseer must be:) 1. Above reproach in the estimation of fellow church members) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.5.7|AUTODETECT|”

See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.5.7|AUTODETECT|”

I Tim. 5:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

and 6:14. The word used in the original literally means not to be laid hold of, hence irreprehensible or unassailable. Enemies may bring all manner of accusations, but these charges are proved to be empty whenever fair methods of investigation are applied. With the church and in accordance with the rules of justice, this man not only has a good reputation but deserves it.) 1 2 2 8 0 0

Example of a man who was above reproach :) Simeon) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.2.25|AUTODETECT|”

And there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and this man was righteous and devout, looking for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.2.25|AUTODETECT|”

Luke 2:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=18.1.8|AUTODETECT|”

). Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=18.1.8|AUTODETECT|”

Job 1:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

.) 1 2 2 8 0 0

The particulars with respect to which he is above reproach follow:) 2. In marital relationship one wife s husband ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.5.9|AUTODETECT|”

See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.5.9|AUTODETECT|”

I Tim. 5:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=2.20.14|AUTODETECT|”

. This cannot mean that an overseer or elder must be a married man. Rather, it is assumed that he is married as was generally the case , and it is stipulated that in this marital relationship he must be an example to others of faithfulness to his one and only marriage-partner. Infidelity in this relationship is a sin against which Scripture warns repeatedly. That this sin and those related to it (sexual immorality in any form) were of frequent occurrence among the Jews and certainly among the Gentiles, is clear from ever so many passages 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=2.20.14|AUTODETECT|”

Ex. 20:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=3.18.20|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=3.18.20|AUTODETECT|”

Lev. 18:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=3.20.10|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=3.20.10|AUTODETECT|”

20:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=5.5.18|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=5.5.18|AUTODETECT|”

Deut. 5:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=5.22.23|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=5.22.23|AUTODETECT|”

22:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=10.12.0|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=10.12.0|AUTODETECT|”

II Sam. 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=23.51.0|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=23.51.0|AUTODETECT|”

Is. 51) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=20.2.17|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=20.2.17|AUTODETECT|”

Prov. 2:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=24.23.10|AUTODETECT|”

; Prov. chapter 7; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=24.23.10|AUTODETECT|”

Jer. 23:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=24.23.14|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=24.23.14|AUTODETECT|”

14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=24.29.23|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=24.29.23|AUTODETECT|”

29:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=28.1.2|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=28.1.2|AUTODETECT|”

Hos. 1:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=28.2.2|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=28.2.2|AUTODETECT|”

2:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=28.3.1|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=28.3.1|AUTODETECT|”

3:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.5.28|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.5.28|AUTODETECT|”

Matt. 5:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.8.3|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.8.3|AUTODETECT|”

John 8:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.1.27|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.1.27|AUTODETECT|”

Rom. 1:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.7.3|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.7.3|AUTODETECT|”

7:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=46.5.1|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=46.5.1|AUTODETECT|”

I Cor. 5:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=46.5.9|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=46.5.9|AUTODETECT|”

9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=46.6.9-46.6.11|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=46.6.9-46.6.11|AUTODETECT|”

6:9 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=46.7.2|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=46.7.2|AUTODETECT|”

7:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=48.5.19|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=48.5.19|AUTODETECT|”

Gal. 5:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.4.3-52.4.8|AUTODETECT|”

. See also N.T.C. on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.4.3-52.4.8|AUTODETECT|”

I Thess. 4:3 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.1.10|AUTODETECT|”

). And let us not forget what Paul says in this very epistle 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.1.10|AUTODETECT|”

I Tim. 1:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.3.2|AUTODETECT|”

Accordingly, the meaning of our present passage 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.3.2|AUTODETECT|”

I Tim. 3:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

) is simply this, that an overseer or elder must be a man of unquestioned morality, one who is entirely true and faithful to his one and only wife; one who, being married, does not in pagan fashion enter into an immoral relationship with another woman.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.1.1|AUTODETECT|”

In view of this, the attempt on the part of some to change the meaning of the original making it say what it does not say is inexcusable. In harmony with the views of some Church Fathers (for example, Tertullian and Chrysostom), and in disagreement with the explanations favored by others (for example, Jerome and Origen), these translators and commentators are of the opinion that Paul is here referring to men who, having been widowers, remarried. The translation (?) then becomes, An overseer must be a man who was married only once. ��61�� One can understand how men who reject or soft-pedal Scripture s infallibility who, accordingly no longer feel obliged to accept as most certainly true the words, Paul & to Timothy 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.1.1|AUTODETECT|”

I Tim. 1:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.1.2|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.1.2|AUTODETECT|”

2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

) can also take the next step, and, assuming that the Pastorals reflect conditions which prevailed after Paul s departure from this earth, at a time when by many celibacy and the virgin-state began to be exalted above marriage, can read their private reconstruction of the formation of these letters into the text, so that they think of the author of the Pastorals as a man who considered marriage and certainly remarriage to be sinful or nearly so. One cannot excuse an attempt to make a text say what it does not actually say in the original. The original simply says, He must be & one wife s husband (��� ���� ������x� ����).��62��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.5.14|AUTODETECT|”

The real author of the Pastorals, namely, Paul, did not oppose remarriage after the death of the marriage-partner 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.5.14|AUTODETECT|”

I Tim. 5:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.7.2|AUTODETECT|”

; then 4:3; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.7.2|AUTODETECT|”

Rom. 7:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.7.3|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.7.3|AUTODETECT|”

3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=46.7.9|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=46.7.9|AUTODETECT|”

I Cor. 7:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=46.7.26|AUTODETECT|”

), though under certain specified conditions he considered continuation in the unmarried state to be wiser than marriage 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=46.7.26|AUTODETECT|”

I Cor. 7:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=46.7.38|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=46.7.38|AUTODETECT|”

38) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=58.13.4|AUTODETECT|”

). Paul, we may be sure, was in entire agreement with the author of Hebrews, who said, Let marriage be held in honor among all. 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=58.13.4|AUTODETECT|”

Heb. 13:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

).) 1 2 2 8 0 0

Example of a man who gives every evidence of having been true to his one and only wife, and of the beautiful harmony between the two, also in religious matters:) Aquila) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=44.18.26|AUTODETECT|”

But when Priscilla and Aquila heard him (Apollos), they took him unto them, and expounded to him the way of God more accurately 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=44.18.26|AUTODETECT|”

Acts 18:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

).) 1 1 2 8 0 0

3. In mode of living (tastes and habits), temperate ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.3.11|AUTODETECT|”

See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.3.11|AUTODETECT|”

I Tim. 3:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=56.2.2|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=56.2.2|AUTODETECT|”

Titus 2:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.5.6|AUTODETECT|”

. For the related verb see N.T.C. on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.5.6|AUTODETECT|”

I Thess. 5:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.5.8|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.5.8|AUTODETECT|”

8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=55.4.5|AUTODETECT|”

and see on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=55.4.5|AUTODETECT|”

II Tim. 4:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

. Other possible translations of the adjective would be sober (not, however, in the sense of somber or sad), circumspect. Such a person lives deeply. His pleasures are not primarily those of the senses, like the pleasures of a drunkard for instance, but those of the soul. He is filled with spiritual and moral earnestness. He is not given to excess (in the use of wine, etc.), but moderate, well-balanced, calm, careful, steady, and sane. This pertains to his physical, moral, and mental tastes and habits.) 1 2 2 8 0 0

Example of such a well-balanced, sober, careful, temperate person:) Luke) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.1.3|AUTODETECT|”

& having investigated them all carefully from the beginning 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.1.3|AUTODETECT|”

Luke 1:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=44.19.35|AUTODETECT|”

). Even those who cannot be counted among the company of believers are at times not altogether devoid of this virtue; note the town-clerk at Ephesus, who subdued the tempers of the crowd 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=44.19.35|AUTODETECT|”

Acts 19:35) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

).) 1 1 2 8 0 0

4. In manner of judging and of acting on these judgments, self-controlled ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=56.1.8|AUTODETECT|”

See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=56.1.8|AUTODETECT|”

Titus 1:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=56.2.2|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=56.2.2|AUTODETECT|”

2:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=56.2.5|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=56.2.5|AUTODETECT|”

5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.2.9|AUTODETECT|”

; and see on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.2.9|AUTODETECT|”

I Tim. 2:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.2.15|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.2.15|AUTODETECT|”

15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.1.3|AUTODETECT|”

for the related noun. The self-controlled or sensible man is the man of sound mind. He is discreet, sane; hence, not swayed by sudden impulses over which he exercises no mastery, nor is he at all ready to accept the nonsense which was being disseminated by the errorists at Ephesus 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.1.3|AUTODETECT|”

I Tim. 1:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.1.4|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.1.4|AUTODETECT|”

4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.1.6|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.1.6|AUTODETECT|”

6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.1.7|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.1.7|AUTODETECT|”

7) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

). The sensible person is always ready and willing to learn.) 1 2 2 8 0 0

Example of such a sane individual:) Apollos) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=44.18.26|AUTODETECT|”

Though he was a gifted orator, mighty in the Scriptures and instructed in the way of the Lord, still he was willing to be taught by Priscilla and Aquila, in order to learn the way of God more accurately 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=44.18.26|AUTODETECT|”

Acts 18:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

, quoted above, under 2).) 1 1 2 8 0 0

5. In morals in general, virtuous ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.2.9|AUTODETECT|”

See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.2.9|AUTODETECT|”

I Tim. 2:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.2.9|AUTODETECT|”

. The overseer must be a man of inner moral excellency and of outward orderly behavior. It is an epithet of honor. See M.M., p. 356. The adjective naturally has a slightly different shade of meaning when applied to character than when applied to clothes or outward appearance 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.2.9|AUTODETECT|”

I Tim. 2:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

). The root-meaning of the related noun is order. See N.T.C. on John, Vol. I, p. 79, footnote 26.) 1 2 2 8 0 0

Example of a virtuous person, a person of moral strength:) Ruth) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=8.3.11|AUTODETECT|”

All & know that thou art a virtuous woman 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=8.3.11|AUTODETECT|”

Ruth 3:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=18.1.8|AUTODETECT|”

Further: Job 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=18.1.8|AUTODETECT|”

Job 1:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.1.5|AUTODETECT|”

); Zechariah and Elizabeth 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.1.5|AUTODETECT|”

Luke 1:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.1.6|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.1.6|AUTODETECT|”

6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.2.25|AUTODETECT|”

); Simeon 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.2.25|AUTODETECT|”

Luke 2:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.2.37|AUTODETECT|”

); Anna 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.2.37|AUTODETECT|”

Luke 2:37) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

).) 1 1 2 8 0 0

6. In hospitality, hospitable ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=56.1.8|AUTODETECT|”

See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=56.1.8|AUTODETECT|”

Titus 1:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.12.13|AUTODETECT|”

; then ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.12.13|AUTODETECT|”

Rom. 12:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=58.13.2|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=58.13.2|AUTODETECT|”

Heb. 13:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=60.4.9|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=60.4.9|AUTODETECT|”

I Peter 4:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

. A hospitable person is literally a friend of strangers (���������). He communicates to their necessities. We can well imagine how deeply appreciated was such hospitality in a day when organized social welfare on any large scale was virtually non-existent; when widows and orphans were dependent on the kindness of relatives and friends; when persecutions with their imprisonments raged fiercely; when poverty and hunger were far more in evidence than they are today in the countries of the West; when messages from one section of Christendom to another had to be delivered by personal messenger, necessitating a great deal of travel; and when lodging with unbelievers was less than desirable. Hence, if hospitality was a requirement for every Christian according to his ability and opportunity to furnish it, it was all the more a requirement for the overseer.) 1 2 2 8 0 0

Example:) Onesiphorus) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=55.1.16|AUTODETECT|”

Onesiphorus & often refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chain 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=55.1.16|AUTODETECT|”

II Tim. 1:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=1.18.1-1.18.8|AUTODETECT|”

). See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=1.18.1-1.18.8|AUTODETECT|”

Gen. 18:1 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=11.17.8-11.17.16|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=11.17.8-11.17.16|AUTODETECT|”

I Kings 17:8 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=11.18.13|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=11.18.13|AUTODETECT|”

I Kings 18:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=12.4.8|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=12.4.8|AUTODETECT|”

II Kings 4:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=58.13.2|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=58.13.2|AUTODETECT|”

Heb. 13:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

.) 1 1 2 8 0 0

7. In teaching-ability, qualified to teach ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.5.17|AUTODETECT|”

See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.5.17|AUTODETECT|”

I Tim. 5:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=55.2.2|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=55.2.2|AUTODETECT|”

II Tim. 2:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=55.2.24|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=55.2.24|AUTODETECT|”

2:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=55.3.14|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=55.3.14|AUTODETECT|”

3:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=46.12.29|AUTODETECT|”

; then ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=46.12.29|AUTODETECT|”

I Cor. 12:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

. Every overseer or elder should possess this gift to some extent. No one, moreover, will be able to teach (����������) unless he himself is taught (��������). Having been instructed by faithful witnesses one imparts this instruction to others, who in turn must teach still others.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.5.17|AUTODETECT|”

But though all the overseers must have this ability in a certain degree, so that they can counsel those who seek their advice, some have received greater or different talents than others. Hence, even in Paul s day the work of the elders was divided, so that, while all took part in ruling the church, some were entrusted with the responsibility of laboring in the word and in teaching 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.5.17|AUTODETECT|”

I Tim. 5:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

). Accordingly the distinction arose between those overseers who today are generally called ministers and those who are simply called elders. ) 1 2 2 8 0 0

Example:) Ezra and his helpers) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=15.7.6|AUTODETECT|”

He (Ezra) was a ready scribe in the law of Moses & Ezra the priest, the scribe, and the Levites who taught the people, said to all the people, This day is holy to Jehovah your God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=15.7.6|AUTODETECT|”

Ezra 7:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=16.8.9|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=16.8.9|AUTODETECT|”

Neh. 8:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=44.6.10|AUTODETECT|”

). See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=44.6.10|AUTODETECT|”

Acts 6:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

.) 1 2 2 8 0 0

And now the second set of seven requirements. The overseer must also be above reproach in the following respects. He must be:) (1) not (one who lingers) beside (his) wine ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.3.8|AUTODETECT|”

See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.3.8|AUTODETECT|”

I Tim. 3:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=56.1.7|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=56.1.7|AUTODETECT|”

Titus 1:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.5.23|AUTODETECT|”

, and see on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.5.23|AUTODETECT|”

I Tim. 5:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.5.23|AUTODETECT|”

. (The original has acc. of ��������.) With respect to drinking wine Scripture avoids extremes. The same inspired author who advises Timothy to use a little wine for the sake of his stomach and frequent illnesses 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.5.23|AUTODETECT|”

I Tim. 5:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

), also clearly declares that one who fails to practise moderation has no right to a place in the presbytery. A wine-bibber, tippler, or drunkard cannot be a worthy overseer.) 1 2 2 8 0 0

Example of those who were guilty of the sin here condemned:) Some Communicants at Corinth) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=46.11.21|AUTODETECT|”

one is hungry and another is drunk 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=46.11.21|AUTODETECT|”

I Cor. 11:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=9.25.36|AUTODETECT|”

). Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=9.25.36|AUTODETECT|”

I Sam. 25:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=1.9.20-1.9.27|AUTODETECT|”

Nabal. See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.9.20-1.9.27|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 9:20 27) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 0 (2) not given to blows ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.1.7|AUTODETECT|” See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.1.7|AUTODETECT|” Titus 1:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . Literally Paul says, not a striker. He is thinking of a man who is ever ready with his fists, a bellicose person, a spitfire or fire-eater. Think of the backwoodsmen of former days who literally wore a chip on their shoulder as a challenge to fight anyone who would dare to knock it off, whence our expression, He carries a chip on his shoulder. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.23.29|AUTODETECT|” Between the immoderate use of wine and the eagerness to engage someone in combat there is but a small step. Hence, these two follow each other here in the list of negatively expressed requirements for overseership. Seneca said, Wine kindles wrath (Vinum incendit iram). And the same close relationship is indicated in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.23.29|AUTODETECT|” Prov. 23:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.23.30|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=20.23.30|AUTODETECT|”

30. 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . Hence, examples are:) 1 3 2 8 0 0 The men against whom the author of Proverbs issues his warning) Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has contentions? Who has wounds without cause? Who has redness of eyes?) Those who tarry long over the wine,) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.23.29|AUTODETECT|” Those who go to try the mixed wine 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.23.29|AUTODETECT|” Prov. 23:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.23.30|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.23.30|AUTODETECT|”
31. 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.4.23|AUTODETECT|” ). See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.4.23|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 4:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.49.5|AUTODETECT|” : Lamech; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.49.5|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 49:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.49.6|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.49.6|AUTODETECT|”
32. 1 1 -1 9 0 0 : Simeon and Levi.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 (3) genial ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.3.2|AUTODETECT|” See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.3.2|AUTODETECT|” Titus 3:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.5|AUTODETECT|” ; then ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.5|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 4:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.3.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.3.17|AUTODETECT|” James 3:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.2.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.2.18|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 2:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.6.7|AUTODETECT|” . The person here indicated is the very opposite of the spitfire. Though he never compromises with respect to the truth of the gospel, he is willing to yield when it comes to his own rights, in the spirit of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.6.7|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 6:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , Why not rather suffer wrong? The rendering yielding or ceding which also corresponds with the root-idea of the word used in the original expresses the meaning in part. However, it may be doubted whether any single word or expression in the English tongue is the complete equivalent of the original. The qualities of yieldedness, fairness, sweet reasonableness, gentleness, helpfulness, and generosity are combined in this conciliatory, considerate, genial, better than debonair, individual.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.15.39|AUTODETECT|” One who, but for what is recorded in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.15.39|AUTODETECT|” Acts 15:39) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , approaches this ideal is) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Barnabas) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.36|AUTODETECT|” And Joseph, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas (which being interpreted means son of encouragement) a Levite, a man of Cyprus by race, in possession of a field, sold it, and brought the money, and laid it at the apostle s feet.& But Barnabas took him (Paul), and brought him to the apostles.& He was a good man, and full of the Holy Spirit and of faith 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.36|AUTODETECT|” Acts 4:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.37|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.37|AUTODETECT|”
33. 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.9.27|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.9.27|AUTODETECT|” 9:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.11.24|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.11.24|AUTODETECT|” 11:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.13.8|AUTODETECT|” ). Other examples: Abraham as pictured in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.13.8|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 13:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.13.9|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.13.9|AUTODETECT|”
34. 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.22.0|AUTODETECT|” ; Isaac 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.22.0|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.26.12-1.26.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.26.12-1.26.22|AUTODETECT|” 26:12 22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.50.15-1.50.21|AUTODETECT|” ); Joseph 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.50.15-1.50.21|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 50:15 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.12.3|AUTODETECT|” ); Moses 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.12.3|AUTODETECT|” Num. 12:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.18.1|AUTODETECT|” ); Jonathan 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.18.1|AUTODETECT|” I Sam. 18:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ); Timothy!) 1 1 2 8 0 0 (4) not contentious ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.3.2|AUTODETECT|” See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.3.2|AUTODETECT|” Titus 3:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.1.4|AUTODETECT|” . Note how genial is interposed between not given to blows and not contentious, the reason being that it is contrasted with both. The requirement not contentious, literally averse to fighting, probes even deeper than not given to blows. A person might not be eager to come to blows, but being disputateous, as were no doubt the errorists at Ephesus 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.1.4|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 1:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), he would still be lacking one of those characteristics which are needed by an overseer.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 In addition to the false teachers at Ephesus, who certainly were contentious persons, think also of:) The Corinthian Quarrelers) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.12|AUTODETECT|” Each one of you says, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.12|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 1:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 (5) not fond of money ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.8|AUTODETECT|” See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.8|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 3:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.1.8|AUTODETECT|” and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.1.8|AUTODETECT|” Titus 1:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.6|AUTODETECT|” . Not only must the overseer be a man who is far removed from the Judas-like attitude 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.6|AUTODETECT|” John 12:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.8|AUTODETECT|” ) of trying to enrich himself by dishonest means 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.8|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 3:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.1.8|AUTODETECT|” and in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.1.8|AUTODETECT|” Titus 1:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.6.9|AUTODETECT|” ), but he must also be far removed from making the acquisition of earthly treasure his chief goal in life even though the means employed should be honest. Paul must have been thinking first of all of some men in Ephesus where Timothy was carrying on his ministry 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.6.9|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 6:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.6.10|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.6.10|AUTODETECT|”
35. 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). In addition one can think of:) 1 1 2 8 0 0 The Rich Fool) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.20|AUTODETECT|” Thou fool, this night is thy soul required of thee; and the things which thou hast prepared, whose shall they be? 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.20|AUTODETECT|” Luke 12:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.16.19-42.16.31|AUTODETECT|” ). And think of the Rich Man in the parable of The Rich Man and Lazarus 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.16.19-42.16.31|AUTODETECT|” Luke 16:19 31) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 (6) managing well his own household ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.12|AUTODETECT|” See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.12|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 3:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.5.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.5.17|AUTODETECT|” 5:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.8|AUTODETECT|” ; then ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.8|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 12:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.12|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 5:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . The overseer, it being assumed that he is a married man with children, must be gifted with the ability to oversee, to preside, to manage. Paul reasons from the less to the greater, in this twofold sense:) 1 2 2 8 0 0 a. If a man cannot even preside over or manage, how will he be able to take upon himself (that is, upon his heart) the care of anything? The latter activity indicates a watchful regard that is even more solicitous and incessant than the former.) b. If a man cannot discharge his responsibility with respect to his own family, how will he do this with respect to God s family, that is, the church (the local congregation), the family which has God as its Father?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.2.11|AUTODETECT|” Now this ability to manage or govern well his own family becomes evident when the father keeps his offspring in submission 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.2.11|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 2:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). The so-called progressive idea of permitting the child to do as he pleases finds no support in Scripture. But though authority must be exercised, this must be done with true dignity, that is, it must be done in such a manner that the father s firmness makes it advisable for a child to obey, that his wisdom makes it natural for a child to obey, and that his love makes it a pleasure for a child to obey.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.21.9|AUTODETECT|” Imagine how ideal must have been that early family-life which in later years blossomed forth into the relationship pictured in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.21.9|AUTODETECT|” Acts 21:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 :) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Philip the evangelist) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.128.3|AUTODETECT|” And he had four virgin daughters who prophesied. And see the beautiful family-life portrayed in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.128.3|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 128:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.18.19|AUTODETECT|” . Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.18.19|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 18:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.51|AUTODETECT|” ; Is. 78:3, 4; 105:8 10; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.51|AUTODETECT|” Luke 2:51) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.39|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.39|AUTODETECT|” Acts 2:39) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.16.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.16.14|AUTODETECT|” 16:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.16.15|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.16.15|AUTODETECT|”
36. 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.16.33|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.16.33|AUTODETECT|” 16:33) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 0 (7) not a recent convert ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.14.9|AUTODETECT|” A member of the congregation may, however, possess all the characteristics mentioned in the preceding, and still not be qualified to serve as an overseer. He may be a beginner, one who was converted only recently, whether old or young. He lacks the maturity and prestige that is required in an overseer. He is a novice. Literally the apostle says, not a neophyte 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.14.9|AUTODETECT|” Job 14:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.128.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.128.3|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 128:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.144.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.144.12|AUTODETECT|” 144:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.5.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.5.7|AUTODETECT|” Is. 5:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.3.9|AUTODETECT|” ). The church is God s field 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.3.9|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 3:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.3.6|AUTODETECT|” ). The believers are his plants 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.3.6|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 3:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.5|AUTODETECT|” ). By a slight change of metaphor Paul also says that they have become one-plant-with-Christ 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.5|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 6:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.1-43.15.8|AUTODETECT|” ). Cf. N.T.C. on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.1-43.15.8|AUTODETECT|” John 15:1 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.6.4|AUTODETECT|” The choosing of a neophyte might have disastrous results for himself; hence, also for the church. So, a novice must not be elected, in order that he may not become beclouded (or: blinded) by conceit. The verb means literally wrapped up in smoke, the smoke of arrogance in this case. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.6.4|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 6:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.3.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.3.4|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 3:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.2.26|AUTODETECT|” . The result would be: and fall into the condemnation (�����) of the devil. This undoubtedly means the condemnation pronounced upon the devil. ��63�� Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.2.26|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 2:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.2.4|AUTODETECT|” . We read about this sentence of condemnation in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.2.4|AUTODETECT|” II Peter 2:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 (and see footnote 63). Pride ever leads to the fall. In order to prevent this from happening, the church must not choose a beginner to be an overseer.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.14.23|AUTODETECT|” In harmony with this rule, on his first missionary journey Paul did not appoint elders in every church until he revisited the churches 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.14.23|AUTODETECT|” Acts 14:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Also note that Timothy himself, upon his conversion, was not immediately ordained. Having been led to Christ on Paul s first missionary journey, he was not ordained until later (on the second journey at the earliest). The rule, Whenever possible no neophytes shall be chosen to overseership in the church, was also adhered to in the case of) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Joseph called Barsabbas and Matthias) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.21|AUTODETECT|” Of the men who have accompanied us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and went out among us & one must be chosen to become with us a witness of the resurrection 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.21|AUTODETECT|” Acts 1:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.22|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.22|AUTODETECT|”
37. 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). In fact, Paul himself, after his conversion in 33/34 a.d., spent three years in Arabia before doing effective work at Tarsus and Antioch, and was not commissioned to go on his first missionary journey until ten years after his conversion! See my Bible Survey, Grand Rapids, Mich., fourth printing 1953, pp. 189 195.) 1 3 2 8 0 0 Having finished the list of requirements that pertain to the estimation in which the brother is held by his fellow church-members, the apostle proceeds now to the opinion of outsiders (those who do not belong to the church) with respect to him:) (1) Above reproach in the estimation of outsiders) He must also have a favorable testimony from outsiders. Even with them the prospective overseer, and also the overseer who is already in office, must have a good reputation. The necessity of adding this requirement follows from the fact that often such outsiders know more about the man in question than do the members of the church. It frequently happens, for example, that most or all of those associated with him in his daily occupation are unbelievers. Their judgment is of some importance. Besides, the church seeks to exert a powerful influence for good upon the world, leading sinners to Christ. An overseer s bad reputation with the world will not be of any help in achieving this purpose.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.15.3|AUTODETECT|” Now it is a fact that frequently the world s adverse opinion of the Christian is motivated by hatred of the Christ 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.15.3|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 15:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.13.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.13.12|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 13:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.13.13|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.13.13|AUTODETECT|”
38. 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.12|AUTODETECT|” ). But it is not this light esteem that Paul has in mind. What he means is that in order to be an effective overseer a brother must be known even to worldly people with whom he is (or has been) in contact as a man of character, a man against whom it is not possible to level any just charges of moral turpitude. It must be possible to say with reference to him, He conducts himself properly with respect to outsiders 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.12|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 4:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.5|AUTODETECT|” . Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.5|AUTODETECT|” Col. 4:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.15.3|AUTODETECT|” A person who does not have this favorable testimony and who is nevertheless chosen to be an overseer in the church may easily fall into reproach. But here for once the reproach of the world is not to the church-member s credit. It is not now an honor, as it is in the other passages where the same word reproach is used 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.15.3|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 15:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.10.33|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.10.33|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 10:33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.11.26|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.11.26|AUTODETECT|” 11:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.13.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.13.13|AUTODETECT|” 13:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). We can imagine how, on the morning after this undeserving person s election to office, the men who work with him will greet him with the mocking exclamation, What do we hear now? Have they actually made you an elder & you? And the devil will rejoice.��64��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.2.26|AUTODETECT|” Moreover, such a person may easily become very bold, thinking, If I can get away with this conduct of mine, and still be elected overseer, I can get away with anything. Thus he will fall into the devil s snare, that is, into the devil s trap, hence, into his power. See especially ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.2.26|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 2:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.6.9|AUTODETECT|” ; then also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.6.9|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 6:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.21.35|AUTODETECT|” ; finally, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.21.35|AUTODETECT|” Luke 21:35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.11.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.11.9|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 11:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.61|AUTODETECT|” ; and for a synonym N.T.C. on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.61|AUTODETECT|” John 6:61) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 3 2 8 0 0 To have a good reputation even with those who are outside the church, is, under the most favorable circumstances, to be considered a blessing.) Example:) Cornelius) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.10.22|AUTODETECT|” well spoken of by the entire Jewish nation 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.10.22|AUTODETECT|” Acts 10:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 7 2 8 0 0 ) 3:8 12) 8 Deacons similarly (must be) dignified, not double-tongued, not addicted to much wine, not greedy of shameful gain, 9 keeping hold of the mystery of our faith with a pure conscience. 10 And let these also first be tested; then let them render service, if they are blameless.) 11 Women similarly (must be) dignified, no slanderers, temperate, reliable in all matters.) 12 Let a deacon be one wife s husband, managing well his children and his own household. 13 For those who have served well acquire for themselves a noble standing and great confidence in the faith (which centers) in Christ Jesus.) ) 8 12. Note how the qualifications of women who render auxiliary service are wedged in between the requirements for deacons.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.1|AUTODETECT|” Though the New Testament contains but few specific references to deacons 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.1|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 1:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.6.1-44.6.6|AUTODETECT|” , and of course ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.6.1-44.6.6|AUTODETECT|” Acts 6:1 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.31-40.25.46|AUTODETECT|” , ��65�� where however the term deacon does not occur), this does not mean that the work of the deacon was considered to be of inferior value. It was and is a glorious task. It is based upon Christ s loving concern for his people. So close to his heart is this tender solicitude that he regards what is done to the least of his brothers as if it had been done to himself 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.31-40.25.46|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 25:31 46) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.6.0|AUTODETECT|” From ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.6.0|AUTODETECT|” Acts 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 we learn that deacons were chosen because the elders did not have the time and energy to take upon themselves the care of the poor and needy in addition to performing all their other work: governing the church, preaching the Word, administering the sacraments, leading the congregation in prayer, etc. The deacons, accordingly, were chosen in order to serve tables. Their special task is to gather the offerings which God s people in gratitude make to their Lord, to distribute these gifts in the proper spirit to all who are in need, to prevent poverty wherever it is possible to do this, and by means of their prayers and words of Scripture-based comfort, to encourage the distressed.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.6.5|AUTODETECT|” Now in order to carry out so worthy a task, they, as well as the elders, must be men full of faith and of the Holy Spirit 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.6.5|AUTODETECT|” Acts 6:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 2 2 8 0 0 Accordingly, deacons similarly (must be):) (1) Dignified) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.2|AUTODETECT|” See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.2|AUTODETECT|” Titus 2:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.8|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.8|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 4:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.2.2|AUTODETECT|” . For the noun see on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.2.2|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 2:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.7|AUTODETECT|” Titus 2:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . This refers not only to their necessary decorum or propriety of manner and conduct but also to the fact that in their inner thoughts and attitudes they must be men of Spirit-wrought gravity and respectability. Such a serious-minded man was) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Stephen) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.6.5|AUTODETECT|” a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.6.5|AUTODETECT|” Acts 6:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 3 2 8 0 0 Moreover, when such a man administers cheer, he means what he says. Hence,) (2) Not double-tongued��66��) He does not say one thing to one person and something different to another. He does not talk out of both sides of his mouth. He does not say one thing and know another, like:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.5.19-12.5.27|AUTODETECT|” Gehazi 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.5.19-12.5.27|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 5:19 27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=16.6.2|AUTODETECT|” ) or Sanballet and Geshem 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=16.6.2|AUTODETECT|” Neh. 6:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) or Ananias and Sapphira) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.8|AUTODETECT|” And she said, Yes, for so much 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.8|AUTODETECT|” Acts 5:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 3 2 8 0 0 (3) Not addicted to much wine) Cf. not (one who lingers) beside (his) wine in verse 3. The qualified deacon is moderate in his use of wine if he drinks any. He is no) Nabal) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.25.36|AUTODETECT|” He was very drunk 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.25.36|AUTODETECT|” I Sam. 25:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 (4) Not greedy of shameful gain) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.1.7|AUTODETECT|” Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.1.7|AUTODETECT|” Titus 1:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.5.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.5.2|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 5:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ; also not fond of money in verse 3. However, here in verse 8 the emphasis is slightly different. A man who is fond of money is not necessarily an embezzler. But it is the embezzler or pilferer and the man who joins a good cause for the sake of material advantage whom Paul has in mind here in verse 8. It is the man with the mercenary spirit who goes all out in his search for riches, anxious to add to his possessions regardless of the method, whether fair or foul. Think of) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Judas) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.6|AUTODETECT|” Now this he said, not because he was concerned about the poor, but because he was a thief and as he had the money-box he used to take what was put in it 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.6|AUTODETECT|” John 12:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.8.9-44.8.24|AUTODETECT|” ). And cf. Simon the Sorcerer 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.8.9-44.8.24|AUTODETECT|” Acts 8:9 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 (5) Keeping hold of the mystery of our faith with a pure conscience) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.1.5|AUTODETECT|” A good deacon, accordingly, is attentive to duty for Christ s sake. He is conscientious. Were he undignified, double-tongued, addicted to much wine, and greedy of shameful gain, he would not be the kind of man who with a conscience purified by the Holy Spirit 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.1.5|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 1:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.9|AUTODETECT|” ) keeps clinging to the mystery of our faith. It is hard to believe that the expression the mystery of our faith here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.9|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 3:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 means something different than the mystery of our religion in verse 16. Hence, see on that verse. For Christ s sake the qualified deacon watches himself scrupulously, doing all in his power to remain in the closest possible union with him, that is, with the most sublime of all divinely disclosed mysteries, namely, God revealed in the flesh for the salvation, on equal terms, of Jew and Gentile.) 1 3 2 8 0 0 The trait here described finds a beautiful illustration in) Joseph) who, for God s sake, remained on the straight path.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.39.9|AUTODETECT|” How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God? 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.39.9|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 39:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 (6) And let these also first be tested; then let them render service, being blameless) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.6|AUTODETECT|” Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.6|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 3:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . What holds for the overseers holds also for the deacons. No neophytes must be chosen. Only tested men should serve (see on verse 13) in this capacity. This does not mean that a prospective deacon must first serve a trial-period, but rather that by means of a consecrated life he must furnish a testimonial of character. He must be able to sustain the test of having the eyes of the whole church (plus the outsiders!) focused upon him. If he succeeds, he is then blameless (literally, not to be called to account, a close synonym of above reproach or irreprehensible in verse 2).) 1 3 2 8 0 0 This method of selecting deacons is surely far removed from the one which is suggested at times, namely, May-be if we make him a deacon, he ll stop his criticizing. Let s place him on the nomination for deacons. If elected, we can perhaps make something of him. ) The Seven Men of Good Report) who became the first deacons of the early church furnish an excellent example of the manner in which deacons should be chosen.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.6.3|AUTODETECT|” Therefore, brothers, look around for seven men from among you of good reputation, full of the Spirit and of wisdom 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.6.3|AUTODETECT|” Acts 6:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 2 2 8 0 0 The section with respect to deacons is interrupted by a passage stating the requirements in the case of women. That these women are not the wives of the deacons nor all the adult female members of the church is clear from the syntax: The overseer therefore must be & Deacons similarly (must be) & Women similarly (must be) & One and the same verb coordinates the three: the overseer, deacons, women. Hence, these women are here viewed as rendering special service in the church, as do the elders and the deacons. They are a group by themselves, not just the wives of the deacons nor all the women who belong to the church.) On the other hand, the fact that no special and separate paragraph is used in describing their necessary qualifications, but that these are simply wedged in between the stipulated requirements for deacons, with equal clarity indicates that these women are not to be regarded as constituting a third office in the church, the office of deaconesses, on a par with and endowed with authority equal to that of deacons.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.11|AUTODETECT|” It is true that from early times, in justification of the-office-of-deaconess-theory, an appeal has been made to such passages as the one now under consideration 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.11|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 3:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.5.9|AUTODETECT|” ); ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.5.9|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 5:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.1|AUTODETECT|” ; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.1|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 16:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.5.9|AUTODETECT|” . But as to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.5.9|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 5:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.1|AUTODETECT|” , see on that passage. As to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.1|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 16:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , no adequate reason has been given to prove that there the term used in the original does not have its far more usual meaning servant (correctly thus rendered in A.V. and in the text of the A.R.V.) or assistant, one who ministers lovingly (see N.T.C. on John, Vol. I, pp. 116, 119); in this case, to the cause of the gospel.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.5.9|AUTODETECT|” Nothing can erase the fact that according to Scripture, and particularly also according to Paul s epistles, women perform very important ministries in the church. It is also true that the extent and value of the service which they are able to render has not always been fully recognized or appreciated. See on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.5.9|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 5:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.2.11|AUTODETECT|” . But it is contrary to the spirit of Paul s remarks concerning women and their place in the church 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.2.11|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 2:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.2.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.2.12|AUTODETECT|”
39. 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.11.1-46.11.16|AUTODETECT|” ; and cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.11.1-46.11.16|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 11:1 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.14.34|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.14.34|AUTODETECT|” 14:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.14.35|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.14.35|AUTODETECT|”
40. 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.11|AUTODETECT|” ), and contrary also to the significance of the manner in which the apostle here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.11|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 3:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 parenthesizes the requirements for women-helpers, to regard their task as a third office, to be co-ordinated with that of the overseers and with that of the deacons.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.5.9|AUTODETECT|” The simplest explanation of the manner in which Paul, not yet finished with the requirements for the office of deacon, interjects a few remarks about women, is that he regards these women as the deacons assistants in helping the poor and needy, etc. These are women who render auxiliary service, performing ministries for which women are better adapted. Here again we refer to our explanation of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.5.9|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 5:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . A few simple words indicate their necessary qualifications. Says Paul: Women similarly (must be) dignified, no slanderers, temperate, reliable in all matters.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 For truly respectable or dignified see on verses 4 and 8. For temperate or sober see on verse 2. Also the requirement of thorough-going reliability or trustworthiness holds for the women as well as for elders and deacons (implied for the latter two groups in verses 6 and 10). Hence, these three virtues do not need to be discussed again.) It is also easily understood why Paul would emphasize that women who do the rounds of the church in performing loving ministries must not be gossipers. No scandal-mongers please! he says as it were. Those who slander imitate the evil one, whose very name is diabolos, that is, slanderer.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.35.8|AUTODETECT|” Lengthy is the list of truly respectable, temperate, trustworthy women who are mentioned in Scripture. Among them are, in greater or lesser degree, the two Deborah s 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.35.8|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 35:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.4.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.4.4|AUTODETECT|” Judg. 4:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.11.23|AUTODETECT|” ); Jochebed 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.11.23|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 11:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=8.1.15-8.1.18|AUTODETECT|” ), Naomi and Ruth 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=8.1.15-8.1.18|AUTODETECT|” Ruth 1:15 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.1.15|AUTODETECT|” ), Hannah 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.1.15|AUTODETECT|” I Sam. 1:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.1.16|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.1.16|AUTODETECT|”
41. 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.1.22-9.2.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.1.22-9.2.10|AUTODETECT|” 1:22 2:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.4.21|AUTODETECT|” ), Ichabod s mother 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.4.21|AUTODETECT|” I Sam. 4:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.25.3|AUTODETECT|” ), Abigail 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.25.3|AUTODETECT|” I Sam. 25:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.25.25|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.25.25|AUTODETECT|”
42. 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.25.36|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.25.36|AUTODETECT|”
43. 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.17.0|AUTODETECT|” ), the widow at Zarephath 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.17.0|AUTODETECT|” I Kings 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.4.8|AUTODETECT|” ), the Shunammite woman 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.4.8|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 4:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.22.14|AUTODETECT|” ), Huldah 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.22.14|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 22:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.5|AUTODETECT|” ), Queen Esther (the book of Esther), Elizabeth 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.5|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.6|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.6|AUTODETECT|”
44. 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.46-42.1.55|AUTODETECT|” ), Mary the mother of Jesus 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.46-42.1.55|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:46 55) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.19|AUTODETECT|” 2:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.14|AUTODETECT|” Acts 1:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.36|AUTODETECT|” ), Anna 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.36|AUTODETECT|” Luke 2:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.37|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.37|AUTODETECT|”
45. 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.38-42.10.42|AUTODETECT|” ), Mary and Martha 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.38-42.10.42|AUTODETECT|” Luke 10:38 42) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.55|AUTODETECT|” ; John, ch. 11; 12:1 8), the women who followed Jesus and ministered to him, such as Jesus aunt Salome, Mary the wife of Clopas, Mary Magdalene, Johanna, 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.55|AUTODETECT|” Luke 23:55) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.24.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.24.1|AUTODETECT|” 24:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.24.10|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.24.10|AUTODETECT|”
46. 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.19.25|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.19.25|AUTODETECT|” John 19:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.9.36-44.9.43|AUTODETECT|” ), Dorcas 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.9.36-44.9.43|AUTODETECT|” Acts 9:36 43) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.16.14|AUTODETECT|” ), Lydia 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.16.14|AUTODETECT|” Acts 16:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.16.15|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.16.15|AUTODETECT|”
47. 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.16.40|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.16.40|AUTODETECT|”
48. 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.18.26|AUTODETECT|” ), Priscilla 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.18.26|AUTODETECT|” Acts 18:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.1|AUTODETECT|” ), Phoebe 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.1|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 16:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.12|AUTODETECT|” ), Tryphosa and Tryphaena 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.12|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 16:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.1.5|AUTODETECT|” ), and last but not least Lois and Eunice 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.1.5|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 1:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.12.5|AUTODETECT|” ). In spite of weaknesses which Scripture does not conceal, the names of Sarah 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.12.5|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 12:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.11.11|AUTODETECT|” , and note her name in the list of heroes of faith ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.11.11|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 11:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.11.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.11.12|AUTODETECT|”
49. 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.24.0|AUTODETECT|” ), Rebecca 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.24.0|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.29.0|AUTODETECT|” ) and Rachel 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.29.0|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.29.35|AUTODETECT|” ) also Leah 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.29.35|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 29:35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.3.6|AUTODETECT|” ) should be added to the list. How sharp was the contrast between these women and some females of Timothy s acquaintance 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.3.6|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 3:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.3.7|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.3.7|AUTODETECT|”
50. 1 1 -1 9 0 0 )!) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.21.5-11.21.10|AUTODETECT|” Opposed to the lengthy list of noble women, Scripture mentions such evil slanderers as Potiphar s wife (Gen. 39:7 33) and Jezebel 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.21.5-11.21.10|AUTODETECT|” I Kings 21:5 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 3 2 8 0 0 What Paul means, accordingly, is this, Timothy, see to it that the deacons assistants be carefully selected. They should be Ruths and Lydias, not silly women, nor the kind that remind one of Jezebel! ) The enumeration of qualifications for deacons is now continued and concluded:) (7) Let a deacon be one wife s husband, managing well his children and his own household.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.2|AUTODETECT|” See on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.2|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 3:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.4|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.4|AUTODETECT|”
51. 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 0

13. The apostle proceeds to show how he knows that deacons must be all this. He is deeply convinced of it, and this not only because of direct divine revelation but also because of the manifest special reward by means of which it pleases God to crown the deacons efforts. The sense of the words which immediately follow is, I know this is true, For those who have served well acquire for themselves a noble standing and great confidence in the faith (which centers) in Christ Jesus. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.19.29|AUTODETECT|” This is at the same time an incentive for deacons so that they may labor faithfully. It is not unscriptural to speak of such incentives. It is unscriptural not to recognize them 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.19.29|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 19:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.7|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 4:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.8|AUTODETECT|”

8. 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.12.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.12.2|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 12:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.7|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 2:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.10|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.10|AUTODETECT|”
9. 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.17|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.17|AUTODETECT|”
10. 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.26-66.2.29|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.26-66.2.29|AUTODETECT|” 26 29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.5|AUTODETECT|” 3:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.6|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.6|AUTODETECT|”
11. 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.12|AUTODETECT|”
12. 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.13|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.13|AUTODETECT|”
13. 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.21|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.21|AUTODETECT|”
14. 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.22|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.22|AUTODETECT|”
15. 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ; etc.). Looking forward to a reward is not at all sinful, provided one plans to use this reward for the glory of God and for even greater service (if possible) in his kingdom.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 It is entirely right and natural to regard the reward which is here promised as pertaining to the deacons and their helpers. The apostle has been speaking about them, and about no one else, in verses 8 12. The connection, moreover, is very close, being introduced by the word, for. It will hardly do, therefore, to say that Paul is still thinking about the overseers, introduced in verse 1, and that he includes these in the reward here promised. To be sure, to these overseers also an incentive has been given, namely, the incentive based on the glorious character of their task (see verse 1). We may even go farther and admit that the blessing described in verse 13 will actually be enjoyed by elders as well as by deacons and their assistants. And we must probably accept as correct the position that the first verb used in the original here in verse 13 (cf. verse 10) should not be rendered have served (well) as deacons but simply have served (well). ��67��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.20.9-12.20.11|AUTODETECT|” But though all this be freely granted, it still remains true that in the present passage the apostle is in all probability speaking about the persons mentioned in the immediately preceding context (verses 8 12). In verse 1 the incentive for the elders was indicated: their task is glorious. Verse 13 now adds the incentive for the deacons: their reward is rich. Let no one, permitting himself to be misled by the fact that it is the deacons task to serve and not (like the elders) to rule, begin to think lightly of them and of their office. Let it be remembered that those deacons who have served well acquire for themselves a noble standing. The church will think highly of them because they have performed their tasks in a worthy manner. (Incidentally, the word rendered standing has the primary meaning a step, say of a staircase. Since such a staircase with its steps could be used to measure the sun s shadow, see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.20.9-12.20.11|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 20:9 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 in the LXX, the meaning degree cf. the degrees on a sun-dial is not strange. Hence, in some such way the figurative meaning degree, rank, standing is easily reached.)) 1 16 2 8 0 0 Moreover, the very consciousness of the fact that with the help of God he has done his best, so that he is not vexed by pangs of conscience, will give the deacon great confidence. He will not hold back, but will tell all (�������� is derived from ���, all, and ����� telling, speech). This confidence has reference to the faith (subjective sense here) which centers in Christ Jesus. It is concerning him that the deacon will freely and gladly testify.) ) 3:14 16) 14 These things I am writing to you though I am hoping to come to you shortly, 15 but (I am writing them) in order that if I should be delayed, you may know how you should conduct yourself in God s house, which is the church of the living God, (the) pillar and foundation of the truth. 16 And confessedly great is the mystery of (our) devotion,) Who was manifested in the flesh,) Vindicated by the Spirit,) Seen by angels,) Heralded among (the) nations,) Believed in by the world,) Taken up in glory.) ) 14. Paul now states the reasons for conveying these instructions (2:1 3:13) in writing. They are:) (1).

Though I hope to see you soon, I fear that I may be delayed.) (2). Yet, the matter permits no delay, for it concerns God s house.) These things I am writing to you though I am hoping to come to you shortly. Did he mean, I hope to come to you even before wintering at Nicopolis ? See p. 40.) 15. But (I am writing them) in order that if I should be delayed, you may know how you should conduct yourself in God s house.��68��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.3.16|AUTODETECT|” Timothy must know how to supervise worship and the election of officers. Moreover, he must bear in mind that he has been entrusted not with a private business but with God s house! House is correct here, not household as in verses 4, 5, 12. Believers are God s house or sanctuary 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.3.16|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.6.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.6.19|AUTODETECT|” 6:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.16|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 6:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.9|AUTODETECT|” ) because God dwells in them. Hence, Paul continues: which is��69�� the church of the living God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.9|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 1:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.10|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.10|AUTODETECT|” 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.2.19|AUTODETECT|” ), the pillar and foundation of the truth. Having been called God s house, we now note that the church is next compared to a pillar and foundation. As the��70�� pillar supports the roof, even better (note the climax!) as the foundation supports the entire super-structure, so the church supports the glorious truth of the gospel. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.2.19|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 2:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.18|AUTODETECT|” ; then ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.18|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 16:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . It supports the truth by:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.9|AUTODETECT|” H earing and H eeding it 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.9|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 13:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 )) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.2.15|AUTODETECT|” H andling it rightly 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.2.15|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 2:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 )) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.119.11|AUTODETECT|” H iding it in the heart 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.119.11|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 119:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), and) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.16|AUTODETECT|” H olding it forth as the Word of Life 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.16|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 2:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Or, if one prefers, by) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.10.9|AUTODETECT|” D igesting it 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.10.9|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 10:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). That takes study and meditation.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.16|AUTODETECT|” D efending it 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.16|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 1:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 )) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.28.18-40.28.20|AUTODETECT|” D isseminating it 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.28.18-40.28.20|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 28:18 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 )) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.12-51.3.17|AUTODETECT|” D emonstrating its power in consecrated living 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.12-51.3.17|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:12 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 4 2 8 0 0 The heart of this gospel and of our whole devotion is Christ. Hence, Paul continues:) 16. And confessedly great is the mystery of our devotion.) Great is the church because great is its exalted Head, Jesus Christ. That the expression the mystery of our devotion refers to Christ is clear from the fact that whatever follows in verse 16 refers to him. It is he who is great, and this confessedly, that is, thus acknowledged by the church in its daily witness, its preaching, and, as here, its hymns.) The mystery of our devotion is the mystery of our faith (verse 9), meaning that it pertains to our faith, to our devotion. By faith we embrace him.

By means of our devotion we glorify him. The word used in the original (�P������, ��) occurs here in a sense slightly different from piety or godliness when this is viewed as a quality or condition of the soul. It is here used in a more active sense. It is piety in action ( operative piety, M.M., p. 265), godly living (as in 4:7) the conscientious devotion of our lives to God in Christ, the fear of God, .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.18|AUTODETECT|” Christ is called the mystery of our devotion, not only because had he not been revealed to us, we would not have known him , but also because he transcends our comprehension 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.18|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 3:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.19|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.19|AUTODETECT|” 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). The more we know him, the better will we be able to discern the mysterious, unfathomable character of his love and of all his attributes.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.22-44.2.36|AUTODETECT|” It is exactly this immeasurable greatness of the Christ which forms the subject of the hymn from which Paul now quotes six lines. That theme was a familiar one in the early church, as is shown by passages such as the following: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.22-44.2.36|AUTODETECT|” Acts 2:22 36) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.11|AUTODETECT|” 4:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.12|AUTODETECT|” 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.10.38-44.10.43|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.10.38-44.10.43|AUTODETECT|” 10:38 43) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.13.26-44.13.41|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.13.26-44.13.41|AUTODETECT|” 13:26 41) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.31-45.8.39|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.31-45.8.39|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:31 39) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.30|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.30|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 1:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.1-46.15.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.1-46.15.20|AUTODETECT|” 15:1 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.56|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.56|AUTODETECT|” 56) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.57|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.57|AUTODETECT|” 57) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.20-49.1.23|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.20-49.1.23|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 1:20 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.5-50.2.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.5-50.2.11|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 2:5 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.12-51.1.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.12-51.1.20|AUTODETECT|” Col. 1:12 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.7|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 1:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.8|AUTODETECT|” 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.8|AUTODETECT|” 2:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.13|AUTODETECT|” Titus 2:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.1.1-58.1.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.1.1-58.1.4|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 1:1 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.7.23-58.8.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.7.23-58.8.2|AUTODETECT|” 7:23 8:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.9.24-58.9.28|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.9.24-58.9.28|AUTODETECT|” 9:24 28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.10.5-58.10.25|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.10.5-58.10.25|AUTODETECT|” 10:5 25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.12.1-58.12.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.12.1-58.12.3|AUTODETECT|” 12:1 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.5.6-66.5.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.5.6-66.5.14|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 5:6 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.12.10-66.12.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.12.10-66.12.12|AUTODETECT|” 12:10 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.19.6-66.19.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.19.6-66.19.8|AUTODETECT|” 19:6 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 15 2 8 0 0 Depending on an antecedent such as Logos (Word) or Christ(os), or Theos (God)��71�� the hymn continues: who or he who (E�) was made manifest in the flesh, etc.) The Six Lines in their Chiastic Arrangement) ) ) ) ) By drawing connecting-lines between the words which indicate realities that belong to the same realm, flesh, nations, and world are linked; and so are Spirit, angels, and glory. See these lines on p. 138. Thus the X which is the twenty-second letter of the Greek alphabet and is called chi is drawn twice. We may say, therefore, that the six lines are arranged chi-astically.) The six lines of this Hymn in Adoration of the Christ begin with a line about Christ s lowly birth and end with a reference to his glorious ascension. It is clear that if in such a humiliation-to-exaltation hymn the chiastic thought-movement is to be maintained, there must be not less than six lines.) The contrasts are clearly drawn:) Weak flesh (line 1) contrasted with strength-imparting Spirit (line 2)) Heavenly angels (line 3) over against earthly nations (line 4)) The world below (line 5) over against glory above (line 6).) Yet, the beauty of it is this, that though the hymn pictures these regional contrasts, the thought is throughout that of glory and adoration. To be sure, the word flesh in line 1 indicates Christ s humiliation; but the expression manifested in the flesh points to his exalted, glorious nature.

His glory is also indicated by the expressions vindicated by the Spirit, seen (with adoration) by angels, heralded (joyfully) among the nations, believed in (unto salvation) by the world, and taken up (for exaltation) in glory. Hence what we have in these six lines is not antithetic parallelism (in the sense in which that term is usually employed), but chiastic, cumulative parallelism.) The Six Lines Considered Separately) (1) Who was manifested in the flesh. ��72��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=48.4.4|AUTODETECT|”

Into the human nature, weakened by the curse, came Christ, the Son of God. He was sent forth by God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=48.4.4|AUTODETECT|”

Gal. 4:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.1.1-43.1.14|AUTODETECT|”

); hence, Virgin-born. The fact that One so glorious in his pre-existence was willing to adopt the human nature in that curse-laden, weakened condition, was a manifestation of infinite, condescending love. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.1.1-43.1.14|AUTODETECT|”

John 1:1 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=47.8.9|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=47.8.9|AUTODETECT|”

II Cor. 8:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=50.2.5-50.2.11|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=50.2.5-50.2.11|AUTODETECT|”

Phil. 2:5 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.1.14|AUTODETECT|”

. Hence, this voluntary self-concealment was at the same time a self-revelation. From the very beginning of his coming into the flesh self-concealment and self-disclosure walked side by side in connection with this Mystery of our devotion. For the meaning of flesh see N.T.C. on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.1.14|AUTODETECT|”

John 1:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.21.1|AUTODETECT|”

; and for the meaning of was manifested see N.T.C. on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.21.1|AUTODETECT|”

John 21:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

, footnote 294.) 1 1 2 8 0 0

(2) Vindicated by the Spirit. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=23.55.3|AUTODETECT|”

Not everyone saw his glory. He was despised, and rejected of men 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=23.55.3|AUTODETECT|”

Is. 55:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=58.13.12|AUTODETECT|”

). By his enemies his claims were denied, and he himself was cast out 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=58.13.12|AUTODETECT|”

Heb. 13:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

). But by the Spirit he was vindicated: his own perfect righteousness and the validity of his claims were fully established.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.1.14|AUTODETECT|”

The A.V. and the R.S.V. are entirely correct in spelling Spirit with a capital letter, as referring to the Holy Spirit. The combination flesh and Spirit has scriptural warrant. Note: And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us as in a tent. And we beheld his glory, a glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth & And John testified, saying, I beheld the Spirit like a dove descending from heaven, and he remained on him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.1.14|AUTODETECT|”

John 1:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.1.32|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.1.32|AUTODETECT|”

32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.3.34|AUTODETECT|”

; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.3.34|AUTODETECT|”

3:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=19.2.2|AUTODETECT|”

). Having been thus anointed by the Holy Spirit 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=19.2.2|AUTODETECT|”

Ps. 2:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=19.45.7|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=19.45.7|AUTODETECT|”

45:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.3.16|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.3.16|AUTODETECT|”

Matt. 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=41.1.10|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=41.1.10|AUTODETECT|”

Mark 1:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.3.22|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.3.22|AUTODETECT|”

Luke 3:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=44.4.27|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=44.4.27|AUTODETECT|”

Acts 4:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=44.10.38|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=44.10.38|AUTODETECT|”

10:38) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.12.28|AUTODETECT|”

), he was able, while in the flesh (the weakened human nature), to perform miracles, to cast out demons, etc. 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.12.28|AUTODETECT|”

Matt. 12:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.9.31|AUTODETECT|”

). By means of every deed of power his justice was established, for surely the Holy Spirit would not have given this power to a sinner 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.9.31|AUTODETECT|”

John 9:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.1.4|AUTODETECT|”

). But it was especially by means of his resurrection from the dead that the Spirit fully vindicated the claim of Jesus that he was the Son of God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.1.4|AUTODETECT|”

Rom. 1:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

).) 1 1 2 8 0 0

(3) Seen by angels. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.28.2-40.28.7|AUTODETECT|”

The greatness of Christ in his resurrection stands out in the early preaching of the apostles. That resurrection was his complete vindication. It was also in connection with that resurrection that he was seen by angels 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.28.2-40.28.7|AUTODETECT|”

Matt. 28:2 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=41.16.5-41.16.8|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=41.16.5-41.16.8|AUTODETECT|”

Mark 16:5 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.24.4-42.24.7|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.24.4-42.24.7|AUTODETECT|”

Luke 24:4 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.20.12|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.20.12|AUTODETECT|”

John 20:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.20.13|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.20.13|AUTODETECT|”

13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.2.9-42.2.14|AUTODETECT|”

). To be sure, angels had shown an interest in his birth 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.2.9-42.2.14|AUTODETECT|”

Luke 2:9 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.4.11|AUTODETECT|”

), and in his triumph over Satan when the latter tempted him in the desert 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.4.11|AUTODETECT|”

Matt. 4:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=44.1.10|AUTODETECT|”

). Angels, moreover, addressed the disciples after his ascension 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=44.1.10|AUTODETECT|”

Acts 1:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=44.1.11|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=44.1.11|AUTODETECT|”

11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=66.5.11|AUTODETECT|”

). Angels welcomed him back to heaven 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=66.5.11|AUTODETECT|”

Rev. 5:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=60.1.12|AUTODETECT|”

). They were and are intensely interested in the whole program of redemption 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=60.1.12|AUTODETECT|”

I Peter 1:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=41.16.11|AUTODETECT|”

). But although none of these great events need be excluded from the meaning of the line seen by angels, the reference to Christ s glorious resurrection, a redemptive fact which stood out in the consciousness of the early church, is clear as daylight.��73�� While the eyes of men and women too! were beclouded by the mist of little faith and, in a sense, lack of faith 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=41.16.11|AUTODETECT|”

Mark 16:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=41.16.13|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=41.16.13|AUTODETECT|”

13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=41.16.14|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=41.16.14|AUTODETECT|”

14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.24.10|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.24.10|AUTODETECT|”

Luke 24:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.24.11|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.24.11|AUTODETECT|”

11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.20.8|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.20.8|AUTODETECT|”

John 20:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.20.9|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.20.9|AUTODETECT|”

9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.20.15|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.20.15|AUTODETECT|”

15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.20.24|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.20.24|AUTODETECT|”

24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.20.25|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.20.25|AUTODETECT|”

25) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

), angels saw him clearly. They knew him as their glorious Lord.) 1 1 2 8 0 0

(4) Heralded among the nations. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.28.18-40.28.20|AUTODETECT|”

It was the resurrected Christ who, before his ascension, issued The Great Commission, Go, therefore, and make disciples of all the nations 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.28.18-40.28.20|AUTODETECT|”

Matt. 28:18 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=23.53.3|AUTODETECT|”

The Great Claim, The Great Commission, The Great Presence). And so the One who was not esteemed, the Despised One 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.3|AUTODETECT|” Is. 53:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.2|AUTODETECT|” ), began to be universally heralded or proclaimed 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.2|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 4:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) as The Savior of the World. Though this happened on and after Pentecost, the great commission was issued before the ascension!) 1 1 2 8 0 0 (5) Believed in by the world. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.72.8-19.72.11|AUTODETECT|” This, of course, was the direct result of the pre-ascension mandate. Men from every tribe and nation begin to worship him as their Lord and Savior, as had been predicted 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.72.8-19.72.11|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 72:8 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.72.17|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=19.72.17|AUTODETECT|”

17. 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.87.0|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.87.0|AUTODETECT|”
18. 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.12.3|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.12.3|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 12:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=30.9.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=30.9.11|AUTODETECT|” Am. 9:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=30.9.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=30.9.12|AUTODETECT|”
19. 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=33.4.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=33.4.12|AUTODETECT|” Mic. 4:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 (6) Taken up in glory. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.16.19|AUTODETECT|” Having been manifested in the flesh, vindicated by the Spirit, seen by angels, and having issued the order which resulted in the proclamation of his name among the nations and the outgathering of a spiritual harvest from the world, he was taken up. This is the same verb as is used in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.16.19|AUTODETECT|” Mark 16:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.2|AUTODETECT|” and in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.2|AUTODETECT|” Acts 1:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.24.51|AUTODETECT|” .) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.24.51|AUTODETECT|” Luke 24:51) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.9|AUTODETECT|” has he parted from them, and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.9|AUTODETECT|” Acts 1:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , he was lifted up. While the echo of men s voices, Crucify, crucify, had scarcely died, heaven opened wide its portals, and, upon receiving back its victorious King, resounded with the echoes of the jubilant anthem, sung by ten thousand times ten thousands and thousands of thousands, Worthy is the Lamb. Truly, he was taken up in glory.) 1 8 2 8 0 0 How great is the church which has such an exalted Head! Let Timothy bear this in mind as he goes about his task of supervision.) Synthesis of Chapter 3) See the Outline at the beginning of the chapter.) We have here a list of requirements for office; also a statement regarding the glorious character of such work and its crowning reward. The qualifications of overseers and deacons (and in the latter connection, of deacons female assistants) are stated. The emphasis falls on such qualities as reliability, dignity, temperance, helpfulness, proper relationship to one s family, and to some extent, Christian experience.) The lists reveal two facts:) On the one hand, the requirements for office are high enough so that persons with outstanding moral defects are excluded from office and in fact from any position of considerable responsibility in the church.) Yet, on the other hand, these requirements are low enough so that almost any member in good standing and of deserved reputation can qualify. Sinlessness, material riches, exceptional cultural attainment, these are not required.) Accordingly, a group of converts which displays a manifest lack of such qualities as are here mentioned is not yet ready to be organized into a congregation.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.16.25|AUTODETECT|” In stating his reasons for transmitting these lists in written form, Paul quotes from a beautiful early Hymn in adoration of the Christ, confessing the latter s glory from his incarnation to his coronation. Here we have proof of the fact that there was at least a beginning of hymnody during this early period. On the subject of psalm-singing and hymn-singing in the days of the apostle see also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.16.25|AUTODETECT|” Acts 16:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.14.26|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.14.26|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 14:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.19|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 5:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.16|AUTODETECT|” ; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.16|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . And do not forget the Old Testament Psalter, with its many cries for rescue, songs commemorating deliverance, and anthems of praise.) 1 4 2 8 0 0 ) ) ) 58 Something can be said in favor of the rendering however (for �V�). But the more usual meaning of the Greek particle makes excellent sense: in view of the fact that the overseership is such a noble work, the man who fills this office must be above reproach. The continuative meaning is also possible. See further N.T.C. on John, Vol. II, p. 386, footnote 246.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.1|AUTODETECT|” 59 With respect to possible parallels (to such a list of requirements) in secular literature see on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.1|AUTODETECT|” Titus 2:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 8 2 8 0 0 60 ) The reading popular or human (���������) is the saying, is weakly attested; see N.N. It may possibly be ascribed to a scribe s hesitancy to prefix the profound introductory clause, Reliable is the saying to a statement which fails to give expression to a paramount essential of the Christian faith.) Possibly for the same reason some would construe this clause with the preceding paragraph (thus, for example, Lock and A. T. Robertson). But it is hard to see how anything in the immediately preceding paragraph (which deals with the behavior of women, their proper attire with a view to church-attendance, etc.) could have become a watchword of Christian wisdom. The saying, moreover, harmonizes beautifully with the entire paragraph which follows.) N.T.C.

W. Hendriksen, New Testament Commentary) 61 Thus, or in similar fashion, Parry, Goodspeed, Moffatt, R.S.V., etc.) 62 It is correctly rendered by the following (among others): Syriac (published by British and Foreign Bible Society, London, 1950, 1. 142); Latin ; English (A.V., A.R.V., Weymouth, Lenski, Berkeley; the same idea, Williams: must have only one wife ; Riverside: true to one woman ); Dutch ; Frisian; South African; French (Version D Ostervald); German (Luther and subsequent versions); Swedish authorized in 1917, edition Stockholm 1946).) M.M. The Vocabulary of the Greek Testament Illustrated from the Papyri and Other Non-Literary Sources, by James Hope Moulton and George Milligan (edition Grand Rapids, 1952)) 63 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.3.15|AUTODETECT|” The idea that �������� when in verse 6 it is used in the expression condemnation of the devil must be a subjective genitive because this same word when in verse 7 it occurs in the phrase snare of the devil is a subjective genitive, impresses me as being superficial. In determining the nature of these genitives, one question is paramount. It is this: What is the scriptural usage? Is it more scriptural to represent the devil as pronouncing a sentence of condemnation, or to represent him as being condemned? Of course, the latter! See the following passages: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.3.15|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 3:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.14.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.14.12|AUTODETECT|” Is. 14:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.3.2|AUTODETECT|” (by implication); ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.3.2|AUTODETECT|” Zech. 3:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.4.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.4.10|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 4:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.29|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.29|AUTODETECT|” 12:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.18|AUTODETECT|” Luke 10:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.31|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.31|AUTODETECT|” John 12:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.20|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 16:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.11|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 6:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.4.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.4.7|AUTODETECT|” James 4:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.2.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.2.4|AUTODETECT|” II Peter 2:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=65.1.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=65.1.6|AUTODETECT|” Jude 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.12.7-66.12.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.12.7-66.12.9|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 12:7 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.10|AUTODETECT|” 20:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . Hence, the condemnation of the devil means the condemnation pronounced (and executed) upon the devil (objective genitive).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.2.26|AUTODETECT|” Similarly, is it the more usual scriptural representation to speak of the devil as striving to lure others into his snares, or is he more generally described as becoming himself ensnared? Of course the former. It is the devil who, also in the Pastorals, is depicted as setting snares. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.2.26|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 2:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.6.9|AUTODETECT|” settles this point. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.6.9|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 6:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . Hence, the snare of the devil means the snare which he sets (subjective genitive).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.3.1-38.3.3|AUTODETECT|” 64 This is true whether or not the word reproach as well as snare be construed as modified by of the devil. Either is grammatically possible, arguments to the contrary (as in Lenski, op. cit., p. 591) notwithstanding. The non-repetition of the preposition (�0�) argues in favor of linking of the devil with both nouns, but does not absolutely settle the question. Materially, however, there is little if any difference in meaning. When the world reproaches, the devil, too, reproaches. When Lenski says that the devil is the last one to reproach a Christian for his faults, is he not forgetting ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.3.1-38.3.3|AUTODETECT|” Zech. 3:1 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.7|AUTODETECT|” 65 Other references, such as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.7|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 12:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.1|AUTODETECT|” 16:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.12.28|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.12.28|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 12:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.4.11|AUTODETECT|” ; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.4.11|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 4:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , would seem to be of a more general nature. They do not or in some cases, do not exclusively refer to the office and work of the deacon.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=21.5.9|AUTODETECT|” 66 Here one might have expected a form of ���������, as in the apocryphal book ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=21.5.9|AUTODETECT|” Eccles. 5:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.11.13|AUTODETECT|” , where the man who winnows with every wind is so characterized 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.11.13|AUTODETECT|” Prov. 11:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 in the LXX). The word which Paul actually employs (acc. masc. pl. of �������), and which elsewhere occurs with a different sense ( one who repeats, see M.M., p. 163), reminds one of the Latin bilinguis in one of its meanings. Does this mean that the author of the Pastorals borrows from the Latin? See pp. 10, 11.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 A.V. Authorized Version (King James)) A.R.V. American Standard Revised Version) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.28|AUTODETECT|” 67 Nowhere else in the New Testament does �������� mean serve as deacon. It means to serve, to minister, to care for one s needs 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.28|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 20:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.45|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.45|AUTODETECT|” Mark 10:45) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.40|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.40|AUTODETECT|” Luke 10:40) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.26|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.26|AUTODETECT|” 22:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.27|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.27|AUTODETECT|” 27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.2|AUTODETECT|” John 12:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.1.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.1.18|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 1:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.4.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.4.11|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 4:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.1.12|AUTODETECT|” ; etc.) or to supply by ministering: 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.1.12|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 1:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.4.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.4.10|AUTODETECT|” 4:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). The mere fact that Paul has just been speaking about deacons would seem to be hardly sufficient to ascribe to the verb a technical sense which it has nowhere else in Scripture.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 68 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.3.9|AUTODETECT|” Condition of third class (stating the purpose after 5��). Protasis has �� with first person sing. present active subjunctive of ������� 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.3.9|AUTODETECT|” II Peter 3:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.24.25|AUTODETECT|” ; and see the related adjective slow in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.24.25|AUTODETECT|” Luke 24:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Apodosis has second person sing. perfect active subjunctive of �6��.) 1 3 2 8 0 0 Literally, & how it is necessary in God s house to conduct oneself (������������ present middle infinitive of ��������, to turn up and down, to conduct oneself, to behave). This may mean either how it is necessary for anyone to conduct himself, or how it is necessary for you to conduct yourself. Note context: I am writing to you & I am hoping to come to you & in order that you may know. Hence, how it is necessary for you to conduct yourself seems to be natural here.) 69 %��� (attracted to the gender of �������) ���� because it is, or it being. ) 70 The omission of the article does not make the nouns pillar and foundation indefinite, but stresses their qualitative force: the church is nothing less than the truth s pillar; better still, it is the truth s very foundation.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.16|AUTODETECT|” 71 Nevertheless, the reading ���� here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.16|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 is regarded by many as weakly attested. It is defended by E. F. Hills, The King James Version Defended, Des Moines, Iowa, 1956, pp. 59, 60. The Western reading E instead of E� is probably the result of a scribal attempt to make the relative agree with the gender of ���������. But the relative agrees with whatever was its antecedent in the hymn from which the quotation was made!) 1 6 2 8 0 0 72 The six verbs are all third person singular passive aorists. The use of this tense indicates that each of the six indicated actions is viewed as a single whole, regardless of the time-element involved. Thus, though the statement, He was manifested in the flesh, indicates not only Christ s birth but the entire period of earthly sojourn, from birth to burial, yet this entire manifestation in the flesh is viewed as one fact. The same holds with respect to the other five verbs.) N.T.C. W. Hendriksen, New Testament Commentary) A.V.

Authorized Version (King James)) R.S.V. Revised Standard Version) 73 Hence, I cannot agree here with interpreters who see little if any reference to the resurrection-activities of the angels; e.g., C. Bouma, Kommentaar op het Nieuwe Testament (Timotheus en Titus), pp. 149, 150. When Lenski says, in explanation of this line, Angels saw him risen indeed, he is certainly right, op. cit., p. 614.) )