1 Timothy 3:11-16
Q.1. What qualities should be evident in female and male leadership in the church? Why did Paul write these guidelines? – (1 Tim.3:11-15)
Apart from a growing Christ-like character, deacons and deaconesses were to display faithfulness in their marriage and family life. The use of their speech to encourage others towards godliness was also essential (1 Tim.3:11-12). Faithful servants of Christ are highly regarded by others. They encourage faith within the ones whom they are serving (1 Tim.3:13). Paul wrote – so that you will know how one ought to conduct himself in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and support of the truth (1 Tim.3:15).
Q.2. Where should the church’s focus be, in order to produce true godliness? Who is the theme of our confession? – (1 Tim.3:16)
This creedal statement and common confession of the early church was all about Jesus. It asserted that godliness comes about by keeping our focus on the person and life of Christ. This accords with Paul’s explanation to the Corinthian believers – For by His doing you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, and righteousness and sanctification, and redemption (c.f. 1 Cor.1:30). Right from the beginning, to beyond life’s end, it is all about Jesus. The theme declared in the confession is Jesus Christ – … He who was revealed in the flesh, was vindicated in the Spirit, seen by angels, proclaimed among the nations, believed on in the world, taken up in glory (1 Tim.3:16). The more we immerse ourselves in Jesus Christ, the more we will become like Him.