1 Timothy 3:2

CONTEXT- Qualifications of a Leader

1 Timothy 3:1-13

1 The Word is faithful—so that if a certain man [not just any man] is totally committed within [by his renewed mind and because of his
ability] and desires to be an overseer [bishop, elder], his inner heart’s desire is a beautiful act. 2 Accordingly, it is necessary that an overseer be blameless [prepared on all points], the husband of one wife, clearheaded, of a sound mind, orderly in demeanor, friendly and hospitable, skillful in teaching, 3 not an excessive drinker, not hard and tyrannical but actively considerate and forbearing, not contentious and argumentative, not motivated by the love of money, 4 one who diligently rules his own household, whose children are lovingly obedient [under proper arrangement by deliberate decision] with all dignified respect 5 (If someone does not know how to rule his own household, how can he care for the Church of God?), 6 not a neophyte, lest he fall into devilish judgments because of his conceit. 7 It is also necessary for him to have a good witness among fellow believers, those outside his own household, lest he fall into criticism and the Devil’s trap. 8 Likewise, it is necessary for ministers [who serve in the Body of Christ] to be dignified, not double tongued [but consistent in their teaching], not excessive drinkers, not dishonorably motivated by gain, 9 but upholding the Mystery pertaining to the household of faith in a pure [unmixed] conscience. 10 Let them be proved in these matters first. Then let them serve
as ministers when they are unimpeachable in conduct. 11 Likewise, it is necessary for their wives to be dignified, not slandering others, but clearheaded and faithful in all things. 12 Let the ministers be husbands of one wife, diligently ruling their children and their own households. 13 Those who serve well as ministers acquire [mark off] for themselves a high degree [of respect and dignity] and great
freedom to speak boldly in the faith which is in Christ Jesus [the household of faith].

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The Structure of 1 Timothy

A. I Timothy 1:1 and 2: The Salutation.
    B. I Timothy 1:3-20: The Charge.
      C. I Timothy 2:1-15: Prayer—The Leader’s Responsibility.
        D. I Timothy 3:1-13: Qualifications of a Leader.
          E. I Timothy 3:14-4:5: Purpose and Conflict. This is the central/center section.
        D. I Timothy 4:6-16: Conduct of a Leader.
      C. I Timothy 5:1-6:2: Treatment of Leaders, The Believers’ Responsibility.
   B. I Timothy 6:3-21a: The Charge.
A. I Timothy 6:21b: Salutation.

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