Chuck Anderson

Beyond all question, the mystery from which true godliness springs is great: He appeared in the flesh, was vindicated by the Spirit, was seen by angels, was preached among the nations, was believed on in the world, was taken up in glory.  (1Timothy 3:16) Ordination of St. Timothy by St. Paul I have one remarkable observation to make about 1Timothy 3 — it is remarkable that the qualifications listed for Pastors and Deacons are so  unremarkable . The character traits listed by Paul in chapter 3 are character traits that were exemplified and taught by Jesus. They belong aspirationally to all Christians. They certainly belong to Christ, and as Paul teaches us in Galatians 3:27, when we are baptized into Christ, we put on Christ. In Christ, they belong to us as well, if we will determine to walk in repentance and faith. For ordained (that is, formally set apart and recognized) officers of the church, it is appropriate that these character traits are basic qualification...

I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people — for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. (1Timothy 2:1-4) I write about 1Timothy 2 with some trepidation. When I think of this chapter, my mind is conditioned to jump to verse 12 — “I do not permit a woman to teach.” Why does Paul say that? If you answer that question too quickly, you will get this passage wrong. Because, like in chapter 1 , the first answer to that question is explained by a second, more fundamental answer. The deeper answer is what I want to write about. 1  

The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith . (1Timothy 1:5) Why did the Apostle Paul send Timothy to be the Bishop (or Lead Pastor) in Ephesus? You might answer with verse 3 of 1 Timothy 1—to “command certain people not to teach false doctrines.” You wouldn’t be wrong, but there’s more to the story. Paul does want Timothy to fight against false teachers. But there’s another reason why in the text. You can see Paul’s ultimate reason for appointing Timothy to be Bishop in Ephesus—and the reason to oppose false doctrine—in verse 5: “goal of this command is love.” Specifically, the kind that comes from a pure heart, a good conscience, and a sincere faith. For this reason, Paul sends Timothy to organize and teach the church in Ephesus.