Day 5: 1 Timothy 3:1–16 — Qualifications for Church Leadership
Reading: Requirements for overseers and deacons, plus the church’s purpose
Study Questions:
1. Observation: What character qualities are emphasised for church leaders?
Blameless, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, gentle, diligent, dignified, full of integrity.
2. Interpretation: Why does Paul focus more on character than on skills or abilities?
Leadership is about modelling Christ, which is first and foremost a matter of character. Exemplifying Christ in character is key to the name being honoured and cherished by both the community of grace and others. It also helps the family of God focus on what matters: how we’re being transformed to be more like Christ in who we are, not just in what we do.
3. Application: How do these standards apply to leadership in any context (work, family, community)?
Each context is determined by a Kingdom focus, particularly the King. In each context, God is looking to see His image reflected in that sphere. That image is reflected primarily in character, and therefore, each context should be led by those who exhibit the character of Christ. The more this is observed, the more the character and standard of Christ as a good steward of what was entrusted to his care can be seen in each context of life. The family will be raised on the foundation of Christ. The business or community group will be developed on the basis of Christ. This standard then defines what it means to be a man, not just what is expected in leadership positions.
4. Which of these qualities do you most need to develop in your own life?
Self-control. This is the heart of my desire to be more Christ-like. Everything flows from operating from the place of being totally submitted to God, and thus all my thoughts, feelings, words and actions are regulated by the Spirit of God. That would also enable me to exercise the consistency in character that reflects Jesus. It’s worth mentioning as well, though, that I particularly like the call to be a good manager of a household and developing in that area is something I want, as it reflects that issue of being a good steward and diligently maximising everything and everyone under my responsibility so that they flourish and thrive for the glory of God.
Day 6: 1 Timothy 4:1-16 — Combating False Teaching and Personal Godliness
Reading: Warnings about future false teaching and Timothy’s personal conduct
Study Questions:
1. Observation: What specific false teachings and practices does Paul predict?
2. Interpretation: How does Paul connect personal godliness with effective ministry?
3. Application: What spiritual disciplines does Paul recommend, and how can you implement them?
4. Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need to “train yourself to be godly”?
What you’re releasing has something to do with what lives in you, so let’s get the Word In to get the Word Out!
For His Name’s Sake
C. L. J. Dryden
Shalom
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