What does 1 Timothy 3:14 mean?
Verse 14 begins a new section that stretches through verse 16. It focuses on the purpose of Paul's instructions and the greatness of the church. Paul and Timothy are separated for now, with Paul likely in Macedonia and Timothy in Ephesus. Yet Paul hoped to see him again. At the time he will write 2 Timothy, Paul will be in a Roman prison. There, he also continues to hope to personally see Timothy again, but will ask Timothy to come to him instead (2 Timothy 4:9). It is uncertain whether the two men ever saw one another again, after this letter or 2 Timothy, prior to Paul's death.There is a great sense of purpose in Paul's writing ministry, both to Timothy and in his other 12 New Testament letters. He often sought to encourage and assist from a distance, helping the churches and people he had led to faith in Christ through his ministry or influence. These words are similar to his statement to Philemon: "Confident of your obedience, I write to you, knowing that you will do even more than I say" (Philemon 1:21).
First Timothy 3:14–16 explains Paul's reasons for writing this letter. While he hopes to see Timothy in person soon, he is unsure of what the future holds. Rather than wait, Paul wants to be sure Timothy has complete instructions on how to encourage the healthy function of the local church. Paul also presents a doxology—a short hymn of praise—to God.
First Timothy chapter 3 expresses requirements for two different levels of church leadership. The first are ''elders'' or ''overseers.'' These men are to be experienced Christians, respectable, capable teachers, with a good reputation and a well-ordered family life. The second group are ''servants,'' or ''deacons,'' who share many of the same expectations. Unlike elders, however, deacons are not necessarily called on to teach. And, they are expected to be ''tested'' prior to taking on their role.
