1 Timothy 3:2 - Printer Friendly

ESV: Therefore an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach,

NIV: Now the overseer is to be above reproach, faithful to his wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach,

NASB: An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, skillful in teaching,

CSB: An overseer, therefore, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, self-controlled, sensible, respectable, hospitable, able to teach,

NLT: So a church leader must be a man whose life is above reproach. He must be faithful to his wife. He must exercise self-control, live wisely, and have a good reputation. He must enjoy having guests in his home, and he must be able to teach.

KJV: A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach;

NKJV: A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, temperate, sober-minded, of good behavior, hospitable, able to teach;

Because of the important nature of their work, "an overseer must be above reproach." This is more of an overall statement regarding his character, rather than a specific trait. The specific details which follow in this passage show the ways in which an elder would fulfill this requirement. The same concept is presented in the list given to Titus (Titus 1:6, 7) and in Colossians 1:22 (applying to Christ's work in all believers). It includes the idea of character that cannot be easily attacked. The Jewish prophet Daniel serves as an excellent Old Testament example of this type of integrity.

This verse includes a specific mention of an elder's family morals. The phrase given here is mias gynaikos andra, which literally means "a one-woman man." This comment from Paul does not imply anything in particular about past divorce, widowers, or those who are single. Both Timothy and Paul likely were unmarried at the time these words were written. The point, rather, is that an elder must not be known for marital immorality. This means either being celibate and single, or demonstrating a faithful relationship with his wife.

The verse continues with additional traits elders must demonstrate. "Sober-minded" is not a reference to drunkenness (1 Timothy 3:3), but being alert or level headed. "Self-control" is a quality often mentioned by Paul and is part of the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23) expected of all believers. "Respectable" can also be translated "modest," including the idea of not being a boastful person. "Hospitable" implies the common hospitality of Mediterranean culture, especially since many elders hosted churches in their own homes. "Able to teach" relates to the ability to communicate biblical truth and is both a gift (Romans 12:7) and an ability to develop (2 Timothy 4:1–2).

First Timothy 3:1–7 describes the requirements of church elders. Those who are placed in high leadership positions within the church are to be men of a good reputation, known for self-control and fairness, as well as have an ability to teach spiritual truths. They cannot be known as drunkards, bickerers, or prone to greed. Those who are married must demonstrate faithfulness to their wife and respectable control of their children. Paul also specifies that new converts cannot be elders: this presents a high risk of arrogance and failure.

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.

Chapter 3 concludes Paul's general statements about church structure and behavior. In chapters 1, 2, and 3, he has laid out some broad concepts which Timothy needs to enforce in his congregation. This chapter specifically deals with the qualifications for leaders, including both elders and deacons. The next chapters will transition to Paul's warnings about certain dangers lurking around the Christian church.

First Timothy is one of Paul's three ''Pastoral Epistles.'' Paul's other letters, such as Romans, Ephesians, and Colossians, are meant for a broader audience. First Timothy, 2 Timothy, and Titus are written to specific people whom Paul is advising on how to best lead their local churches. These three letters present a close look at the form and function of church leadership. First Timothy, like 2 Timothy and Titus, is less formal and systematic, and more personal. This gives great insight into the way pastors, deacons, and elders ought to prioritize their time and energy.