Honor God in Your Service
1 Timothy 3:8-13; 4:6-16
Someone posed the question: “Instead of leaving us in this world, why doesn’t God take us to heaven the moment He saves us?” Many biblical responses could be offered for that question, but one answer certainly is this: He wants us to serve one another in His name (Galatians 5:13).
The apostle Paul now moves to the matter of service within the body of Christ as he writes to the pastor Timothy. Timothy must lead his congregation to appoint deacons who are godly men in every way. His congregation will look to them as examples as they engage in service for the Lord.
Behaving blamelessly (1 Timothy 3:8-13). Paul addresses at least three aspects of the office of deacon in these verses. First, the call of the deacon is identified by the word itself (8a). The word for “deacon” in the New Testament Greek (diakonos) means “one who serves.” Another form of that word is found in Acts 6:1-7, where many scholars believe the office of church deacon originated. There in Jerusalem, men were designated to minister to the needy widows of that day. Thus, they were set apart for service.
Next, the apostle discusses the character of potential deacons (8b-12). Deacons must be men of godly integrity at home, in the church and in the public arena. Only those individuals who meet this high standard of character and spiritual maturity should be appointed to serve. Character is much more important than giftedness in God’s eyes.
Finally, the deacon’s compensation is noted (13). As they serve according to their calling and with sound character, they grow both in faith and in ministerial confidence.
Training for service (1 Timothy 4:6-10). Paul now directs Timothy to emphasize ongoing training in godliness as part of becoming more effective in being a good servant of Christ Jesus. We honor God in our service when we intentionally commit to this continued training in godliness. All Christ’s servants must do this because we have “put our hope in the living God.”
Continuing spiritual growth (1 Timothy 4:11-16). Timothy is now instructed to lead the Ephesus church in growth by being an example of spiritual growth before them. The word “progress” (NKJV) in verse 15 is a military term which speaks of an advancing force. These were those soldiers who went ahead of the main force to clear the way and give direction for those who would follow. By centering on God’s Word (13), using one’s spiritual gifts (14) and exercising devotion (15-16a), church leadership may gain confidence in salvation and encourage faithfulness in others (16b).
All of us have room for improvement in spiritual growth. What is the Lord telling you in your heart about improvements that need to be made? He will help you as you take the first step toward Him!
Clark– Lessons in the ETB series for the spring quarter are being written by Tim Clark, pastor of Holly Springs Baptist Church, Inman.