THE CHURCH’S LEADERS
I TIMOTHY 3:1-16
Introduction: “Everything rises or falls with leadership.” John Maxwell. The church is an organism (living, growing body). The organism must have organization. The organization must have oversight. That’s why he calls church leaders!
I. The Picture of a Pastor (1-7)
There are a number of words in the New Testament used to describe a pastor.
Overseer – I can’t do everything but I can see that everything gets done.
Bishop – (Episcopos) - to look after or inspect. Elder. Shepherd – not ranchers even though we do our share of branding and rustling. Pastor (Overseer NIV). The church was at a transitioning stage. She needed a different kind of leader. “Sets his heart on” – not the position but the work.
A. A Man of Manners (1-3) Every preacher needs to be reminded of this list frequently.
B. A Man of Management (6) Note that he manages not rules.
C. A Man of Maturity (6) Beware of pride. It has destroyed countless preachers. “A man’s gifts may take him where his character cannot keep him.”
D. A Man of Morality (7) The devil has a trap prepared. Let’s be careful.
II. The Duty of a Deacon (8-13)
He’s part of the team. Moses, Paul and Jesus, all had a team. The deacon (diakonos) is not so much an office but obligation. Every pastor and deacon should have a “servant” mentality. Look at his:
A. Traits (8) - Must have good character. “Character is destiny.”
B. Truths (9) - Doctrinally sound
C. Testing (10) - Proven
D. Testimony (12-13)
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III. A Word to the Wife (11)
If you are the wife of a church leader you need:
A. Respect – That is character, dignity and filled with the spirit.
B. Restraint – Not slanderers or gossipers
C. Reasoning – discipline, well-balanced, calm and steady
D. Reliable – trusted and faithful
Conclusion: The church needs leaders who will hold, defend, walk and promote the glorious truth of the gospel. The church has only one superstar (16). Jesus is the total package. He’s the ultimate leader. He can use anyone from a GED to a PhD.
Someone said, “There is nothing like a local church when it’s working right. Her beauty is indescribable, her power is breathtaking and her potential is unlimited.” The local church is the hope of the world and its future rests primarily in the hands of its leaders.
