Keep in mind Paul is writing to Timothy in order to instruct him about matters within the church and of utmost importance is the character of the leaders. Paul wanted to make sure that those who were leading the church were qualified and setting a high standard in the way they conducted their everyday life. He writes that “if a mans desires the position of a bishop [pastor], he desires a good work” (3:1); however, there are some standards by which this man must live his life. Beginning in verse 2 Paul lists sixteen qualifications for a man to become a pastor. First, this man must be blameless meaning that his life must be free from controversy and outright sin. Paul also mentions that he must be the husband of one wife implying that he must be committed to only one woman. Next, Paul writes that one who desires the office of a pastor must be temperate (watchful), sober-minded (disciplined in thinking), and of good behavior (self-controlled). Along with these characteristics, Paul also mentions that a pastor must be hospitable (loves others), able to teach (handles God’s word with care), not given to wine, not violent, and not greedy for money. Paul continues to instruct Timothy that a pastor must be gentle (gracious), not quarrelsome (doesn’t look for a fight), and not covetous. Paul spends many words on the next qualification – a pastor must rule his own house well, having his children in submission with all reverence. As a follow up to this qualification, Paul makes the statement/asks the question that if a man does not know how to rule his own house, how will he take care of the church of God? A man who seeks the office of a pastor must have his house in order. He also must not be a novice, which would put him in danger of pride – a pastor must be a spiritually mature Christian. Lastly, he must have a good testimony among those who are outside. Even though those who are unbelievers may not agree with his belief system, he must be a respectable man in the community. If you are considering being a pastor, make sure your life lines up with these qualifications. Again, Paul is not saying that a man who desires to be a pastor must be perfect, but he must be in constant pursuit of a holy life before God and others.
Dear God, help me to live up to the qualifications of a pastor and may those who come behind me be found faithful in a holy life.
