Re: Verse reading–1 Timothy 3:1-13 (day six)
“It is a trustworthy statement: if any man aspires to the office of overseer, it is a fine work he desires to do.”–v. 1. Familiar phrase in 1 and 2 Timothy. A “trustworthy statement” is a faith statement that Paul endorses for the complete confidence of his friends. The first (1:15) says that “Christ came into the world to save sinners”. Trust this truth! The second (3:1) says that “Pastors matter and that young men who aspire to this office should be encouraged”. I admit my bias (and Paul’s) but years of observation have convinced me. Churches do better when they have leadership. In v 1, Paul calls them overseers. (episkopoi–“those who look over, or manage.” note Episcopal.) In Acts 20:17, Paul calls them elders (presbueteros–“elderly men, deserving respect”. note Presbyterian). Other places, they are called pastors. Whatever we name them, these God-called, heart-committed men are central to the life and service of the church. Trust this truth, says Paul.
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