Tag: Note Episcopal

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.