Do you know the feeling of checking job descriptions for a position you’re hopeful for, but maybe not entirely qualified for? There are statistics about this – men are more likely to apply for a job they don’t quite meet the qualifications for, still hopeful they’ll move forward in the interview process. On the other hand, women, if they don’t meet the qualifications, simply don’t apply. It’s fascinating to me, and certainly a product of our social structure.
As Paul writes to Timothy, there are qualifications for church leadership positions. Paul cares deeply that those who lead others toward Jesus hold themselves to a high social and ethical standard. This didn’t only apply to men. The original Greek is inclusive of women in these offices. We know from Paul’s other letters that women held the position of deacon. (See Phoebe in Romans 16.) Paul’s charge to Timothy is to elevate respected and trustworthy people into these important roles.
Paul ends this chapter with a creed or hymn in verse 16, reminding Timothy that the church’s role is to share this Gospel truth about Christ – he was divine and human, he had a heavenly origin and earthly life, and he is exalted above all.
Questions for reflection:
- Think about leaders of the faith that you know. Do they carry themselves in a way you’d follow? (Hopefully yes!) There are plenty of articles and stories today documenting church leaders who failed in this capacity. Spend some time asking God what leadership traits he’s given you and how you can use them for his glory.
- If someone asked you for a 30-second speech about who Jesus is and what you believe, what would you say to them?