1 Tim. 3:11-12 – Qualifications for Wives & Families
Introduction:
There’s plenty of controversy associated w/3:11. Does Paul introduce a new class of people closely associated with deacons? 1 Tim. 3:8-13 – is divided into 4 sections.Does 3:11 refer to women in general or wives of deacons? The context determines the answer. Some have taken 3:11 to mean that: 1) Paul addressing women who are deacons. (women officers in the church) 2) Women who assist deacons. 3) Wives who assist their deacon husbands. Who is in question in 3:11?
I. Wives of deacons are under consideration here.
Wives must be like their husbands (3:8-9)
Wives must be of the same moral character as their husbands.
Wives are to be above reproach.
3:11 is not an awkward interruption of thought in the middle of male deacon’s requirements.
II. God’s expectations for deacon’s wives.
Wives are to be dignified.
Wives are not to be malicious gossips.
1. Wording here means slanderous or malicious talkers.
2. God expects us to make peace; speak in love; truth
Wives are to be temperate. involves stable character
3. Refers to a woman who has balanced judgment and self control.
4. Wives who lack these qualities will undermine a deacon’s service within the congregation.
Wives are to be faithful in all things.
5. She is to be loyal to God! Unshakeable!
6. Faithfulness marked all the great women & men of God!
a) Heb. 3:5; Neh. 7:2; 9:8; Col. 1:7
b) In all things. in every relationship; In every sphere of life
III. 3:12 – Family Requirements.
The need for marital purity. Must be husband of 1 wife.
It expresses an exemplary marital relationship; one above reproach.
Phrase refers to a "1 woman" man.
Good managers of their children & households
Emphasis on "good" here. Properly; excellently.
7. A candidate must supervise his family well.
Children must obey & submit to his leadership in the home.
Not a spirit crushing dictatorship.
but lovingly in the spirit of Eph. 6:4
Father must not be passive or disinterested in his children.
He must actively guide/care for them & the entire household.
See Pro. 3:12; 23:13-14; 29:17
A man’s ability to manage God’s church is directly related to his ability to manage his household.
Conclusion:
Qualifications are important. Standard every Christian needs to be living up to. Especially those who wish to lead.