July 3, 2016

Qualifications for deacons and hope for the church

Preacher: Matt E. Series: Discipleship in the church Topic: Discipleship Scripture: 1 Timothy 3:8–16

Discipleship in the church
Qualifications for deacons-outline
1 Timothy 3:8-16
Deacons must be godly, holding to the faith, and good managers of their households

1) Deacons likewise must be dignified, not double-tongued, not addicted to much wine, not greedy for dishonest gain, 3:8.
The word for Deacon simply means “servant”. Since all Christians are to serve the Lord and others, why is there a group of leaders called “deacons”? In what ways are these qualities vital for deacons?

2) They must hold the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience, 3:9.
The “mystery of the faith” roughly means gospel. Why is it important that deacons hold to the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience?

3) And let them also be tested first; then let them serve as deacons if they prove themselves blameless, 3:10.
How might deacons be “tested”? Why do you think it’s necessary for deacons to be blameless?

4) Their wives likewise must be dignified, not slanderers, but sober-minded, faithful in all things, 3:11.
Why do you think deacons’ wives must meet these standards?

5) Let deacons each be the husband of one wife, managing their children and their own households well, 3:12.
Why must deacons be faithful husbands and good managers of their households?

6) For those who serve well as deacons gain a good standing for themselves and also great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus, 3:13.
In what ways is this an encouragement to deacons?

7) I hope to come to you soon, but I am writing these things to you so that, if I delay, you may know how one ought to behave in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, a pillar and buttress of the truth, 3:14-15.
This is the central reason for Paul’s writing to Timothy. Comment on its significance.

8) Great indeed, we confess, is the mystery of godliness: He was manifested in the flesh, vindicated by the Spirit, seen by angels, proclaimed among the nations, believed on in the world, taken up in glory, 3:16.
These are aspects of Jesus Christ. Why does Paul call this the “mystery of godliness”? (“Mystery” means we couldn’t know these things unless God revealed them).

other sermons in this series

Jan 29

2017

The Gospel and relationships

Preacher: Matt E. Scripture: 2 Timothy 4:9–22 Series: Discipleship in the church

Jan 22

2017

Preaching and Preserving

Preacher: Gary S. Scripture: 2 Timothy 4:1–8 Series: Discipleship in the church

Jan 1

2017

Continue in godliness and God's Word

Preacher: Gary S. Scripture: 2 Timothy 3:10–17 Series: Discipleship in the church