1st Timothy 3:14-15 Although I hope to come to you soon, I am writing you these instructions so that, 15 if I am delayed, you will know how people ought to conduct themselves in God’s household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth.
Paul was hoping to come to Ephesus soon but in case he was delayed he wanted Timothy to know how people ought to conduct themselves in the household of God. In the case of the church at Ephesus Timothy was to command certain people not to teach false doctrine any longer (1:4). The church needed to quit wasting time with meaningless talk (1:6). They were to make prayer a top priority, praying for all people, especially those in positions of authority (2:1-2) so that they might live peaceful lives in all godliness (2:2) and so all people would have an opportunity to be saved and come to a knowledge of the truth (2:4). Men and women were to accept their proper roles within the church which included the men leading properly (2:8-14). Thus we get the instructions in 1st Timothy 3 concerning church leaders.
1st Timothy 3:1-7 gives a list of qualifications for men who desire the task of serving as an elder. The position of elder was and is of utmost importance in the local congregations of the Lord’s church. It is important to remember that being above reproach (3:2) does not mean being perfect, no man can be perfect. The key is what type of behavior the man is characterized by. Does the man desire the task of serving as an elder (3:1), in other words does he have the proper motivation? Is he known for being a faithful husband and father (3:2)? Is he characterized as being temperate, self-controlled, respectable, and hospitable (3:2)? Is the man able to teach (3:2)? Is he characterized as a sober, gentle person that isn’t quarrelsome or greedy (3:3)? Does he manage his household well, does his family treat him with proper respect, and does he do the same to the members of his house-hold (3:4)? Is he mature and experienced in the faith (3:6)? Does he have a good reputation outside the church (3:7)? If a man meets these criteria he is qualified to serve as an elder in the Lord’s church.