Day 350

Good Pastors

Read: 1 Timothy

The letters of 1 and 2 Timothy and Titus are called the “Pastoral Epistles” because in them Paul gives advice to his helpers on how to be good pastors.

The addressee named Timothy must be prayerful and teach the people to whom he ministers to pray diligently (2:1-4). They should not focus on clothing but rather on inner beauty (vv. 9-10). They must be careful to choose good leaders who have the right qualities and practices (3:1-12). The word “overseer” (or “bishop” in other translations) is another word for elder. Elders have responsibility for the spiritual oversight of a congregation, and its members should recognize this.

Timothy is to focus on Scripture reading, preaching, and teaching (4:13). People in different categories in the congregation (older, younger, men, women) are each to play an appropriate role in the life of the church. The importance of teaching is emphasized (6:2b-10). A healthy church is one having a strong teaching ministry based on Scripture. Members of all ages should be enrolled in this educational program. We must continue to be learners all our lives. Are you in some Bible study group in your church?

Pastors must guard against the “desire to be rich” (6:9). For “the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils” (v. 10 ESV) and has led to the downfall of some but “as for you, man of God, flee these things. Pursue righteousness” (v. 11 ESV).

PRAYER
Father, help both pastors and laypeople to guard themselves from the love of money. In Jesus’ name.