3:1 The saying is trustworthy See note on 1 Tim 1:15.

3:2 overseer The Greek word used here, episkopos, refers to those appointed to watch over and protect the local church community (see Acts 20:28; 1 Pet 5:2). Paul provides a list of qualifications for overseers to help Timothy and Titus appoint church leaders in their communities. The qualifications for an overseer (episkopos) and an elder (presbyteros) are nearly identical, suggesting that at this point in church history the two roles were functionally equivalent (compare 1 Tim 3:1–7; Titus 1:5–9; see note on Acts 20:28).

Episkopos and Presbyteros Word Study

irreproachable The Greek word used here, anepilēmptos, means to be above criticism. Paul requires that leaders maintain a positive reputation inside and outside the community of believers. If not, their actions may become the subject of criticism and discredit the gospel message (compare 1 Tim 3:2–7). Paul also used this word with respect to the conduct of widows (5:7) and Timothy (6:14).

the husband of one wife The Greek text here, which rendered literally is “the man of one woman,” may mean that an overseer must be either a married man, abstain from polygamy and sexual immorality; avoid remarriage, or be faithful to his wife. Since polygamy was already considered immoral in Graeco-Roman society, it is unlikely that Paul specifically prohibits it here. Also, Paul elsewhere promotes remaining single (1 Cor 7:1) and supports remarriage (1 Cor 7:39). Therefore, it is most likely that Paul is promoting fidelity in the marriage relationship.

self-controlled See note on 2:15.

skillful in teaching Overseers who meet this qualification can refute false teachers and protect the church community from unsound doctrine.

3:3 not addicted to wine Drunkenness leads to recklessness—the opposite of self-control. While Paul does not prohibit the use of wine (5:23), he prohibits being under its control.

not loving money See note on 6:10.

3:4 household The basic unit of social structure in Graeco-Roman society was the household. Paul reasons that if elders cannot manage their own households, they cannot manage the household of God (i.e., the community of believers).

3:6 not newly converted Refers to a person who is relatively new to the faith. Such people are particularly prone to becoming prideful, just as the false teachers were full of pride (1 Tim 6:4).

the condemnation of the devil This could refer to the punishment reserved for the devil because of his pride (compare Jude 9) or to the devil’s temptation of prideful believers. Either way, Paul’s point is to caution the church regarding the suitability of recent converts for ministry. Because recent converts have not yet matured in the faith, they are particularly susceptible to pride and temptation.

3:7 good testimony Paul provided a list of qualifications so that the church would maintain a good reputation among unbelievers. The church’s good standing in society helps believers to maintain healthy relationships and preach the gospel.

the trap of the devil Compare note on 1 Tim 3:6.

3:8 Deacons The Greek word used here, diakonos, generally means “servant.” It is first used in the nt to refer to those who helped with the distribution of food to widows (Acts 6:1–2). As the church grew, deacons assumed more responsibilities. Here, Paul does not focus on responsibilities, but qualifications. Compare Phil 1:1.

Diakonos Word Study

not devoted to much wine See note on v. 3.

not fond of dishonest gain Deacons were designated to meet the needs of the poor and oppressed (Acts 6:1–3). They may increase resources through wise stewardship but not through dishonest means (Acts 5:3).

3:9 mystery of the faith Refers to the gospel message about Jesus Christ as received by the apostles. In other passages, Paul uses similar language to refer to Christ’s work of bringing both Jews and Gentiles into one people of God (e.g., Eph 3:6–9).

3:10 must be tested The exact nature of the test or examination is uncertain; at the very least, it probably involves an evaluation of the candidate’s qualifications based on the list in 1 Tim 3:8–12.

3:11 The wives Refers to either the office of the deaconess or the wife of a deacon.

3:12 Deacons See note on 1 Tim 3:8.

husbands of one wife See note on v. 2.

households See note on v. 4.

3:13 great boldness Describes courage in difficult circumstances. The apostles spoke with great boldness (Acts 4:13, 31; 28:31); qualified deacons must do the same.

3:15 household of God Refers to the community of believers.

the pillar and mainstay Elements that provide support to a structure. These terms describe the household of God, that is, the church, which supports the gospel message by affirming and conforming to sound doctrine.

3:16 mystery of godliness Probably refers to the hymn-like declaration in the rest of this verse.

Who was revealed in the flesh Refers to the incarnation of Jesus Christ (see note on John 1:14).

was vindicated by the Spirit Through the resurrection, the Spirit confirmed Jesus as the Son of God and Lord (Rom 1:3–4; 8:11).

was seen by angels The Greek word used here, angelos, can refer to a human messenger (Luke 7:24). In this context, it refers to supernatural beings in service to God. These angels saw Jesus, possibly during His resurrection appearances (e.g., Luke 24:31; Acts 13:31). Another possibility is that it refers to worship Jesus received from angels in heaven after His ascension. They represent the heavenly realm, while the Gentiles represent the earthly realm. This line highlights the cosmic nature of Christ’s redemptive work.

New Testament Terms for Unseen Divine Beings

was proclaimed among the Gentiles Emphasizes the scope and application of the good news about Jesus Christ (see 1 Tim 2:2). God included the Gentiles (non-Jewish people) in His redemptive plan (Gen 22:17–18; Gal 3:8), and the apostle made them a focus of his missionary efforts (Acts 13:46; Gal 2:7–9).

was taken up in glory Refers to Christ’s ascension to heaven (Acts 1:9–11; Luke 9:51). The Greek word used here for “glory,” doxa, probably refers to God’s presence and the location of Christ’s exultation (Phil 2:9–11; Eph 1:20–23).

Doxa Word Study