Paul sets down the simple structure of Church leadership, elders and deacons. In the letters to Timothy and Titus (the Pastoral Epistles), he emphasises the need for sound doctrine (1.3; 4.6, 13, 16; 2 Tim 2.15; Titus 1.9). Leaders were appointed by God (Acts 20.28), and recognised by the church (1 Thess 5.12-13). They are accountable (Heb 13.17).

v1: Spiritual ambition is a good thing, but must be accompanied by spiritual qualities. An elder or deacon is chosen because he already measures up, not in order to attain such qualities. Even so, there is a constant challenge to work in these things consistently. Equally, godly character is for all to attain.

v2-3: Paul lists a number of qualities.

Be temperate, not violent, not quarrelsome; in situations of dispute or conflict, there is a danger that bad attitudes can be exposed. In such situations, the elder must be blameless.

Able to teach, gentle; with a responsibility for others, the elder must teach; his content and his manner must be consistent.

v4-5: The example in the home; the special responsibility to take care of the flock of God (Acts 20.28), and to manage his own household well. This involves forethought and provision, rather than mere spontaneous action.

In the culture of the first century, the head of the house was particularly responsible for the exercise of necessary punishment. It was illegal for another person to carry out punishment. It therefore fell to the head to do this, and any failure to do so was a disgrace to the whole family. The head of the family would fail to control his family correctly, and he would not be a good testimony to those outside the family, hence v7. (The fact that a child might become rebellious is not necessarily due to parental failure.)

v6: A recent convert should not be given such responsibility, as there is a danger of pride.

v7: A poor reputation amongst unbelievers is not good. The local church finds itself in the world, having contact with unbelievers. Therefore it is important that its leaders enjoy a reputation for integrity.

v8-9: Deacons are also to be men of godliness, worthy of respect, sincere, avoiding wine and greed. Even if they do not teach, they are to hold the deep truths of the faith.

v10: Deacons (and elders) must first be proved, then be recognised. We are commanded to be faithful in little things first. Having been found blameless, they are then appointed.

v11: The NIV margin reading is probably the best here, "likewise, women.." implying the call on women to serve as deaconesses in the church. This follows the style of v8, "likewise deacons.." Since the role of a deacon is mainly pastoral, the role of the deaconess is similarly pastoral.

v12-13: Deacons, like elders, must manage their households well. Those who serve well are highly commended.

v14: Paul's plan and intention was to visit Timothy.

v15: Why Paul wrote; so that the people would know how to conduct themselves in the household of God. The household of God, the church, is the pillar and foundation of the truth. See Eph 2.19-22. Here is great honour for a local church. We dare not neglect this God-appointed way of life.

v16: Jesus Christ is the mystery of godliness. Paul may be quoting an early hymn; these words declare truth, but not to promote controversy ("beyond all question"); the mystery is such that unbelievers cannot understand it.

God appeared in a body; He became man in Christ; Christ was pre-existent, and appeared in the body.

Christ was vindicated by the Spirit, exercising a life of utter power; His own claims were proved true (Rom 1.4).

Christ was seen by angels, since the Son of God walked on the earth.

Christ was preached among the Gentiles, as well as the Jews; as a result many believed on Him. Faith comes by hearing the word of God.

Christ was taken up into glory, for He was worthy of glory.

'How pale and tedious would this world be without mystery.' (Ben Kingsley, The Physician)