GOOD CHRISTIAN OVERSEERS

1 Timothy 3:1-16 Key Verse: 3:1

Here is a trustworthy saying: Whoever aspires to be an overseer desires a noble task.

1. Read verse 1. What is Paul's trustworthy saying? What is an overseer? In what sense are all Christians leaders in the world? (Mt 5:14) What is the "noble task"? (2Ti 3:16,17) Why must one who would be a leader make such a decision of faith? (Acts 19:21; Jn 6:66-69)

2. What are the basic qualifications for a Christian leader? (2-3) How is "self-controlled." related to the other qualifications in verses 2-3? (Pr 16:32) Why is showing hospitality important?

3. What does it mean to "manage his own family well"? (4,5,12) How can one do this? Why is this necessary for one who would be a leader? What can we learn in verses 6-7 about how to defeat the devil?

4. Read verses 8-12. What kind of persons should deacons be? Why should they be diligent Bible students? (9; Jn 8:31,32)) What kind of persons should the wives of leaders be? (11) What are the marks of a trustworthy woman?

5. Read verses 14-15. Who belongs to God's household? Why is the church that teaches the Bible called the "pillar and foundation of truth"? Compare verse 16 with Jn 1:14. How does this poem describe the gospel of Jesus and proclaim its power and glory?