I Timothy 3  Paul gives Timothy instructions for the leadership of the church. Most of this chapter focuses on the character of the elders and deacons.  These important positions of leadership should be filled by those men who are "above reproach".   Paul defines that as "temperate, prudent, respectable, hospitable, able to teach.. "   Not only do those in authority in the church need to manage his own life.. but he is responsible for helping his wife and his children... taking care of their spiritual formation as well. 

A "good reputation" is vital for anyone representing the church. Here it is about a deacon.. but perhaps we should think about it for everyone who serves in the church in some  or any capacity.  Paul includes the wives of the deacons in his instructions as well, so I think it is fitting for both men and women to consider the words Paul wrote as important for all of us in the church. 

Just look at some of the traits.. "not addicted to wine or pugnacious, but gentle, uncontentious, free from the love of money... " v3;  " men of dignity, not double-tongued.. or found of sordid gain... " (v9); "Women must likewise be dignified, not malicious gossips, but temperate, faithful in all things." (v11). 

Paul sums this up in verse 15 "I write so that you may know how one ought to conduct himself in the church of the living God, the pillar and support of the truth." 

Seems like we need to look closely at ourselves and our church leadership.. are we hitting the mark? How is our reputation.. as an individual.. as a church? How are we conducting ourselves?

Paul ends this chapter with a beautiful confession of the "mystery of godliness"-the gospel of  Christ:  

"He who was revealed in the flesh. ( incarnation)

Was vindicated in the Spirit. (resurrection)

Beheld by angels. (exaltation)

Proclaimed among the nations. ( proclamation)

Believed on in the world. ( redemption)

Taken up in glory." ( ascension) 

Paul always takes his readers back to the foundation.. . to what is most important.. to Jesus Christ.. and Him glorified. 

Father thank You for the Word that leads us to Your heart.. to the truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ our wonderful Lord and Your faithful Son.  Help us to become more and more like Jesus. Shape our character to conform to His image. May we truly be people who have a reputation of being like Jesus!  Oh to be like Him!  Fill us Spirit of the Living God and complete what You have started in us who believe. We ask this in Jesus' name. amen.