An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, prudent, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, (1 Timothy 3:2)
The word “then” very clearly ties this verse to the previous verse. Because the office of overseer is a fine work:
Must be above reproach
The pastor’s character must be such that any hint of impropriety will be quickly dismissed as false.
The husband of one wife
While this passage does not specifically say “one wife” we can infer from the Apostles other writings that this is the case. Additionally, a wife can be a great helpmate to a pastor.
temperate, prudent
The KJV uses the words “vigilant, sober”. the overseer must be actively involved in the work. He cannot afford to be distracted, flippant, or careless with his calling.
respectable
As a representative of the church, the pastor should be held in high regard by those within and without the church.
hospitable
A pastor unwilling to meet and socialize with his congregation isn’t really much of a pastor.
able to teach
This would counter our current culture of “teaching pastors” and “administrative pastors”. The office of overseer should be manned by one who can deliver God’s message to His people.
Notes: 1 Timothy 3:2
The word “then” very clearly ties this verse to the previous verse. Because the office of overseer is a fine work:
Must be above reproach
The pastor’s character must be such that any hint of impropriety will be quickly dismissed as false.
The husband of one wife
While this passage does not specifically say “one wife” we can infer from the Apostles other writings that this is the case. Additionally, a wife can be a great helpmate to a pastor.
temperate, prudent
The KJV uses the words “vigilant, sober”. the overseer must be actively involved in the work. He cannot afford to be distracted, flippant, or careless with his calling.
respectable
As a representative of the church, the pastor should be held in high regard by those within and without the church.
hospitable
A pastor unwilling to meet and socialize with his congregation isn’t really much of a pastor.
able to teach
This would counter our current culture of “teaching pastors” and “administrative pastors”. The office of overseer should be manned by one who can deliver God’s message to His people.