This post is Day 22 in a series of studies about “Mysteries and Secrets”. I strongly suggest you begin with the introduction to this study, please click here to read it.

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Mysteries and Secrets – Day 22

Paul tells Timothy what he must look for as he chooses elders and deacons to help in the things that are getting too much for this young pastor. Most leaders go through times when they feel the work is too much for them. They wonder where to go for help.

1 Timothy 3:16

Beyond all question, the mystery from which true godliness springs is great: He appeared in the flesh, was vindicated by the Spirit, was seen by angels, was preached among the nations, was believed on in the world, was taken up in glory.

The Thought

In this verse we read a quick summary of the mystery of the life of Christ. Paul is writing to his prodigy and encouraging him to think more deeply about who Jesus is, and we can imagine that Paul is praying for Timothy to live a life of true godliness.

Without mentioning the name of Jesus most readers can quickly identify the person described in the verse above, and Paul is indirectly saying don’t ever forget who Jesus is, that’s the essential part of being a leader in Christian circles.

The whole chapter of 1 Timothy 3 is advice for a young pastor or priest on how to run his church describing that as the pillar and foundation of the truth (v15).

Paul tells Timothy what he must look for as he chooses elders and deacons to help in the things that are getting too much for this young pastor. Most leaders go through times when they feel the work is too much for them. They wonder where to go for help. They often find that the helpers who volunteer are as much a hindrance as a help, so Paul gives Timothy good advice before he invites help from the wrong people.

Action

Read 1 Timothy 3 today and as you do, pray for the leaders in the churches in your area, that each one would do all they do in accordance with Biblical principles.

Apply the same principles to yourself and to your family. Thank Jesus for having brought you so far in your faith, and pray for continued spiritual growth.

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