Reflection
- (1Ti 3:8 ESV) Deacons likewise must be dignified, not double-tongued, not addicted to much wine, not greedy for dishonest gain.
- (1Ti 3:9 ESV) They must hold the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience.
- (1Ti 3:10 ESV) And let them also be tested first; then let them serve as deacons if they prove themselves blameless.
- (1Ti 3:11 ESV) Their wives likewise must be dignified, not slanderers, but sober-minded, faithful in all things.
- (1Ti 3:12 ESV) Let deacons each be the husband of one wife, managing their children and their own households well.
- (1Ti 3:13 ESV) For those who serve well as deacons gain a good standing for themselves and also great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.
Discussion
Thinking about people in leadership, whether in the home or leading a nation, their integrity is key. We have all heard the words, “Do as I say, not as I do.” We have all seen a leader behave in one way, and instruct those under their leadership to obey in another way. Consider leaders on a national level who seemingly lead double lives. One of the fine, upstanding, moral examples publicly. Another of moral unraveling in their “personal” lives.
In the Christian community, however, we are called to more. We are called to a higher standing. Our lives are to be marked out as different.
Connection
Why is is vital for a someone to lead by example?
Is there an example from your life when you lost respect for someone in a leadership position because of their lack of integrity?
Consider your role in the home, the church, and the community. What importance does “practicing what you preach” carry?
How has God modeled integrity in leadership?
How can you lead in service to Christ through His church?
Expansion
God is perfect, sovereign, and in control of everything
Malachi 3:6-7, James 1:17-18, 1 Kings 8:27, Jeremiah 23:23-24, Hebrews 13:5, Matthew 28:18-20, Job 31:4, Job 9:19, Job 31:4, Rev 19:6, Luke 1:37, Isaiah 40:28, Romans 9:13-18, Romans 11:35-36, Psalm 147:5, 1 Timothy 1:17, Jude 1:25, Romans 16:27, Isaiah 48:8, Matthew 6:31-34, Isaiah 6:3, Revelation 4:8, Psalm 111:9, Hebrews 10:26-31
God Is Immutable: He Does Not Change.
Malachi 3:6-7, James 1:17-18