I Timothy 3:1-7
In today’s reading various translations use the term “bishop” or “overseer” in verses 1 and 2. However, I think that Paul is using that term to refer to the head of a congregation, so a better understanding would be “priest”. I draw this conclusion because Paul is writing to Timothy in Ephesus, a rather large city with the possibility of a number of congregations (most likely, house-churches). Timothy himself is already the “overseer” of all the Christian converts in the area, effectively acting as our modern-day bishop. So “priest” makes more sense for today’s reading. It also follows that tomorrow’s reading about deacons would refer to the next level down from the office about which we read today, more argument for today’s office being that of priest.
He must not be a recent convert, or he may become puffed up with conceit and fall into the condemnation of the devil. (v. 6, ESV) The NKJV translation uses “pride” instead of “conceit”, which I think helps me/us to relate better. Conceit seems to me to take one step stronger than pride, when someone begins to actively demonstrate his/her pride by talking him/herself up, taking on a different aura. Conceit sounds more devious. I would maintain that we all have problems with pride, but that not everyone is conceited. My thoughts.
Slava Bohu!
I was pondering over the importance Paul puts on the leader’s family. Harmonious, respectful relationships. We all have so much to hear and act on this, not just church leaders, but any leader, any father/parent.