FOLLOWING THE ORIGINAL AUTHOR'S INTENT AT THE PARAGRAPH LEVEL
This is a study guide commentary, which means that you are responsible for your own interpretation of the Bible. Each of us must walk in the light we have. You, the Bible, and the Holy Spirit are priority in interpretation. You must not relinquish this to a commentator.
Read the chapter in one sitting. Identify the subjects. Compare your subject divisions with the five translations above. Paragraphing is not inspired but it is the key to following the original author's intent which is the heart of interpretation. Every paragraph has one and only one subject.
1. First paragraph
2. Second paragraph
3. Third paragraph
4. Etc.
CONTEXTUAL INSIGHTS
A. This chapter lists three different types of ministers.
1. pastors (1Ti_3:1-7)
2. deacons (1Ti_3:8-10; 1Ti_3:12-13)
3. the widow's role (1Ti_3:11; 1Ti_5:9-16) or deaconesses (cf. Rom_16:1)
B. These qualifications may be in direct contrast to the false teachers' lifestyle and teachings.
C. 1Ti_3:16 is an early creedal statement or hymn. Paul often incorporated this type of material (cf. Eph_5:19; Php_2:6-11; Col_1:15-16; Col_3:15-20; 2Ti_2:11-13). The rhythmic structure is clearly seen in the six aorist passive indicative verbs combined with five locative or instrumental grammatical phrases.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
This is a study guide commentary, which means that you are responsible for your own interpretation of the Bible. Each of us must walk in the light we have. You, the Bible, and the Holy Spirit are priority in interpretation. You must not relinquish this to a commentator.
These discussion questions are provided to help you think through the major issues of this section of the book. They are meant to be thought provoking, not definitive.
1. How many types of ministers are there?
2. Why are pastors, bishops, and elders called different names in the NT?
3. Did the NT have deaconesses? If so, what was their function?
4. Why is 1Ti_3:16 thought to be a Christian hymn about Christ?