Good Family Image.1 Timothy 3:11-13.
Their wives likewise must be dignified, not slanderers, but sober-minded, faithful in all things. Let deacons each be the husband of one wife, managing their children and their households well. Those who serve well as deacons gain a good standing for themselves and also great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.
Dear Household of Faith,
This section on leadership concludes with instructions about the families of deacons. Some things are said here that was not said of elders’ families. We can assume that they apply, because in any case, these standards apply to all Christians, really.
Conduct (v. 11). A married man in the Lord’s service cannot separate himself from his wife and family. The wife ought to carry herself with the dignity that befits a servant of God, holding her tongue to avoid the slander of gossip and exercising sobriety and faithfulness, else she renders her husband unfit to serve.
Control (v. 12). The deacon should be characterized by control _Of Self_. He should be the husband of one wife or literally, the man of one woman. Roving eyes should not be found on the head of a servant of the church. Of Subordinates, Both children and workers are part of the “household”. It is necessary to mention here that grown children are not a responsibility of the parents anymore. As adults, they make their choices. Workers need to be led with dignity, integrity, and discipline. How the deacon manages his business has a direct bearing on the reputation of the church.
Confidence (v. 13). There are benefits accruing from exemplary, faithful service. The deacon who serves well gains Affirmation. While public acknowledgment should not be the goal of a servant of God, faithful service does yield such. Assurance. There is a certain sense of security that comes with the knowledge that one has done the right thing and not brought shame or disrepute to the name of Christ. It further assures one of one’s standing before God and is a good motivation for service. It is advisable to take service with integrity seriously.
Your Loving Pastor Chris.