Many people associate safety with certain places. Statistically, churches are among the safest locations. However, for many, the church has been a place of deep hurt, stemming from personal experiences, the experiences of loved ones, hypocritical leaders, or even significant doctrinal shifts. The #MeToo and #ChurchToo movements have brought these painful realities to light, highlighting the need for healing and healthy church environments. While church hurt is, sadly, inevitable, God's power to heal is undeniable, often working through the very church that caused the pain, or another. Healing from church hurt mirrors healing from any relational hurt; it requires time, grace, and a commitment to healthy spiritual growth.
A healthy church is vital for spiritual well-being. This leads us to the topic of church health, specifically as explored in 1 Timothy. This sermon series, which will cover 1 Timothy 3 until Easter and then 2 Timothy in the summer, delves into the crucial aspects of church leadership and governance. Erin acknowledges that some of the content in 1 Timothy 3 might be challenging or even uncomfortable, but it's essential to address these difficult topics openly and honestly.
The Bible doesn't provide specific bylaws for church governance. Different churches operate under various structures, reflecting the diverse cultural contexts in which they exist. Erin's church, Riverwood, takes a congregational approach. This week's lesson focuses on the roles of elders and deacons, as outlined in 1 Timothy 3.
The passage describes overseers (bishops, pastors, elders) as needing to be above reproach, husbands of one wife, sober, self-controlled, and capable of managing their households well. An overseer should not be a recent convert and should be well-regarded by outsiders. At Riverwood, the terms elder and pastor are used synonymously.
The application of biblical principles often intersects with cultural norms. Erin shares an example of a missionary in an Asian culture where honor and avoiding direct confrontation were highly valued. While verses emphasizing overlooking offenses resonated, verses promoting confrontation proved more challenging. This highlights how pastors must adapt their teaching to the specific cultural context.
In contrast, American culture often views confrontation as an act of love. This difference underscores the need for careful interpretation and application of biblical teachings on various topics, including marriage, finances, leadership, sexuality, and alcohol consumption.
1 Timothy 3 has sparked considerable debate, particularly regarding gender roles in church leadership. The passage's male-focused language clashes with the emphasis on gender equality prevalent in Western culture. This has led to a significant divide between egalitarian and complementarian viewpoints.
Egalitarians believe men and women are equal in all areas, including church leadership. Complementarians, on the other hand, believe men and women have distinct but complementary roles. This is a contentious issue, with some individuals leaving churches over differing interpretations. Erin has witnessed harsh judgment between both groups.
Riverwood holds a complementarian view, not because it believes men are superior, but based on its interpretation of scripture. Erin himself has shifted his perspective from egalitarian to complementarian over time. He emphasizes that this is not a salvation issue; salvation comes through Christ alone. Riverwood partners with egalitarian churches and welcomes members from all viewpoints. However, Riverwood reserves the office of Elder/Pastor for men.
Both egalitarians and complementarians can agree on the importance of character in church leadership, as emphasized in 1 Timothy 3. The passage highlights the need for leaders who are above reproach, faithful, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, gentle, and Christ-like. Erin cautions against prioritizing outward gifts over character, noting that gifted leaders can sometimes mask deeper flaws, leading to scandals.
Erin offers advice on choosing a healthy church: look for a church that loves Jesus, proclaims the gospel, teaches from scripture, is full of grace, and treats people well. Don't choose a church solely based on gifted teaching, great music, or good coffee; these can mask deeper issues. Assess the overall health of the church; a gifted pastor might mistreat staff, and great music might mask a gossiping worship leader. Healthy churches build people up.
The passage also addresses the accountability of church leaders. False accusations against elders should not be admitted without evidence from two or three witnesses. Godly leaders are crucial for a healthy church, and protecting them is vital. Persistent sin, however, should be addressed with public rebuke if the sin is public. Impartiality is crucial; avoid favoritism and prejudice. Leadership does not equate to superiority.
The passage also describes the qualifications for deacons: dignified, not double-tongued, not greedy, holding faith with a clear conscience, tested before serving, and with wives who are also dignified, not slanderers, sober-minded, and faithful. The key difference between elders and deacons is that elders teach, while deacons serve. Elders focus on the big picture, while deacons implement, serve, and create a ministry environment.
The interpretation of "wives" in the passage regarding deacons is debated. Some believe it refers to the wives of deacons, while others believe it could include women serving as deacons. Erin's church employs female staff, indicating a leaning towards women deacons, but he accepts that other churches may have only male deacons. Regardless of interpretation, women are called to dignified, godly lives.
True church leadership is defined by humility, integrity, and gospel-centered service, not wealth, tenure, or personality. Not everyone is called to formal leadership roles, but all are called to Christ-like living. Jesus's life exemplifies ideal leadership; following Christ necessitates living with his character and love. Erin encourages seeking humble, integrity-filled lives to influence others towards Christ. Healthy church leadership is crucial for mutual support and fulfilling God's purpose. He concludes by encouraging listeners to allow the Holy Spirit to work through them to impact others spiritually.
