The Preacher and Ethics

Sin Troubles Preachers Too 1 Timothy 1:12-17 –Coffman says the word "insolent" describes "a person who takes a savage personal delight and a malicious enjoyment in the afflictions inflicted upon another." –Romans 7:24-25a Paul knew sin’s impact –Recognizing his freedom from sin caused him to burst forth in thankful praise and to preach Galatians 2:11-17

An Example of a True Believer 1 Timothy 4:12 –In speech (Ephesians 4:15) –In conduct (Ephesians 4:21-24; 2 Peter 3:11; Philippians 1:27) –In love (John 13:34-35) –In spirit (John 4:24) –In faith (Hebrews 11:6; Titus 2:9-10 “fidelity”) –In purity (Colossians 3:1-10)

Attend to Three Duties 1 Timothy 4:13 –Reading (Public reading of Scripture; Acts 8:18-32; 13:14-15a; 2 Corinthians 3:14-18) –Exhortation (parakaleo; Encouragement in doing the things the Scriptures direct; Acts 13:15b; 1 Timothy 1:3; 2:1; 5:1; 6:2) –Doctrine (Teaching; 1 Timothy 1:9-11; Romans 6:17; 16:17)

Do Not Neglect the Gift It seems, after reading 2 Timothy 1:6, Paul may have laid his hands on Timothy at the same time the elders did. If so, the gift mentioned here could be miraculous. However, it does not have to be miraculous since Romans 12:3-8 lists some things called gifts which do not have to be miraculously given. In fact, in this context, it appears that Paul is calling the duties Timothy has to fulfill a gift. His work may have been prophesied, like the work of Paul and Barnabas was prophesied (Acts 13:1-3). Then the elders' hands would be laid on him to set him apart for the work (1 Timothy 4:14).

Watch Out for Yourself Paul told him to give diligence and apply himself fully to the task before him, much like we say certain men live to hunt or fish. When a preacher makes preaching his life, his growth will be evident to all. Timothy was to pay close attention to the way he lived as well as the things he taught. Just as the elders from Ephesus were first to watch out for their own spiritual condition and then the spiritual condition of the flock they oversaw, a good preacher must first see to it that he lives the Christian life before he tells others how to live. By thus watching how he lived and the way he taught, Paul assured Timothy he could save himself and those who heard his teaching (1 Timothy 4:15-16).

Apply Patience James 1:2-4 Psalm 25:5 Psalm 27:14 Psalm 37:7 Romans 5:1-5

Express Appreciation 2 Timothy 1: Timothy 4:11 Philemon 7 Romans 1:8 2 Corinthians 8:1-5

Be Gentle 2 Timothy 2:24-26 A demonstration of gentle exhortation –“It is a mistake to think that one must be hard and harsh in the pulpit or else he is a compromiser. A preacher may try to support his harshness by appealing to Matthew 23 where Christ condemned the Pharisees, but they overlook Luke 21:41 [sic, 19:41]: “And when he was come near he beheld the city and wept over it.” His condemnation of Matthew 23 was to the point but was out of a breaking heart” (Franklin Camp, 1981 FHU Lectures, pp ).

Be Forgiving Luke 23:34 Acts 7:60 2 Timothy 4:16 Matthew 6:12 Ephesians 4:32

Treat All People Alike 1 Timothy 5:21 James 2:1-13 Tax collectors and sinners were often in the company of our Lord –Luke 15:1-2

Do Not Encourage or Do Harmful Things Do not let people criticize elders in your presence – 1 Timothy 5:19-20 Do not let people talk bad about a brother – Romans 1:28, 30; 2 Corinthians 12:20-21) Do not misuse the pulpit – speak for God, do not resolve personal matters (Matthew 18:15-17; 2 Timothy 2:24-26) Do not leave bills unpaid – Romans 13:8

Does Not Sow Division Proverbs 6:12-15 Proverbs 6:16-19 He should recognize the value of unity and do his best to promote it. –Psalm 133:1 –1 Corinthians 1:10-17 –1 Corinthians 6:6-7 –Romans 14 –1 Corinthians 8 –1 Corinthians 10