April 25
‘Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.’ Hebrews 13:7
Bible reading: 1 Timothy 3:1-7 (Go to the Bible passage)
Many Bible versions use the word ‘office’ or ‘position’ in the first verse of today’s passage. In the original Greek text, however, no mention is made of anything like this. It says, ‘aspires to oversight’. In the NIV it says correctly, ‘Whoever aspires to be an overseer desires a noble task.’
Contrary to scripture, the church has made a clear distinction between laymen and clergymen, but this is not what Paul was writing about. The aspiration in this passage to be an overseer is not a desire for status, but a heartfelt longing to serve the church. An overseer watches over, or guards, the church. The love of Christ awakens this desire in a person and the whole congregation notices this and thanks God for it. They take note, because this brother starts caring for the church with the same love and devotion he has for his own family.
God does not mold us into His servants at university, but in daily life. He does not call us because of how well-spoken we are, for - at the most - our own words will judge us (Luke 19:22). He calls us because of our deeds in our daily lives where we must be found faithful.
This is why we read in the Bible verse of today, ‘Consider the outcome of their way of life’. ‘Their way of life’ refers to their attitude, their frame of mind, which is best revealed in difficult situations. ‘The outcome of their way of life’ refers to the result of their attitude in life.
Who has come to love Jesus Christ, has come to love those who belong to Jesus. This makes one long to serve His church, the congregation of believers. God will certainly use us for that, if we have learned in our own house to give guidance to our own family with the love of Christ. For only with this attitude, we can lead God’s people in His ways.

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