Sermons

“Aspires” (v. 1)—A desire, sense of calling to serve the body of Christ by teaching and leading.
“Above reproach” (v. 2)—Not perfect, but a manner of life that doesn’t bring shame to Christ and His Church.
“Husband of one wife”—Faithful to his wife; a “one-woman man.”
“Temperate”—self-controlled, level-headed.
“Prudent”—Thoughtful, sensible, self-controlled.
“Respectable”—Acts in fitting and honorable ways.
“Hospitable”—Loves others, including strangers; approachable and welcoming.
“Able to teach”—Can open God’s Word and clearly and faithfully explain and apply it, whether publicly or one-on-one.
“Not addicted to wine” (v. 3)—Not controlled by pleasure or chemicals, but by the Holy Spirit.
“Not...pugnacious, but gentle”—Not violent-tempered; not the sort that responds to disagreements or trials by hitting or threatening.
“Peaceable”—Not hunting for a fight, not a combatant. ESV, “not quarrelsome.” See 2 Tim. 2:23-26.
“Free from the love of money”—Motivated by love for the flock, not love for a paycheck.
“Manages his own household well” (v. 4-5)—Leads, teaches, and corrects his children faithfully. If his children are out of control, there’s little reason to think the church will be better handled.
“Not a new convert” (v. 6)—Has had time to grow in the faith, and has done so; the question isn’t one of seniority, but of maturity.
“A good reputation with those outside the church” (v. 7)—His character and reputation make it harder for non-Christians to slander the gospel and the church, rather than giving them ammunition.