A Godly Dignity

In 1 Timothy we have many descriptions of works within the church. In fact, in chapter 3, Paul gives his purpose for his writing, “…so that you will know how one ought to conduct himself in the household of God…” (v. 15, NASB). With this point made, we are going to look at a simple, yet important quality that all Christians should obtain.

In the third chapter, Paul sheds light on three groups of people within the church; elders, deacons, and women. He gives great detail on elders, followed by deacons, and wedged between the description of deacons is a small evaluation of the Christian woman.  With all the great information said about these groups, there is one similar quality they share, and that is dignity (3:4, 8 – “dignified” v. 11). Dignity is a simple word having the idea of “respect” and “honor,” but nonetheless, a quality shared by all three groups of Christians within the text. 

Why is it that all three share this quality of dignity? Perhaps it is outward perception. When the world sees a Christian going to drunken parties, looking at ill clad individuals, using foul language, and committing immoral practices, does that bring respect to God? Does that bring respect to us as Christians? Or, perhaps it is inward perception, the inner man - our conscience that is judged by God.

Yes, it seems to be perception from others, and our stance with God. What are our actions conveying? Are we men and women of dignity, or are we disrespectful to humanity and to God? Christians have a large target on their back. If people do not see them living the life they are supposed to, unfortunately, not only are they ridiculed, but our Holy and innocent Lord becomes a laughing stock to the world. Let us seek to be dignified – live what we preach, live how the bible tells us, and live, as Paul mentioned many times to Timothy, in a godly manner before our Lord.