Gather with us to worship the God who saves sinners.

1 Timothy 3:1-2a | Above Reproach By Faith In The Gospel

Jun 8, 2025    John Cole

SERMON IN A SENTENCE: As the church faithfully gathers to build up our faith in the gospel, God sanctifies all the church—and some men for the work of pastoring. || Below is the digital handout content for the sermon. Click the button to get the full written sermon manuscript in PDF format. Keep track of what you watch and take notes with our app: www.rhbaptist.net/apps.

 

AN IMPOSSIBLE GOAL


Christians: Consummated union with Christ is our  goal , and present Christlikeness by shared faith in the gospel is our  journey  toward it.


1 Timothy 3:1–2

1 This is a true saying, If a man desire [aspire/reach for] the office of a bishop [overseer/elder/pastor], he desireth [longs for] a good work. 2 A bishop [overseer/elder/pastor] then must be [presently] blameless [above reproach]…  


GOD’S PLAN FOR ALL THE CHURCH


THE CHURCH NEEDS TO BE PARTICULARLY ABOVE REPROACH.


1 Timothy 5:7


THE CHURCH WILL BE  PERFECTLY  ABOVE REPROACH.


Ephesians 1:3-4; 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24; Jude 24-25


THE CHURCH IS TO BE PRESENTLY ABOVE REPROACH.


Philippians 2:10-16; 2 Peter 3:13-15


GOD’S PROVISION FOR ALL THE CHURCH


PREACHING THE GOSPEL RESULTS IN SOME COMING TO FAITH IN THE GOSPEL.


Romans 1:15-17


FAITH  IN THE GOSPEL GROWS THE CHURCH IN SANCTIFICATION.


Colossians 1:21-23


GATHERING TOGETHER  IN THE GOSPEL GROWS THE CHURCH IN FAITH.


Hebrews 10:22-25; Colossians 3:16; Acts 2:41-42


Normal Means of God’s Grace for Christians:

•Church Fellowship In Sound Doctrine

•Baptism & Lord’s Supper

•Corporate & Individual Prayer


SERMON IN A SENTENCE: As the church  faithfully gathers to build up  our faith in the gospel, God sanctifies all the church—and some men for the work of pastoring. 


1 Timothy 1:12-17; 1 Timothy 3:1-2


This should encourage us to:

1.Prioritize the gathered church.

2.Build up one another’s faith.

3.Pray for new and present pastors.