My reason for leaving you in Crete was that you might put in order what had been left unsettled, and appoint Officers of the Church in the various towns, as I myself directed you.

To all Christ's People at Philippi, with the Presiding Officers and Assistants, from Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus.

How true is that saying! When a man aspires to be a Presiding-Officer in the Church, he is ambitious for a noble task.

As

Who, then is that trustworthy, careful servant, who has been placed by his master over his household, to give them their food at the proper time?

"Who, then," replied the Master, "is that trustworthy steward, the careful man, who will be placed by his master over his establishment, to give them their rations at the proper time?

Let men look upon us as Christ's servants, and as stewards of the hidden truths of God.

Whatever the gift that each has received, use it in the service of others, as good stewards of the varied bounty of God.

Not selfwilled

especially those who, following the promptings of their lower nature, indulge their polluting passions and despise all control. Audacious and self-willed, they feel no awe of the Mighty, maligning them,

Not soon

Mark this, my dear Brothers--Let every one be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry;

Not given to wine

So, too, that the older women should be reverent in their demeanor, and that they should avoid scandal, and beware of becoming slaves to drink;

Do not drink wine to excess, for that leads to profligacy; but seek to be filled with the Spirit of God, and speak to one another in psalms and hymns and sacred songs.

not addicted to drink or brawling, but of a forbearing and peaceable disposition, and not a lover of money;

Not given to filthy

not addicted to drink or brawling, but of a forbearing and peaceable disposition, and not a lover of money;

I urge you to be true shepherds of the flock of God among you, not because you are compelled, but of your own free will; not from a base love of gain, but with a ready spirit;

General references

Do not continue to drink water only, but take a little wine on account of the weakness of your stomach, and your frequent ailments.