The Meaning of 1 Timothy 3:2 Explained

1 Timothy 3:2

KJV: A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach;

YLT: it behoveth, therefore, the overseer to be blameless, of one wife a husband, vigilant, sober, decent, a friend of strangers, apt to teach,

Darby: The overseer then must be irreproachable, husband of one wife, sober, discreet, decorous, hospitable, apt to teach;

ASV: The bishop therefore must be without reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, sober-minded, orderly, given to hospitality, apt to teach;

KJV Reverse Interlinear

A bishop  then  must  be  blameless,  the husband  of one  wife,  vigilant,  sober,  of good behaviour,  given to hospitality,  apt to teach; 

What does 1 Timothy 3:2 Mean?

Context Summary

1 Timothy 3:1-7 - Fitness For Christian Leadership
One of Timothy's most urgent duties was to take care that those who held office in the churches were beyond reproach. The tone of a Christian community is largely that of its leaders. As the margin suggests, the bishop of the early Church was an overseer or presbyter. See Acts 20:28, r.v. God's minister must not only be irreproachable as far as the outside world is concerned, but exemplary in his domestic relations. Such was the facility of divorce among the Jews that it was a common thing for a man to have more than one woman living who had been his wife: but by Paul's ruling this would debar him from holding office, unless his divorce be for cause as provided in Matthew 19:9.
Notice how often those words grave, sober-minded, temperate occur in this chapter. The effect of a good sermon will be spoiled if a man yields to foolish levity or intemperate habits. Moderation, serenity of temper, freedom from love of money, a well-ordered household, an obedient and reverent family-these are signs that a man may aspire to the sacred work of the ministry; and these are the qualities which people should look for in candidates for pulpits, more than those of rhetoric, brilliance, or outward attractiveness. [source]

Chapter Summary: 1 Timothy 3

1  How bishops, deacons, and their wives should be qualified;
14  and to what end Paul wrote to Timothy of these things
15  Of the church, and the blessed truth therein taught and professed

Greek Commentary for 1 Timothy 3:2

The bishop [τον επισκοπον]
The overseer. Old word, in lxx, and inscriptions and papyri. Deissmann (Bible Studies, pp. 230f.) has shown it is applied to communal officials in Rhodes. See note on Acts 20:28 for its use for the elders (presbyters) in Acts 20:17. So also in Titus 1:5, Titus 1:7. See note on Philemon 1:1. The word does not in the N.T. have the monarchical sense found in Ignatius of a bishop over elders. [source]
Without reproach [ανεπιλημπτον]
Accusative case of general reference with δει — dei and ειναι — einai Old and common verbal One at a time, clearly. Temperate Old adjective. In N.T. only here, 1 Timothy 3:11; Titus 2:2. But see νηπω — nēphō to be sober in 1 Thessalonians 5:6, 1 Thessalonians 5:8. Soberminded (σωπρονα — sōphrona). Another old adjective (from σαος — saos or σως — sōs sound, πρην — phrēn mind) in N.T. only here, Titus 1:8; Titus 2:2, Titus 2:5. Orderly See note on 1 Timothy 2:9. Seemly, decent conduct. Given to hospitality (πιλοχενον — philoxenon). Old word (see πιλοχενια — philoxenia in Romans 12:13), from πιλος — philos and χενος — xenos in N.T. only here, Titus 1:8; 1 Peter 4:9. Apt to teach Late form for old διδασκαλικος — didaskalikos one qualified to teach. In Philo and N.T. only (1 Timothy 3:2; 2 Timothy 2:24). [source]
Of one wife [μιας γυναικος]
One at a time, clearly. [source]
Temperate [νηπαλιον]
Old adjective. In N.T. only here, 1 Timothy 3:11; Titus 2:2. But see νηπω — nēphō to be sober in 1 Thessalonians 5:6, 1 Thessalonians 5:8. Soberminded (σωπρονα — sōphrona). Another old adjective (from σαος — saos or σως — sōs sound, πρην — phrēn mind) in N.T. only here, Titus 1:8; Titus 2:2, Titus 2:5. Orderly See note on 1 Timothy 2:9. Seemly, decent conduct. Given to hospitality (πιλοχενον — philoxenon). Old word (see πιλοχενια — philoxenia in Romans 12:13), from πιλος — philos and χενος — xenos in N.T. only here, Titus 1:8; 1 Peter 4:9. Apt to teach Late form for old διδασκαλικος — didaskalikos one qualified to teach. In Philo and N.T. only (1 Timothy 3:2; 2 Timothy 2:24). [source]
Soberminded [σωπρονα]
Another old adjective (from σαος — saos or σως — sōs sound, πρην — phrēn mind) in N.T. only here, Titus 1:8; Titus 2:2, Titus 2:5. [source]
Orderly [κοσμιον]
See note on 1 Timothy 2:9. Seemly, decent conduct. Given to hospitality (πιλοχενον — philoxenon). Old word (see πιλοχενια — philoxenia in Romans 12:13), from πιλος — philos and χενος — xenos in N.T. only here, Titus 1:8; 1 Peter 4:9. Apt to teach Late form for old διδασκαλικος — didaskalikos one qualified to teach. In Philo and N.T. only (1 Timothy 3:2; 2 Timothy 2:24). [source]
Given to hospitality [πιλοχενον]
Old word (see πιλοχενια — philoxenia in Romans 12:13), from πιλος — philos and χενος — xenos in N.T. only here, Titus 1:8; 1 Peter 4:9. [source]
Apt to teach [διδακτικον]
Late form for old διδασκαλικος — didaskalikos one qualified to teach. In Philo and N.T. only (1 Timothy 3:2; 2 Timothy 2:24). [source]
Blameless [ἀνεπίλημπτον]
Or without reproach: one who cannot be laid hold of ( λαμβάνειν ): who gives no ground for accusation. oP. Only in 1st Timothy. [source]
The husband of one wife [μιᾶς γυναικὸς ἄνδρα]
Comp. 1 Timothy 3:12; Titus 1:6. Is the injunction aimed (a) at immoralities respecting marriage - concubinage, etc., or (b) at polygamy, or (c) at remarriage after death or divorce? The last is probably meant. Much of the difficulty arises from the assumption that the Pastorals were written by Paul. In that case his views seem to conflict. See Romans 7:2, Romans 7:3; 1 Corinthians 7:39; 1 Corinthians 8:8, 1 Corinthians 8:9, where Paul declares that widows are free to marry again, and puts widows and virgins on the same level; and comp. 1 Timothy 5:9, according to which a widow is to be enrolled only on the condition of having been the wife of but one man. The Pauline view is modified in detail by the writer of the Pastorals. Paul, while asserting that marriage is right and honorable, regards celibacy as the higher state (1 Corinthians 7:1, 1 Corinthians 7:7, 1 Corinthians 7:26, 1 Corinthians 7:34, 1 Corinthians 7:37, 1 Corinthians 7:38). In this the Pastoral writer does not follow him (see 1 Timothy 2:15; 1 Timothy 3:4, 1 Timothy 3:12; 1 Timothy 4:3; 1 Timothy 5:10, 1 Timothy 5:14). The motive for marriage, namely, protection against incontinency, which is adduced by Paul in 1 Corinthians 7:2, 1 Corinthians 7:9, is given in 1 Timothy 5:11-14. As in Paul, the married state is honorable, for Bishops, Deacons, and Presbyters are married (1 Timothy 3:2, 1 Timothy 3:12; Titus 1:6), and the honor of childbearing conferred upon the mother of our Lord is reflected in the Christian woman of later times (1 Timothy 2:15). While Paul advises against second marriages (1 Corinthians 7:8, 1 Corinthians 7:9, 1 Corinthians 7:27, 1 Corinthians 7:39, 1 Corinthians 7:40), in the Pastorals emphasis is laid only on the remarriage of church-officers and church-widows. In the Pastorals we see a reflection of the conditions of the earlier post-apostolic age, when a non-Pauline asceticism was showing itself (see 1 Timothy 4:3, 1 Timothy 4:4, 1 Timothy 4:8; Titus 1:15). The opposition to second marriage became very strong in the latter part of the second century. It was elevated into an article of faith by the Montanists, and was emphasized by Tertullian, and by Athenagoras, who called second marriage “a specious adultery” ( εὐπρεπής μοιχεία )|Vigilant ( νηφάλιον )|Only in the Pastorals. See 1 Timothy 3:11, and Titus 2:2. olxx. The kindred verb νήφειν means to be sober with reference to drink, and, in a metaphorical sense, to be sober and wary; cool and unimpassioned. Thus Epicharmus, νᾶφε καὶ μέμνας ἀπιστεῖν bewary and remember not to be credulous. See on 1 Thessalonians 5:6. In N.T. the meaning of the verb is always metaphorical, to be calm, dispassionate, and circumspect. The A.V. vigilant is too limited. Wise caution may be included; but it is better to render sober, as A.V. in 1 Timothy 3:11and Titus 2:2, in the metaphorical sense as opposed to youthful levity.|Of good behavior ( κόσμιον )|oP. Only here and 1 Timothy 2:9, see note. Rend. orderly.|Given to hospitality ( φιλόξενον )|oP. Comp. Titus 1:8; 1 Peter 4:9. See note on pursuing hospitality, Romans 12:13.|Apt to teach ( διδακτικόν )|oP. Only here and 2 Timothy 2:24. olxx, oClass. In the Pastorals the function of teaching pertains to both Bishops and Elders (see 1 Timothy 5:17; Titus 1:9). It is at this point that the tendency to confound and identify the two reveals itself. Bishops and Presbyters are not identical. Earlier, the teaching function does not seem to have attached to the position of ἐπίσκοπος. The office acquired a different character when it assumed that function, which is not assigned to it in Clement's Epistle to the Corinthians. In the Didache or Teaching of the Twelve Apostles (about 100 a.d.) the ministry of teaching is to be assumed by the Bishops only in the absence of the Prophets and Teachers (xiii., xv).| [source]
Vigilant [νηφάλιον]
Only in the Pastorals. See 1 Timothy 3:11, and Titus 2:2. olxx. The kindred verb νήφειν means to be sober with reference to drink, and, in a metaphorical sense, to be sober and wary; cool and unimpassioned. Thus Epicharmus, νᾶφε καὶ μέμνας ἀπιστεῖν bewary and remember not to be credulous. See on 1 Thessalonians 5:6. In N.T. the meaning of the verb is always metaphorical, to be calm, dispassionate, and circumspect. The A.V. vigilant is too limited. Wise caution may be included; but it is better to render sober, as A.V. in 1 Timothy 3:11and Titus 2:2, in the metaphorical sense as opposed to youthful levity. [source]
Of good behavior [κόσμιον]
oP. Only here and 1 Timothy 2:9, see note. Rend. orderly. [source]
Given to hospitality [φιλόξενον]
oP. Comp. Titus 1:8; 1 Peter 4:9. See note on pursuing hospitality, Romans 12:13. [source]
Apt to teach [διδακτικόν]
oP. Only here and 2 Timothy 2:24. olxx, oClass. In the Pastorals the function of teaching pertains to both Bishops and Elders (see 1 Timothy 5:17; Titus 1:9). It is at this point that the tendency to confound and identify the two reveals itself. Bishops and Presbyters are not identical. Earlier, the teaching function does not seem to have attached to the position of ἐπίσκοπος. The office acquired a different character when it assumed that function, which is not assigned to it in Clement's Epistle to the Corinthians. In the Didache or Teaching of the Twelve Apostles (about 100 a.d.) the ministry of teaching is to be assumed by the Bishops only in the absence of the Prophets and Teachers (xiii., xv). [source]

Reverse Greek Commentary Search for 1 Timothy 3:2

Acts 14:23 And when they had appointed for them elders in every church [χειροτονησαντες δε αυτοις κατ εκκλησιαν πρεσβυτερους]
They needed also some form of organization, though already churches. Note distributive use of κατα — kata with εκκλησιαν — ekklēsian (Acts 2:46; Acts 5:42; Titus 1:5). Χειροτονεω — Cheirotoneō (from χειροτονος — cheirotonos extending the hand, χειρ — cheir hand, and τεινω — teinō to stretch) is an old verb that originally meant to vote by show of the hands, finally to appoint with the approval of an assembly that chooses as in 2 Corinthians 8:19, and then to appoint without regard to choice as in Josephus (Ant. XIII. 2, 2) of the appointment of Jonathan as high priest by Alexander. So in Acts 10:41 the compound προχειρατονεω — procheiratoneō is used of witnesses appointed by God. But the seven (deacons) were first selected by the Jerusalem church and then appointed Elder Hovey rightly holds against Hackett that teaching was a normal function of these elders, pastors or bishops as they were variously called (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:9; 1 Corinthians 12:28, 1 Corinthians 12:30; Ephesians 4:11). [source]
1 Timothy 5:10 Lodged strangers [ἐξενοδόχησεν]
N.T.oolxx. On the duty of hospitality comp. 1 Timothy 3:2; Matthew 25:35; Romans 12:13; Hebrews 13:2; 1 Peter 4:9; 3 John 1:5. [source]
1 Timothy 3:2 The husband of one wife [μιᾶς γυναικὸς ἄνδρα]
Comp. 1 Timothy 3:12; Titus 1:6. Is the injunction aimed (a) at immoralities respecting marriage - concubinage, etc., or (b) at polygamy, or (c) at remarriage after death or divorce? The last is probably meant. Much of the difficulty arises from the assumption that the Pastorals were written by Paul. In that case his views seem to conflict. See Romans 7:2, Romans 7:3; 1 Corinthians 7:39; 1 Corinthians 8:8, 1 Corinthians 8:9, where Paul declares that widows are free to marry again, and puts widows and virgins on the same level; and comp. 1 Timothy 5:9, according to which a widow is to be enrolled only on the condition of having been the wife of but one man. The Pauline view is modified in detail by the writer of the Pastorals. Paul, while asserting that marriage is right and honorable, regards celibacy as the higher state (1 Corinthians 7:1, 1 Corinthians 7:7, 1 Corinthians 7:26, 1 Corinthians 7:34, 1 Corinthians 7:37, 1 Corinthians 7:38). In this the Pastoral writer does not follow him (see 1 Timothy 2:15; 1 Timothy 3:4, 1 Timothy 3:12; 1 Timothy 4:3; 1 Timothy 5:10, 1 Timothy 5:14). The motive for marriage, namely, protection against incontinency, which is adduced by Paul in 1 Corinthians 7:2, 1 Corinthians 7:9, is given in 1 Timothy 5:11-14. As in Paul, the married state is honorable, for Bishops, Deacons, and Presbyters are married (1 Timothy 3:2, 1 Timothy 3:12; Titus 1:6), and the honor of childbearing conferred upon the mother of our Lord is reflected in the Christian woman of later times (1 Timothy 2:15). While Paul advises against second marriages (1 Corinthians 7:8, 1 Corinthians 7:9, 1 Corinthians 7:27, 1 Corinthians 7:39, 1 Corinthians 7:40), in the Pastorals emphasis is laid only on the remarriage of church-officers and church-widows. In the Pastorals we see a reflection of the conditions of the earlier post-apostolic age, when a non-Pauline asceticism was showing itself (see 1 Timothy 4:3, 1 Timothy 4:4, 1 Timothy 4:8; Titus 1:15). The opposition to second marriage became very strong in the latter part of the second century. It was elevated into an article of faith by the Montanists, and was emphasized by Tertullian, and by Athenagoras, who called second marriage “a specious adultery” ( εὐπρεπής μοιχεία )|Vigilant ( νηφάλιον )|Only in the Pastorals. See 1 Timothy 3:11, and Titus 2:2. olxx. The kindred verb νήφειν means to be sober with reference to drink, and, in a metaphorical sense, to be sober and wary; cool and unimpassioned. Thus Epicharmus, νᾶφε καὶ μέμνας ἀπιστεῖν bewary and remember not to be credulous. See on 1 Thessalonians 5:6. In N.T. the meaning of the verb is always metaphorical, to be calm, dispassionate, and circumspect. The A.V. vigilant is too limited. Wise caution may be included; but it is better to render sober, as A.V. in 1 Timothy 3:11and Titus 2:2, in the metaphorical sense as opposed to youthful levity.|Of good behavior ( κόσμιον )|oP. Only here and 1 Timothy 2:9, see note. Rend. orderly.|Given to hospitality ( φιλόξενον )|oP. Comp. Titus 1:8; 1 Peter 4:9. See note on pursuing hospitality, Romans 12:13.|Apt to teach ( διδακτικόν )|oP. Only here and 2 Timothy 2:24. olxx, oClass. In the Pastorals the function of teaching pertains to both Bishops and Elders (see 1 Timothy 5:17; Titus 1:9). It is at this point that the tendency to confound and identify the two reveals itself. Bishops and Presbyters are not identical. Earlier, the teaching function does not seem to have attached to the position of ἐπίσκοπος. The office acquired a different character when it assumed that function, which is not assigned to it in Clement's Epistle to the Corinthians. In the Didache or Teaching of the Twelve Apostles (about 100 a.d.) the ministry of teaching is to be assumed by the Bishops only in the absence of the Prophets and Teachers (xiii., xv).| [source]
1 Timothy 3:2 Orderly [κοσμιον]
See note on 1 Timothy 2:9. Seemly, decent conduct. Given to hospitality (πιλοχενον — philoxenon). Old word (see πιλοχενια — philoxenia in Romans 12:13), from πιλος — philos and χενος — xenos in N.T. only here, Titus 1:8; 1 Peter 4:9. Apt to teach Late form for old διδασκαλικος — didaskalikos one qualified to teach. In Philo and N.T. only (1 Timothy 3:2; 2 Timothy 2:24). [source]
1 Timothy 3:2 Apt to teach [διδακτικον]
Late form for old διδασκαλικος — didaskalikos one qualified to teach. In Philo and N.T. only (1 Timothy 3:2; 2 Timothy 2:24). [source]
1 Timothy 3:12 Of one wife [μιας γυναικος]
At a time as in 1 Timothy 3:2. [source]
1 Timothy 2:9 With shamefacedness and sobriety [μετὰ αἰδοῦς καὶ σωφροσύνης]
Ἁιδώς N.T. ( αἰδοῦς in Hebrews 12:28is an incorrect reading). In earlier Greek, as in Homer, it sometimes blends with the sense of αἰσχύνη shamethough used also of the feeling of respectful timidity in the presence of superiors, or of penitent respect toward one who has been wronged (see Homer, Il. i. 23). Hence it is connected in Homer with military discipline (Il. v. 531). It is the feeling of a suppliant or an unfortunate in the presence of those from whom he seeks aid; of a younger man toward an older and wiser one. It is a feeling based upon the sense of deficiency, inferiority, or unworthiness. On the other hand, it is the feeling of a superior in position or fortune which goes out to an unfortunate. See Homer, Il. xxiv. 208; Od. xiv. 388; Soph. Oed. Col. 247. In the Attic period, a distinction was recognised between αἰσχύνη and αἰδώς : αἰδώς representing a respectful and reverent attitude toward another, while αἰσχύνη was the sense of shame on account of wrong doing. Thus, “one αἰδεῖται isrespectful to his father, but αἰσχύνεται isashamed because he has been drunk.” Trench (N.T. Synon. § xix.) remarks that “ αἰδώς is the nobler word and implies the nobler motive. In it is involved an innate moral repugnance to the doing of the dishonorable act, which moral repugnance scarcely or not at all exists in the αἰσχύνη . Let the man who is restrained by αἰσχύνη alone be insured against the outward disgrace which he fears his act will entail, and he will refrain from it no longer.” The A.V. shamefacedness is a corruption of the old English shamefastness. So Chaucer:“Schamefast chastite.”Knight's T. 2057.Shakespeare:“'Tis a blushing shamefast spirit that mutinies in a man's bosom.”Richard III. i. 4.It is one of a large class of words, as steadfast, soothfast, rootfast, masterfast, handfast, bedfast, etc. Shamefaced changes and destroys the original force of the word, which was bound or made fast by an honorable shame. Σωφροσύνη sobrietysoP. Once in Acts, Acts 26:25. The kindred verb σωφρονεῖν tobe of sound mind, Romans 12:3-5; 2 Corinthians 5:13; Titus 2:6. Several representatives of this family of words appear in the Pastorals, and with the exception of σωφροσύνη and σωφρονεῖν , nowhere else in N.T. Such are σωφρονίζειν tobe soberminded (Titus 2:4); σωφρονισμός discipline(2 Timothy 1:7); σωφρόνως soberly(Titus 2:12); σώφρων soberminded(1 Timothy 3:2). The word is compounded of σάος or σῶς safesound, and φρήν mindIt signifies entire command of the passions and desires; a self-control which holds the rein over these. So Aristotle (Rhet. i. 9): The virtue by which we hold ourselves toward the pleasures of the body as. the law enjoins.” Comp. 4Macc. 1:31. Euripides calls it “the fairest gift of the gods” (Med. 632). That it appears so rarely in N.T. is, as Trench remarks, “not because more value was attached to it in heathen ethics than in Christian morality, but because it is taken up and transformed into a condition yet higher still, in which a man does not command himself, which is well, but, which is better still, is commanded by God.” The words with shamefastness and sobriety may either be taken directly with adorn themselves, or better perhaps, as indicating moral qualities accompanying ( μετὰ with) the modest apparel. Let them adorn themselves in modest apparel, having along with this shamefastness and sobermindedness. [source]
1 Timothy 3:2 Without reproach [ανεπιλημπτον]
Accusative case of general reference with δει — dei and ειναι — einai Old and common verbal One at a time, clearly. Temperate Old adjective. In N.T. only here, 1 Timothy 3:11; Titus 2:2. But see νηπω — nēphō to be sober in 1 Thessalonians 5:6, 1 Thessalonians 5:8. Soberminded (σωπρονα — sōphrona). Another old adjective (from σαος — saos or σως — sōs sound, πρην — phrēn mind) in N.T. only here, Titus 1:8; Titus 2:2, Titus 2:5. Orderly See note on 1 Timothy 2:9. Seemly, decent conduct. Given to hospitality (πιλοχενον — philoxenon). Old word (see πιλοχενια — philoxenia in Romans 12:13), from πιλος — philos and χενος — xenos in N.T. only here, Titus 1:8; 1 Peter 4:9. Apt to teach Late form for old διδασκαλικος — didaskalikos one qualified to teach. In Philo and N.T. only (1 Timothy 3:2; 2 Timothy 2:24). [source]
1 Timothy 3:2 Temperate [νηπαλιον]
Old adjective. In N.T. only here, 1 Timothy 3:11; Titus 2:2. But see νηπω — nēphō to be sober in 1 Thessalonians 5:6, 1 Thessalonians 5:8. Soberminded (σωπρονα — sōphrona). Another old adjective (from σαος — saos or σως — sōs sound, πρην — phrēn mind) in N.T. only here, Titus 1:8; Titus 2:2, Titus 2:5. Orderly See note on 1 Timothy 2:9. Seemly, decent conduct. Given to hospitality (πιλοχενον — philoxenon). Old word (see πιλοχενια — philoxenia in Romans 12:13), from πιλος — philos and χενος — xenos in N.T. only here, Titus 1:8; 1 Peter 4:9. Apt to teach Late form for old διδασκαλικος — didaskalikos one qualified to teach. In Philo and N.T. only (1 Timothy 3:2; 2 Timothy 2:24). [source]
1 Timothy 5:1 Rebuke not an elder [πρεσβυτερωι μη επιπληχηις]
Dative case πρεσβυτερωι — presbuterōi used in the usual sense of an older man, not a minister (bishop as in 1 Timothy 3:2) as is shown by “as a father.” First aorist (ingressive) active subjunctive with negative μη — mē (prohibition against committing the act) of επιπλησσω — epiplēssō to strike upon, old verb, but here only in N.T. and in figurative sense with words rather than with fists. Respect for age is what is here commanded, an item appropriate to the present time. [source]
1 Timothy 5:7 That they may be without reproach [ινα ανεπιλημπτοι ωσιν]
See note on 1 Timothy 3:2 for ανεπιλημπτος — anepilēmptos Final clause with ινα — hina and present subjunctive. [source]
1 Timothy 5:9 The wife of one man [ενος ανδρος γυνη]
Widows on this list must not be married a second time. This interpretation is not so clear for 1 Timothy 3:2, 1 Timothy 3:12; Titus 1:6. [source]
1 Timothy 5:17 The elders that rule well [οι καλως προεστωτες πρεσβυτεροι]
See 1 Timothy 5:1 for ordinary sense of πρεσβυτερος — presbuteros for “older man.” But here of position in same sense as επισκοπος — episkopos (1 Timothy 3:2) as in Titus 1:5 = επισκοπος — episkopos in 1 Timothy 5:7. Cf. Luke‘s use of πρεσβυτερος — presbuteros (Acts 20:17) = Paul‘s επισκοπους — episkopous (Acts 20:28). Προεστωτες — Proestōtes is second perfect active participle of προιστημι — proistēmi (intransitive use) for which see note on 1 Timothy 3:4. [source]
1 Timothy 5:10 If she hath used hospitality to strangers [χενοδοκεω]
First aorist again and same condition. Late form (Dio Cassius) of old verb χενους δεχομαι — xenodokeō (Herodotus), to welcome strangers Only here in N.T. Hospitality another qualification for such leadership (1 Timothy 3:2). If she hath washed the saints‘ feet (νιπτω — ei hagiōn podas enipsen). Same condition and tense of νιζω — niptō (old form ει τλιβομενοις επηρκεσεν — nizō), common in N.T. (John 13:5). Proof of her hospitality, not of its being a church ordinance. If she hath relieved the afflicted Same condition and tense of ει επηκολουτησεν — eparkeō to give sufficient aid, old word, in N.T. only here and 1 Timothy 5:16. Experience that qualified her for eleemosynary work. If she hath diligently followed (επακολουτεω — ei epēkolouthēsen). Same condition and tense of επι — epakoloutheō old verb, to follow close upon (epi). So here, 1 Timothy 5:24; 1 Peter 2:21. In a word such a widow must show her qualifications for leadership as with bishops and deacons. [source]
1 Timothy 6:14 Without spot [ασπιλον]
Late adjective In inscription and papyri. Without reproach (ανεπιλημπτον — anepilēmpton). See note on 1 Timothy 3:2; 1 Timothy 5:7. Until the appearing “Until the epiphany” (the second epiphany or coming of Christ). Late word in inscriptions for important event like the epiphany of Caligula, in the papyri as a medical term. In 2 Thessalonians 2:8 we have both επιπανεια — epiphaneia and παρουσια — parousia See note on Titus 2:13; 2 Timothy 1:10; 2 Timothy 4:1, 2 Timothy 4:8. [source]
1 Timothy 6:14 Without reproach [ανεπιλημπτον]
See note on 1 Timothy 3:2; 1 Timothy 5:7. [source]
2 Timothy 2:24 Apt to teach, patient [διδακτικόν, ἀνεξίκακον]
Διδακτικός apt to teach, only here and 1 Timothy 3:2(note). Ἁνεξικακία forbearingN.T.o Ανεξικακία forbearanceWisd. 2:19. Rend. Forbearing. [source]
2 Timothy 2:24 Gentle [ηπιον]
Old word (from επος — epos speech), affable, mild, in N.T. only here (and 1 Thessalonians 2:7 in some MSS.; W. H. have νηπιος — nēpios). Teachable (διδακτικον — didaktikon). See note on 1 Timothy 3:2. Forbearing Late compound (from future of ανεχω — anechō ανεχω — anexō and κακον — kakon putting up with evil). Here only in N.T. [source]
2 Timothy 2:24 Teachable [διδακτικον]
See note on 1 Timothy 3:2. [source]
Titus 1:5 Elders [πρεσβυτερους]
See note on 1 Timothy 3:2; 1 Timothy 4:14. As I gave thee charge (ως εγω σοι διεταχαμην — hōs egō soi dietaxamēn). First aorist (constative) middle imperative of διατασσω — diatassō clear reference to previous personal details given to Titus on previous occasions. [source]
Titus 1:7 Not soon angry [οργη]
Old adjective from αισχροκερδη — orgē (anger). Here only in N.T. Vulgate, iracundum. For “brawler” and “striker” see note on 1 Timothy 3:2. Not greedy of filthy lucre (απιλαργυρον — aischrokerdē). “Not greedy of shameful gain.” Used of deacons in 1 Timothy 3:8, aphilarguron used of elders in 1 Timothy 3:3. [source]
Titus 2:2 Aged men [πρεσβυτας]
See note on Philemon 1:9 for this word. For discussion of family life see also 1 Corinthians 3:18-4:1; Ephesians 5:22-6:9; 1 Timothy 5:1-6:2. For the adjectives here see note on 1 Timothy 3:2, 1 Timothy 3:8; for the substantives see note on 1 Timothy 6:11. [source]
Titus 1:8 A lover of hospitality [φιλόξενον]
Better, hospitable. See on 1 Timothy 3:2. [source]
Titus 1:5 Left I thee in Crete [απελειπον σε εν Κρητηι]
This is the imperfect active of απολειπω — apoleipō though MSS. give the aorist active also Late and rare double compound (inscriptions, here only in N.T.), first aorist middle subjunctive (final clause with ινα — hina) of επιδιορτοω — epidiorthoō to set straight (ορτοω — orthoō) thoroughly (δια — dia) in addition (επι — epi), a clean job of it. The things that were wanting “The things that remain.” See note on 2 Timothy 3:13; Luke 18:22. Either things left undone or things that survive. In both senses the new pastor faces problems after the tornado has passed. Parry takes it “of present defects” in Cretan character. And appoint (και καταστησηις — kai katastēsēis). Final clause still and first aorist active subjunctive of κατιστημι — kathistēmi the word used in Acts 6:13 about the deacons. The word does not preclude the choice by the churches (in every city, κατα πολιν — kata polin distributive use of κατα — kata). This is a chief point in the επιδορτωσις — epidorthōsis (White). Elders See note on 1 Timothy 3:2; 1 Timothy 4:14. As I gave thee charge (ως εγω σοι διεταχαμην — hōs egō soi dietaxamēn). First aorist (constative) middle imperative of διατασσω — diatassō clear reference to previous personal details given to Titus on previous occasions. [source]
Titus 1:5 The things that were wanting [τα λειποντα]
“The things that remain.” See note on 2 Timothy 3:13; Luke 18:22. Either things left undone or things that survive. In both senses the new pastor faces problems after the tornado has passed. Parry takes it “of present defects” in Cretan character. And appoint (και καταστησηις — kai katastēsēis). Final clause still and first aorist active subjunctive of κατιστημι — kathistēmi the word used in Acts 6:13 about the deacons. The word does not preclude the choice by the churches (in every city, κατα πολιν — kata polin distributive use of κατα — kata). This is a chief point in the επιδορτωσις — epidorthōsis (White). Elders See note on 1 Timothy 3:2; 1 Timothy 4:14. As I gave thee charge (ως εγω σοι διεταχαμην — hōs egō soi dietaxamēn). First aorist (constative) middle imperative of διατασσω — diatassō clear reference to previous personal details given to Titus on previous occasions. [source]
Titus 1:7 As God‘s steward [ως τεου οικονομον]
See note on 1 Corinthians 4:1. for Paul‘s idea of the bishop (elder) as God‘s steward (cf. 1 Corinthians 9:17; Colossians 1:25; Ephesians 3:2; 1 Timothy 1:4). Not self-willed (μη αυταδη — mē authadē). Old word (from αυτοσ ηδομαι — autosοργιλον — hēdomai), self-pleasing, arrogant. In N.T. only here and 2 Peter 2:10. Not soon angry Old adjective from αισχροκερδη — orgē (anger). Here only in N.T. Vulgate, iracundum. For “brawler” and “striker” see note on 1 Timothy 3:2. Not greedy of filthy lucre (απιλαργυρον — aischrokerdē). “Not greedy of shameful gain.” Used of deacons in 1 Timothy 3:8, aphilarguron used of elders in 1 Timothy 3:3. [source]
Hebrews 13:2 Be not forgetful to entertain strangers [τῆς φιλοξενίας μὴ ἐπιλανθάνεσθε]
Lit. be not forgetful of hospitality. Φιλοξενία only here and Romans 12:13. olxx. Φιλόξενος hospitable 1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:8; 1 Peter 4:9. The rendering of Rev. to show love unto strangers, is affected. On the injunction comp. Romans 12:13; 1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:8; 1 Peter 4:9, and see Clem. Rom. Ad Corinth. x., xi., xii. The virtue of hospitality is not distinctively Christian. It appears with the very beginnings of history, largely as the result of nomadic conditions. It was peculiarly an Oriental virtue. In the Egyptian Book of the Dead, commendatory judgment is awarded to him who has fed the hungry and clothed the naked. The O.T. abounds in illustrations, and the practice of hospitality among the Arabs and Bedoueen is familiar through the writings of travelers in the East. Great stress was laid on the duty by the Greeks, as appears constantly in Homer and elsewhere. Hospitality was regarded as a religious duty. The stranger was held to be under the special protection of Zeus, who was called ξένιος , the God of the stranger. The Romans regarded any violation of the rites of hospitality as impiety. Cicero says: “It seems to me eminently becoming that the homes of distinguished men should be open to distinguished guests, and that it is an honor to the Republic that foreigners should not lack this kind of liberality in our city” (De Off. ii. 18). [source]
Hebrews 13:1 Brotherly love [πιλαδελπια]
Late word from πιλαδελπος — philadelphos (1 Peter 3:8). See 1 Thessalonians 4:9. It is always in order in a church. To show love unto strangers Old word for hospitality, from πιλοχενος — philoxenos (1 Timothy 3:2), in N.T. only here and Romans 12:3. In genitive case with επιλαντανεστε — epilanthanesthe (present middle imperative, cf. Hebrews 6:10). Have entertained angels unawares Second aorist active indicative of λαντανω — lanthanō old verb to escape notice and first aorist active participle of χενιζω — xenizō old verb to entertain a guest (χενος — xenos stranger), according to a classic idiom seen with λαντανω τυγχανω πτανω — lanthanō class="translit"> tugchanō class="translit"> phthanō by which the chief idea is expressed by the participle (supplementary participle), here meaning, “some escaped notice when entertaining angels.” The reference is to Gen 18; 19 (Abraham and Sarah did this very thing). [source]
1 Peter 4:9 Using hospitality [πιλοχενοι]
“Friendly to strangers,” old word (from πιλοσ χενος — philosανευ γογγυσμου — xenos), in N.T. only here and 1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:8. No verb here in the Greek. [source]
3 John 1:5 In whatsoever thou doest [ο εαν εργασηι]
Indefinite relative with modal εαν — ean (= αν — an) and the first aorist middle subjunctive of εργαζομαι — ergazomai See Colossians 3:23 for both ποιεω — poieō and εργαζομαι — ergazomai in the same sentence.And strangers withal (και τουτο χενους — kai touto xenous). “And that too” (accusative of general reference as in 1 Corinthians 6:6; Philemon 1:28; Ephesians 2:8). This praise of hospitality (Romans 12:13; 1 Peter 4:9; 1 Timothy 3:2; 1 Timothy 5:10; Titus 1:8; Hebrews 13:2) shows that in 2 John 1:10 John has a peculiar case in mind. [source]
3 John 1:5 And strangers withal [και τουτο χενους]
“And that too” (accusative of general reference as in 1 Corinthians 6:6; Philemon 1:28; Ephesians 2:8). This praise of hospitality (Romans 12:13; 1 Peter 4:9; 1 Timothy 3:2; 1 Timothy 5:10; Titus 1:8; Hebrews 13:2) shows that in 2 John 1:10 John has a peculiar case in mind. [source]

What do the individual words in 1 Timothy 3:2 mean?

It behooves therefore the overseer above reproach to be of one wife [the] husband sober self-controlled respectable hospitable able to teach
δεῖ οὖν τὸν ἐπίσκοπον ἀνεπίλημπτον εἶναι μιᾶς γυναικὸς ἄνδρα νηφάλιον σώφρονα κόσμιον φιλόξενον διδακτικόν

δεῖ  It  behooves 
Parse: Verb, Present Indicative Active, 3rd Person Singular
Root: δεῖ  
Sense: it is necessary, there is need of, it behooves, is right and proper.
ἐπίσκοπον  overseer 
Parse: Noun, Accusative Masculine Singular
Root: ἐπίσκοπος  
Sense: an overseer.
ἀνεπίλημπτον  above  reproach 
Parse: Adjective, Accusative Masculine Singular
Root: ἀνεπίλημπτος  
Sense: not apprehended, that cannot be laid hold of.
εἶναι  to  be 
Parse: Verb, Present Infinitive Active
Root: εἰμί  
Sense: to be, to exist, to happen, to be present.
μιᾶς  of  one 
Parse: Adjective, Genitive Feminine Singular
Root: εἷς  
Sense: one.
γυναικὸς  wife 
Parse: Noun, Genitive Feminine Singular
Root: γυνή  
Sense: a woman of any age, whether a virgin, or married, or a widow.
ἄνδρα  [the]  husband 
Parse: Noun, Accusative Masculine Singular
Root: ἀνήρ  
Sense: with reference to sex.
νηφάλιον  sober 
Parse: Adjective, Accusative Masculine Singular
Root: νηφαλέος 
Sense: sober, temperate.
σώφρονα  self-controlled 
Parse: Adjective, Accusative Masculine Singular
Root: σώφρων  
Sense: of a sound mind, sane, in one’s senses.
κόσμιον  respectable 
Parse: Adjective, Accusative Masculine Singular
Root: κόσμιος 
Sense: well arranged, seemly, modest.
φιλόξενον  hospitable 
Parse: Adjective, Accusative Masculine Singular
Root: φιλόξενος  
Sense: hospitable, generous to guests.
διδακτικόν  able  to  teach 
Parse: Adjective, Accusative Masculine Singular
Root: διδακτικός  
Sense: apt and skilful in teaching.