Text: 1 Timothy 6:11-12
Throughout the Old Testament there are several individuals who are referred to by the noble title “Man of God”—Moses, David, Elijah, Elisha, and various lesser known prophets (e.g. 1 Kings 13:1-26). Thus, when Paul uses this same term to refer to Timothy it communicates his very high regard for the young pastor. Paul, though, is not trying to flatter Timothy, instead he trying to exhort and encourage him to persevere in his pursuit of “godliness”. This same word of exhortation and encouragement could surely be given to all disciples of Jesus Christ regardless of gender—whether they are a man or woman (cf. 2 Timothy 3:16-17). Nevertheless, in this passage it seems to address those men who serve as spiritual leaders; in other words those men who are responsible for the spiritual welfare of others (e.g. pastors, teachers, missionary/evangelists, elders, deacons, husbands, and fathers).
[podcast]http://www.download.covenantfamilychurch.net/2009/mp3/2009_9_27_The_Caracteristics_of_a_Spirital_Leader_1.mp3[/podcast]