Schreiner: The truth that must be safeguarded is the gospel .

We have noted that two distinct functions are prescribed for the overseers/elders. They are to teach and lead. These two functions are, of course, rather general. Still, they provide the superstructure under which overseers/elders do their work. Their primary calling is to pass on the tradition and truth of the gospel. In other words, their leadership, unlike in many denominations today, is not primarily bureaucratic

Overseers/elders exert their leadership through their teaching ministry, by their adherence to the gospel (1 Tim. 5:17). The importance of tradition and teaching in the Pastoral Epistles is undeniable. Paul often contrasts unhealthy teaching with that which is sound (1 Tim. 1:10; 6:3; 2 Tim. 1:13; 4:3; Titus 1:9, 13; 2:1–2). The truth that must be safeguarded is the gospel (1 Tim. 3:16). False teachers veer away from the truth (1 Tim. 1:3–11; 4:1–5), and so teaching centered upon the faithful word is crucial (1 Tim. 1:15; 3:9; 4:9; 2 Tim. 2:11; Titus 3:8). It seems that in every case the faithful saying has to do with “salvation,” indicating again that the saving message is the focus, not the leaders themselves.

Schreiner, T. R. (2008). New Testament theology: magnifying God in Christ (p. 738). Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic.

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