Without controversy, the mystery of godliness is great: God was revealed in the flesh, Justified in the spirit, Seen by angels, Preached among the nations, Believed on in the world, And received up in glory.
This climatic verse (16) is indeed a great confession: the church has no creed but Christ. It is Christ who died for us, saves us, and unites us. It is interesting that this verse, so full of Christ and all He did for mankind, should come at the end of the discussion of church leadership qualifications. It is placed here, it seems, to show the elders, deacons, and all other church members that the real issue is Christ! Elders and deacons should ever keep this principle in their minds rather than focusing on opinions or issues detrimental to the church, thus belittling Christ and undermining His influence on the hearts of men. Paul urges such men in high office to be aware at all times of how they "behave" themselves in the church of the living God and to be sure every decision and practice renowns to the glory of the risen Lord.