The Elder(s)/Overseer(s)/Bishop(s)/ Shepherd/Pastor(s)
1 Timothy 3:1-7, Titus 1:5-9, Acts 20:17-32 – Part 5
Introduction
A little exercise to elaborate a point about TFL. Let’s see how it goes!
The Quest — (V. 1)
The Qualifications — (Vv. 2-7)
Two lists – 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1. Essentially the same list with differences in wording. Underscores YHWH’s intent that the Church should have qualified leaders and what is important to Him for all Christians
4 Categories of Qualifications – Character Traits (Positive & Negative), Reputation, Family life and Doctrinal/Theological/Biblical Soundness
4th Category - Able to Teach the Scriptures and Hold Fast to the Faithful Word and with Sound Doctrine both exhort and convict those who contradict.
Able to Teach – Must have background, have himself been taught, proven himself
Holding fast – Deeply committed to refuse compromise – not easy in today’s world
Sound Doctrine – must hold to Sound Doctrine and know the difference between differing interpretations and compromise. Can refute false doctrine
Timeless Truth
It is absolutely essential that all church leaders be able to teach the truth(s) of the Bible, that each one is also so deeply & unswervingly committed to holding fast to the truth that he is unwilling to compromise truth and that he is also equipped with sound doctrine to the extent that he can both defend the truth and refute the lies of false teachers.
Living Lesson
It is important to remind ourselves that while these are qualifications for Elders (Pastors, Church Leaders) they also reflect what is important and pleasing to our heavenly Father. So every Christian ought to take this study of the qualifications of Elders seriously and take them to heart for our own lives.