The Elder(s)/Overseer(s)/Bishop(s)/Shepherd/Pastor(s)
1 Timothy 3:1-7, Titus 1:5-9 – Part 3
Introduction
Good and godly Christians are being harassed daily by evil Satan worshippers at the US Supreme Court steps – for simply PRAYING there. The contrast between ‘good” and “evil” is becoming more and more vivid and sharp. Our Lord said, “…in the world you will have tribulation but be of GOOD CHEER, I have overcome the world!” (John 16:33)
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
Four Categories of Qualifications – Character Traits (Positive & Negative), Reputation, Doctrinal/Theological/Biblical Soundness, and Family life.
Character Traits
Positive – Temperate, Just, Holy, Gentle, Hospitable, Self-Controlled, Sober-Minded, Lover of what is Good.
Negative – Not Quick-Tempered, Not Violent, Not Quarrelsome, Not Greedy for Money, Not Covetous, Not Given to wine, Not a Novice
SUB-Categories
Temperate, Not Quick-Tempered, Not Violent, Gentle, Self Controlled
Hospitable, Not Covetous, Not Greedy for Money
Not given to Wine
Just, Holy, Not Self-Willed, Lover of what is Good
Not a Novice (“… lest being puffed up with pride he fall into the same condemnation as the devil” – 1 Tim. 3:6)
Timeless Truth
The qualifications for Elders (Spiritual leaders) of the Church are spelled out by our Lord – clearly, specifically, and extensively. It is obvious, He expects His people to take them very seriously. And even though these qualifications and spiritual leadership is being made a mockery with “for-fee ordinations”, these two passages in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1 that give the qualifications are not to be trifled with. And every Christian should understand that this list of qualifications for Spiritual Leaders should also inform us regarding YHWH’s will and plan for all of our character and behavior and lifestyle.
Living Lesson
Every Church member and every Believer should study and become very familiar with the qualifications of Elders (Spiritual Leaders) given in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1. It is a great summary of the kind of character and lifestyle every Christian should embrace in order to live a life that is pleasing and honoring to the Lord. May there not be any TFL’er who entertains the idea that they do not need to seriously consider these lists of qualifications because they are not an Elder or a Pastor.