Leaders in the Church (3) Elders (2) What are the qualifications of an elder (1)? New Testament Church 2017

Thoughts about appointing elders Many congregations struggle with appointing qualified men. Churches have divided, preachers been fired, brethren have behaved badly, and congregations have remained without elders, etc. It is God’s desire that we appoint elders! Acts 14:23, Titus 1:5, etc.

Thoughts about appointing elders They need to be qualified! We cannot appoint whoever we want, the best with hopes of growing into the positions, etc. God has given the standard 1 Timothy 3:1-7, Titus 1:5-9

Thoughts about appointing elders What should our standard be? Some interpret the qualities loosely or as mere suggestions and in essence appoint whoever they want Some see elders are mere figureheads (some reason they are no longer needed) Some demand perfection so that no one is qualified (cf. 3 John 9-11)

Thoughts about appointing elders What should our standard be? Realizing they are human, we consider that as we examine the various qualifications. Considering their responsibilities, the standard should be high! (cf. Hebrews 13:17, Acts 20:28-30) High, but not impossible!

Thoughts about appointing elders Concerning these qualities Most are typical of the Christian life. We should all be striving to perfect these qualities as they apply. Imagine a congregation where everyone was everything they ought to be!

The Qualifications - Foundational The qualifications are found in 1 Timothy 3:1-7, Titus 1:5-10 He must be a man! 1 Timothy 3:2, Titus 1:6

The Qualifications - Foundational Desire Needs to be there! Willing to serve – 1 Timothy 3:1, 1 Peter 5:2 If desire is not there, how effective will they be? Will they totally devote themselves to the work?

The Qualifications - Foundational Desire must be brought into check Not all will or can qualify (most will not) NOTE: If you are not qualified does not mean you any less of a Christian NOR does it mean you should not give your best. Some desire the office for selfish reasons (qualities dealt with) Some do NOT desire the office for selfish reasons – Am I using my talents to my full ability? Cf. 1 John 5:3, Luke 17:10, James 4:17

The Qualifications - Foundational Desire – What about reluctance? Some are hesitant for various reasons Reluctance can be a good thing! Cf. Moses (Exodus 3-4), Jeremiah 1:6 – this shows a realization of the gravity of the work But do NOT let that be permanent. Do not set your standard impossible to achieve There is a shortage of godly elders in the Lord’s church! Desire needs to begin early!

The Qualifications - Foundational Blameless 1 Timothy 3:2, Titus 1:6, 7 Blameless – above reproach (NASB). One not susceptible to attack of his character. Not saying that he has never been accused of anything (could even include one’s past) BUT, the charge cannot be sustained cf. 1 Peter 3:16, John 8:46

The Qualifications - Foundational Blameless - 1 Timothy 3:2, Titus 1:6, 7 NOR does it mean they can never make a mistake or stumble, either in character or decision. cf. Peter Galatians 2:11-13, 1 Peter 5:1 We need to ask questions. Is this in character, or an unusual situation? Was there ignorance? If wrong, did he repent? (2 Cor. 7:10-11), etc.

The Qualifications - Foundational Blameless - Finally, consider this with the remaining qualities. We will examine these in our next study.

Are we striving to ensure that our leaders are what God expects? New Testament Church 2017