1. Leaders in the Church (4) Elders (3)
What are the qualifications of an elder (2)?
New Testament Church 2017

2. Previously
It is God’s desire that we appoint elders! Acts 14:23, Titus 1:5, etc.
They need to be qualified!
God has given the standard 1 Timothy 3:1-7, Titus 1:5-9
Considering their responsibilities, the standard should be high, but not impossible!

3. Previously He must be a man! 1 Timothy 3:2, Titus 1:6
Desire needs to be there – 1 Tim. 3:1, 1 Peter 5:2
But that desire must be brought into check - not all will qualify

4. 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

5. The Qualifications - Foundational
Blameless -
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.

6. The Qualifications - Foundational
Blameless - consider this with the remaining qualities.
Not a novice – 1 Timothy 3:6
Consider his work, he needs experience.
Why? Lest being puffed up with pride he fall…
Consider youth as a leader
Able to teach (3:2) demonstrates that he is not a novice (cf. Hebrews 5:12-14)

7. Qualifications – His Character
Temperate (3:2) – (vigilant) – one not given to extremes (often associated with alcohol) We live in times of excess and obsession. In making decisions, elders must be moderate and controlled
Sober-minded (3:2, 1:8) – thoughtful and serious in making decisions. Clearly needed as they deliberate the welfare of the congregation and each member

8. Qualifications – His Character
Self-controlled (Titus 1:8) – related to two previous qualities. Needed in every aspect of life! A disciplined life, with the church in mind.
Gentle (3:3) – (KJV – patient). One who is gracious and forbearing. Mild (meek) and fair in his dealings. Diplomacy (cf. 1 Thessalonians 2:7) He’s a shepherd! Helps in resolving conflict, explaining truth, etc.

9. Qualifications – His Character
Not covetous (3:3) – (NASB – free from the love of money). Also, “not greedy for money” (NKJV, KJV, also Titus 1:5) One driven by money or materialism (cf. Judas – Matthew 26:14-16, etc.) He must be content. Not letting self-interests or material gain influence godly decisions
Not quick tempered (Titus 1:7) – (KJV – not soon angry). He does not “lose his temper” Trying situations and agitators will try. He cannot let them cause him to fail to use wise judgment.

10. Qualifications – His Character
A lover of what is good (1:8) – (KJV – a lover of good men) – he loves good things (1 Corinthians 13:6, Philippians 1:10, Romans 12:15) He rejoices in goodness, knows what it is and seeks to ensure it is the goal of the church.
Just (1:8) – Morally upright and fair. Elders need to be even handed and fair in dealing with circumstances. Treat all fairy. Just like God, He is no respecter of persons! (Romans 2:11-13)

11. Qualifications – His Character
Holy(1:8) – (ὅσιος, hosios) one unpolluted with wickedness. He is pious and devoted to serving God. (James 1:26-27) Elders are examples to the flock. They must be spiritually minded and living lives consistent with their faith and THE faith!
These qualities describe his character. Be reminded that EVERY Christian ought to seek to possess these.
Still to come, his conduct and his family.

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