What qualities should elders possess, based on Titus 1:5 and related scriptures? Purpose of Elders in Titus 1:5 “For this reason I left you in Crete, that you would set in order what was lacking and appoint elders in every town, as I directed you.” (Titus 1:5) Paul’s charge shows that healthy churches require qualified leadership. The verses that follow spell out those qualifications. Character Qualifications: Above Reproach “An elder must be blameless” (Titus 1:6). • Consistent integrity—nothing in his life gives opponents legitimate cause to accuse him. • Echoed in 1 Timothy 3:2: “The overseer must be above reproach.” Family Leadership • “The husband of one wife” (Titus 1:6). Faithful to his marriage covenant; free from patterns of infidelity or polygamy. • “Having children who believe and are not open to the charge of being wild or disobedient” (Titus 1:6). Demonstrated spiritual influence at home. • Parallel: 1 Timothy 3:4–5—if he cannot manage his household, how will he care for God’s church? Positive Personal Qualities to Pursue (Titus 1:7-8) • Self-controlled • Upright • Holy • Disciplined • Hospitable These traits show maturity and Christ-likeness. Negative Traits to Avoid (Titus 1:7) An elder must not be: • Overbearing (arrogant) • Quick-tempered • Given to drunkenness • Violent • Greedy for money Cutting these off protects both the elder and the flock. Doctrinal Soundness and Teaching Ability “He must hold firmly to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he will be able both to exhort in sound doctrine and to refute those who contradict it.” (Titus 1:9) • Loyalty to Scripture’s authority • Skillful in encouraging believers with truth • Equipped to silence error—see Acts 20:28-31 and 2 Timothy 2:24-25 Heart of a Shepherd 1 Peter 5:2-3 reinforces the attitude behind the office: • Willingly, not under compulsion • Eagerly, not for dishonest gain • Leading by example, not lording it over the flock Summary List of Elder Qualities 1. Blameless reputation 2. Faithful in marriage 3. Spiritually guided children 4. Humble, gentle temperament 5. Self-controlled and disciplined 6. Hospitable and generous 7. Free from addiction, violence, greed 8. Committed to sound doctrine 9. Able to teach, encourage, and correct 10. Shepherd-hearted, leading by example When these qualities mark church leaders, congregations flourish, error is resisted, and Christ is honored. |
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