What qualities should a mature believer possess before assuming leadership roles? Deep Roots before Visible Fruits “He must not be a recent convert, or he may become conceited and fall under the same condemnation as the devil.” – 1 Timothy 3:6 Paul’s single sentence speaks volumes. He is urging that a prospective leader must first be established in the faith—no shortcuts, no rush. Key take-aways: • Seasoned understanding of Scripture, earned over time • Genuine conversion that has weathered trials (cf. James 1:2-4) • Resilient commitment that goes beyond first enthusiasm (cf. Luke 8:13-15) Humility that Deepens with Maturity Why “not a recent convert”? Pride. Spiritual authority can tempt even mature saints; a novice is especially vulnerable. • Pride precedes a fall (Proverbs 16:18) • The devil’s downfall was conceit (Isaiah 14:12-15) • God “gives grace to the humble” (1 Peter 5:5-6) A leader should therefore display: – An evident habit of giving God the glory – Openness to correction (Proverbs 9:8-9) – Measured speech that builds others up (Ephesians 4:29) A Proven Track Record of Faithfulness Paul elsewhere says, “First be tested; then let them serve” (1 Timothy 3:10). Observable history matters. Look for: • Consistent obedience in “small things” (Luke 16:10) • Stewardship of family, finances, and time (Titus 1:7-8) • Steadfastness under pressure (2 Timothy 2:3) Safeguard for the Church and the Leader Keeping novices from authority isn’t gatekeeping; it’s protection. Spiritual pride can shipwreck faith (1 Timothy 1:19) and damage the flock (Acts 20:28-30). Maturity provides: • Doctrinal stability—able to refute error (Titus 1:9) • Emotional resilience—slow to anger, quick to listen (James 1:19-20) • Perspective—seeing leadership as service, not status (Mark 10:42-45) Spotting These Qualities in Real Life • Time-tested walk: years of consistent church involvement, not sporadic spurts • Teachable spirit: seeks counsel, thanks critics, grows from rebuke • Selfless service: volunteers gladly in unseen tasks before public roles • Balanced life: family, work, and ministry held in healthy tension • Steady doctrine: can explain core truths clearly and graciously (2 Timothy 2:24-25) When these traits line up with the biblical standard, the church can confidently entrust leadership, knowing that the foundation has been laid long before the title is given. |
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