January 26
Read: Titus 1
Big Idea: God has clearly outlined qualifications for men to become elders and/or pastors in the local church. They set examples of holiness for the congregation. You should be able to observe these qualities and be reassured by them. Is he a one-woman-man? What about his children, do they know the Lord? Are they obedient? Does he avoid worldliness such as regularly consuming alcohol and celebrating violence? What do you know about his relationship to money and possessions? Is he approachable? Most importantly, is he a man of the Scriptures? Superficial characteristics like physical appearance and magnetic personality are not on the list!
Key Verse(s):
Titus 1:6 if a man is blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of dissipation or insubordination.
Titus 1:7 For a bishop must be blameless, as a steward of God, not self-willed, not quick-tempered, not given to wine, not violent, not greedy for money,
Titus 1:8 but hospitable, a lover of what is good, sober-minded, just, holy, self-controlled,
Titus 1:9 holding fast the faithful word as he has been taught, that he may be able, by sound doctrine, both to exhort and convict those who contradict.