Day 203

Virtues of Christian elders 

Key Verses: 2, 5, 10, 14

Being a pastor of a congregation is not something to be sought apart from the call of God. There are requirements that must be met, standards of conduct, unacceptable behaviors. As a pastor you are put on a pedestal, whether you want to be or not. Your congregation has expectations of your behavior, expectations that Paul reinforces here in these verses. Our personal lives must be in order. Our families can’t be in rebellion. Even outsiders must think highly of you.

I think we too often elevate leaders too rapidly into positions of authority. And in our “lone ranger” society, leaders become isolated and vulnerable. Then when people admit weakness, we throw them under the bus, instead of working reconciliation and restoration. Part of that restoration would be active accountability with others. No more isolation.

This list in verses two through seven should be on every pastor’s desk in the world. This is the standard. Meet it or move out of pastoral leadership. These are not impossible standards. Pastors are not perfect, but we are held to a higher standard.

Other leaders are also held to a standard. As they are chosen for leadership, their lives become open to public scrutiny. We don’t want people in leadership with deep, dark secrets that can be exposed and place the church in a vulnerable position. Background checks for those working in leadership, especially those working with children and youth, makes perfect sense and should be done. We also don’t want people in leadership whose lives are a poor reflection of Christ.

Paul writes Timothy to pass along his wisdom to his young protégé. Paul’s words speak across the centuries to all those who are in leadership, not just those who are in leadership in the church. As business leaders our lives are open to scrutiny. As Jesus-followers our lives need to reflect the Lord.