Read Titus 1 Leadership in the Church

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 (:7), but hospitable, a lover of what is good, sober-minded, just, holy, self-controlled (:8), 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." (Titus 1:7-9)

The reason Paul left Titus in Crete was to set in order the remaining matters and to appoint elders in every town. Here he set some basic qualification and roles for an overseer.

He begins with the reputation of being blameless means nothing to take hold upon. There must be nothing in the life of the leader that others can take hold of and attack his life or the church. It is not as without sin but living with integrity towards perfection. Then he moves on to his role as steward of God for this oversee is entrusted with what God has given.

He mentioned on the negative aspect self-will is a nature of arrogance, stubbornness, and a proud self-focus not seeking and taking heed to others counsel and consideration. Quick-tempered, as one might raise his voice unnecessarily to dominate or showing confrontational violence in action and in speech. Indulgent in wine, getting intoxicated with careless living and covetousness for wealth, encompassing fame, position out of wrong motives.

He moves on to the positive aspects of character as hospitability. He welcomes others into his home, generous towards meeting the needy and show kindness. He is a lover of what is good which is inclusive of many aspects in lives activities. Yet he is sober-minded without been careless, overly casual in his move. He thinks through the matter, prays about it before acting to glorify God. He is just and fair without prejudices and bias. He display godliness as been set apart to serve with the evidence of the fruit of the Spirit like self-controlled and faitful in ministry of the word.

Perhaps none of us would ever feel qualified but the fact that we are in Christ we are all qualified so long we keep our focus on Him following Him as our model in the ability we are empowered. We may fumble occasionally but we grow and mature. Even in admitting our shortcomings instead of denying it; we may be considered upright

Prayer: Lord You have called me to be one of the leaders in overseeing the Your church. I desire to emulate You from within that governs both my conduct and ministry.

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