…holding fast the faithful word which is in accordance with the teaching, so that he will be able both to exhort in sound doctrine and to refute those who contradict. Titus 1:9 (emphasis mine) Another reason the elder must be “holding fast the faithful word” is so he can “refute those who contradict.” This is [...]
…holding fast the faithful word which is in accordance with the teaching, so that he will be able both to exhort in sound doctrine and to refute those who contradict. Titus 1:9 (emphasis mine) In the previous article we addressed the need for the elder to be well-versed in the Scriptures. He needs to know [...]
…holding fast the faithful word which is in accordance with the teaching, so that he will be able both to exhort in sound doctrine and to refute those who contradict. Titus 1:9 (emphasis mine) The relationship an elder has with the word of God is paramount. To hold fast means to cling to and be [...]
…but hospitable, loving what is good, sensible, just, devout, self-controlled… Titus 1:8 (emphasis mine) To be self-controlled is to practice restraint. It can relate to physical desires: But if they do not have self-control, let them marry; for it is better to marry than to burn with passion. 1 Corinthians 7:9 A successful athlete must [...]
…but hospitable, loving what is good, sensible, just, devout, self-controlled… Titus 1:8 (emphasis mine) To be devout is to be holy, pious, pleasing to God. Paul uses this same word when instructing men to pray: Therefore I want the men in every place to pray, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and dissension. 1 Timothy [...]
…but hospitable, loving what is good, sensible, just, devout, self-controlled… Titus 1:8 (emphasis mine) Just can mean righteous or upright. It includes being proper, fair and equitable. In describing the leader, the term focuses on behavior that is just, fair and inherently honest in dealing with people.1 There is no room for an elder to [...]
…but hospitable, loving what is good, sensible, just, devout, self-controlled… Titus 1:8 (emphasis mine) Love is such a defining characteristic of the Christian life. The greatest of all the commandments are focused on love. “Teacher, which is the great commandment in the Law?” And He said to him, “‘YOU SHALL LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD [...]
For the overseer must be above reproach as God’s steward, not self-willed, not quick-tempered, not addicted to wine, not pugnacious, not fond of sordid gain,... Titus 1:7 (emphasis mine) Elders must not be easily angered. They will be dealing with some of the most challenging and heart-breaking situations. They will have to oppose those who [...]
For the overseer must be above reproach as God’s steward, not self-willed, not quick-tempered, not addicted to wine, not pugnacious, not fond of sordid gain, Titus 1:7 (emphasis mine) To be self-willed is to be arrogant, stubborn, primarily concerned about one’s own interests or preferences. Scripture requires that churches have a plurality of eldership so [...]
And he must have a good reputation with those outside the church, so that he will not fall into reproach and the snare of the devil. 1 Timothy 3:7 The qualifications for eldership require consistency of testimony in all areas of life. This includes the elder’s relationship outside of the church. Keep in mind that [...]