Untitled Sermon (7)

1 Timothy 3:1–7 “1 It is a trustworthy statement: if any man aspires to the office of overseer, it is a fine work he desires to do. 2 An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, prudent, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, 3 not addicted to wine or pugnacious, but gentle, peaceable, free from the love of money. 4 He must be one who manages his own household well, keeping his children under control with all dignity 5 (but if a man does not know how to manage his own household, how will he take care of the church of God?), 6 and not a new convert, so that he will not become conceited and fall into the condemnation incurred by the devil. 7 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.”

You are not here to coast… God has you hear that you might grow to spiritual maturity

That’s what all of these qulaifications for elder remind us.. not that there are some “better” christians and some “worse” Christians…

-but that all Christians must grow up into spiriutal maturity, and Giod uniquely gifts and calls some Christians to certain, God-ordained roles. Yours may not be elder…

but you still need spiritual maturity.

Hebrews 6:1 “1 Therefore leaving the elementary teaching about the Christ, let us press on to maturity, not laying again a foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God,”

Today, we look at the last few qualifications for an elder in the church.. but my challenge to you is not to view these as qualities for someone else… but instead as characteristics you ought to strive for, even as you fallow the Lord’s leading into how he would have you serve his body.

Aspire to spiritual maturity

VIII. In his relationships with others

hospitable - v.2f

not pugnacious - v.3b, 

but gentle - v.3c (opposite)

peaceable - v.3d

IX. In his ability to teach - v.2g

no such thing as an “executive pastor” who has no other role. must be a teacher… not a ceo.

1 Corinthians 12:28a “28 And God has appointed in the church, first apostles, second prophets, third teachers…

1 Corinthians 12:31a “31 But earnestly desire the greater gifts.

X. In his seasoning (maturity/testedness) - v.6

not a “new” convert

-no prohibition on age…

1 Timothy 4:12 “12 Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but rather in speech, conduct, love, faith and purity, show yourself an example of those who believe.”

XI. In his reputation - v.7

XII. In all, cherishing the good work - v.1c