Titus, Part OneSample

Qualifications for elders

“An overseer, as God's steward, must be above reproach.” (Titus 1:7)

Being an elder is a responsible task. Therefore Titus must be careful to select the right people. An elder, Paul says, must be “above reproach” having a good reputation with outsiders. He should in no way give anyone an argument to turn against the message of the Gospel and against the church. Therefore, an elder can’t be a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain, to name a few things. On the contrary, he should be “hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined” (Titus 1:8). That way, his behavior is an example for both believers and outsiders.

Moreover, since the elder is to take care of God’s church, it’s important to check how he manages his own family. After all, if he does not know how to lead his own children, he will not be able to take care of a church community either. Only those who have come into a good relationship to God, to their fellow men, and to themselves can serve as elders in the congregation.

The qualifications that Paul mentions are not only relevant for elders, though. Leading a holy and upright life is every Christian’s calling. Just take a moment to reflect on your own life and see where you need to change.

Do you also lay this before God in prayer?