To qualify as an elder in the Christian context, particularly according to the biblical passages from 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:5-9, a brother should demonstrate certain spiritual, moral, and relational qualities. Here’s a summary of the qualifications outlined in those scriptures:
1 Timothy 3:1-7:
- Desire: An elder must aspire to the role, indicating a genuine desire to serve the church (1 Timothy 3:1).
- Above Reproach: He should be blameless and have a good reputation (1 Timothy 3:2).
- Husband of One Wife: This implies faithfulness in marriage and a commitment to one partner (1 Timothy 3:2).
- Sober-Minded: He should exhibit self-control and be prudent in judgment (1 Timothy 3:2).
- Self-Controlled: The elder should be disciplined and able to manage his own desires (1 Timothy 3:2).
- Respectable: He should have a demeanor that commands respect (1 Timothy 3:2).
- Hospitable: An elder should be welcoming and open to others (1 Timothy 3:2).
- Able to Teach: He must be able to instruct others in sound doctrine (1 Timothy 3:2).
- Not a Drunkard: He should exhibit moderation in alcohol consumption (1 Timothy 3:3).
- Not Violent but Gentle: An elder must not be quick-tempered or aggressive, but he should be gentle (1 Timothy 3:3).
- Not Quarrelsome: He should avoid engaging in constant disputes (1 Timothy 3:3).
- Not a Lover of Money: His priorities should not be focused on wealth (1 Timothy 3:3).
- Manage His Own Household Well: He must be able to govern his own family effectively (1 Timothy 3:4).
- Children Who are Faithful: His children should not be wild or rebellious, indicating a stable family life (1 Timothy 3:4-5).
- Not a Recent Convert: He should have maturity in faith to avoid pride (1 Timothy 3:6).
- Well-Thought-Of by Outsiders: He should have a good reputation even outside the church (1 Timothy 3:7).
Titus 1:5-9:
- Blameless: Similar to the Timothy passage, he should be above reproach (Titus 1:6).
- Faithful to His Wife: This reiterates the commitment to marital fidelity (Titus 1:6).
- A Believer’s Children: His children should be faithful and not accused of being wild (Titus 1:6).
- Not Overbearing: He should not be arrogant or tyrannical (Titus 1:7).
- Not Quick-Tempered: Like in Timothy, a gentle demeanor is emphasized (Titus 1:7).
- Not Given to Drunkenness: Again stressing moderation (Titus 1:7).
- Not Violent: Emphasizing a peaceful nature (Titus 1:7).
- Not Pursuing Dishonest Gain: Integrity in financial matters is essential (Titus 1:7).
- Must Hold Firmly to the Trustworthy Message: He must have a strong grasp of sound doctrine (Titus 1:9).
- Able to Encourage Others by Sound Doctrine: He should be capable of teaching and encouraging others (Titus 1:9).
- Refute Those Who Oppose It: He should be able to defend the faith against false teaching (Titus 1:9).
Conclusion:
In summary, a brother aspiring to serve as an elder must exhibit character traits that reflect spiritual maturity, moral integrity, and effective leadership, both within his family and in the church community. These qualifications emphasize the importance of character and capability in pastoral leadership, ensuring the elder can guide and protect the congregation effectively.