It Starts Small

⁵ The reason I left you in Crete was to set right what was left undone and, as I directed you, to appoint elders in every town. ⁶ An elder must be blameless, the husband of one wife, with faithful children who are not accused of wildness or rebellion. ⁷ As an overseer of God’s household, he must be blameless, not arrogant, not hot-tempered, not an excessive drinker, not a bully, not greedy for money, ⁸ but hospitable, loving what is good, sensible, righteous, holy, self-controlled,⁹ holding to the faithful message as taught, so that he will be able both to encourage with sound teaching and to refute those who contradict it.

Titus 1:5-8

appoint elders in every town

As we embark on the journey through the book of Titus, we uncover the profound mission entrusted to Titus! Paul had positioned Titus in Crete—an island bursting with life and the largest of the Greek isles. This calling to appoint elders in every town was a directive straight from the heart. Titus’ passionate pursuit was clear: to ensure that every town was led by dedicated elders. In that era, each city housed a singular church. This situation gave rise to distinct communities—the “Ephesian church,” the “Colossian church,” and beyond. Every one of these vibrant churches cried out for strong, wise leadership to guide them!

This statement passionately underscores the vital significance of Biblical eldership within the church. It is not merely optional or advisable; it is absolutely essential for cultivating a healthy and thriving church community. The New Testament leaves no room for doubt—there is no alternative model endorsed for church authority. The Biblical model is resolutely eldership, and its importance cannot be overstated!

An elder 

The words overseer, elder, and shepherd in the New Testament powerfully emphasize the same vital office. It embodies a position of dynamic leadership and critical oversight over a local church body. The New Testament fervently outlines how a local church should be governed. It should not be governed by one individual. Instead, it should be led by a united team, a plurality of elders. The notion of a single head, a dominant pastor wielding all authority, is simply absent from Scripture. Moreover, the idea of church voting is not found in biblical teachings.

God’s magnificent design for the church is vividly presented in 1 Timothy 3 and other inspiring New Testament passages. These passages depict a model led by a dedicated team of elders and deacons. They serve as humble servant leaders. The elders passionately shepherd the body. They attentively nurture spiritual needs. The deacons provide essential support by addressing physical needs. These include facilities, caring for the poor, and managing finances, as highlighted in Acts 7.

The exhilarating concept of eldership harks back to the profound moments of the Exodus. Jethro passionately urged Moses to recognize that he could not shoulder the monumental task alone (Exodus 18). God, in His infinite wisdom, brought forth a dynamic team of elders as the divine blueprint for church leadership. Let’s explore just a few of the transformative benefits that this model offers:

• They can share the load. Leading a church is an incredible journey. However, it can also be mentally, spiritually, and physically draining. Imagine a vibrant team coming together to share the weight of this calling! With collaboration, burnout becomes a distant worry, and together, they can accomplish extraordinary things!
• Weaknesses and blind spots will be minimized. One person holding all the authority can lead to perilous pitfalls. A lone leader’s weaknesses and blind spots can cause chaos in the church. If they’re too blunt, there’s no one to soften the edges. If they’re lofty visionaries without practical grounding, who will provide a voice of reason? A team challenges each other and brings balance!
• Checks and balances – A team embodies accountability. In this sacred partnership, if one is veering off the righteous path, the other elders can lovingly steer them back. They protect the church from harm. This mutual support is indispensable!
• Forces more time to make decisions – The beauty of a united front is the time invested in reaching consensus. Every decision is a collective journey, allowing ample room for discussion, heartfelt prayer, and invaluable input. While things may progress more slowly, this intentional pace quells impulsiveness and leads to wise, thoughtful choices!
• Provides some protection from complaints. When a single person makes the call, they open the floodgates to all sorts of complaints. They also face numerous criticisms. The weight of blame can feel unbearable! Yet, when decisions emerge from teamwork, there’s undeniable strength in numbers. “I have decided that” transforms into “the team has agreed together that,” illuminating a shared sense of purpose!
• More perspectives and more wisdom – A tapestry of insights is woven when diverse minds unite! Each unique perspective contributes to a richer understanding, guiding the church toward profound revelations.
• Models “working together” and unity for the body – Elders from various backgrounds align in cooperation. They become a powerful example for the entire congregation. Their unity inspires and encourages the community to embrace togetherness and collaboration in all things!

Qualifications for elders

(Many of the same qualifications are seen in 1 Timothy 3:1-7) –

Blameless – This is an essential character quality that encompasses everything Paul does not address specifically. It doesn’t mean an elder must be flawless; perfection is an impossibility. Rather, it signifies that an elder should uphold a stellar reputation. But what defines the elusive line of being “above reproach”? The truth is, “you will know it when you see it.” Numerous factors not outlined in any list could disqualify someone under this profound principle. Actions like embezzling funds, mistreating one’s spouse, or engaging in foul language would certainly sully a person’s reputation. If the community speaks highly of the candidate, he is recognized as a godly individual. Then he stands truly above reproach.

Husband of one wife – This profoundly resonates as “a one-woman, man.” Astonishingly, there are two powerful qualifications at play here. One bursts forth in an implied fashion, while the other stands prominently stated. The implied qualification passionately asserts that an elder must be male. This theme is vibrantly echoed throughout the chapter. The pronoun “he” unmistakably defines the elder in every instance. In 1 Timothy 2, we unveil the rich tapestry of roles between men and women within the local church. These roles do not differ in value. This illuminates a world where each person shines in their unique calling.

The second qualification is that a man must be unwaveringly faithful to his spouse. Most Bible scholars passionately agree that this does not necessarily mean an elder must be married. After all, Jesus was nobly single, and Paul likely was as well. However, it powerfully emphasizes that if a man has a wife, he should demonstrate absolute loyalty to her. This unwavering commitment would disqualify a divorced and remarried man from serving in this esteemed office. A man living in adultery cannot ascend to the role of an elder. The same applies to one who practices polygamy.

In today’s world, the church appears alarmingly lenient on crucial standards that once defined its foundation. Consequently, the sacredness of marriage is being trampled upon. Rampant divorce and remarriage within the evangelical church tragically reflect this decay. Allowing men who partake in such destructive practices to serve as leaders makes the crisis worse. It sets a troubling precedent for others. It sends a heartbreaking message to the congregation: that this way of life is not only tolerated but seemingly acceptable.

with faithful children – In 1 Timothy 3, we find a powerful mandate: “he must manage his own household well.” Jesus passionately declared in Luke 16:10, “If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones.” If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in larger ones also. Managing one’s household is no trivial matter. It’s a sacred duty. This duty precedes the profound responsibility of shepherding a church. A man who excels in nurturing his family is undoubtedly poised to guide a flock with love and wisdom. Conversely, if his children run amok as uncontrolled brats, he cannot be entrusted with the precious souls of spiritual children.

You can gain profound insight into a person’s true character by observing how he interacts with his family. Is he unrelenting and harsh towards his wife, or does he envelop her in love and unwavering respect? Does he have boundless patience with his children? Or does he loudly unleash his frustration upon them in public? Does he indulge them beyond reason? Or is he a guiding force? He ensures they understand the weight of their actions through consequences. Do his children admire and cherish him, or does fear permeate their relationship?

Some ministers have forsaken their families in their relentless pursuit of serving the church. They become so engrossed in their ministry that they forget the fundamental duty to nurture their loved ones. This glaring truth cannot be ignored: the family must always take precedence. We must remember that our primary calling is not just to serve. It is to love and cherish those closest to us.

What about a man whose grown-up children are prodigals? When kids are living with their parents, their behavior, to some extent, is the parents’ responsibility. Wise parents will deal with their children. They ensure this doesn’t happen as a habit. All children are sinners, and even the best parents cannot prevent it from happening sometimes.

A parent can pray for their child. They can teach and set an example. They do everything in their power to raise the child to know God. However, when the child grows up, he may still reject God. He might also rebel against Him.

Does this disqualify a man from being an elder?

There are two compelling views to consider. The first is the most direct and powerful. It boldly states, “his children are believers.” If his children are indeed believers, it strongly demonstrates his ability to manage his household. This serves as a resounding external testament. Consequently, this establishes an exceptionally high standard for anyone aspiring to eldership, and that is not inherently a negative thing. Approaching the interpretation of this phrase with a careful and conservative mindset undeniably holds significant value.

The second view is that the word for believer can also mean “faithful.” The word used in Greek is “pistos.”

Let’s look at the whole verse.

⁶ An elder must be blameless, the husband of one wife, with faithful children who are not accused of wildness or rebellion.
Titus 1:6

The second part of that verse, “not accused of wildness or rebellion,” passionately underscores a crucial imperative. His children must embody the essence of being “pistos.” When a parent’s children display rebellion and wildness, it casts a dark shadow on the testimony of the church. This ultimately disqualifies the father from the noble calling of Biblical eldership.

That resonates deeply with the profound instruction found in 1 Timothy 3:4, “He must manage his own household well.” It would indeed be perplexing if Paul offered a seemingly relaxed directive to Timothy. Such an instruction would be quite different from the one he provided for Titus. After all, Titus was tasked with selecting elders for burgeoning, less mature churches. It feels implausible that he would impose a higher standard on them in such

Understanding this as “faithful” ignites a powerful realization: the two views are not just consistent; they are deeply intertwined. The father holds significant sway over his children’s external behavior, capable of steering them with care and intention. Yet, when it comes to salvation, this sacred journey is solely in the hands of his children. It is far beyond his control. Each qualification from the Scriptures concerning eldership pulsates with personal responsibility, echoing this essential truth. This context brilliantly highlights the father’s duty toward his children. It emphasizes that even the most dedicated shepherds may encounter unbelievers within their church or family. This underscores the complexity of their role.

He must be blameless. Some translations evoke the term “debauchery,” a powerful word. It captures the essence of “excessive indulgence in sensual pleasures.” In the stirring text of 1 Timothy 3, the call is clear. The qualifications demanded are not just mere suggestions. They are a passionate pursuit of excellence! It encompasses being temperate, embodying self-control, rejecting violence, and embracing gentleness. These traits are not simply guidelines. They are the very foundation of a blameless character. They reflect the highest ideals we strive for!

An elder must uphold a lifestyle that is both moral and honorable! It is utterly disheartening to see some church leaders abusing their divine platforms. They manipulate and exploit vulnerable individuals merely to gratify their own base desires. This disgraceful behavior not only tarnishes the reputation of the church but also casts a shadow on the Lord Himself. An elder must fervently guard against any semblance of scandal. He must ensure that his integrity remains unblemished. His commitment to righteousness should be unwavering!

Not arrogant or insubordinate! When we speak of insubordination, we delve into the realm of “defiance of authority or refusal to obey orders.” This kind of attitude is rooted in pride. It also reflects a troubling disregard for the structure that God Himself has established. If one refuses to submit to the authority that God has appointed—be it a boss or a governing body—they cannot truly submit to God’s will. Simply put, before anyone is entrusted with the noble role of an elder, they must first show what it means to follow.

As an overseer of God’s household

An overseer is a passionate individual who dedicates themselves to supervising with fervor. The responsibilities they embrace do not belong to them; instead, they serve as guardians of a higher purpose. This verse powerfully echoes the truth. An elder stands as an under-shepherd. They are called to vigilantly watch over, fiercely protect, and lovingly build up what rightfully belongs to God. The head of the church is Jesus Himself. He is its ultimate authority. The church exists wholly for Him.

An overseer must remain vigilant, fiercely guarding against the perilous assumption that the people are “his” to possess or control.

What are some attitudes or behaviors that may show a leader considers those he ministers to as belonging to him?

If a leader becomes visibly distressed when a member leaves his church or fellowship for another, it reveals a troubling possessiveness. Further signs can manifest as a pastor’s insistence on unwavering personal loyalty. A pastor might also hold a belief that his congregation owes him something profound. In the epic tale of Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings, stewards once ruled over Gondor. They were sworn to protect the kingdom until the rightful king returned. Yet, as time went on, their mindset shifted dangerously, yearning to cling to power. Denethor, the last steward, exemplified this tragic flaw. He refused to yield to the hope of the king’s glorious return. Instead, he chose to grip tightly to control over a kingdom on the brink of tumult.

Some pastors fall into a troubling pattern. Instead of wholeheartedly serving the King, they become consumed by self-interest. The focus shifts away from Christ and becomes all about them. A true steward understands the sacred duty of protecting and nurturing that which belongs to another. They are in the profound service of someone greater. Elders must always remember their role as stewards, entrusted with the care of Christ’s precious sheep. This calling is not to act as lords over them. Instead, it calls for embracing the humble role of servants, as emphasized in Matthew 20:25-28.

What has God entrusted to you? What is your vital role as a steward in this sacred space? Every believer carries the mantle of stewardship in profound ways! Parents are divinely charged with the magnificent task of nurturing their children to serve the Lord with all their hearts. A teacher bears the incredible responsibility of shaping young minds, providing a transformative education that inspires and uplifts. A homeowner, or even a renter, is called to use their dwelling as a vessel of hospitality. They serve the Lord by opening their doors to others. Even if you possess little, remember that every penny is a gift from God. It should be spent wisely. Spend it in a way that brings glory to His name!

More Qualifications

Not self-willed (NASB), not be arrogant (ESV) – Why is this quality so vital? As an elder, you hold a remarkable responsibility for others’ spiritual journeys. You cannot afford to be selfish or elevate yourself above those you guide. Pride bellows, “I am important. I am an elder. Listen to me!” But humility whispers with fervor, “How can I serve you?”

Also, there exists a vibrant plurality of elders, signifying that you cannot shoulder all decisions alone! Embracing the spirit of teamwork is essential. Fostering harmonious cooperation with fellow elders and the entire church community is vital. This in no way suggests that an elder is weak, aimless, or willing to compromise. On the contrary, elders must fervently stand for what is right, even when that stance may be met with resistance!

Not hot-tempered – Do you think being an elder is easy? What makes it difficult? What might make an elder lose his temper?

Being an elder can often feel like a challenging journey fraught with complexity and emotion. In the sanctuary of faith, some individuals come to take rather than give, while others unleash their grievances and criticisms. It’s essential to remember that not everyone who fills the pews embodies saintliness. An elder may face a barrage of complaints about the seating arrangement, the music (is it too loud for some or not loud enough for others?), the temperature (too hot or too cold?), the preaching style, or the Sunday school experience, and the list stretches endlessly.

An elder with a fiery temperament can quickly become a source of discord rather than guidance. When someone approaches him with a complaint, he might explosively retort, “Oh really? You think you can do better? Show me then! From this moment on, you’re in charge, because I’m out!” This kind of reaction not only tarnishes his testimony but also reveals a profound lack of maturity. An elder must embody patience and resilience. A short-fused elder is a ticking time bomb. They are ready to derail any sense of harmony and unity.

How can a person overcome a short temper?

Not addicted to wine –

¹⁸ And don’t get drunk with wine, which leads to reckless living, but be filled by the Spirit:

Ephesians 5:18

An elder must rise above the shadows of addiction. Succumbing to sin reveals a heart not truly above reproach. As believers, we are called to fervently pursue a life untainted by sin. We must shed every last trace of the addictions that once bound us in our past lives (Romans 6:8-14). While sipping a drink may not be inherently sinful, plunging into drunkenness is a transgression we must vehemently avoid.

Not a Bully (CSB) Not pugnacious (NASB) or not violent (ESV) – This profound directive means “ready to fight.” It resonates closely with the call to refrain from being quick-tempered. Elders are called to be genuine peacemakers. They strive to forge harmony between individuals and God through the power of the gospel. They also foster unity among people by advocating for tolerance on non-foundational matters. Embracing this role is not just a duty. It is a passionate commitment. The goal is to cultivate a community rooted in love and understanding!

Not greedy for gain (lover of money) –

¹⁰ For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, and by craving it, some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.

1 Timothy 6:10

Like all devoted believers, elders must pledge their loyalty to one master only—God and not the allure of money. Throughout the church’s history, there have been countless issues and damaging testimonies. These arose from pastors and church leaders who sought their roles out of a love for riches. They lacked a genuine passion for God and His flock. For centuries, many have entered the pastoral profession. They were driven not by a fervent desire to share God’s Word, but rather by the promise of stability. Lucrative salaries were also a significant motivator for them.

These leaders are driven by misguided goals and shallow motivations. A person who works solely for money cannot possibly offer the same love and nurturing care to the flock. Jesus warned us that hired hands would flee at the first sign of trouble. They would abandon those who truly need guidance and support.

¹² The hired hand, since he is not the shepherd and doesn’t own the sheep, leaves them and runs away when he sees a wolf coming. The wolf then snatches and scatters them.

John 10:12

What proactive steps can a church take to safeguard against a greedy individual abusing their authority for selfish financial gain? First, it is crucial to maintain transparency in all financial matters. This ensures everything is above board and accessible to the community. Moreover, it is essential to conduct a thorough investigation into the backgrounds of potential leaders. Understanding their intentions is also crucial before inviting them into these significant roles. This vigilance not only protects the church but also reinforces its commitment to integrity. It also maintains accountability, fostering a safe environment for all.

Positive qualifications

There was a time when we explored the shortcomings of what an elder should not embody. Now, let us ignite our spirits as we delve into the remarkable and inspiring qualities that an elder must possess!

Hospitable – Why is this required? Elders will have many opportunities to show hospitality. They can open their homes to the people of the church and those in need, invite newcomers for meals, etc.

⁸ Above all, maintain constant love for one another, since love covers a multitude of sins. ⁹ Be hospitable to one another without complaining.

1 Peter 4:8-9

Loving what is good – This requirement is not only simple to understand but also profoundly important. It embodies a vibrant passion! It transcends mere “doing what is good.” It goes beyond just having the right actions and habits. It’s about reveling in the joy of doing good. One should embrace every opportunity to act righteously. This is not out of selfish motives but purely for the delight of doing what is right. A person who truly loves good radiates this enthusiasm. They naturally perform good deeds most of the time. Their actions are fueled by a sincere desire to uplift the world around them.

Sensible – An elder must embody a profound sense of common sense, grounded in wisdom and experience. They should possess the remarkable ability to think logically and analytically. They are entrusted with the weighty responsibility of addressing numerous requests and petitions. With every decision, an elder should demonstrate a fierce commitment to discernment. They should guide others with clarity. Their choices should be made with conviction.

Just/Upright – By favoring one group over another, he fuels resentment and bitterness. This behavior leads to an inevitable rift in the church. An elder must rise above personal feelings. They must truly listen to every side. They should make decisions that are just and profoundly informed (James 2:1-7, Exodus 23:3).

One application from this is that an elder should hear both sides before making a decision.

The first to state his case seems right
until another comes and cross-examines him.

Proverbs 18:17

Listening to both sides is crucial before reaching a conclusion. Everyone must embrace this vital principle with fervor, not just elders! This practice is essential for parents who mediate disputes among their children. It is also crucial for employers striving to foster a harmonious workplace. Teachers nurturing understanding and anyone who responds to a complaint or accusation will find this practice invaluable. It transforms conflict into resolution and builds bridges of understanding!

Holy – In various translations, “devout” resonates deeply. An elder must embody unwavering commitment. Typically, elders are more often recognized than chosen. This reflects a profound journey where they have demonstrated these mature qualities over time. The other elders see that they are already living out their calling within the church. “Devoutness” is a sincerity that cannot be feigned; it flourishes only through genuine dedication and passionate service.

Self-controlled – A fruit of the Spirit.

How can you passionately apply today’s passage? Most of us may never step into the role of elders. However, the essence of this passage resonates with profound significance. First, we must deeply understand God’s vision for godly leaders. We need to fervently inspire our own churches to uphold and respect these vital standards.

Secondly, we see that this is God’s beautiful ideal for each individual. Let us fervently strive to embody these divine standards! Choose one area discussed today where you feel challenged. Reflect passionately on how you believe God calls you to grow and improve in this area throughout this week.

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Cross-References

• 1 Peter 5:1-5
• Acts 14:23
• Acts 20:28
• 1 Timothy 5:17-19
• Exodus 18:21

Discussion Questions

• What mission was Titus given?
• Where is Crete?
• What do you observe about the importance of elders?
• What are the benefits of an eldership structure to church governance?
• What other passages teach about the importance of elders?
• Is any other authority structure mentioned in the Bible?
• Are any other authority structures (such as congregational or single-head pastor) acceptable? Why or why not?
• What do you observe about the qualifications for elders?
• Why are these qualifications important?
• Evaluated together, do these mean that an elder must be perfect?
• Do you think this is an exhaustive list of requirements? Why or why not?
• What does it mean to be above reproach?
• What does it mean to be the “husband of one wife?” Must an elder be married?
• If a man has an adult child who turns away from the Lord, is he disqualified from being an elder (6)?
• What is the job of an elder (7)?
• What does an arrogant person look like?
• Why is hospitality important for an elder?
• How does this passage apply to someone who is not (and may never be) an elder?

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