Paul seeks to guide the church by giving guidelines for the characteristics required of those who will lead in the church, specifically elders. The character of those who lead is vitally important. It is unfortunately all too easy to call to mind many prominent pastors or leaders of Christian organizations whose lives were not above reproach. As a result of their failures, the fall-out in the church and the watching world is usually great. Paul wants us the church to be led in virtue, rather than devolve in broken trust.

Let’s praise Christ for equipping and upholding elders and pray that God will continue to cultivate and call new elders here and around the world to steward His church.

[Titus 1.5-7]

1.5 This is why I left you in Crete, so that you might put what remained into order, and appoint elders in every town as I directed you— 6 if anyone is above reproach, the husband of one wife, and his children are believers and not open to the charge of debauchery or insubordination. 7 For an overseer, as God’s steward, must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain

[ WHAT ] is this passage saying and what is a key truth or thought that we learn?

+ What does Paul instruct to be appointed in every town? [v 5]

+ What does it mean to be above reproach?

+ What are the requirements regardings an elder’s family? Why would this be important? [ v 6]

+ What are the requirements for the man considered to be an elder? [v 6-7]

+ How are elders God’s stewards? [v 7]

[ HOW ] is the Lord calling me to action/obedience?

+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?

+ Are you living a life above reproach?

+ How can you encourage the leaders and elders in our body?

[ WHO ] am I walking with and praying for to discover Jesus?

+ What is my next step?