The characteristics required for pastors and leaders
Andy Nagahara
A. For pastors (1-7)
1) Character (1-3, 6)
1 Here is a trustworthy saying: If anyone sets his heart on being an overseer, he desires a noble task.
2 Now the overseer must be above reproach, the husband of but one wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach,
3 not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money.
6 He must not be a recent convert, or he may become conceited and fall under the same judgment as the devil.
2) Family life (4, 5)
4 He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him with proper respect.
5 (If anyone does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God's church?)
3) Good reputation (7)
7 He must also have a good reputation with outsiders, so that he will not fall into disgrace and into the devil's trap.
B. For leaders (8-13)
8 Deacons, likewise, are to be men worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain.
9 They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience.
10 They must first be tested; and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons.
11 In the same way, their wives are to be women worthy of respect, not malicious talkers but temperate and trustworthy in everything.
12 A deacon must be the husband of but one wife and must manage his children and his household well.
13 Those who have served well gain an excellent standing and great assurance in their faith in Christ Jesus.
C. For you
Summary
We do not know precisely how churches were organized, and what the roles of overseers and deacons were like in those days. However, they assumed the responsibility for looking after their people as the leaders delegated by God in local churches. All of us have a pastoral role in our daily life. You should pray for your people. Also, please do not forget to pray for your overseers, too. They need your support in prayer for fulfilling their responsibilities.
For Discussion
1) What is your prayer for your pastors？ Please pray for them today.
2) What are the characteristics required for you?