Qualities of Elders 1 Timothy 3 7 Good

Qualities of Elders 1 Timothy 3: 7

Good Testimony • Good: KALON • Testimony: MARTURION – witness (Mk 14: 55), martyr, testimony (Jn 1: 19) • “Good reputation” – NASB; NIV; “Well thought of” – ESV • “Good report” – KJV; “Good testimony” - ASV • An elder must be well thought of by those who are members of the church, but also of those outside of the church – Does this mean all will speak well of him? – Luke 6: 26 • Who would you ask about this man? – Coworkers? Neighbors?

Why is it important to have a good reputation? • Not having a good reputation would cause reproach. • The devil is waiting with a snare • He would love to humiliate and elder of the Lord’s church • Should we rush to appoint elders? Why would it be important to take your time? • Is it easier to get a man “in” or “out” of an eldership?

Review: Qualities from 1 Timothy (15 total) • • Blameless One woman (husband of one wife) Temperate Sober minded Good behavior Hospitable Able to teach Not given (addicted; abstinent) to wine

Review: Qualities from 1 Timothy (15 total) • • • Not violent; not a striker Not greedy for money Gentle Not quarrelsome (contentious) Not covetous (free from love of money) Rules his house well – Children in submission; under control – With reverence; respect • Not a new convert • Good reputation w/outsiders

Qualities from Titus 1: 5 -9 In His House • Blameless (above reproach) • One woman (husband of one wife) – Having faithful children – Not accused of dissipation or insubordination In God’s House • Blameless as God’s steward • Not self willed • Not quick tempered • Not given (addicted) to wine • Not violent • Not greedy for money • Hospitable • A lover of good • Sober-minded • Just, holy, self controlled • Holding fast the faithful word