Overseers–a noble task
Scripture reading for September 26: 1 Timothy 3
“The saying is trustworthy: If anyone aspires to the office of overseer, he desires a noble task. Therefore an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive, for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God’s church? He must not be a recent convert, or he may become puffed up with conceit and fall into the condemnation of the devil. Moreover, he must be well thought of by outsiders, so that he may not fall into disgrace, into a snare of the devil.” 1 Timothy 3:1-7
Paul was an overseer in the early church. He was mentoring Timothy for that same task and teaching him how to help others identify their leadership calling and walk in that noble task. God calls each person to the task He desires for them and then equips them to walk effectively in that calling. When we aspire to leadership, it is often the Holy Spirit drawing us to submit to God’s call. But God has qualifications for those He calls into leadership. Each person must be submitted to Him and to those He has placed over them to teach, rebuke, and guide in their daily walk.
Paul stated that the overseer must be above reproach. That means that they are not open to charges of misconduct or wrong-doing that bring reproach to Christ and His Church. He lists several things in the leader’s life that must be brought in line with God’s requirements. First, his home must be in order. He must have one wife and be faithful in his marriage. His children must be instructed in godly living and respectful of parents as well as elders and those in authority. Paul asks the question: If a leader can’t manage his own household, how can he oversee Christ’s church? The leader must not be a recent convert either, as his life must be tested for faithfulness and consistency. He must be able to teach, respected by all, and have a reputation as a sound and sober man of God. Those aspiring to leadership must check out what God requires and make necessary changes and additions.
As you review these qualification for overseers, are there areas of your life that need adjusting and growth? How do these qualifications clash with the world we live in? Do you feel that the church gives emphasis to choosing leaders who have these qualifications?
Prayer: Father God, thank You for calling leaders and holding them to account for their character and conduct. As a leader, help me to live my life in such a way that reflects Your character and attitudes to the younger members. Use me as a mentor to help equip those You call. Amen.
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