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"If a man is blameless..."

Text: Titus 1:6

QUALITIES OF A SENIOR SPIRITUAL LEADER

In Paul’s first epistle to Timothy, instructions were given concerning both elders and deacons. In the case of Titus, the focus was on “elders”, in other words, senior spiritual leadership. Perhaps there was a sufficient number of people who qualified as deacons. Thus this issue was not mentioned. Titus was tasked to appoint elders in the churches in Crete!

“If a man is blameless, the husband of one wife,
having faithful children not accused of dissipation
or insubordination.”
Titus 1:6

1. Focus on family

a) There was an obvious focus on the family of the would-be elder.

b) His family is deemed to reflect on the individual.

2. The features highlighted include the following:-

a) “If a man is blameless”

i) This does not mean sinlessness (no one is sinless except the Lord Jesus Christ).

ii) This is a reference to the upright lifestyle of the individual.

iii) People should not have doubts as to his personal righteousness.

b) “The husband of one wife”

i) The would-be elder must not be a philanderer.

ii) He must maintain high moral virtues.

c) “Having faithful children”

i) This is deemed important too.

ii) The behaviour of children often reflects the kind of upbringing given.

iii) They should be children who display faithfulness.

d) Two aspects singled out especially

i) The word “dissipation” means “recklessness”.

ii) The word “insubordination” may be understood as “out of control”.

THE DANGERS

If a church does not have good leaders the work will be hindered. But if the church had bad leaders the work will suffer even greater tragedy! Titus must realise that he cannot resolve church problems easily. Much wisdom and discernment must be exercised when it comes to the issue of senior leadership positions.

1. Leaders must seek to lead by example.

2. The children of the would-be elder must also be exemplary!