Sermon Archives
Pastors: Who Can Be One?
Titus 1:5-9Shepherding God's People
J. Josh Smith
May 15, 2016
Description:
Pastors are to be men who are above reproach in three primary areas of life: Family, character, and doctrine. They must be men who have single-minded devotion toward their wife and who manage their household well. A pastor’s character must be marked by the fruit of the Spirit, demonstrating that he is controlled by the Spirit—not by anger, pride, or fleshly desires. He must be grounded in doctrine well enough that he is able to exhort others in sound doctrine and refute false doctrine. Being above reproach does not mean that pastors must be perfect or that nobody will ever bring accusations against him. It does mean that he is a man of integrity. He is not living a second life or hiding sin. It means his lifestyle is such that no legitimate accusation can be brought against him and stick.
The qualifications for a pastor in Titus 1 and 1Timothy 3 simply describe for us a high level of Christian maturity. Pastors must be godly men who are spiritually mature and walk with God. This level of maturity, however, should be one for which all Christians strive. As a believer in Jesus Christ, you should pursue blamelessness in your family life, character, and doctrine. You should pursue a lifestyle that is above reproach. Examine your life this week for any attitudes or behaviors that, if exposed, would bring reproach against the name of Christ and His church. Pursue growth in these areas; seek accountability. Talent, pedigree, or education do not determine usefulness. Usefulness is primarily determined by holiness. Pursue holiness so that you will be useful to the Master.
Keywords:
Leadership, Servanthood