Qualifications Of Leaders
BRD REFLECTIONS:
(Alex Seow, Vice-Chairperson, Small Group Ministry)
READ
Titus 1 (NKJV)
OBSERVE:
Paul was addressing a young pastor, Titus, and tasked him to establish the church and leaders at Crete. Titus had the unenviable responsibility of firstly appointing leaders for the church and secondly, to “clean” up the ranks by enforcing discipline.
Paul required leaders to be not self-willed, not easily angered, not a drunkard, not violent, not greedy for money, but to be blameless, hospitable, a lover of that which is good, sober minded, just, holy, self-controlled or disciplined, faithful and trustworthy with the Word, and able to teach and convict those who contradict the Word! (v.7-9)
APPLY:
What a tall order! Is God expecting me to be so perfect? I am daunted and ashamed to say the least. I am, sadly, far from being blameless and am even further from the definition of what a holy person is.
I know I will never be perfect in this life; however, it is important that I ask myself how can I improve in each of these areas, with the end goal of being transformed to Christ-likeness. He desires me to aspire towards a better standard – His standard.
In addition, the following word and verse spoke to me:
Verse 7 – “Blameless” means “without defect” with reference to the Old Testament animal sacrifices (Leviticus 1:3; 3:1, 6 and Numbers 6:14). Only animals that were undefiled were worthy of being offered to the Lord. I think of one who is innocent and upright. Likewise, I must “be diligent to be found by Him in peace, without spot and blameless” 2 Peter 3:14.
Verse 9 – “Holding fast the faithful word as he has been taught, that he may be able, by sound doctrine, both to exhort and convict those who contradict”.
Here at home in Singapore, false teachers and their erroneous teachings are amongst us. These “teachers” dress well, appear godly but misrepresent Christ with their blended and unbiblical message. It is so important that I “hold fast” and know what the Bible says and stands for in order to discern such deceptions. It is my duty to rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith (v.13)
DO:
How do I live out a blameless and righteous life?
First, I have to be totally open and honest with myself. I need to face my shadows. I do this daily through self-reflection. I will mentally play back all that I have said, done and felt, not giving myself any excuse. If there are any unclean thoughts or actions – I will pray and act against them immediately. I will surrender all to Him through confession, seeking of forgiveness, and repentance. I will continue to persevere in my devotional life and remain connected to Him.
How do I handle sound doctrine?
I cannot handle sound doctrine if I am not immersed in the Word. As such, I will continue to involve myself in Word study groups such as Disciple (a course offered by the Disciple & Nurture Ministry) which has helped me grow spiritually through the years. I will also continue to research, read, listen to good credible Christian podcasts and study passages that are difficult to understand. When necessary, I shall seek clarification with pastors and fellow Christian brothers. I must be intentional and be ready to “Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all long-suffering and teaching.” (2 Timothy 4:2).
PRAY:
Dear Father, only you are blameless and righteous.
I submit all my failings to You. My pride, selfishness, attempts at vainglory, prejudices and so much more. I desire to be transformed into Your likeness each and every passing day. Help me increase my desire for your Word. Your Word that speaks truth and life. May the Holy Spirit open the eyes of my heart as I dig deep in Your Word, that I may not only do what it says – but help others understand what Your Word means to them. I pray all these in Your most precious and Holy Name. Amen.
