“An elder must be blameless, the husband of one wife, with faithful children who are not accused of wildness or rebellion. As an overseer of God’s household, he must be blameless, not arrogant, not hot-tempered, not an excessive drinker, not a bully, not greedy for money, but hospitable, loving what is good, sensible, righteous, holy, self-controlled, holding to the faithful message as taught, so that he will be able both to encourage with sound teaching and to refute those who contradict it.” (vv. 6-9)

Who should lead in the church? Who should be our pastors?

Here’s how a lot of churches are answering that question: job descriptions. If you happen upon a place that is looking for their next shepherd, you’ll find a ready rubric—and it usually highlights the ministerial expectations of preaching, teaching, leading, visiting, administering, attending, and serving.

The Word, however, has an entirely different rubric.

Every time the qualifications for pastor (or elder or overseer) are detailed, they detail matters of character, of faith and faithfulness, and of humility. They detail the primacy of morality and of family. They detail only one job concern—that he teach the Word of God faithfully—and, beyond that, they focus wholly on his Christlike character.

When we consider this God-ordained role in the New Testament church, let’s consider it in the light God gives it. Let’s be gracious regarding a man’s polish and performance, so long as he serves humbly and faithfully and fully. And let’s limit the value we place on superlative platform ministry. Instead, examine his character by the right rubric, and pray that the Lord raises up humble men to shepherd His church.

(And pray for them, please!)

— Tyler