1 Timothy 3: 2-4
"Now the overseer is to be above reproach, faithful to his wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him, and he must do so in a manner worthy of fullrespect."
What are the qualifications for people serving God, especially among people who are leaders of the church? First, the lives must be above reproach. It's not perfect holiness; rather there should be no inappropriate behaviors, leaving no room for others to gossip. In fact people who serve God would face many attacks: criticism for doing poorly; envious from others for doing well. It's impossible for us not to face any attacks, but if we stand firm in our speeches and behaviors, then we can hold our grounds amidst the storm.
Second, there are testimonies in ministries, hospitable, able to teach. In other words, besides having proper serving attitudes, there is also a foundation built on truth. A church leader must be rooted in truth, so as not to toss around among false doctrines. Particularly in this generation, there are so many deceptive ideas as well as mystical experiences; we need to use God's words to discern what is from God and what is from human will. On the other hand, we are also responsible to shepherd the sheep, lest the enemy will put them in captivity.
Third, there are good testimonies at home. Church leaders must have their testimonies on display at their homes, if a person cannot manage his own family, and then it is difficult to manage the house of God. Family testimonies are important, no matter how spiritual, how able to teach you are on the outside, your family members are the ones that know you the best. This is why it's so difficult to preach the gospel to family members, because no matter how well you talk, your true color will show once you are back home. If the family members see your testimonies and they fully support your ministries, then your testimonies are genuine, not deceitful.
In verse 4 there is an alternate version, "... and see that his children obey him, and he must do so in a manner worthy of him with proper respect," this is because the parent's example can change the children. Life examples can bring a profound influence to the children because they follow your footsteps. Do you desire the noble tasks? You need to train yourselves, such that you'll have good reputation in your own lives, ministries and families, and bring no shame to the name of the Lord.
Pray with Pastor Tong
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