The importance of reputation, yes, yours is important. But more important than your reputation, is the reputation of who you represent. For the Christ follower, our reputation is only important when connected with the purpose of being ambassador's for Christ. The focus of our reputation is not ourselves, that leads to pride, arrogance and self-centerdness. The real focus of our reputation should be about Christ.
NLT "Also, people outside the church must speak well of him so that he will not be disgraced and fall into the devil's trap."
KJV "Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil."
NASB "And he must have a good reputation with those outside the church, so that he will not fall into reproach and the snare of the devil"
ESV "Moreover, he must be well thought of by outsiders, so that he may not fall into disgrace, into s snare of the devil."
NIV "He must also have a good reputation with outsiders, so that he will not fall into disgrace and into the devil's trap."
The Greek word "marturia" is translated as "report". It literally means testifies or testimony..ie before a judge. So it is literally the testimony that a non-believer or outsider would give of the elder/pastor.
So, the elder/pastor must be both above reproach within the Church, but also have earned a testimony worthy of the call of ambassador from those outside the Church. One commentator states, "he must be a man who has gained the respect of others in the day to day business of life. Nothing has hurt the church more than the sight of people who are active in it, but whose business and social life contradicts the faith which they claim and the principles they teach."
For the elder/pastor, much of their life is spent with the Church body. A relatively smaller amount of their time is spent amongst non-believers. It is "easy" to be a Christian with other Christian's. It is much more difficult to be a Christian when surrounded by people who are not Christians. It is a mistake to overlook the value of this last quality of an elder/pastor. I believe that this aspect is crucial to any man who desires to be an elder/pastor. The reason?? We are called to be ambassador's for Jesus Christ, to represent Jesus in and to the world. To do that effectively, we must be able to win the respect of "outsiders". They must know your claim of "Christian", and in their own judgement say, "I respect that man!!" Simply, we cannot fake it with outsiders. We can't use Christian jargon or Christian speak. They watch more intently, with a much more critical eye. And because of that, we must be very intentional in not compartmentalizing our "Christian" life, but in actuality represent Christ. In real, tangible ways. With every aspect of our life.
The apostle Paul wraps up this chapter, after more instructions regarding deacons, with the reason he writes these things to Timothy. verses 14-15"......I am writing you these instructions so that, if I am delayed, you will know how people ought to conduct themselves in God's household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of truth."
If God's household no longer holds to how God desires them to conduct themselves, they are not representing the "living God" appropriately. And they will cease to be the "pillar and foundation of truth." When that happens, the church reduces itself to a social club, and family and friend hangout, a collection of moral deists, with a belief in "God" and basically "moral". Which is a far cry from the Christianity we are called to Biblically. Maybe that's why the "church" is so irrelevant in the context of America today.
Showing posts with label the Word. Show all posts
Showing posts with label the Word. Show all posts
Monday, December 24, 2012
Monday, November 12, 2012
Biblical Leadership. A man and his house.
Anyone out there familiar with the term....PK? Pastor's kid? What do you think of when you hear that term?? Sadly, all growing up, that term was not used in a positive light. It was a term used, along with a chuckle, deep sigh, and a rolling of the eyes. Phrases often used to describe the pastor's kid; a kid who had poor manners, a general lack of respect for anyone and anything, and out of control behavior. That is what the reputation of a Pastor's kid was when I was growing up. That was common knowledge and belief, and it was that way because of experience. It struck me as odd, even as a youth growing up. I look back on it now, with much disgust. And, now I understand the dysfunction of many churches. It starts with the leadership, and who is given roles of leadership within the Body of Christ. And, sadly, the complete disregard for Biblical standard, God's standard, in these appointments.
There are two aspects to verse 4, a general qualification and a much more specific one. Followed by verse 5, giving God's reason for this qualification. (as if God needs to give us a reason)
1 Timothy 3:4-5
NLT "He must manage his own family well, having children who respect and obey him.For if a man cannot manage his own household, how can he take care of God's church?"
ESV "He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive, for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God's church?"
KJV "One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity (for if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?"
NIV "He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him, and he must do so in a manner worthy of full respect (if anyone does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God's church"
The pastor/elder's job does not begin or end with their responsibility in the church. They have another responsibility, and that is the home, and if that man is failing or has failed in his responsibility at home, there is no doubt that they will also fail in their role of pastor/elder.
Remember, this is what God said. "If a man cannot manage his own household, how can he take care of God's church?"
If a man has not proven to lead his own household, his wife, and his children, why would he be given the same task in the church? If a man chooses to not be faithful and committed to his wife, why would he be faithful and committed to the body of Christ? He won't. If a man does not lead his wife to holiness, how will he lead the body of Christ to holiness? He won't. If a man does not raise children who respect and obey, how will that same man lead anyone else to respect and obey God? He won't. In the end, the home is the proving ground. It is the arena in which a man proves he can be faithful, committed, intentional, and actually lead anyone. A man cannot fake it at home with his "gifts" like preaching. Will he need to preach? Yes he will. But that in itself will not allow a man to manage his home well. He has to know the Word, preach the Word, teach the Word, live the Word, be faithful to the Word, and have his love for the Word spread to those he has been blessed to be a leader of, HIS FAMILY.
Okay, a little tangent here, but let me know what you think.....
So, if this is a requirement, should any man be given the role of pastor/elder if he is not married with kids? If a man has not proven himself in this area, why would he, or why should he be given the role of pastor/elder?? What has he proven?? More specifically, what has he proven in real life, with real people? Not just text books, or in theory. This goes back to "giftedness" versus "holiness". As a culture we are enamored with peoples gifts more than we are with their character. We often confuse their gifts with their holiness. Their actual ability to lead, with character and committment, is generally not proven. In the New Testament, Paul wrote to Titus and Timothy with this specific list of who can be an elder. Have we altered this? Have we made these to be idea's instead of actual biblical guidelines? This is a thought that I have been struggling with, specifically, allowing non-qualified or proven people into leadership positions. Especially as I have dived deeper into these qualifications in the past few years, trying to get a fuller picture of what God judges as necessary for a Pastor/elder.
The next qualification is in regards to recent converts.......and why they do not biblicaly qualify to be a pastor/elder.
There are two aspects to verse 4, a general qualification and a much more specific one. Followed by verse 5, giving God's reason for this qualification. (as if God needs to give us a reason)
1 Timothy 3:4-5
NLT "He must manage his own family well, having children who respect and obey him.For if a man cannot manage his own household, how can he take care of God's church?"
ESV "He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive, for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God's church?"
KJV "One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity (for if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?"
NIV "He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him, and he must do so in a manner worthy of full respect (if anyone does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God's church"
The pastor/elder's job does not begin or end with their responsibility in the church. They have another responsibility, and that is the home, and if that man is failing or has failed in his responsibility at home, there is no doubt that they will also fail in their role of pastor/elder.
Remember, this is what God said. "If a man cannot manage his own household, how can he take care of God's church?"
If a man has not proven to lead his own household, his wife, and his children, why would he be given the same task in the church? If a man chooses to not be faithful and committed to his wife, why would he be faithful and committed to the body of Christ? He won't. If a man does not lead his wife to holiness, how will he lead the body of Christ to holiness? He won't. If a man does not raise children who respect and obey, how will that same man lead anyone else to respect and obey God? He won't. In the end, the home is the proving ground. It is the arena in which a man proves he can be faithful, committed, intentional, and actually lead anyone. A man cannot fake it at home with his "gifts" like preaching. Will he need to preach? Yes he will. But that in itself will not allow a man to manage his home well. He has to know the Word, preach the Word, teach the Word, live the Word, be faithful to the Word, and have his love for the Word spread to those he has been blessed to be a leader of, HIS FAMILY.
Okay, a little tangent here, but let me know what you think.....
So, if this is a requirement, should any man be given the role of pastor/elder if he is not married with kids? If a man has not proven himself in this area, why would he, or why should he be given the role of pastor/elder?? What has he proven?? More specifically, what has he proven in real life, with real people? Not just text books, or in theory. This goes back to "giftedness" versus "holiness". As a culture we are enamored with peoples gifts more than we are with their character. We often confuse their gifts with their holiness. Their actual ability to lead, with character and committment, is generally not proven. In the New Testament, Paul wrote to Titus and Timothy with this specific list of who can be an elder. Have we altered this? Have we made these to be idea's instead of actual biblical guidelines? This is a thought that I have been struggling with, specifically, allowing non-qualified or proven people into leadership positions. Especially as I have dived deeper into these qualifications in the past few years, trying to get a fuller picture of what God judges as necessary for a Pastor/elder.
The next qualification is in regards to recent converts.......and why they do not biblicaly qualify to be a pastor/elder.
Saturday, October 27, 2012
Biblical Leadership. Wine, fighting and money
This is an odd mix of qualifications to have together, but it's all about the total character of the man who desires to be a pastor/elder. Each is important, if God says that these are the qualifications, that makes them the standard, and God's standard should be our standard. Are we here to please God, or please man? If we are to please God, we will be in alignment with His will, His word, His standard.
ESV "not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome,not a lover of money"
KJV "not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy luker; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous"
NIV "not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money"
NLT "he must not be a heavy drinker or be violent, he must be gentle not quarrelsome, and not love money"
MESSAGE " not be overfond of wine, not pushy but gentle, not thin-skinned, not money-hungry"
In the greek "paroinos", means not given or addicted to wine. There is much debate as to what exactly this means. Clearly drunkenness is not a qualification, and abstaining is not a requirement. But the grey area between the black and white is dangerous place. Drunkenness, being given to wine, is not what a pastor/elder should be. This verse clearly says that. At the same time, abstaining is not the qualification either. This topic can be a lengthy post all by itself. Any Biblical church with an elder board, or the qualifications of 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1 as a standard, have to decide what this means for them. Specifically for the pastor/elder, not for the church goer. I am currently a member at a church where, the pastors/elders, sign an abstinence agreement. Not because drinking wine is a sin, but because they want the pastoral staff to be blameless, going back to the first qualification of a pastor/elder.
In the greek "plektes" defines a smiter or striker. Basically someone who assaults others. In the greek "epieikes", is often translated as mild, gentle, or patient. We all know someone who punches first and asks questions later. The kind of person whose first instinct is to take some form of physical action against someone, regardless of whether or not they even know the full context of whatever is causing them to have such thoughts. For the pastor/elder, he must be the kind of man whose instinct is not violence. That does not mean you avoid anything that causes emotions, it means that this man is willing to take the time to make sure that they know the full context of any event. Often times we react to quickly, we don't take the time to filter what we see, hear, or think through the Gospel. It is mostly unlikely that a Christian pastor would strike another, but the fact remains bullying and bad tempered speech or action is forbidden for the pastor/elder. Are there holes in the walls of the home that the pastor/elder has to cover up or hide? Random things broken? There is something deeper that surfaces, and it quickly turns violent? The pastor/elder must take that time to filter all emotions. His role as elder/pastor requires it.
In the greek "amachos", is translated as peaceable. The word means disinclined to fight. Not necessarily physically, but more so in other ways. Those who want to argue over anything! Which version of the bible they use, what denomination they are, color of carpet, style of music, Husky or Cougar, it doesn't matter what it is, they have an opinion and want to argue it. The pastor/elder is the type of man who absolutely needs to have biblical conviction and an opinion. But his demeanor and character clearly need to be that of a man who is not seeking a fight, but seeking peace.
In the greek "aphilarguros", means without covetousness. Not a lover of money. This one would seem to be simple and in no need of diving deeper. But in America, there are too many who use the name of Jesus Christ to make money. This one qualification alone, if taken seriously, would rule out so many! But for those in ministry for Jesus Christ, His mission, His body, know full well ministry is not about the money. Regardless, the pastor/elder has to be consistently aware of his heart in regards to money, and more importantly coveting that which he does not have.
Next time.......a short break from pastor/elder qualifications.......to provide commentary and summary of the state of the church in regards to pastors/elders.
ESV "not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome,not a lover of money"
KJV "not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy luker; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous"
NIV "not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money"
NLT "he must not be a heavy drinker or be violent, he must be gentle not quarrelsome, and not love money"
MESSAGE " not be overfond of wine, not pushy but gentle, not thin-skinned, not money-hungry"
In the greek "paroinos", means not given or addicted to wine. There is much debate as to what exactly this means. Clearly drunkenness is not a qualification, and abstaining is not a requirement. But the grey area between the black and white is dangerous place. Drunkenness, being given to wine, is not what a pastor/elder should be. This verse clearly says that. At the same time, abstaining is not the qualification either. This topic can be a lengthy post all by itself. Any Biblical church with an elder board, or the qualifications of 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1 as a standard, have to decide what this means for them. Specifically for the pastor/elder, not for the church goer. I am currently a member at a church where, the pastors/elders, sign an abstinence agreement. Not because drinking wine is a sin, but because they want the pastoral staff to be blameless, going back to the first qualification of a pastor/elder.
In the greek "plektes" defines a smiter or striker. Basically someone who assaults others. In the greek "epieikes", is often translated as mild, gentle, or patient. We all know someone who punches first and asks questions later. The kind of person whose first instinct is to take some form of physical action against someone, regardless of whether or not they even know the full context of whatever is causing them to have such thoughts. For the pastor/elder, he must be the kind of man whose instinct is not violence. That does not mean you avoid anything that causes emotions, it means that this man is willing to take the time to make sure that they know the full context of any event. Often times we react to quickly, we don't take the time to filter what we see, hear, or think through the Gospel. It is mostly unlikely that a Christian pastor would strike another, but the fact remains bullying and bad tempered speech or action is forbidden for the pastor/elder. Are there holes in the walls of the home that the pastor/elder has to cover up or hide? Random things broken? There is something deeper that surfaces, and it quickly turns violent? The pastor/elder must take that time to filter all emotions. His role as elder/pastor requires it.
In the greek "amachos", is translated as peaceable. The word means disinclined to fight. Not necessarily physically, but more so in other ways. Those who want to argue over anything! Which version of the bible they use, what denomination they are, color of carpet, style of music, Husky or Cougar, it doesn't matter what it is, they have an opinion and want to argue it. The pastor/elder is the type of man who absolutely needs to have biblical conviction and an opinion. But his demeanor and character clearly need to be that of a man who is not seeking a fight, but seeking peace.
In the greek "aphilarguros", means without covetousness. Not a lover of money. This one would seem to be simple and in no need of diving deeper. But in America, there are too many who use the name of Jesus Christ to make money. This one qualification alone, if taken seriously, would rule out so many! But for those in ministry for Jesus Christ, His mission, His body, know full well ministry is not about the money. Regardless, the pastor/elder has to be consistently aware of his heart in regards to money, and more importantly coveting that which he does not have.
Next time.......a short break from pastor/elder qualifications.......to provide commentary and summary of the state of the church in regards to pastors/elders.
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
Biblical leadership. Lover of hospitality, able to teach.
There are some very simple things in life, simple things that reveal the heart and mind of a man.
The list of elder qualifications, 16/17 in all, are 16/17 parts that make up a whole. 16/17 area's of a man's life that either qualify him as an elder, or disqualify him. Again, God's standard, God's judgement, and each man's choice to be qualified or not as an elder/pastor.
So why 16/17?? Some combine verse 4, ruling his house well and children in submission. Some keep them separate, which I will do also. But that's for a later date.
This list is here, God given, Holy Spirit breathed & inspired to the apostle Paul for the foundation of the church. This is how God has determined that His church was to be lead. By these type of men.
I am sure that each of us can put a name and a face to pastors that have had influence in our lives. Some being a living example of the elder/pastor qualities God has given us in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1 for that matter. And I am sure we can just as easily put a name and face to pastors who exhibit very few of the elder/pastor qualities that God has given us in 1 Timothy 3 & Titus 1.
For any disciple of Jesus Christ, for those who call him not only Savior, but Lord, for those who call Him Master, for to those who desire to live an obedient life, and a life of submission to God's will, for those who desire to serve as elder/pastor, this list should be in the forefront of any and every decision they make.
ESV "hospitable and able to teach"
KJV "given to hospitality, apt to teach"
NASB "hospitable, able to teach"
NIV "hospitable, able to teach"
NLT "he must enjoy having guests in his home, and he must be able to teach"
Message "hospitable, he must know what he is talking about"
The Greek word for hospitable is "philoxenos". It literally means fond of guests, that is, hospitable, given to (lover of) hospitality.
I love this characteristic! It shows something beyond head knowledge, beyond the short and fairly impersonal rubbing of shoulders at church. This is where relationships grow. This is where the elder/pastor is able to lead by example, to show availability in a personal setting, to be intentional in making people feel welcome by them, it can show that the elder/pastor is willing to serve. I have been witness to pastors who mostly fall into the realm NOT hospitable. Can the pastor be hospitable to everyone, no, not really. At the same time, that is why there should be a number of elders/pastors that are compatible with the size of the congregation. One man can not do this by himself. That's another post!! But back to this post.........is your pastor, are your elders fond of guests?? Are they lover's of hospitality? Are you?? Romans 12:13 Paul exhorts the Roman church to be given to hospitality. 1 Peter 4:9 calls the Christian to be hospitable without grumbling. Be a lover of hospitality.
Apt/Able to teach. The Greek word is "didaktikos". It means instructive, apt to teach.
The elder/pastor needs to be able to teach the word of God. Not just preach it, but to come along side others and actually teach them. As a coach, I can tell my basketball team how to play, but that is only part of the equation, I must also be able to teach them in a tangible way that allows them to succeed. That means that I have to watch what they are doing, and get in there to make corrections. That's the role of the coach, if a coach doesn't do that, his players fail. For the elder/pastor, part of the job is preaching, but they must also be able to teach well. To be able to teach in a way that the hearer is better able to understand and apply the lesson being taught. There is very little use in urging people to be better Christians from the pulpit, if those same people don't even know what it means to be a Christian!! Does your pastor instruct you well? Does he take the time to come along side you? Does he just give you information, or does he help you to succeed with that information in a tangible way? Does he allow you to work through what that looks like for you in your own decisions, then come along side you with real instruction and teaching? Are you able to teach? Can you take someone through the Gospel? Can you help a fellow believer with biblical questions?
Next time......the drunk, violent, greedy man........sounds like a day with the general public, driving public transportation!!
The list of elder qualifications, 16/17 in all, are 16/17 parts that make up a whole. 16/17 area's of a man's life that either qualify him as an elder, or disqualify him. Again, God's standard, God's judgement, and each man's choice to be qualified or not as an elder/pastor.
So why 16/17?? Some combine verse 4, ruling his house well and children in submission. Some keep them separate, which I will do also. But that's for a later date.
This list is here, God given, Holy Spirit breathed & inspired to the apostle Paul for the foundation of the church. This is how God has determined that His church was to be lead. By these type of men.
I am sure that each of us can put a name and a face to pastors that have had influence in our lives. Some being a living example of the elder/pastor qualities God has given us in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1 for that matter. And I am sure we can just as easily put a name and face to pastors who exhibit very few of the elder/pastor qualities that God has given us in 1 Timothy 3 & Titus 1.
For any disciple of Jesus Christ, for those who call him not only Savior, but Lord, for those who call Him Master, for to those who desire to live an obedient life, and a life of submission to God's will, for those who desire to serve as elder/pastor, this list should be in the forefront of any and every decision they make.
ESV "hospitable and able to teach"
KJV "given to hospitality, apt to teach"
NASB "hospitable, able to teach"
NIV "hospitable, able to teach"
NLT "he must enjoy having guests in his home, and he must be able to teach"
Message "hospitable, he must know what he is talking about"
The Greek word for hospitable is "philoxenos". It literally means fond of guests, that is, hospitable, given to (lover of) hospitality.
I love this characteristic! It shows something beyond head knowledge, beyond the short and fairly impersonal rubbing of shoulders at church. This is where relationships grow. This is where the elder/pastor is able to lead by example, to show availability in a personal setting, to be intentional in making people feel welcome by them, it can show that the elder/pastor is willing to serve. I have been witness to pastors who mostly fall into the realm NOT hospitable. Can the pastor be hospitable to everyone, no, not really. At the same time, that is why there should be a number of elders/pastors that are compatible with the size of the congregation. One man can not do this by himself. That's another post!! But back to this post.........is your pastor, are your elders fond of guests?? Are they lover's of hospitality? Are you?? Romans 12:13 Paul exhorts the Roman church to be given to hospitality. 1 Peter 4:9 calls the Christian to be hospitable without grumbling. Be a lover of hospitality.
Apt/Able to teach. The Greek word is "didaktikos". It means instructive, apt to teach.
The elder/pastor needs to be able to teach the word of God. Not just preach it, but to come along side others and actually teach them. As a coach, I can tell my basketball team how to play, but that is only part of the equation, I must also be able to teach them in a tangible way that allows them to succeed. That means that I have to watch what they are doing, and get in there to make corrections. That's the role of the coach, if a coach doesn't do that, his players fail. For the elder/pastor, part of the job is preaching, but they must also be able to teach well. To be able to teach in a way that the hearer is better able to understand and apply the lesson being taught. There is very little use in urging people to be better Christians from the pulpit, if those same people don't even know what it means to be a Christian!! Does your pastor instruct you well? Does he take the time to come along side you? Does he just give you information, or does he help you to succeed with that information in a tangible way? Does he allow you to work through what that looks like for you in your own decisions, then come along side you with real instruction and teaching? Are you able to teach? Can you take someone through the Gospel? Can you help a fellow believer with biblical questions?
Next time......the drunk, violent, greedy man........sounds like a day with the general public, driving public transportation!!
Monday, October 15, 2012
Biblical Leadership, vigilance, self-control, and respectable
It has been very thought provoking and humbling to go through the pastor/elder qualifications in 1 Timothy 3.
Throughout the Old Testament God calls his people to Holiness.
Leviticus 11:45 "you shall therefore be holy, for I am holy"
Leviticus 20:7 "consecrate yourselves, therefore, and be holy.."
And in the New Testament Peter refers back to the Old Testament, 1 Peter 1:16 "since it is written, You shall be holy, for I am holy."
We are to be "set apart", set apart from the society around us that does not serve the living God.
But,.......are we?
In a survey I heard in a sermon, the pastor said that, 84% of people say that they know someone who is a Christian, but only 15% of those people say the the Christian is different than anyone else they know. YIKES!!! So where is the "be holy, for I am holy"????? God calls us to be set apart, yet, as a whole, Christian's are not.
As I move along into the remaining qualifications and characteristics of a pastor/elder, I hope and pray that you read them and evaluate them intently. Evaluate your own heart and inner thought life. Evaluate your actions. Don't be deceived by your own judgement of yourself, you will most likely justify your own sin. Ask those around you. Not just those who are your "friends", how likely are they to tell you the "truth"?? If you want to really challenge yourself, ask those who are not your friends!!
I believe that all Christian men should have this list as a goal, as a standard for their lives. Regardless of whether or not the actual position of pastor/elder is desired. This passage of Scripture should not be avoided by Pastors. Why would a Pastor avoid scripture that clearly calls men to God's standard? Does He not want men in his church to be elder quality? What is the point then? How sad is it that any Pastor would keep men from the challenge of specific Holiness! It is that man's job as Pastor to bring his flock from milk to meat. We are all called to be Ambassador's for Jesus Christ. (2Cor: 5:20) We should desire for our lives to bring glory and honor to His name. If we are to actually represent Christ, we need to submit ourselves more and more to God and His standard.
The task is great, but when God calls you, He also equips you. Will you answer the call, and train yourself for Holiness??
ESV "sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable"
KJV "vigilant, sober, of good behaviour"
NASB "temperate, prudent, respectable"
NIV "temperate, self-controlled, respectable"
NLT "he must exercise self-control, live wisely, and have a good reputation"
The Greek word "nephalios". This word can have a double meaning, it can mean sober, but it also means watchful and vigilant. The call to the pastor/elder is to keep a clear mind, to be watchful and vigilant about their lives. That their conduct, choices, and lives must be continually under scrutiny, because their conduct will be under scrutiny from all around them, Christian's and non-Christian's alike. The pastor/elder is in a highly visible position, and he must be vigilant about his own life.
The Greek word "sophron". This word is considered to be almost untranslatable. One word never hits the nail on the head. Many different English words are used for it. Sound mind, discreet, prudent, self-controlled, chaste, or having complete control over sensual desires. And now I am going to become a geek, yes geek, not Greek, and put some quotes in from historical author's regarding this word "sophron", just so we can get a better idea of the meaning.
So, as you can see, one word doesn't really grasp the whole of the original intent. To sum it up, the pastor/elder must be in total control of his emotions and desires. We all have them, but do they master us, or do we master them?
The greek word "kosmios". Can mean well behaved, orderly, honest, and respectful. It was often used of a person who was a good citizen, but it was much more than just good behavior. There was an understanding and sense of someone whose life was seen as balanced and purposeful.
There is also a special connection between the words sophron and kosmios. Together they point to the inward man and the outward man. Sophron addresses the inward character of the pastor/elder, that which we will not necessarily be able to see. Kosmios addresses the outward visible character of the pastor/elder, that which we see very clearly. Together they make up the whole of what the Christian leader should be. Inwardly in control and mastering their emotions and desires, and outwardly showing the beauty of what he has inwardly mastered. As one commentator states, "The leader must be one in whose heart Christ's power reigns and on whose life Christ's beauty shines."
Our actions reveal our hearts and minds. Our choices reveal what we really believe. There is no point in denying that. These characteristics don't just happen, we don't fall into them, we can't just "try" to be them, we must train to be them. We must in our hearts and minds train to be vigilant, self-controlled, and respectable.
Next time.......hospitable and able to teach.
Throughout the Old Testament God calls his people to Holiness.
Leviticus 11:45 "you shall therefore be holy, for I am holy"
Leviticus 20:7 "consecrate yourselves, therefore, and be holy.."
And in the New Testament Peter refers back to the Old Testament, 1 Peter 1:16 "since it is written, You shall be holy, for I am holy."
We are to be "set apart", set apart from the society around us that does not serve the living God.
But,.......are we?
In a survey I heard in a sermon, the pastor said that, 84% of people say that they know someone who is a Christian, but only 15% of those people say the the Christian is different than anyone else they know. YIKES!!! So where is the "be holy, for I am holy"????? God calls us to be set apart, yet, as a whole, Christian's are not.
As I move along into the remaining qualifications and characteristics of a pastor/elder, I hope and pray that you read them and evaluate them intently. Evaluate your own heart and inner thought life. Evaluate your actions. Don't be deceived by your own judgement of yourself, you will most likely justify your own sin. Ask those around you. Not just those who are your "friends", how likely are they to tell you the "truth"?? If you want to really challenge yourself, ask those who are not your friends!!
I believe that all Christian men should have this list as a goal, as a standard for their lives. Regardless of whether or not the actual position of pastor/elder is desired. This passage of Scripture should not be avoided by Pastors. Why would a Pastor avoid scripture that clearly calls men to God's standard? Does He not want men in his church to be elder quality? What is the point then? How sad is it that any Pastor would keep men from the challenge of specific Holiness! It is that man's job as Pastor to bring his flock from milk to meat. We are all called to be Ambassador's for Jesus Christ. (2Cor: 5:20) We should desire for our lives to bring glory and honor to His name. If we are to actually represent Christ, we need to submit ourselves more and more to God and His standard.
The task is great, but when God calls you, He also equips you. Will you answer the call, and train yourself for Holiness??
ESV "sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable"
KJV "vigilant, sober, of good behaviour"
NASB "temperate, prudent, respectable"
NIV "temperate, self-controlled, respectable"
NLT "he must exercise self-control, live wisely, and have a good reputation"
The Greek word "nephalios". This word can have a double meaning, it can mean sober, but it also means watchful and vigilant. The call to the pastor/elder is to keep a clear mind, to be watchful and vigilant about their lives. That their conduct, choices, and lives must be continually under scrutiny, because their conduct will be under scrutiny from all around them, Christian's and non-Christian's alike. The pastor/elder is in a highly visible position, and he must be vigilant about his own life.
The Greek word "sophron". This word is considered to be almost untranslatable. One word never hits the nail on the head. Many different English words are used for it. Sound mind, discreet, prudent, self-controlled, chaste, or having complete control over sensual desires. And now I am going to become a geek, yes geek, not Greek, and put some quotes in from historical author's regarding this word "sophron", just so we can get a better idea of the meaning.
- Plato defined it as "the mastery of pleasure and desire"
- Aristotle defined it as "that power by which the pleasures of the body are used as law command"
- Philo defined it as "a certain limiting and ordering of the desires, which eliminates those which are external and excessive, and which adorns those which are necessary with timeliness and moderation."
- R.C. Trench describes it as "the condition of entire command over the passions and desires, so that they receive no further allowance that that which law and right reason admit and approve."
So, as you can see, one word doesn't really grasp the whole of the original intent. To sum it up, the pastor/elder must be in total control of his emotions and desires. We all have them, but do they master us, or do we master them?
The greek word "kosmios". Can mean well behaved, orderly, honest, and respectful. It was often used of a person who was a good citizen, but it was much more than just good behavior. There was an understanding and sense of someone whose life was seen as balanced and purposeful.
There is also a special connection between the words sophron and kosmios. Together they point to the inward man and the outward man. Sophron addresses the inward character of the pastor/elder, that which we will not necessarily be able to see. Kosmios addresses the outward visible character of the pastor/elder, that which we see very clearly. Together they make up the whole of what the Christian leader should be. Inwardly in control and mastering their emotions and desires, and outwardly showing the beauty of what he has inwardly mastered. As one commentator states, "The leader must be one in whose heart Christ's power reigns and on whose life Christ's beauty shines."
Our actions reveal our hearts and minds. Our choices reveal what we really believe. There is no point in denying that. These characteristics don't just happen, we don't fall into them, we can't just "try" to be them, we must train to be them. We must in our hearts and minds train to be vigilant, self-controlled, and respectable.
Next time.......hospitable and able to teach.
Monday, October 1, 2012
Biblical Leadership. the blameless one woman man
As I get into the Biblical qualifications of leadership, I do want to emphasize one thing. The Bible is the standard. If the Bible is not the standard, then there is no point in using the Bible at all. If you are not using the Bible, well, you are not really a Biblical Community. When Churches or leadership dismiss the standard of scripture, then the standard becomes something made up by men. When the standard is made up by men, God is no longer God. Man is God.
I will try to cover two or three character qualifications per post.
1 Timothy 3:2a
ESV "Therefore an Overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife"
KJV/NKJV "A Bishop must then be blameless, the husband of one wife"
ASV "the bishop therefore must be without reproach, the husband of one wife"
NASB "an overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife."
NIV "now the overseer is to be above reproach, faithful to his wife."
NLT "so an elder must be a man whose life is above reproach. He must be faithful to his wife."
Because we do not use the Greek language, we must do our best to put into common English words, the original meaning of each word or thought. Some translate well, others need much more of an explanation than one word. Although translators do their best, the translation often needs better explanation. Unfortunately, there are too many churches, and leaders, that will dogmatically stick to a given translation, and not do the work to know or understand the original meaning. That usually happens when the translation benefits them more than the original meaning, or vise versa. Instead of Scripture being the standard, too many want to bend Scripture so they fit within a skewed version of Scripture.
As you can see in the different translations above, there are two issues addressed. And I will take them in the Biblical order.
Reproach. Above reproach, blameless, without reproach. So what does that mean?
The Greek word is "Anepileptos" it is used of a position which is not open to attack, of a life which is not open to censure, of an art or technique which is so perfect that no fault can be found with it, blameless, unrebukeable.
The translation can be adequately done with one English word, which most translators use. That word is "reproach". To be above reproach or without reproach. literally it means above/without fault, to be above/without blame, to be above/without censure.
When a church leader fails to live a life that is above/without reproach, the Church as a whole suffers.
That man is consciously making choices that will either match the biblical standard or his choices will clearly and obviously fail in meeting biblical standard. When this kind of man is in leadership within a church, it is a matter of time before his choices bring about shame not only to himself and his testimony, but to the local church with which he serves, and the body as a whole. Ultimately, the Christ follower is an Ambassador for Jesus Christ (2Cor 5:20). Even more so, the elder/overseer is the leader and example for any congregation. Biblically he must be above and without reproach.
So what happens when an elder fails in this? It will happen. But what happens when it does?
This goes on into Church discipline, and more specifically who is the elder/overseer accountable too? I am not going to go into this right here, it is a whole post by itself. But I will ask this one question. Is the elder/overseer accountable to anyone who can exercise discipline to them? If the answer is no, the structure of that church is not about biblical standard, it is set up to be about the man/men who lead it. They will be the judge, jury, and attorney. What they decide wins out. They, without a doubt do not have to be above/without reproach. They only answer to themselves.
An awesome example of what this looks like comes from a church in Texas. If any man desires to be an elder, he is brought before the church. The lead Pastor tells the congregation that this man desires to be an elder. AND, if any one has a charge against that man, they are to not only tell that man so he can resolve the situation, but they are also to tell the church leadership so that the leadership can dive into the accusations, and make sure that the issue is resolved biblically. The man who desires the office of elder/overseer must be proven to be above/without reproach both prior to appointment but also throughout his duration of time serving as elder/overseer.
The second aspect of elder qualification is much tougher.
Some translators use "husband of one wife" others use "faithful to his wife" There can be a lot of debate over what this means.
In the Greek, the most literal translation is " a one woman man" or " a man of one woman". Although "husband of one wife" doesn't seem that far off of a translation, it actually misses the mark. And although "faithful to his wife" seems a good translation, it doesn't narrow down the original meaning totally, either.
The Greek doesn't actually say anything about marriage in this section. It can easily be referenced to given the context of later qualifications that speak about child raising and leading of the home. It only makes sense that this man, this elder/overseer is a married man. And obviously he needs to be the husband of one wife, not two, three, or four. But there are some difficulties with the translation "husband of one wife". Does that mean one wife at a time? One wife ever? That doesn't even speak to the faithfulness to that wife. What happens if the wife dies? Does that make that man disqualified? Can he then not remarry and be an elder? What happens when a man is divorced when he is not saved? When he (or his wife) is not a Christian and the marriage falls apart. What happens when that man is then saved? Is he disqualified for all time? if not, what must he do to be qualified. Under this definition, as long as the man remains married, he can still be unfaithful. Do you see how the "husband of one wife" lacks the full intent of the original.
"Faithful to his wife", that translation also has some flaws. Again the section doesn't speak to marriage. And really it only implies to faithfulness. Should an elder/overseer be faithful to his wife? The answer is YES. But, once again this translation doesn't do the whole justice to original meaning.
A "one woman man" or "a man of one woman" is rich in its meaning. It literally means that a man is only with one woman. In the context of these qualifications, and with a better understanding of the original Greek meaning, it is not hard to know who is qualified and who is not.
For example, an elder/overseer is married, and has knowingly invested in a relationship with a woman other than his wife.That man is biblically disqualified, he is clearly not a "one woman man"!!
If that elder/overseer has, by his own choice," fallen in love" with another woman, if he has chosen to have sexual contact with a woman other than his wife, he is biblically disqualified, he is clearly NOT a "one woman man"!! This man, by his own choice, has placed his own "happiness" over his "holiness". He is more than willing to forfeit his testimony, his character, his family, and his role as elder/overseer. Biblically, that is exactly what he has chosen.
These qualifications are about who should lead God's body in the local congregation. Sadly, too many disqualified men are allowed to fill the elder/overseer role when they shouldn't.
I have been witness to how a pastor's infidelity has played out.. In one church, the pastor was removed from his position, removed from the congregation, got two weeks pay, and was legally banned from being within 500 yards from the church facility. In another church the pastor was temporarily removed from his position, never lost his pay, was allowed to stay at the church, was able to keep his presence in the ministry he was involved with, and was able to have a voice in other ministries. One church took a biblical stance. One church is thriving. One church is about God and his name being above all else. I am sure you can figure out which one that is.
An elder/overseer/pastor, must be above reproach, and a one woman man.
The next post will be about the following three character qualifications: Sober-minded, self-controlled, and respectable (ESV)
I will try to cover two or three character qualifications per post.
1 Timothy 3:2a
ESV "Therefore an Overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife"
KJV/NKJV "A Bishop must then be blameless, the husband of one wife"
ASV "the bishop therefore must be without reproach, the husband of one wife"
NASB "an overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife."
NIV "now the overseer is to be above reproach, faithful to his wife."
NLT "so an elder must be a man whose life is above reproach. He must be faithful to his wife."
Because we do not use the Greek language, we must do our best to put into common English words, the original meaning of each word or thought. Some translate well, others need much more of an explanation than one word. Although translators do their best, the translation often needs better explanation. Unfortunately, there are too many churches, and leaders, that will dogmatically stick to a given translation, and not do the work to know or understand the original meaning. That usually happens when the translation benefits them more than the original meaning, or vise versa. Instead of Scripture being the standard, too many want to bend Scripture so they fit within a skewed version of Scripture.
As you can see in the different translations above, there are two issues addressed. And I will take them in the Biblical order.
Reproach. Above reproach, blameless, without reproach. So what does that mean?
The Greek word is "Anepileptos" it is used of a position which is not open to attack, of a life which is not open to censure, of an art or technique which is so perfect that no fault can be found with it, blameless, unrebukeable.
The translation can be adequately done with one English word, which most translators use. That word is "reproach". To be above reproach or without reproach. literally it means above/without fault, to be above/without blame, to be above/without censure.
When a church leader fails to live a life that is above/without reproach, the Church as a whole suffers.
That man is consciously making choices that will either match the biblical standard or his choices will clearly and obviously fail in meeting biblical standard. When this kind of man is in leadership within a church, it is a matter of time before his choices bring about shame not only to himself and his testimony, but to the local church with which he serves, and the body as a whole. Ultimately, the Christ follower is an Ambassador for Jesus Christ (2Cor 5:20). Even more so, the elder/overseer is the leader and example for any congregation. Biblically he must be above and without reproach.
So what happens when an elder fails in this? It will happen. But what happens when it does?
This goes on into Church discipline, and more specifically who is the elder/overseer accountable too? I am not going to go into this right here, it is a whole post by itself. But I will ask this one question. Is the elder/overseer accountable to anyone who can exercise discipline to them? If the answer is no, the structure of that church is not about biblical standard, it is set up to be about the man/men who lead it. They will be the judge, jury, and attorney. What they decide wins out. They, without a doubt do not have to be above/without reproach. They only answer to themselves.
An awesome example of what this looks like comes from a church in Texas. If any man desires to be an elder, he is brought before the church. The lead Pastor tells the congregation that this man desires to be an elder. AND, if any one has a charge against that man, they are to not only tell that man so he can resolve the situation, but they are also to tell the church leadership so that the leadership can dive into the accusations, and make sure that the issue is resolved biblically. The man who desires the office of elder/overseer must be proven to be above/without reproach both prior to appointment but also throughout his duration of time serving as elder/overseer.
The second aspect of elder qualification is much tougher.
Some translators use "husband of one wife" others use "faithful to his wife" There can be a lot of debate over what this means.
In the Greek, the most literal translation is " a one woman man" or " a man of one woman". Although "husband of one wife" doesn't seem that far off of a translation, it actually misses the mark. And although "faithful to his wife" seems a good translation, it doesn't narrow down the original meaning totally, either.
The Greek doesn't actually say anything about marriage in this section. It can easily be referenced to given the context of later qualifications that speak about child raising and leading of the home. It only makes sense that this man, this elder/overseer is a married man. And obviously he needs to be the husband of one wife, not two, three, or four. But there are some difficulties with the translation "husband of one wife". Does that mean one wife at a time? One wife ever? That doesn't even speak to the faithfulness to that wife. What happens if the wife dies? Does that make that man disqualified? Can he then not remarry and be an elder? What happens when a man is divorced when he is not saved? When he (or his wife) is not a Christian and the marriage falls apart. What happens when that man is then saved? Is he disqualified for all time? if not, what must he do to be qualified. Under this definition, as long as the man remains married, he can still be unfaithful. Do you see how the "husband of one wife" lacks the full intent of the original.
"Faithful to his wife", that translation also has some flaws. Again the section doesn't speak to marriage. And really it only implies to faithfulness. Should an elder/overseer be faithful to his wife? The answer is YES. But, once again this translation doesn't do the whole justice to original meaning.
A "one woman man" or "a man of one woman" is rich in its meaning. It literally means that a man is only with one woman. In the context of these qualifications, and with a better understanding of the original Greek meaning, it is not hard to know who is qualified and who is not.
For example, an elder/overseer is married, and has knowingly invested in a relationship with a woman other than his wife.That man is biblically disqualified, he is clearly not a "one woman man"!!
If that elder/overseer has, by his own choice," fallen in love" with another woman, if he has chosen to have sexual contact with a woman other than his wife, he is biblically disqualified, he is clearly NOT a "one woman man"!! This man, by his own choice, has placed his own "happiness" over his "holiness". He is more than willing to forfeit his testimony, his character, his family, and his role as elder/overseer. Biblically, that is exactly what he has chosen.
These qualifications are about who should lead God's body in the local congregation. Sadly, too many disqualified men are allowed to fill the elder/overseer role when they shouldn't.
I have been witness to how a pastor's infidelity has played out.. In one church, the pastor was removed from his position, removed from the congregation, got two weeks pay, and was legally banned from being within 500 yards from the church facility. In another church the pastor was temporarily removed from his position, never lost his pay, was allowed to stay at the church, was able to keep his presence in the ministry he was involved with, and was able to have a voice in other ministries. One church took a biblical stance. One church is thriving. One church is about God and his name being above all else. I am sure you can figure out which one that is.
An elder/overseer/pastor, must be above reproach, and a one woman man.
The next post will be about the following three character qualifications: Sober-minded, self-controlled, and respectable (ESV)
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