The Character of Leadership
1 Timothy 3:1-15
First Timothy 3 begins with a “trustworthy” saying: that anyone wanting to be a leader in the church desires a noble thing. However, Paul went on to list the characteristics that a church leader should embody, and he warned of the dangers that come with pride in position.
The standard for leadership may seem high, but being a leader in the church is a great responsibility. There is also great responsibility in being a follower of Jesus, and, even if you do not anticipate ever holding a leadership position in the church, you should strive to exhibit these characteristics. You may not be a leader in the church, but you are an example to the community at large. And there may come a time when God does call you into leadership. Be open to that, and be prepared.
As we consider members for any leadership position in the church, we need to consider these characteristics, as well as the “spiritual age” of the member. At times, we attempt to give a new Christian ownership in the Body by giving them a position of leadership. We wouldn’t give a baby or toddler a job that they weren’t equipped to do; we do not want to give new Christians a job they are not spiritually equipped for, either.
Paul also shared with Timothy the qualifications for deacons, or “those who serve.” As churches choose these servant leaders from among their body, these verses provide helpful criteria. In fact, these are good guidelines for all believers. All believers should live in such a way that they are above reproach. Our conduct should be worthy of respect in our churches, in our workplace, in our communities and in our homes.
While we may be called to be leaders in the church, we must never allow our service to cause us to neglect our families. Nor should we treat our family members with any less care and respect than we would afford someone else. By the same token, someone who is asked to be a leader in the church should have already demonstrated ability to provide spiritual leadership in the home.
Although Paul specifically named leaders and deacons in the early part of this chapter, in the concluding verses he referred to “the people” and their expected conduct. Yes, God does have high standards for leaders, but He also has high standards for all His followers. He is concerned with the character of all those who bear His name.
Our conduct is a reflection of the one whom we claim to follow. As His people, we need to determine if our actions show a distorted reflection of His character or a true reflection of who He is.
Register– Lessons in the BSL series for the winter quarter are being written by Laurie Register, executive director-treasurer of Woman’s Missionary Union, SCBC.