The Qualifications for a Pastor
January 14, 2020
Commentary
If anyone desires to be a church leader, he desires and honorable position (v. 1). Fourteen qualifications are given for pastors (“Bishop”, “pastor” and “elder” are synonymous).
1. Blameless – free of accusation; nothing in his life that unbelievers can us e to attack (v. 2).
2. Husband of One Wife – a “one woman man” (not divorced) (v. 2).
3. Vigilant – well balanced (v. 2).
4. Sober – self-controlled; sound in mind; of good behavior; orderly; respectable (v. 2).
5. Hospitable – others are welcome in his home (v. 2).
6. Able to Teach – able to understand & communicate the Scriptures to others (v. 2).
7. Not Given to Wine – not a drunk or an alcoholic; not controlled by strong drink (v. 3).
8. Not a Striker – not violent, but gentle (v. 3).
9. Patient – able to take criticism without reacting (v. 3).
10. Not a Brawler –one who does not start fights or arguments; a peacemaker (v. 3).
11. Not a Lover of Money – not covetous; does not pursue ministry for personal gain (v. 3).
12. Manages His Household Well – his children respect and obey him (vv. 4-5).
13. Not a Recent Convert – having gained some spiritual maturity (v. 6).
14. Well Thought Of – he has a good reputation in the community (v. 7).
Application
I have never been the pastor of a local church, but most of the qualifications listed above are found in other Scripture passages and apply to all Christians. What the Lord wants me to consider is that out of this list what are the things I need to work on the most.
1 Timothy 3:1– 7 (NET)
1 This saying is trustworthy: “If someone aspires to the office of overseer, he desires a good work.” 2 The overseer then must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, an able teacher, 3 not a drunkard, not violent, but gentle, not contentious, free from the love of money. 4 He must manage his own household well and keep his children in control without losing his dignity. 5 But if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for the church of God? 6 He must not be a recent convert or he may become arrogant and fall into the punishment that the devil will exact. 7 And he must be well thought of by those outside the faith, so that he may not fall into disgrace and be caught by the devil’s trap.