Thursday, September 26, 2013

Five Characteristics

If a man desires to be a Bishop (pastor of a church) he desires a good work (1 Timothy 3:1). It is a privilege and honor when God calls men to shepherd his flock (John 21:15-17; Hebrew 13:20; 1 Peter 2:25, 5:4). It also carries a great responsibility.

Teachers receive a greater judgement (Jeremiah 50:6-7; Ezekiel 34:7-10; James 3:1). They must give an answer to God for what they teach (Hebrews 13:17; Ezekiel 13:7-9). Their lives must be above reproach (1 Timothy 3:1-7) meaning no one can honestly say his life does not reflect Christ and His message.

He must be "vigilant, sober, of good behavior, given to hospitality, apt to teach; (1 Timothy 3:2). These five qualities alone exclude some from the office of Bishop. When God has called a man to this ministry, the sheep will know his calling by these characteristics.