Page 10 - Pastoral Ministries -Student Textbook

20. Just, devout and self-controlled (Titus 1:8)

Paul here lists both the disqualifications and qualification for eldership. The two lists reveal that elders must be
upright, self-controlled and not guilty of pride, anger and greed. Their self-control will mean that they will not
fall into sexual sin. They must also have the strength of character to hold to the trustworthy message.

Clearly advanced age is not an important criterion when choosing church leaders. Yet in certain African cultures
elderly people are automatically given authority no matter how they live. Paul stresses that it is impossible to
separate doctrine from lifestyle and that blameless behavior gives credibility to the teaching of an elder.

A pastor is to be found innocent, holy, and righteous in his character and actions.

The servant of God is to be a pious man. His devotion should spring from intense love for God.

The person who with the help of the Holy Spirit can control himself will have no problem succeeding in any task
that God had in mind for him to do.

1.4 Let’s Practice…

1. Explain what the Bible means when it says the pastor is to be the husband of one wife:

2. Explain what it means that the pastor is to be temperate:

3-5. What are the three reasons for a pastor to be hospitable?

6. Why is it so important that a pastor be able to teach well?

7. Define pugnacious:

8. True or False Unless parents can manage the art of parenting, they should not engage in the pastoral
ministry.

9. Why did God not want a pastor to be a new convert?

9