Titus 1:1-6 – Ordaining Elders
Paul explains the reasons why he left Titus on Crete. The first reason was to set ‘into order’ what remained as Paul left. Here we have a pioneering church plant; with the salvation of souls, Titus is left behind to build up these new disciples in the faith. The second reason for being left in Crete is to ‘appoint elders in every town’. The Biblical model of church government is to have oversight under elders and deacons. Titus is being asked to organise and moderate the election of elders.
However, not everyone can be an elder. There are qualifications to be met first. It should be noted that the qualifications set out in v.6 should be said of every Christian; therefore they apply to all of us. But in the ordination of men to the eldership, they should be particularly known for these things already. 1) No man is sinless, so ‘above reproach’ is not speaking about perfectionism. But an elder is one who cannot be accused of any flagrant sin but is known for holiness. 2) If the man is married, he already leads the family home in Gospel truth and worship. If he cannot oversee his own family, how then can he oversee a congregation? 3) The result of overseeing the family home in a godly fashion, is that the wife will be a believer, and the children are known as being literally ‘faithful’ and not living a life ‘of debauchery or insubordination.’
We should all endeavour to be ‘above reproach’ and godly in our family and public life, for these are Christian virtues. But, men who are particularly known for these spiritual graces are alone qualified for the election of elders. When elections come in our churches we should look for these qualifications in men, and having elders we should pray for them that they continue to live and lead in a godly and holy fashion.
Questions
- What are the qualifications of elders?
Prayer Points
- Pray for our elders.
- Use prayer points from your congregation.
- Pray for family matters.