Off the Shelf Sunday School--Titus

Qualifications of Elders (1:5-9)

The reason I left you in Crete was that you might straighten out what was left unfinished and appoint elders in every town, as I directed you. An elder must be blameless, the husband of but one wife, a man whose children believe and are not open to the charge of being wild and disobedient. Since an overseer is entrusted with God’s work, he must be blameless—not overbearing, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not pursing dishonest gain. Rather he must be hospitable, one who loves what is good, who is self-controlled, upright, holy and disciplined. He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it.??

1.????Church elders are leaders and overseers. They provide spiritual guidance and discipleship to promote growth in faith and good works.?They are members of local congregations. (1 Tim 3:1-10) Who are the elders in your church?

2.????Elders serve as examples and so they must have a good reputation that is free from accusations of doing something wrong. Likewise, their families must be examples of dedication to Jesus and obedience to his commands.?

3.????Elders must have self-control. They must have patience and not be subject to anger or quick-tempered actions. They must not abuse their authority by commanding rather than serving as leaders.??

4.????Elders must be motivated by love and concern for others and not for their personal gain in reputation or influence.

5.????Elders must teach sound doctrines based on the Bible and be able to challenge false teachers.?