Qualifications and Examples…
I have mentioned John Hammett’s book Biblical Foundations for Baptist Churches several times on this blog. I do not agree with everything that he says about pastors, elders, and overseers (or other aspects of the church). However, he has a great section on the “qualifications” from 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1:
The first notable aspect of these lists is their ordinariness. As D.A. Carson notes, “almost every entry is mandated elsewhere of all believers.” Whatever is involved in being an elder, it is not a calling to a higher standard of Christian living. How could it, when every Christian is commanded by Christ to “be perfect” (Matt. 5:48) and when the goal and destiny of every Christian is Christlikeness (Rom. 8:29)?
But if these character traits are commanded of all Christians, what is their significance here? The key to understanding the meaning of these lists of character traits is remembering that one of the responsibilities of leaders is to set the example for the flock (1 Peter 5:3). The character required to be an elder is the character necessary to be an example to the flock. Such a person would not need to be perfect (such persons are in very short supply among fallen humanity) but would need a degree of maturity and proven character that would enable him to serve as an effective example, including an example of how to confess and repent when he does stumble.
Second, it is also striking how different these qualifications are from modern lists of qualifications for a position. There is no mention of the need for training or educational requirements, little in the way of skills or experience or certification. Character is the central issue. [166]
So, according to Hammett, elders are not perfect. I agree with this. In fact, I would suggest that no one can live up to the list of “qualifications” given in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1. Perhaps that is why Paul does not call the lists “qualifications”.
What are the purpose of the lists then? Well, I think the lists are not given for the benefit of the elders, but for the benefit of all the people. If leaders are to be examples as Hammett says – and I agree with this – then which examples do we follow? I mean, everyone is an example of something. Which examples are we supposed to follow? Who should we look to as examples?
We should look to people who most closely live according to the lists given in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1 (among other lists). We do not look for perfect people to follow – there are none, other than Jesus Christ. We look for people who would be godly examples, people who are mature followers of Jesus Christ. They will fail to meet some of the “qualifications” – all of them will – but they will also be known for repenting and confessing when they do fail, to paraphrase Hammett’s description.
But, these people are not living a certain way in order to be leaders. They are living an examplary life in response to God’s work in their own life – in obedience to the presence, conviction, and leading of the Holy Spirit. These people do not become elders and then beging living an exemplary life; they are recognized as elders because of the life they are already living.
So, perhaps “qualifications” is not the best term for these lists. Any suggestions for another name for the lists in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1?
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Standards. Markers. Qualities. What is to be striven for. Boy that’s an ugly phrase. 🙂
Bryan,
Good suggestions, thank you.
-Alan
Characteristics?
I like your thinking here lately alen. I always thought that there was no way I could ever measure up to the qualifications of the list in 1Tim3. And I would look at others and think, Either I am completely hypocritical and dishonest about my sins (which I am) or these people don’t struggle with things. But your posts lately have made me rethink this in terms of who am I following and the example they set and a desire for preeminence etc. Thanks alot. Otherwise, I don’t know how anyone could say they are the equivalent to the list of qualifications of 1Tim3.
TJ
Leah,
I like “characteristics”. Thank you!
Ed,
If those lists are qualifications, then I am not qualified, and I am suspect of anyone who says they are qualified. If they are characteristics, as your wife suggested, then we can talk…
-Alan
How about, simply, “expectations?”
If we want our leaders to achieve and exceed expectations, we must always “raise the bar” high.
Geoff
Alan,
My vote is for “characteristics.”
Geoff,
Thanks for the comment again. I like the term “expectations” as long as we don’t see them as goals for people once they become pastors/elders/overseers. In other words, we shouldn’t appoint someone as pastor then say, “Live up to these expectations.”
Tony,
I see that hand. That’s two votes for “characteristics”…
-Alan
I vote for “characteristics” as well.
That captures the “already being demonstrated” concept instead of “needing to live up to”.
It may be a subtle switch, but I think it could have profound impact on our thinking, and the functioning of elders in our fellowships.
Characteristics…attributes…traits
Characteristics…attributes…traits
Characteristics…attributes…traits
Characteristics…attributes…traits
Characteristics…attributes…traits
Characteristics…attributes…traits
Characteristics…attributes…traits
Characteristics…attributes…traits
Characteristics…attributes…traits
Characteristics…attributes…traits
Characteristics…attributes…traits
Steve and Elder’s Wife,
Thanks for adding your voices.
Steve,
I do think the “already being demonstrated” issue is key to understanding elders.
-Alan
Good post, Alan. I appreciate Hammett’s thoughts.
I vote along with those who say, “characteristics”. You bring up a good point, here. Kind of a different take, I haven’t read or thought of, before. Thanks.
Ted,
I appreciate your thoughts here. It is always good to find someone else (such as Hammett) who comes to similar conclusions from Scripture.
-Alan