What Does It Take to Be a Leader in the Church?

Qualifications for Overseers

3 Here is a trustworthy saying: Whoever aspires to be an overseer desires a noble task. 2 Now the overseer is to be above reproach, faithful to his wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, 3 not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. 4 He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him, and he must do so in a manner worthy of full[a] respect. 5 (If anyone does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God’s church?) 6 He must not be a recent convert, or he may become conceited and fall under the same judgment as the devil. 7 He must also have a good reputation with outsiders, so that he will not fall into disgrace and into the devil’s trap.

We all know every leader is human but...Paul teaches the church that a leader's character matters. Then, Paul describes what type of character is needed for such a leader.  The NIV translates this role as "overseer".  It is the same word for "bishop". It can be translated "elder" though this term comes from a different Greek word,"prebyster".  The only difference between a bishop/overseer and elder/presbyter is that elder/presbyters seem to have more teacher/pastoring role, whereas bishop/overseer is more of a governor/administrator of the church organization. 

When you look at this list of character qualities you might say that only person who could fit this job description is Jesus.  And you wouild be right.

Paul's point is not everyone who aspires to be a leader should be one.  A church doesn't have a sign up for everyone who wants to lead in the church.  Not everyone who is gifted should necessarily be a leader.  Not everyone who gives a lot of money should be a leader.  The key arbiter of someone being fit for leadership is character.  

Why?  A spiritual leader represents the body of Christ to the world.  The way a leader acts and behaves can affect the church's reputation and ability to reach those who are outside fo the church .  Also a leader is an example to other followers of Christ within the church.  Someone has said, "As the leader goes, so goes the church."  While our true leader is Jesus himself, leaders have been given authority to lead and guide the flock under their care.  

Being a leader can be a lonely job.  Leaders often must shoulder the burdens and cares of a congregation.  Often they are also accountable for recruiting of new members and positive cash flow.  Paul says a leader desires a noble task.  One day leaders who are faithful to God's call will be rewarded by their leader Jesus.  Pray for your leaders, they need it. Thank your leaders.  If you are leader remember the special calling you have to shepherd the people and steward the resources God entrusts to the local church.  Finally, remember the One who called you will always supply with everything you need to do His will.