Titus 1:7,8
God’s steward must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain, but hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined.
Titus was in charge of the mission work on the Island of Crete, part of which involved appointing leaders or overseers in each town where the Christians met. Paul gave him a checklist to aid in finding suitable men for the role. The standard was high, but it had to be because the people needed sound doctrine from strong leadership.
We also need to receive teaching in sound doctrine and we expect our church leaders to be good, upright, disciplined men. We have a tendency, however, to hold them to a higher standard than other members of our fellowship. But why? Should we really expect more of those above us than we do of ourselves? Absolutely not. An angry arrogant drunk lashing out at all around is not becoming for anyone, let alone a child of God, so that shouldn’t even come into the equation, (makes you wonder why Paul would even have to mention it?). On the other hand, showing kindness and goodness, being just and Christlike, exercising control over our actions, emotions and talk, should be something that we all strive for.
God’s word is for all of us, as leaders, as assemblies, as individuals. His standards are high but He is beside us every step of the way to help us achieve them.
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