Vital Signs: Sunday, October 20, 2024

“This is a trustworthy saying: 'If someone aspires to be a church leader, he desires an honorable position.' So a church leader must be a man whose life is above reproach. He must be faithful to his wife. He must exercise self-control, live wisely, and have a good reputation. He must enjoy having guests in his home, and he must be able to teach. He must not be a heavy drinker or be violent. He must be gentle, not quarrelsome, and not love money. He must manage his own family well, having children who respect and obey him. For if a man cannot manage his own household, how can he take care of God’s church?” - ‭‭1 Timothy‬ ‭3:1-5‬ ‭NLT‬‬

The Standard

Church leaders must live above reproach, which is not a term we use very much. Essentially, we are to live with integrity—a great standard for all people. Additionally, it means avoiding questionable actions and activities that don’t reflect strong character. It does not mean that we are controlled by what others might think, but that we consider the choices we make and eliminate things that are questionable in the eyes of others. But what if we can’t identify what’s questionable and what is not? Godly friends, mentors, spouses, parents, and even our children usually know. So when confused, ask.