A note from our Pastor:

”Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.”

1 Timothy 3:7

Good Morning Dearly Beloved,

The Apostle Paul dedicates the first seven verses of this third chapter of 1 Timothy to the characteristics the community of believers should consider in a pastor. It is important to remember, the pastor is a member of the congregation, but is often a more visible representative of the congregation because of the representative role he fulfills.

In our study verse this week, the Apostle concludes his instructions for evaluating a potential pastor. In this final instruction the Apostle tells Timothy the man being considered must have a good report from those outside of the community of believers. Let us consider for a few moments what constitutes a good report and why this should matter.

First, the man must be of good character. The community of believers should not select one to guide the congregation who fails to live a life focused on loving God and loving his neighbor. The test of a man’s character should not be forced into western ideals which create a false set of morals. Rather, it should be based on scripture and the commandments of God. The congregation should be able to see the man actively focused on his spiritual continuum and seeking to be closer to the Divine.

Second, the man should have a report of being able to teach and lead people outside of the congregation. A pastor can be introverted or extroverted or somewhere in between and be a wonderful pastor. The nature of the man’s personality is not the question. Rather, the evaluation should be whether the potential pastor shows a competency to be humble and patient in teaching others. This is a skill set which extends beyond the role in the congregation and is a necessary aspect of a pastor.

Finally, and most importantly, outside of the congregation the man who will be considered to be a pastor must not be haughty or self-righteous. Being of good character is important but it is worthless unless the man can sit down with any person and commune. If the potential pastor carries a mindset built on judgement and exclusivity he is not fit to be a pastor.

It is important for the congregation to remember these are not standards by which to evaluate a man but rather characteristics to look for in addition to a clear calling from God.

Our Prayers are with you daily,

Brother Jeremiah