Titus 1:5-9 - Qualifications for Elders

Titus 1:5
⁵This is why I left you in Crete, so that you might put what remained into order, and appoint elders in every town as I directedyou—

I. Why did Paul leave Titus on the Island of Crete?

A. Elders are vital for the health of the
church. (v5)

B. Multiple elders are needed in every
town (church). Examples: Acts 14:23,
20:17

Titus 1:6-7
⁶if anyone is above reproach, the husband of one wife, and his children are believers and not open to the charge of debauchery or insubordination. ⁷For an overseer, as God’s steward, must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quicktempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain,

II. What does an elder look like? His character and ability can be seen and experienced.

A. Above reproach in his family (v6)

B. Above reproach as God’s house manager (v7)

C. In relation to others by the absence of vices (v7)

Titus 1:8
⁸but hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined.

D. In relation to others by the presence of virtues (v8)

Titus 1:9
⁹He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.

E. In his ability to cling to God’s word and apply it by teaching and correcting (v9)

III. Application

A. Why is this crucial for the church of today?

B. What is the process for becoming an elder at FBC? (FBC Bylaws - Elder Requirements)