QUALIFICATIONS

QUALIFICATIONS. Titus 1:6 In verse six, there are three general qualities for elders. The word “blameless” suggests a sense of responsibility and integrity in actions and behavior. This does not mean perfection or sinlessness, which is beyond human ability, but that appropriate actions are taken whenever something needs correction or change. When we fail in a responsibility, the right attitude is humility and remorse. This is followed by an honest apology if needed and restitution if required to repair the harmful effects caused by the failure. "Blameless" means there is nothing wrong with which he can be charged. Accusations that may be made are unfounded and should not be spread as gossip among God's people. As the husband of one wife, he has learned to listen as well as to guide others carefully and wisely. He has learned to accept opinions different from his own. His children are well-behaved in his house, and their behavior reflects their attitude toward him. That attitude is likely how the saints see him, too. His children are not those who waste money on pleasure or act out of control. Another qualification for elders is that if a man is married, he must be faithful to his wife, which demonstrates morality both at home and in public. He has one wife, unlike those who are polygamists or have a mistress. Living together without marriage is forbidden for a man and woman. However, this does not prohibit a bachelor or widower from being an elder, nor does it mean that a widower who remarries after his wife dies cannot hold a leadership position. A third qualification concerns an elder’s ability to lead his family responsibly. Children who are taught the word of God are well-trained in behavior and respect by loving, caring parents, and they often inherit the values and some practices they are taught. Godly examples set by parents do not determine whether a child will be saved, but they show how to live successfully and the importance of pleasing God. For a child who becomes a believer in Christ, loving discipline, consistent living, and avoiding hypocrisy by a father can provide meaningful guidelines for living. Allowing bad behavior to go uncorrected, unrestrained spending of money, and permissiveness would disqualify a Christian man from leadership in an assembly. Parental authority and clearly defined rules and principles at home often shape the character and conduct of children. “Faithful children” have learned the value of knowing God's word and applying the scriptures' teachings. When a young person leaves the family home and is on their own, they will decide how they choose to live. That usually depends on what they have been taught at home.