Today read Titus 1:5-9. Are there any new insights from this passage? A church leader must not be quick-tempered, not violent. How can anger hinder great leaders such as Moses? Those who are quick to become angry cause great harm to those nearby. Most people are afraid of a poisonous snake bite; the tongue can strike as fast as the hand or the fist. The poison of a striking tongue has hurt many. Jesus warned the anyone who holds onto anger against his brother is in danger of judgment (Matthew 5:22). James even wrote that all should be slow to anger. Read James 1: 19 and 3:9-12.
A church leader who fails to control his temper or his tongue can destroy years of good ministry in a moment. Moses lost his temper, and his consequence was falling short of the promises God intended for him. The anger of man is not the path to the righteous life God desires. A wise pastor keeps bridle on his tongue.
A church leader must not be a lover of money, not pursuing dishonest gain. In 1 Timothy 6: 5-10, greed was one of the deadly sins of the false teachers. The qualification for a Christian leader is not to be greedy. Those who make money, the most important thing in life, replace the love of God with the love of money.
A church leader must not be a recent convert. Pride and conceit led to the devil’s fall. Jesus saw him fall from heaven like lightning (Luke 10:18). Read Isa. 14:12-14. When the church gives leadership or big responsibility to a new convert, they might become proud like Satan. New converts need time to build a strong foundation of faith. New believers must have a place to serve but not in a leadership role.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for your love for each of us and your grace. I pray that we will not love money more than you.
In Jesus Name
Amen
