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Titus 1
5 This is why I left you in Crete, so that you might put what remained into order, and appoint elders in every town as I directed you-- 6 if anyone is above reproach, the husband of one wife, and his children are believers and not open to the charge of debauchery or insubordination. 7 For an overseer, as God's steward, must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain, 8 but hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined. 9 He 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.
Talk Sheet Questions
What do you think makes a well-run church? Do you have more patience for incompetence in church or in other groups? Explain.
Form four groups. Each group will focus on one verse in 6-9. Come back together and have each group describe the characteristics in their verse and why they are important.
Are there any attributes in this passage that should only apply to elders? Why do you think this is the list and not other attributes?
Which of these character qualities poses the biggest risk of a church leadership breakdown? Are all breakdowns equally as tragic? Explain.
How much does an overseer have to know about the Bible to teach or to reprove with it? Are there doctrinal teachings you think elders/overseers should be especially prepared to hold firm to and defend?
Prayer
Pray that our church leadership will be faithful and that our church will be well-ordered.